<![CDATA[GDOT Ahead of the Curve Podcast]]>65b78491-cb10-582b-a2f4-856869e0cda1Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:47:09 +0000Captivate.fmGeorgia DOThttps://artwork.captivate.fm/b003a82a-c488-4237-a9a8-393cb7d902bc/n4arj6Vvv50bLRHzd0_zZ1Pp.pngGDOT Ahead of the Curve PodcastGeorgia DOTGeorgia DOTGeorgia Department of Transportation's official podcast highlighting the employees, projects and programs that make us one of the best transportation agencies in the country.http://sites.libsyn.com/403937/AOTCfalseepisodichttps://feeds.captivate.fm/aotc/nopodcastWomen in TransportationWomen in TransportationThis special episode of Ahead of the Curve coincides with Women's History Month and is dedicated to the women in transportation. Host Natalie Dale moderates a live panel discussion about the diverse roles and significant contributions of women within the Georgia DOT.

The panel consists of the following women who share professional insights about their career journeys at Georgia DOT: Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, Angela Whitworth, Treasurer, Merishia Coleman, Executive Assistant to the Chief Engineer, Katina Lear, Assistant Strategic Communications Director, and Natasha Davis, Assistant District 1 Engineer​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Resources

Celebrating Women in Transportation

The Extra Mile Blog: Women Advancing GDOT's Legacy

]]>This special episode of Ahead of the Curve coincides with Women's History Month and is dedicated to the women in transportation. Host Natalie Dale moderates a live panel discussion about the diverse roles and significant contributions of women within the Georgia DOT.

The panel consists of the following women who share professional insights about their career journeys at Georgia DOT: Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, Angela Whitworth, Treasurer, Merishia Coleman, Executive Assistant to the Chief Engineer, Katina Lear, Assistant Strategic Communications Director, and Natasha Davis, Assistant District 1 Engineer​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Resources

Celebrating Women in Transportation

The Extra Mile Blog: Women Advancing GDOT's Legacy

]]>3a536521-1a4b-4c71-b44a-a2223632ef5bTue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -040037:44falsefull4334FIFA World Cup 2026FIFA World Cup 2026In this episode, host Natalie Dale explores the multi-agency collaboration for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. Georgia DOT's Permits & Operations Division Director Alan Davis and D7 District Engineer Paul DeNard, along with MARTA’s Deputy General Manager Rhonda Allen, discuss the behind-the-scenes work taking place to keep the region moving.

]]>In this episode, host Natalie Dale explores the multi-agency collaboration for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. Georgia DOT's Permits & Operations Division Director Alan Davis and D7 District Engineer Paul DeNard, along with MARTA’s Deputy General Manager Rhonda Allen, discuss the behind-the-scenes work taking place to keep the region moving.

]]>108c6e55-2a94-4d0d-9af6-59b87765e92aWed, 04 Mar 2026 16:45:00 -040052:55falsefull4224Human TraffickingHuman TraffickingHuman trafficking is a devastating crime that occurs in communities across our state and nation, including along our transportation network—on roadways, at rest areas and welcome centers, in airports, and in other public spaces. Georgia DOT is deeply committed to combating human trafficking, not only in Georgia but wherever it occurs. In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January, we are taking every opportunity to raise awareness about how to recognize and report potential trafficking activity. As part of that effort, this episode of Ahead of the Curve features Susan Norris, a nationally recognized subject matter expert who has dedicated nearly two decades to the fight against human trafficking and currently serves as the Founder and Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Rescuing Hope, Inc. She joins host Natalie Dale for a thoughtful and informative conversation on this challenging but critical issue. In this episode, listeners will learn how they can help, what warning signs to look for, and what steps to take if they suspect human trafficking. While some of the language and subject matter may be difficult for some listeners, these conversations are essential to building awareness—and awareness leads to action. Georgia DOT believes that informed action can help bring an end to human trafficking.

Georgia DOT thanks you for sharing in this commitment and encourages you to report suspected human trafficking activity to the statewide 24-hour Georgia Human Trafficking Hotline at (866) 363-4842.

In the kickoff to season 4, Natalie Dale sits down with Susan Norris, Founder of Rescue Hope to discuss human trafficking in Georgia—what it looks like, how it impacts communities, and how awareness, prevention, and coordinated action can save lives.

]]>Human trafficking is a devastating crime that occurs in communities across our state and nation, including along our transportation network—on roadways, at rest areas and welcome centers, in airports, and in other public spaces. Georgia DOT is deeply committed to combating human trafficking, not only in Georgia but wherever it occurs. In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January, we are taking every opportunity to raise awareness about how to recognize and report potential trafficking activity. As part of that effort, this episode of Ahead of the Curve features Susan Norris, a nationally recognized subject matter expert who has dedicated nearly two decades to the fight against human trafficking and currently serves as the Founder and Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Rescuing Hope, Inc. She joins host Natalie Dale for a thoughtful and informative conversation on this challenging but critical issue. In this episode, listeners will learn how they can help, what warning signs to look for, and what steps to take if they suspect human trafficking. While some of the language and subject matter may be difficult for some listeners, these conversations are essential to building awareness—and awareness leads to action. Georgia DOT believes that informed action can help bring an end to human trafficking.

Georgia DOT thanks you for sharing in this commitment and encourages you to report suspected human trafficking activity to the statewide 24-hour Georgia Human Trafficking Hotline at (866) 363-4842.

In the kickoff to season 4, Natalie Dale sits down with Susan Norris, Founder of Rescue Hope to discuss human trafficking in Georgia—what it looks like, how it impacts communities, and how awareness, prevention, and coordinated action can save lives.

]]>96c23dde-2fde-4212-9d42-35f6642913a5Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:24:00 -040047:22falsefull4114Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program (Pt 2)Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program (Pt 2)In part two of this series, we continue to explore how Georgia DOT’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program uses drones to make projects safer and more efficient.

Members of the UAS Program join host Natalie Dale to discuss how drones are used in transportation projects, and how GDOT employees can get involved.

]]>In part two of this series, we continue to explore how Georgia DOT’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program uses drones to make projects safer and more efficient.

Members of the UAS Program join host Natalie Dale to discuss how drones are used in transportation projects, and how GDOT employees can get involved.

]]>d7434ff1-7687-41c7-a6c2-f701990b7771Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -040029:32falsefull311113Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) ProgramUncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) ProgramIn this episode, the first of a two-part series, we explore how Georgia DOT’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program uses drones to make projects safer and more efficient. Members of the UAS Program join host Natalie Dale to discuss how drones are used in transportation projects, why it matters for safety, and how GDOT employees can get involved.

]]>In this episode, the first of a two-part series, we explore how Georgia DOT’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program uses drones to make projects safer and more efficient. Members of the UAS Program join host Natalie Dale to discuss how drones are used in transportation projects, why it matters for safety, and how GDOT employees can get involved.

]]>fdb8960f-8316-4d73-aa4f-812cfc8383d7Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:27:00 -040033:50falsefull310103Customer ServiceCustomer ServiceIn this episode, Natalie Dale sits down with Strategic Workforce Director Kelly Johnson to explore how our customer service efforts are helping to shape Georgia’s transportation future.

]]>In this episode, Natalie Dale sits down with Strategic Workforce Director Kelly Johnson to explore how our customer service efforts are helping to shape Georgia’s transportation future.

]]>94343d22-09b4-44a6-84d5-66735bfbd2edThu, 16 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -040026:31falsefull3993Hurricane Helene: One-Year AnniversaryHurricane Helene: One-Year AnniversaryHost Natalie Dale is joined by Emergency Management Assistant Operations Coordinator Matt Needham and East Georgia Region (District 2) Communications Officer Will Volk to explore the impact of Hurricane Helene on Georgia's transportation system in 2024. They dive into the critical lessons learned from the storm and discuss how Georgia DOT is prepared to manage and respond to future hurricane threats across the state.

]]>Host Natalie Dale is joined by Emergency Management Assistant Operations Coordinator Matt Needham and East Georgia Region (District 2) Communications Officer Will Volk to explore the impact of Hurricane Helene on Georgia's transportation system in 2024. They dive into the critical lessons learned from the storm and discuss how Georgia DOT is prepared to manage and respond to future hurricane threats across the state.

]]>13de4c00-a03e-444f-9d1a-1360b93de3c5Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -040035:36falsefull3883Keep Georgia SafeKeep Georgia SafeThis episode dives into the Keep Georgia Safe campaign, an initiative that educates students about road safety. Host Natalie Dale is joined by Stacy Tornio and 5th-grade teacher Thomas Bussey to discuss the partnership between Georgia DOT and We Are Teachers, and how they're working to keep young drivers safe on the road.

]]>This episode dives into the Keep Georgia Safe campaign, an initiative that educates students about road safety. Host Natalie Dale is joined by Stacy Tornio and 5th-grade teacher Thomas Bussey to discuss the partnership between Georgia DOT and We Are Teachers, and how they're working to keep young drivers safe on the road.

]]>ed558736-7ded-480a-b594-f957c170f74aFri, 29 Aug 2025 10:57:00 -040025:23falsefull3773Pedestrian SafetyPedestrian SafetyHost Natalie Dale chats with State Safety Engineering Supervisor Ron Knezevich and State Pedestrian Bicycle Engineer Connor Booth about the GDOT programs and activities that help keep pedestrians safe in Georgia.

]]>Host Natalie Dale chats with State Safety Engineering Supervisor Ron Knezevich and State Pedestrian Bicycle Engineer Connor Booth about the GDOT programs and activities that help keep pedestrians safe in Georgia.

]]>c95f3459-f5c5-4557-997f-b232121ff31dThu, 17 Jul 2025 12:30:00 -040035:56falsefull36632025 Legislative Recap2025 Legislative RecapHost Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Director of Policy and Government Affairs Josh Waller and Policy Analysis Bureau Specialist Abigail Handel about the importance of GDOT's involvement in the legislative process.

 

]]>Host Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Director of Policy and Government Affairs Josh Waller and Policy Analysis Bureau Specialist Abigail Handel about the importance of GDOT's involvement in the legislative process.

 

]]>b90a870f-7400-4bb7-8377-15bf6db6a671Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:45:00 -040046:44falsefull3553The 411 on 511The 411 on 511Host Natalie Dale dives into Georgia's source for real-time traffic updates - 511. In this episode, guests Alan Davis, State Traffic Engineer, and Christina Barry, Assistant State Traffic Engineer, chat about how motorists can access the latest traffic information, weather alerts, construction updates, and emergency notifications through the 511 service.

]]>Host Natalie Dale dives into Georgia's source for real-time traffic updates - 511. In this episode, guests Alan Davis, State Traffic Engineer, and Christina Barry, Assistant State Traffic Engineer, chat about how motorists can access the latest traffic information, weather alerts, construction updates, and emergency notifications through the 511 service.

]]>85585a81-41a1-4a9f-8ae2-c8281f80118cThu, 08 May 2025 07:45:00 -040031:56falsefull3443Work Zone SafetyWork Zone SafetyIn this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by State Safety Manager Sharon Morales and Safety Program Manager Ed David Adams to chat about how GDOT strives to increase safety in road construction work zones for both motorists and our workers.

]]>In this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by State Safety Manager Sharon Morales and Safety Program Manager Ed David Adams to chat about how GDOT strives to increase safety in road construction work zones for both motorists and our workers.

]]>c30ec941-43e0-489c-b2ce-86d713924aafThu, 17 Apr 2025 07:45:00 -040031:00falsefull3333Georgia DOT Deputy CommissionerGeorgia DOT Deputy CommissionerHost Natalie Dale sits down with Deputy Commissioner Brad Saxon as he highlights the roles, projects, and experiences that helped shape his career at Georgia DOT.

]]>Host Natalie Dale sits down with Deputy Commissioner Brad Saxon as he highlights the roles, projects, and experiences that helped shape his career at Georgia DOT.

]]>3b0e22b3-0024-470a-99b5-ea53f7f3c108Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -040040:23falsefull3223TIME Task ForceTIME Task ForceHost Natalie Dale dives into the role of the TIME Task Force with Incident Response Program Manager Jason Josey, Georgia State Patrol Captain Ritche and Georgia DOT  District 6 Communications Officer Joe Schulman.  In this episode, the guests provide an overview of key TIME initiatives and how the task force works to improve coordination between agencies.

]]>Host Natalie Dale dives into the role of the TIME Task Force with Incident Response Program Manager Jason Josey, Georgia State Patrol Captain Ritche and Georgia DOT  District 6 Communications Officer Joe Schulman.  In this episode, the guests provide an overview of key TIME initiatives and how the task force works to improve coordination between agencies.

]]>b0e5226b-2935-4889-8a6b-27dab57b8337Thu, 20 Feb 2025 11:20:00 -040035:12falsefull3113Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO)​Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO)​In this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by the Incident Response Program Manager Jason Josey to share insight on the important role of HERO in keeping the traveling public safe as the program celebrates 30 years of service.

]]>In this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by the Incident Response Program Manager Jason Josey to share insight on the important role of HERO in keeping the traveling public safe as the program celebrates 30 years of service.

]]>ef7c1e44-7dcd-4f04-880e-21b6960ede09Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:06:00 -040026:57falsefull210102Public InvolvementPublic InvolvementIn this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by Assistant Director of Strategic Communications Katina Lear, Assistant State Environmental Administrator Amber Phillips, and State Program Delivery Administrator Kimberly Nesbitt to share their insight on the important role that public involvement plays in shaping Georgia DOT projects.

]]>In this episode, host Natalie Dale is joined by Assistant Director of Strategic Communications Katina Lear, Assistant State Environmental Administrator Amber Phillips, and State Program Delivery Administrator Kimberly Nesbitt to share their insight on the important role that public involvement plays in shaping Georgia DOT projects.

]]>58ccd587-b0a3-43df-896b-c8cf805a1326Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -040001:00:28falsefull2992Rural TransitRural TransitHost Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT's Intermodal - Transit Program team about how GDOT supports transit programs across the state, especially in rural areas.

]]>Host Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT's Intermodal - Transit Program team about how GDOT supports transit programs across the state, especially in rural areas.

]]>02292736-08ea-48f4-a374-78a903125821Fri, 19 Jul 2024 15:11:00 -040031:30falsefull2882Hurricane PreparednessHurricane PreparednessIn this episode, Natalie Dale chats with Assistant State Maintenance Engineer for Emergency Operations Emily Fish and GEMA State Meteorologist WIll Lanxton about how Georgia DOT stays prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm that impacts our state.

]]>In this episode, Natalie Dale chats with Assistant State Maintenance Engineer for Emergency Operations Emily Fish and GEMA State Meteorologist WIll Lanxton about how Georgia DOT stays prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm that impacts our state.

]]>a854f458-c992-498a-afe4-c0edeeea18eaThu, 20 Jun 2024 17:44:00 -040032:33falsefull2772Interagency Office of Environmental QualityInteragency Office of Environmental QualityHost Natalie Dale chats with State Environmental Liaison Sandy Lawrence about the purpose of the Interagency Office of Environmental Quality and its collaboration with state and federal agencies. Natalie also interviews US Army Corps Biologist Nicole Liette and Georgia DNR Environmental Specialist RJ Hunter on how their partnership with GDOT helps keep projects on track.

]]>Host Natalie Dale chats with State Environmental Liaison Sandy Lawrence about the purpose of the Interagency Office of Environmental Quality and its collaboration with state and federal agencies. Natalie also interviews US Army Corps Biologist Nicole Liette and Georgia DNR Environmental Specialist RJ Hunter on how their partnership with GDOT helps keep projects on track.

]]>4ba38d9b-c8ba-49c8-822b-6f9fbf17cf9aThu, 09 May 2024 11:15:00 -040038:39falsefull2662Legislative ProcessLegislative ProcessHost Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Director of Policy and Government Affairs Josh Waller and Policy Analysis Bureau Specialist Abigail Handel about the importance of GDOT's involvement in the legislative process.

]]>Host Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Director of Policy and Government Affairs Josh Waller and Policy Analysis Bureau Specialist Abigail Handel about the importance of GDOT's involvement in the legislative process.

]]>3061b8fe-c854-454e-8ec5-169ae13550a9Thu, 18 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -040035:28falsefull2552The RayThe RayHost Natalie Dale is joined by Georgia DOT’s Division of Permits and Operations Director John Hibbard and Executive Director of The Ray C. Anderson Foundation Allie Kelly to discuss the innovations happening on an 18-mile stretch of I-85 in West Georgia known as The Ray Highway.

]]>Host Natalie Dale is joined by Georgia DOT’s Division of Permits and Operations Director John Hibbard and Executive Director of The Ray C. Anderson Foundation Allie Kelly to discuss the innovations happening on an 18-mile stretch of I-85 in West Georgia known as The Ray Highway.

]]>6508503a-bfff-4a11-a565-c7c0d34a6de1Thu, 21 Mar 2024 17:52:00 -040046:56falsefull2442Georgia DOT and Georgia Department of Natural Resources PartnershipGeorgia DOT and Georgia Department of Natural Resources PartnershipIn this episode, host Natalie Dale interviews GDOT’s Assistant State Environmental Administrator Doug Chamblin and Georgia Department of Natural Resources Program Manager for Wildlife Conservation Trina Morris about the landmark Endangered Species Act agreement and what it means for Georgia and the bats that live here.

]]>In this episode, host Natalie Dale interviews GDOT’s Assistant State Environmental Administrator Doug Chamblin and Georgia Department of Natural Resources Program Manager for Wildlife Conservation Trina Morris about the landmark Endangered Species Act agreement and what it means for Georgia and the bats that live here.

]]>84057b22-a809-4ece-8856-42f41e8b5376Mon, 19 Feb 2024 09:44:00 -040039:27falsefull2332Season 2 Episode 2: Georgia Commute OptionsSeason 2 Episode 2: Georgia Commute OptionsGeorgia’s population is growing. It is anticipated that our state will have approximately 1 million more people on our roads in just 10 years. In today’s episode, Host Natalie Dale talks with Georgia Commute Options’ Program Administrator and Marketing Communications Director Jill Goldberg and Livable Buckhead’s Executive Director Denise Starling about how their organizations plan their programs to be as efficient and beneficial in saving commute times and costs, as well as creating more sustainable transportation options for commuters both now and in the future.

Links


]]>Georgia’s population is growing. It is anticipated that our state will have approximately 1 million more people on our roads in just 10 years. In today’s episode, Host Natalie Dale talks with Georgia Commute Options’ Program Administrator and Marketing Communications Director Jill Goldberg and Livable Buckhead’s Executive Director Denise Starling about how their organizations plan their programs to be as efficient and beneficial in saving commute times and costs, as well as creating more sustainable transportation options for commuters both now and in the future.

Links


]]>821ee77f-d5af-4b94-8102-db6156731c18Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -040029:58falsefull2222Season 2 Episode 1: Working with Minority-Owned BusinessesSeason 2 Episode 1: Working with Minority-Owned BusinessesCreated in 1982, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program (DBE) is a legislatively mandated U.S. DOT program that applies to Federal-aid highway dollars expended on federally-assisted contracts issued by state DOTs like GDOT.

In this episode, Host Natalie Dale talks with Georgia DOT’s Equal Employment Opportunity Director Kimberly King and State Transportation Board Member Stacey Key about the agency’s DBE program, the resources available to DBEs, and how Georgia’s small, minority, or veteran-owned businesses can become DBE certified.

Links


]]>Created in 1982, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program (DBE) is a legislatively mandated U.S. DOT program that applies to Federal-aid highway dollars expended on federally-assisted contracts issued by state DOTs like GDOT.

In this episode, Host Natalie Dale talks with Georgia DOT’s Equal Employment Opportunity Director Kimberly King and State Transportation Board Member Stacey Key about the agency’s DBE program, the resources available to DBEs, and how Georgia’s small, minority, or veteran-owned businesses can become DBE certified.

Links


]]>923bc340-fffa-4101-a03a-4197108917c5Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -040040:48falsefull2112Season 1 Episode 12: Hyperlocal Transportation InnovationSeason 1 Episode 12: Hyperlocal Transportation InnovationInnovation. Mobility. Safety. Three buzzwords that are often used to describe transportation projects – especially by GDOT. Those words are included in the department’s mission, after all. But these words are also used in regard to autonomous vehicles. In this episode, Host Natalie Dale talks to GDOT’s Director of Intermodal Clement Solomon and ATL Airport CIDs Executive Director Gerald McDowell about efforts they and their respective teams have made to help spearhead the development of hyperlocal transportation innovation through the use of autonomous vehicles right here in Georgia.

Resources

Cumberland Hopper

AACID Personal Rapid Transit Memorandum of Agreement

Community Improvement Districts

Distracted Driving

Hands-Free Law

]]>Innovation. Mobility. Safety. Three buzzwords that are often used to describe transportation projects – especially by GDOT. Those words are included in the department’s mission, after all. But these words are also used in regard to autonomous vehicles. In this episode, Host Natalie Dale talks to GDOT’s Director of Intermodal Clement Solomon and ATL Airport CIDs Executive Director Gerald McDowell about efforts they and their respective teams have made to help spearhead the development of hyperlocal transportation innovation through the use of autonomous vehicles right here in Georgia.

Resources

Cumberland Hopper

AACID Personal Rapid Transit Memorandum of Agreement

Community Improvement Districts

Distracted Driving

Hands-Free Law

]]>568a1d8a-7afb-479a-a5bc-e9af059baf93Mon, 16 Oct 2023 13:23:00 -040051:29falsefull112121Season 1 Episode 11: Carbon Reduction StrategySeason 1 Episode 11: Carbon Reduction StrategyIn this month’s episode, host Natalie Dale talks with GDOT’s Assistant State Transportation Planning Administrator Habte Kassa, Transportation Planner with Modern Mobility Partners Candace Foster, and Senior Consultant, Air Quality with ICF International Seth Hartley about the research and development involved with the creation of GDOT’s Carbon Reduction Strategy Plan (CRS Plan). Georgia’s CRS Plan outlines how the state will implement federal funding from the Carbon Reduction Program, established as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, for projects designed to reduce transportation emissions, defined as carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from on-road highway sources.

Resources

Carbon Reduction Program Fact Sheet

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program

Member MPOs

Map of Regional Commissions

Email any questions to gdotcrp@dot.gov

]]>In this month’s episode, host Natalie Dale talks with GDOT’s Assistant State Transportation Planning Administrator Habte Kassa, Transportation Planner with Modern Mobility Partners Candace Foster, and Senior Consultant, Air Quality with ICF International Seth Hartley about the research and development involved with the creation of GDOT’s Carbon Reduction Strategy Plan (CRS Plan). Georgia’s CRS Plan outlines how the state will implement federal funding from the Carbon Reduction Program, established as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, for projects designed to reduce transportation emissions, defined as carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from on-road highway sources.

Resources

Carbon Reduction Program Fact Sheet

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program

Member MPOs

Map of Regional Commissions

Email any questions to gdotcrp@dot.gov

]]>14bf4c20-a251-4731-ac98-b057e65138f4Thu, 14 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -040033:04falsefull111111Season 1 Episode 10: SRTS - Bicycle & Pedestrian SafetySeason 1 Episode 10: SRTS - Bicycle & Pedestrian SafetyData released in June 2023 from the Governors Highway Safety Association showed American drivers are projected to have struck and killed at least 7,508 people walking in 2022. That is a 77% increase since 2010 and the highest number since 1981, according to the study. Georgia saw 344 pedestrian fatalities in 2022. That is 344 too many.

In this episode, we talk to GDOT’s State Safety Engineering Supervisor Ron Knezevich and Safe Routes to School Coordinator Patti Sistrunk about what the Georgia Department of Transportation is doing to keep you and your families safe when you are in such a vulnerable situation.

Resources

GDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Program

Governors Highway Safety Association Study

Complete Streets (FHWA)

Georgia Safe Routes to School Program

To notify Georgia DOT about a bicycle or pedestrian concern, email us at Bikeped@dot.ga.gov.

]]>Data released in June 2023 from the Governors Highway Safety Association showed American drivers are projected to have struck and killed at least 7,508 people walking in 2022. That is a 77% increase since 2010 and the highest number since 1981, according to the study. Georgia saw 344 pedestrian fatalities in 2022. That is 344 too many.

In this episode, we talk to GDOT’s State Safety Engineering Supervisor Ron Knezevich and Safe Routes to School Coordinator Patti Sistrunk about what the Georgia Department of Transportation is doing to keep you and your families safe when you are in such a vulnerable situation.

Resources

GDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Program

Governors Highway Safety Association Study

Complete Streets (FHWA)

Georgia Safe Routes to School Program

To notify Georgia DOT about a bicycle or pedestrian concern, email us at Bikeped@dot.ga.gov.

]]>04019d65-8fce-4295-a287-dfb05935ae4cThu, 10 Aug 2023 15:40:00 -040059:10falsefull110101Season 1 Episode 009: Summer Travel TipsSeason 1 Episode 009: Summer Travel TipsSummer is a time when a lot of families head out on vacation. In this episode, host Natalie Dale talks with HERO Manager Jason Josey, CHAMP Manager Chadrick Hendon, TMC Technical Specialist Billie Rose, and WSB Traffic Reporter Ashley Frasca to get the insights and best tips about safe driving, the resources available to motorists in Georgia, and firsthand accounts of how decisions made behind the wheel can impact the rest of your life.

Visit Summer Construction Webpage

]]>Summer is a time when a lot of families head out on vacation. In this episode, host Natalie Dale talks with HERO Manager Jason Josey, CHAMP Manager Chadrick Hendon, TMC Technical Specialist Billie Rose, and WSB Traffic Reporter Ashley Frasca to get the insights and best tips about safe driving, the resources available to motorists in Georgia, and firsthand accounts of how decisions made behind the wheel can impact the rest of your life.

Visit Summer Construction Webpage

]]>31dacee3-95ed-43ae-85b3-8eabf101da24Thu, 13 Jul 2023 07:00:00 -040046:27falsefull1991Season 1 Episode 008: GDOT Strategic CommunicationsSeason 1 Episode 008: GDOT Strategic CommunicationsIn this month’s episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, host Natalie Dale chats with Strategic Communications Director Scott Higley, Digital Services and Web Strategy Manager Ron Battle, and District Six Communications Officer Joe Schulman about how Georgia DOT keeps the public informed about the people, projects, and initiatives that make our agency one of the best in the country.

]]>In this month’s episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, host Natalie Dale chats with Strategic Communications Director Scott Higley, Digital Services and Web Strategy Manager Ron Battle, and District Six Communications Officer Joe Schulman about how Georgia DOT keeps the public informed about the people, projects, and initiatives that make our agency one of the best in the country.

]]>fde13019-062b-45c7-bd3d-9d832600c836Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:35:00 -040055:46falsefull1881Season 1 Episode 007: GDOT Recruiting and RetentionSeason 1 Episode 007: GDOT Recruiting and RetentionIn this episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, Host Natalie Dale talks with HR Deputy Director Brian Robinson, State Talent Development Manager Kyle Mote, and Recruitment Supervisor Nicole Glenn about our efforts to attract and retain a talent workforce at Georgia DOT.

Resources

GDOT Employment Website

]]>In this episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, Host Natalie Dale talks with HR Deputy Director Brian Robinson, State Talent Development Manager Kyle Mote, and Recruitment Supervisor Nicole Glenn about our efforts to attract and retain a talent workforce at Georgia DOT.

Resources

GDOT Employment Website

]]>268243ab-3390-46d5-a805-1a76cd62ae58Thu, 11 May 2023 13:00:00 -040048:07falsefull1771Season 1 Episode 006: GDOT's Safety ProgramSeason 1 Episode 006: GDOT's Safety ProgramGeorgia DOT’s mission is to deliver a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability and mobility. In this month’s episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, Host Natalie Dale talks to Assistant State Traffic Engineer Sam Harris and State Safety Program Manager Kelli Roberts about the important and impactful projects and programs GDOT is working on to improve the safety of our state’s transportation infrastructure.

We also welcome two very special guests, Jacee and Beth Ann Thomas, who share Jacee’s inspirational story of survival and recovery after a collision with a train in South Georgia.

Resources

For more information on GDOT’s Safety program: https://www.dot.ga.gov/GDOT/Pages/Safety.aspx

For more information on GDOT’s partnership with the Lutzie 43 Foundation: https://lutzie43.org/georgia-department-of-transportation-lutzie-43-foundation/

Follow Jacee’s story on Instagram at @jbtpushingbarriers

]]>Georgia DOT’s mission is to deliver a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability and mobility. In this month’s episode of the Ahead of the Curve podcast, Host Natalie Dale talks to Assistant State Traffic Engineer Sam Harris and State Safety Program Manager Kelli Roberts about the important and impactful projects and programs GDOT is working on to improve the safety of our state’s transportation infrastructure.

We also welcome two very special guests, Jacee and Beth Ann Thomas, who share Jacee’s inspirational story of survival and recovery after a collision with a train in South Georgia.

Resources

For more information on GDOT’s Safety program: https://www.dot.ga.gov/GDOT/Pages/Safety.aspx

For more information on GDOT’s partnership with the Lutzie 43 Foundation: https://lutzie43.org/georgia-department-of-transportation-lutzie-43-foundation/

Follow Jacee’s story on Instagram at @jbtpushingbarriers

]]>a13ab7bb-23e2-431c-bc01-013135dbdde3Mon, 24 Apr 2023 02:30:00 -040001:06:24falsefull1661Season 1 Episode 005: Georgia’s Express LanesSeason 1 Episode 005: Georgia’s Express LanesEver wonder how Georgia’s Express Lanes system came to fruition? On this episode of Ahead of the Curve, host Natalie Dale along with special co-host Kyle Collins, GDOT State Express Lanes Administrator Tim Matthews, and GDOT Express Lanes Project Manager Cleo Vicks take a deep dive into all things Express Lanes – the history, the planning, the design, and more – as well as the innovative methods the Office of Alternative Delivery is using to advance some of the largest transportation projects in the state.

]]>Ever wonder how Georgia’s Express Lanes system came to fruition? On this episode of Ahead of the Curve, host Natalie Dale along with special co-host Kyle Collins, GDOT State Express Lanes Administrator Tim Matthews, and GDOT Express Lanes Project Manager Cleo Vicks take a deep dive into all things Express Lanes – the history, the planning, the design, and more – as well as the innovative methods the Office of Alternative Delivery is using to advance some of the largest transportation projects in the state.

]]>3ec316b9-10c3-4c88-9228-4ea7a23ae8b4Thu, 09 Mar 2023 16:02:00 -040054:22falsefull1551Season 1 Episode 004: TIA 10 Year AnniversaryEpisode 004: TIA 10 Year Anniversary Host Natalie Dale celebrates the Transportation Investment Act’s (TIA) 10th birthday with TIA Program Administration Kenneth Franks, and representatives from two of the four TIA regions – executive director of the Heart of Georgia Altamaha Regional Commission Brett Manning and Bill Slaughter who is a member of the Southern Georgia Citizens Review Panel. In this episode, they look at the lessons learned and the accomplishments of the program over the last decade and look into the future to see what’s ahead for the next 10 years of TIA, also known as TIA 2. For more information on the TIA program, please visit http://www.ga-tia.com/

]]> Host Natalie Dale celebrates the Transportation Investment Act’s (TIA) 10th birthday with TIA Program Administration Kenneth Franks, and representatives from two of the four TIA regions – executive director of the Heart of Georgia Altamaha Regional Commission Brett Manning and Bill Slaughter who is a member of the Southern Georgia Citizens Review Panel. In this episode, they look at the lessons learned and the accomplishments of the program over the last decade and look into the future to see what’s ahead for the next 10 years of TIA, also known as TIA 2. For more information on the TIA program, please visit http://www.ga-tia.com/

]]>8034f16b-df0d-4f3e-893b-1cba5d610a0cMon, 13 Feb 2023 15:29:00 -040046:30falsefull1441Season 1 Episode 003: Inside Georgia’s Winter Weather War RoomSeason 1 Episode 003: Inside Georgia’s Winter Weather War RoomHost Natalie Dale is joined by two of the leading weather-watchers in the state who are looking out for Georgians' safety whenever snow, ice, sleet or other wintry conditions hit our highways, roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure. Georgia DOT emergency operations manager Emily Fish and state meteorologist Will Lanxton of the Georgia Emergency Management office talk about all that's involved in staying one step ahead of winter weather woes and extreme weather events all year long.

]]>Host Natalie Dale is joined by two of the leading weather-watchers in the state who are looking out for Georgians' safety whenever snow, ice, sleet or other wintry conditions hit our highways, roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure. Georgia DOT emergency operations manager Emily Fish and state meteorologist Will Lanxton of the Georgia Emergency Management office talk about all that's involved in staying one step ahead of winter weather woes and extreme weather events all year long.

]]>67473e0c-5c33-430c-ace3-9058fa5562c4Thu, 12 Jan 2023 17:03:00 -040058:22falsefull1331Season 1 Episode 002: Importance of IntermodalEpisode 002: Importance of IntermodalHost Natalie Dale interviews Intermodal Division Director Clement Solomon, Transit Program Manager Patricia Smith, and Aviation Program Manager Steve Brian about how Georgia DOT is working to build intermodal partnerships throughout our state, and how these contributions enhance Georgia’s intermodal transportation system.

]]>Host Natalie Dale interviews Intermodal Division Director Clement Solomon, Transit Program Manager Patricia Smith, and Aviation Program Manager Steve Brian about how Georgia DOT is working to build intermodal partnerships throughout our state, and how these contributions enhance Georgia’s intermodal transportation system.

]]>d9e0da97-32bd-4328-ade0-9508e8952d8aThu, 15 Dec 2022 13:00:00 -040046:53falsefull1221Season 1 Episode 001: Getting to Know Russell R. McMurryEpisode 001: Getting to Know Russell R. McMurryWelcome to Georgia DOT’s new podcast Ahead of the Curve. In our inaugural episode, Ahead of the Curve host Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry as he shares stories and anecdotes about his life, his career and his oversight of the agency responsible for building and maintaining the nation’s tenth-largest transportation system – and how the dedication of the people of Georgia DOT is a driving factor in the agency’s success. 

Natalie also talks with Georgia DOT’s Strategic Communications Director Scott Higley about the new podcast and about Georgia DOT’s commitment to showcasing the people, programs and projects that all help make Georgia DOT among the best in the nation. 

]]>Welcome to Georgia DOT’s new podcast Ahead of the Curve. In our inaugural episode, Ahead of the Curve host Natalie Dale chats with Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry as he shares stories and anecdotes about his life, his career and his oversight of the agency responsible for building and maintaining the nation’s tenth-largest transportation system – and how the dedication of the people of Georgia DOT is a driving factor in the agency’s success. 

Natalie also talks with Georgia DOT’s Strategic Communications Director Scott Higley about the new podcast and about Georgia DOT’s commitment to showcasing the people, programs and projects that all help make Georgia DOT among the best in the nation. 

]]>63076112-0c57-4512-9522-33af46dc9581Thu, 10 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -040050:44falsefull1111