Mississippi Department of Transportation

ANNUAL REPORT 2005 Table of contents

Introduction >> 3

Letter from Butch Brown >> 5

Board >> 6

Organizational Chart >> 8

Major Projects >> 13

Maintenance >> 24

Right of Way >> 28

Traffic Engineering >> 32

Administrative Services >> 36

Financials >> 42

Ports & Waterways >> 50

Aeronautics >> 54

Public Transit >> 58

Railways >> 62

Environmental >> 64

Civil Rights >> 68

Enforcement >> 70

Educational Programs >> 72

Professional Development >> 78 Rails, ports, air service, public transit – our mission encompasses much more than highways these days.

This year’s annual report is dedicated to the people of MDOT – and to those outside it – who continue to see the big picture of how we all work together in moving Mississippi forward. From the RIDES coordinators who are helping to create a new generation of civil engineers to the maintenance crews who resurface roadways in record time. From Pat Fordice and so many others who strive to Keep Mississippi Beautiful to the careful motorists who slow down at the stack. From the folks who watch over the railways to those who oversee the runways, the bus schedulers to the delivery timers, the truck weighers to the evacuation routers – you’re all working to make sure that everything and everybody arrives safely, securely, and on time. MDOT’s mission is “to build and maintain a safe, multi-modal transportation network that is planned, designed, constructed, and maintained in an effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally sound manner.” As a department, MDOT can proudly say we’re accomplishing that mission with flying colors. But we couldn’t do it without the people in this department. Or, frankly, quite a few outside of it. To all of you, MDOT extends a heartfelt debt of gratitude. We thank you for all you’ve done this year, and will continue to do in the years ahead as we all move forward. 4 ANNUAL REPORT To the men and women of MDOT:

Overall, I’m proud to say that MDOT is the life of the roadway while delaying scheduled to commit no less that $200 enforcement function of the Public working smarter than ever, and growing costly reconstruction. million annually to this program. Service Commission (PSC), we have in some very innovative ways to meet the The 1987 Highway Program is in its This year, MDOT also established an remained at the same staff level for the challenges we face. Moreover, the people final stage. There are only 15.9 miles of innovative financing tool through the past five years. Yet, somehow, we oversee here have demonstrated an unwavering this program remaining to let to contract. creation of the Highway Enhancement twice the number of projects that we commitment to accomplishing the many Precisely 912.8 miles are open to traffic, through Local Partnerships (HELP) did five years ago. Just another example tasks at hand – regardless of effort. with 159.3 miles left to be finished. Program. Giving us the ability to develop of how MDOT is working smarter.

In Fiscal Year 2005, MDOT reshaped Another program that’s moving and maintain detailed construction

6.916 miles of non-paved shoulders, ahead is Vision 21, MDOT’s commitment financing plans, HELP has accelerated Sincerely, applied 4,800 miles of pavement to the 21st Century. Every Vision 21 delivery on projects. stripping, and sealed 260 miles of project is scheduled based on traffic In all, the total number of people on highway. We also resurfaced 1,373 and safety demands, allowing the MDOT’s payroll has remained the same Butch Brown miles of highway, providing a smoother, department to place scarce resources for FY2005. Even after absorbing the Mississippi Department of Transportation safer ride for motorists and extending in the areas of greatest need. We are responsibilities and personnel for the Executive Director

ANNUAL REPORT 5 Bill Minor >> Northern District Transportation Commissioner – Before being elected transportation commissioner in 2003, Minor served in

the Mississippi Senate for 20 years. He was both vice chairman and chairman of the Senate Highway Committee and helped orchestrate

the passage of the 1987 Four-lane Highway Program. He also chaired the committees on Finance and Public Utilities. Minor and his brother

established Minor Brothers Plumbing which has grown into a chain of successful hardware stores in North Mississippi.

Dick Hall >> Central District Transportation Commissioner – Hall served six terms as a member of the Mississippi Legislature – three in the

House and three in the Senate. He chaired the Environment Committee in both the House and Senate and the Senate Committee on Public

Health and Welfare. Most recently, he chaired the Senate Appropriations Committee. He was the first recipient of the Hugh L. White Free

Enterprise Award. Commissioner Hall owns a company which represents manufacturers and also has commercial real estate holdings.

Wayne Brown >> Southern District Transportation Commissioner, Chairman – In 1966, Brown founded Batson and Brown Engineers, an

engineering consulting business, and in 1967, TAB Map Company. He has served as county engineer in George, Green and Jackson counties.

Currently, he is the president of the Mississippi State Board of Registration for Engineers and Land Surveyors, and has held the position

of president of the Mississippi Association of Professional Land Surveyors, the Mississippi Consulting Engineers Council, and the

Mississippi Consulting Engineers Society.

6 ANNUAL REPORT Larry L. “Butch” Brown >> MDOT Executive Director – Brown is a long time businessman and the former mayor of Natchez, Mississippi. A

graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in management and marketing, he served in the school’s department of

marketing and management as an instructor for seven years. After leaving USM, he continued business ventures in the areas of transportation,

warehousing, real estate, wholesaling, and the hotel trade. He has served on the Executive Board of Directors of the Mississippi Business

Finance Corporation, White House Conference on Small Business, the U.S. Department of Commerce-Industry Sector Advisory Committee

on Trade Policy, and was a member and former chairman of the Mississippi-Louisiana Bridge Authority, responsible for funding construction

of the new Natchez/Mississippi River Bridge.

Harry Lee James >> Deputy Executive Director and Chief Engineer – James is an honors graduate of Mississippi State University where, in

1976, he earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering. Upon graduation, James worked in the private construction industry and later for a consulting engineering firm before joining the MDOT team as a bridge designer in 1982. Today James is a registered Professional

Engineer and has served as MDOT’s state bridge engineer since 1999. He was named as Chief Engineer/Deputy Executive Director in 2003.

Brenda Vanover Znachko, J.D., LL.M. >> Deputy Executive Director/Administration – Znachko is a graduate of the University of Florida

School of Law - Graduate Tax Program, University of Mississippi Law Center and the University of Southern Mississippi, where she received

a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. Upon graduation, Znachko worked for private law firms before joining MDOT as a Special Assistant

Attorney General in 2002. Today Znachko is a commissioned officer in the U.S. Naval Reserves, a Louisiana Board Certified Tax Attorney

and a bar member in Mississippi, Louisiana and Florida. She was promoted to deputy executive director/administration in July of 2004.

ANNUAL REPORT 7 Mississippi Transportation Commission

Executive Director Secretary to the Commission Audit External Affairs

Assistant Attorney General Civil Rights Information Systems Human Resources

Office of Administrative Services Office of Highways Office of Enforcement Office of Intermodal Planning deputy executive director administration deputy executive director chief engineer

Professional Aeronautics Development Field Operations Preconstruction Special Permits Operations Council Planning Scales Procurement Field Bridge Maintenance Operations Design District Offices Public Transit Facility & Records Management Construction Environmental/ Weight Enforcement Location Consulting Rails Contractual General Services Services Maintenance Ports Right of Way Financial Management Traffic Engineering Roadway Design Budget Architectural Tupelo Services

Programming Batesville Contract Administration Financial Yazoo City Management Materials Newton

Research Hattiesburg

McComb 8 ANNUAL REPORT Our mission

The Mississippi Department travel mobility. Sufficient intermodal coordinated efforts. Mississippians preservation of the existing infrastructure of Transportation is responsible accessibility and mobility are essential should be able to look to MDOT as the is fundamental. To appropriate funding for providing a safe intermodal not only for passenger travel, but freight driving force behind the development for future rehabilitative costs will directly transportation network that is planned, movement as well, in order to meet the and implementation of multimodal affect the accessibility and mobility, not designed, constructed, and maintained needs of the state’s industrial and transportation safety programs. to mention the safety, of the state’s in an effective, cost-efficient and commercial sectors. It is important Deficient facilities with respect to passenger and commercial transportation environmentally-sensitive manner. to insure access and mobility for safety experience not only the effects system. Further, the strain on resources all citizens, regardless of physical of lost financial resources and time brought about by an inadequate main- Our goals limitations, social status, economic but, more importantly, loss of life. tenance system will have a direct effect level or geographic location. on the economic development efforts Accessibility and mobility >> Maintenance and preservation >> of the state as well. Safety >> Improve Accessibility and Mobility Maintain and Preserve Mississippi’s Environmental stewardship >> for Mississippi’s People, Commerce Ensure High Standards of Safety Transportation System and Industry in the Transportation System Mississippi has an extensive multi- Ensure that Transportation System A greater proportion of Mississippians A core priority of MDOT is transportation modal transportation system, in which Development is Sensitive to Human are within access to the state’s highway safety across all modes. While Mississippi the state has made a substantial and Natural Environment Concerns system through the Four-Lane Highway continues to rank high nationally in the investment. If the system is to continue A sound transportation plan must Program and other initiatives. The state rate of traffic fatalities on the state’s serving the state’s citizens and the address the relationship between the also enjoys a relatively high level of highway system, improvement has investment is to be recognized, placing movement of people and goods and been made through concentrated and a high priority on the maintenance and the impact upon the environment. Such

ANNUAL REPORT 9 a relationship is recognized within Mississippi. Not only does a superior is affected by the state’s transportation Finance >> TEA-21 through a number of programs, transportation system support and system, it is important that all citizens Provide a Sound Financial Basis for the including Congestion Mitigation and Air retain existing economic development have an awareness of both the benefits Transportation System Quality (CMAQ). Additional Federal Acts interests within the state, but it will and needs of the system. Having a well- With the focus on the traveling public, to take into account include the National help to make Mississippi attractive informed citizenry, public interest and the citizens of Mississippi rightly Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the in the recruitment of new economic stakeholder base, and state legislature expect the financing they provide for Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, and development. It is important that the will lead to better decision-making and the state’s transportation system to be the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Preservation transportation system not only serves long-term fiscal planning. One of the managed and invested responsibly. A and protection of Mississippi’s human the state’s citizens and businesses, but most difficult aspects of successful challenge for MDOT is to ensure that and natural environment and resources also places our citizens and businesses transportation planning efforts is adequate funding is available for the for the benefit of future generations must in a position that makes them competitive balancing and coordinating the long-term health of the system. Multiple be a goal of the current MULTIPLAN. on a national and global scale. multitude of interests involved in and varied funding sources must be the decision-making process. Through identified and managed responsibly Economic development >> Awareness, education and the development of education and so that the transportation needs of Provide a Transportation System that cooperative processes >> cooperative processes with proper Mississippi’s citizens and economic Encourages and Supports Mississippi’s Create Effective Transportation communication on all levels, sufficient interests are met. Economic Development Partnerships and Cooperative Processes balance can be attained. Transportation and the supporting that Enhance Awareness of the Needs infrastructure are essential to economic and Benefits of an Intermodal System growth and development within As every Mississippian either uses or

10 ANNUAL REPORT The Department June 30, 2005

Transportation commission Operations External Affairs Director Roy Patrick Bill Minor Melinda McGrath Mary McDonald Asset Management Director Northern District Commissioner Assistant Chief Engineer, Human Resources Director Mark Valentine Dick Hall Operational Maintenance Carolyn Bell Financial Management Director Central District Commissioner David Foster Director of Civil Rights John B. Pickering Wayne Brown Assistant Chief Engineer, Preconstruction Dianne Gavin Roadway Design Engineer Southern District Commissioner John M. Simpson Audit Director Jimmy Davis Amy Hornback Chief Information Officer John D. Vance Budget Director Secretary to the Commission State Maintenance Engineer Larry Raffield Division directors Elton Jay Support Services Director Administration Wes Dean Aeronautics Director Steven Edwards Larry L. “Butch” Brown State Traffic Engineer B.B. House Rails Engineer Executive Director Claiborne Barnwell Contract Administration Engineer Jim Moak Harry Lee James Environmental Engineer Roy Tipton Ports Director Deputy Executive Director/Chief Engineer Richard Sheffield Assistant Attorney General Danada McMurtry Brenda Znachko State Materials Engineer Mitch Carr Professional Development Director Deputy Executive Director/Administration Lisa Hancock Bridge Engineer Ray Balentine Procurement Director Dan Smith District engineers Director, Office of Intermodal Planning Charles R. Carr Right-of-Way Administrator William P. Swindoll, Tupelo, MS Willie Huff Public Transit Manager Darryl Dilmore James Q. Dickerson, Batesville, MS Director, Office of Enforcement Jeff Pierce Architectural Services Director Walter Lyons, Yazoo City, MS J. Brooks Miller State Planning Engineer Brad Lewis William R. May, Newton, MS State Aid Engineer Randy Battey State Construction Engineer Richard Lee, Hattiesburg, MS Joy Portera Research Engineer Jackie Duckworth Darrell Broome, McComb, MS Assistant Chief Engineer, Construction Gae Wade Programming Manager

ANNUAL REPORT 11

Major Projects Spanning the decades >> Over sixty-five

years have passed since some five

thousand citizens of Greenville-Lake

Village dedicated their first US 82

Mississippi River bridge. The people

of Greenville will have a new bridge to

celebrate in 2008 – and not just any

bridge, but the longest cable stayed

bridge in the continental United States.

Spanning 2,560 feet, the bridge is set

to open in April of that year. Major Projects

14 ANNUAL REPORT Working to build better bridges.

The replacement of Mississippi’s 30 percent – were considered structurally deficient bridges is an ongoing process deficient or functionally obsolete. and one of MDOT’s top priorities. The However, bridge replacement and Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation rehabilitation progress is being made. Program provides funding assistance According to the Federal Highway for any bridge on a state designated Administration (FHWA), Mississippi has road. Federal law allows between 15 built some of the most cost-efficient and 35 percent of the funds to be used bridges in the southeastern United on the local level. The total fiscal year States. And for several years, MDOT 2005 apportionment was $53.4 million. has been recognized by FHWA for the In 2005, MDOT reported a total of total number of newly constructed 5,543 bridges on the state maintained bridges on the Federal-Aid System. highway system. Of that total, 1,176 -or 21 percent- were considered structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. That means the structures are sound but are no longer able to function at peak capacity. In 2005, MDOT reported a total of 10,917 bridges on the non-state maintained system of which 3,259 – or

ANNUAL REPORT 15 High profile fy 2005 projects

US-82 Mississippi River Bridge roadway and is a serious hazard to span will be the longest cable-stayed US-82 bypass north of Starkville at Greenville navigation on the Mississippi River. span in the continental United States. On November 18, 2004, ribbon cutting The main span contract was let in June A website, www.greenvillebridge.com ceremonies were held opening the US of 2001 for approximately $111 million. allows public access to the bridge 82 Bypass north of Starkville. The final The Mississippi approach contract was construction project which will be well contract for $31,000,000 included two let in February 2005 for approximately documented with an online photo album projects to pave 12.6 miles of US 82 $86 million. And the Arkansas approach and an interactive, state-of-the-art from 2.7 miles west of Adaton to contract was scheduled to be let in webcam. Other features offered on the Clayton Village. The projects included November 2005, at an estimated cost website will be history and photos of the interchanges with relocated SR 25, SR One of the biggest projects in recent of $61 million. It is anticipated that the old US Highway82 Greenville Bridge and 389 and extended SR 12. These projects years is the US 82 – Mississippi River new bridge and approaches will be educational activities and information were let to contract on April 24, 2001, Bridge at Greenville, which encompasses open to traffic in the summer of 2009. for teachers and school children. and completed on April 8, 2005. The the construction of a multi-lane bridge The main-span portion of the new contractors in this joint venture were across the Mississippi River, one-half bridge will include four deep river piers APAC-Mississippi, Inc. and APAC- mile south of the existing US 82 anchored 120 feet into the riverbed, two Georgia, Inc. bridge, between Washington County, concrete towers soaring 425 feet above Mississippi, and Chicot County, Arkansas. the Mississippi River, and a spectacular The new bridge will replace the existing cable-stayed span supported by four 60-year-old US Highway 82 Greenville fans of prestressing strand steel cable. Bridge, which has a narrow two-lane Once completed, the 1,378-foot center-

16 ANNUAL REPORT I-55 From Church Road to I-55 at SR 4 Interchange this section up to Interstate standards. the Yazoo River near Redwood. The Tennessee Stateline Funding may be an issue. There are sufficiency rating of the existing bridge some earmarked funds for this. is 4.0 and it has been determined to be structurally deficient. The plans are for I-69 this segment of US 61 to ultimately be This project is 77% complete with We are expecting the final approval four-lane. This project calls for the The first two miles of this project are 97% of the time elapsed. The original for the environmental document by construction of a new bridge immediately under contract and proceeding well. The completion date is March 2006. We January 2006 after which these proj- west of the existing one. The contract contractor is 46% complete with 62% of have paid out $14,802,314 as of ects have been approved for the HELP is scheduled to be let in October 2005 the time elapsed, which shows that they December 5, 2005. The original con- program. All counties are anxious to at an estimated cost of $25 million. are behind but should still finish in a struction amount is $18,746,243. begin work on this route. couple of years. We have paid out $17,507,048 as of December 5, 2005. US 78 from Tennessee to US 61 Yazoo River Bridge The original construction amount is Alabama (future I-22) near Redwood $38,562,670. The next two miles are presently under design by a consultant.

We have some projects scheduled Another replacement project underway within the next couple of years to bring is the US 61 bridge replacement over

ANNUAL REPORT 17 Major Projects

October 2007. The project includes Construction of new interchange The Stack – Phase III the complete reconstruction of the on I-55 just south of the Nissan Plant. Reconstruction of the I-20 / US 49 interchange including new bridges on Prime contractor >> Key Constructors, Inc interchange including adding lanes to I-20 over Clinton Raymond Road, a new Contract Amount >> $17,298,309 both US 49 south and frontage roads Clinton/Raymond Road loop in the southwest quadrant to Contract Time Began >> on US 49. Prime contractor >> Key Constructors, Inc. improve access to the interstate for November 13, 2003 Prime contractor >> Hill Brothers Contract Amount >> $18,595,868.02 traffic southbound on Clinton Raymond Completion Date >> November 8, 2005 Construction Contract Time Began >> Road going eastbound on I-20, improving Total paid end of FY 05 (June 30) >> Contract Amount >> $58,790,294 September 9, 2004 US 80 to five lanes from Clinton-Raymond $13.1 million; project was 75% complete Contract Time Began >> March 13, 2003 Completion Date >> October 2007 Road to Springridge road, installation Total paid as of Nov 25th >> Scheduled Completion Date >> Total paid end of FY 05 (June 30) >> of signals at all interstate ramps and at $18.8 million; project is currently 95% December 2006 $6.5 million; project was 19% complete the Clinton-Raymond Road and US 80 complete Total paid end of FY 05 (June 30) >> Total paid to date (Nov 25th) >> $9.2 intersections. Lighting and landscaping Work is nearing completion with some $36 mill; project was 61% complete million project is currently 36% complete of the interchange is included. minor work left such as signs, guardrails Total paid as of Nov 25th >> $41 Reconstruction of the Clinton/Raymond and final stripe. This project should be million; project is currently 71% complete Road Interchange (Phase II) was awarded I-55 South Nissan Interchange finished by the end of the year. Overruns to Key, LLC of Madison, Mississippi at a has extended the completion date past Stack history contract amount of $18.6 million August the 1st of the year. Conceptual plans were developed 25, 2004. Contract time began September in the late 1970’s for four (4) projects, 2004 and scheduled completion date is and right of way was obtained in mid-

18 ANNUAL REPORT 1980. The four projects are described Stack Project No. 2 >> Stack Project No. 4 >> approximately $7.5 million. Currently as follows: Let to Contract in February, 1997 Scheduled for Letting October, 2007 we have expended about $1.1 million This project included the widening of NB This project will include replacing the in the PE phase. Stack Project No. 1 >> I-55 bridges over US 80 and Pearl River pavement on I-20/I-55 from Gallatin Let to Contract in July, 1992 and overlaying the pavement from I-20 Street to the Pearl River. It also Hwy 49 This project included construction of to the Pearl-Pascagoula Interchange. includes a new roadway from Gallatin US 49 is a primary arterial highway southbound (SB) I-55 from Pearl- Street to State Street. on the National Highway System in Pascagoula Street to I-20, including a Stack Project No. 3 >> need of improvements. Originally built flyover from SB I-55 to a new Collector- Let to Contract in November, 2002 US 49 from Florence to I-20 during the 1930’s as a 2 lane jointed Distributor Road (CD Road), for east- This project is under contract at the This project will reconstruct US 49 concrete highway the area has evolved bound (EB) traffic. This EB traffic can present time and includes replacing the from south of Florence to just south of into a 4 lane signalized arterial highway. exit to SB US 49 or enter EB I-20 where pavement on NB I-55 from I-20 to I-20 where the Stack construction ends. Existing 28’ wide curb to curb bridges they can exit to NB US 49. Pearl-Pascagoula Street Interchange. It The Environmental Document has been were built in the late 1950’s and 1960’s. Also included were the construction of also includes a CD Road on the north approved and is currently in the design This project would address the devel- a CD Road on the south side of I-20 in side of I-20 from US 49 to NB I-55. phase. We should be able to start Right opment of short-term improvements for the EB direction from the Pearl River to There will be major pavement widening of Way acquisition next year. The project increasing the roadway capacity of US US 49 and the construction of I-20 from on US 49 from the old truck scales to I-20, is currently scheduled for letting in Highway 49 along its existing alignment the Pearl River to Pearson Road (SR including a NB flyover bridge for traffic August of 2008 with a construction to reduce congestion over the next 10 468) in Pearl. desiring to go WB I-20 or NB I-55. estimate of approximately $25 year period. MDOT recognizes the need million. The Right of Way estimate is for a short-term “fix” while it undertakes

ANNUAL REPORT 19 long-range analysis of the entire Metro turning roadways at intersections and Airport Parkway District I projects area for a more permanent solution to median crossovers. The Airport Parkway will run from the >> SR 6 between the Natchez Trace and traffic congestion. Presently the average daily traffic end of High Street to the airport. An SR 145 in Tupelo - Let September 2002. This project would provide location, varies from 21,275 at the South end of Airport Parkway Commission was right of way acquisition, and construction project to 50,110 at the North end. formed that consists of the Jackson of improvements to a section of US 49 Traffic is estimated to reach 31,060 and Mayor, Pearl Mayor, Flowood Mayor and from about one mile south of Florence at 73,160 ADT by the year 2010. This is a the Airport Director. PBS&J is the lead Steen Creek to Richland Creek about 2.5 50% increase in traffic volumes in just engineering consultant for the project Stage 4, 83% complete - Eutaw miles south of I-20 in Rankin County, a 11 years. It is expected to double in the working for the APC. The Assistant Construction. Acquisition of right-of-way total distance of approximately 7.7 miles. next 20 years. Chief - Preconstruction -- David Foster is nearing completion for the section of There are currently two lanes in each MDOT has gotten the FONSI from is MDOT’s official representative to the SR 6 between the Natchez Trace and SR direction on US 49 through this project FHWA. The project is still programmed APC. FHWA and MDOT are in an oversight 145 in Tupelo. A contract for grading, area with a grass median and left turn for construction in FY 2008. MDOT will role for the project since it will ultimately drainage and bridges for this section of lanes at major intersections. Traffic move ahead with the survey, design become part of the highway system. SR 6 is scheduled to be let in mid 2006 signals are currently located at MS and ROW acquisition phases. The rec- Ultimate construction is dependent with a paving project to be let in 2008. 469, Cleary Road, Wilson/Scarborough ommended alternative is to six lane the upon Congressional funding. In addition, a contract for grading, Drive, and at Linda Jo Drive/McBride entire project and widen the median to drainage and bridges for the section of Street. Major deficiencies in the provide for safer more efficient inter- SR 6 between SR 342 and the Natchez existing facility are low levels of service, sections, crossovers and U-turns. Trace is also scheduled to be let in mid insufficient capacity, and inadequate 2006 with paving scheduled for 2008.

20 ANNUAL REPORT >> An active paving project on US 45A >> US 78 from Tennessee to Alabama >> SR 6 between SR 9 and SR 342 - 11/15/2006. Contractor has begun from the Noxubee County Line to (future I-22) – Developing plans. When completed in mid 2007, SR 6 placement of concrete pavement. Artesia should be completed in mid Parsons Transportation Group has will be a four-lane, divided highway Notice to proceed: 4/28/2005. 2007. This will complete work in District been retained to prepare a study of between I 55 and Tupelo. Percentage complete in dollars as of One under the 1987 highway program. an interchange at New Albany that June 30, 2005: 4.79 will require substantial alteration. >> US 45 from Noxubee County Line to >> A 6.25 mile section of SR 25 was Before US 78 can be designated as US 82 – Purchasing right-of-way. >> I-55 from Church Road to TN State recently opened to four-lane traffic in an interstate, it must be upgraded Line - APAC-TN - Scheduled comple- Oktibbeha County between the between connections with other >> US 45 from the Noxubee County Line tion date: 12/15/2006. Percentage Winston County Line and the Starkville interstate highways. This will require to US 82 - Right-of-Way acquisition complete in dollars as of June 30, Bypass. An 11.9 mile section of SR construction on future I 69 at the is currently active. Construction will 2005: 32.13 Percentage of time 25 between SR 19 and Noxapater west end and upgrade of US 78 in be in three projects with the first complete as of June 30, 2005: 47.65 Creek and a 10 mile section of SR 25 Alabama. The upgrade of US 78 in section on the northern end being Behind Schedule by 15.52% points. between old 25 and the Oktibbeha Mississippi will be completed by the let to contract in mid 2006. Contract progress shows project to be County Line, both in Winston County, time this other work is completed. completed in middle of 2007. will be opened to four-lane traffic in This will greatly enhance economic District II the spring of 2006. These projects development in north Mississippi as >> MS 304 from US 61 to I-55 and MS >> I-55 at State Route 4 Interchange - will complete four-laning of SR 25 many large industrial developments 713 Spur (Desoto and Tunica Scheduled completion date: between Jackson and Starkville. require access to interstate highways. Counties) - $53.8 Million - APAC-TN. 3/28/2006 Percentage complete in Scheduled completion date is dollars as of June 30, 2005: 58.75%.

ANNUAL REPORT 21 Percentage of time complete on beginning stages of programming >> I-55 south Nissan Interchange – Let >> SR 601 Canal Road Connector – June 30, 2005: 74.85. Behind and funding as well. September 2003 - Complete in Purchasing Right-of-Way Schedule: 16.70% points. Note: approximately 3 weeks Contract progress shows project to District III >> The Stack Phase III – Let November >> East Harrison County Intermodal be completed later than scheduled >> Main Span of the Greenville Bridge – 2002 – 72% Complete Connector – Still in the completion date. 72% completed pre-construction stage District VI >> US 78 from Tennessee to Alabama >> US 61 Bridge Replacement over the >> SR 605 from I-10 to SR 67 - $16M – >> SR 590 from US 11 to SR 29 – (future I-22) - Project for concrete Yazoo River near Redwood – Warren Paving – 42.8% completed Scheduled for a November pavement repair let 3/22/2005. No Scheduled to let June 2006 2010 letting progress as of June 30, 2005. Future >> SR 67 from SR 605 to US 49 - $18.9M projects to do miscellaneous >> I-20 from the MS River Bridge thru – Huey Stockstill Inc. – 3.5% completed District VII upgrades have not been set. Vicksburg – 22% completed >> Liberty Road Interchange in Natchez >> I-59 Laurel “S” Curve – Scheduled (Adams County) – Let in June 2005 >> I-69 - The 304 project shown in District V for a May 2006 letting to Tanner Construction Company above will be part of the future I-69. >> Clinton/Raymond Road – Let Section from East of I-55 to State July 2004 – Key Construction – Route 305 in Desoto County is in the 45% completed beginning stages of programming/ funding. Other sections are in the

22 ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT 23 If it’s broke, we fix it >> Reshaping

6,916 miles of nonpaved shoulders.

Resurfacing 1,373 miles of highway.

Applying 4,800 miles of pavement

stripping. And that’s just the start of

the work done every year by MDOT’s

maintenance division. Maintenance

24 ANNUAL REPORT Ongoing maintenance is the key to keeping costs down.

The state’s highway system, in good projects consisted of $47.5 million. expended 51,769 man-hours picking up devices. In addition to the mowing of working order is a vital component of Other activities, such as the mainte- 17,031 cubic yards of litter at a cost of roadside vegetation by MDOT employees, MDOT’s overall mission. If this system nance of MDOT buildings and grounds, $1,409,519. Another $1,529,982 was paid 97,253 acres were mowed by contract. is to continue serving our citizens, hospitality centers, and weigh stations, for litter removal by contract personnel Other maintenance activities include hot commerce and industry, a high priority made up the remainder of the program and county sheriffs who supervised mix asphalt overlays, seal coats and must be assigned to preserving and at a cost of $30.8 million. inmate litter removal, bringing the total drainage structure replacements. To maintaining the existing infrastructure. MDOT reshaped 6,916 miles of non- invested in litter removal for fiscal year execute these duties, MDOT must retain MDOT is responsible for maintaining paved shoulders, applied 4,800 miles 2005 to $2.9 million. an effective labor force of skilled man- 13,849 miles of roadway statewide. of pavement striping, and sealed 260 Routine maintenance activities power along with an adequate amount This includes 1,678 miles of interstate miles of highway. MDOT also resurfaced include restoring roadway surfaces by of stockpiled materials and equipment. highway, 4,229 miles of US highway, 1,373 miles of highway, providing a patching potholes, patching and blading In addition, MDOT holds traffic signal and 7,942 miles of state routes. smoother, safer ride for motorists, and roadway shoulders, assuring proper maintenance responsibilities for cities Maintenance expenditures for fiscal extending the life of the roadway while right of way drainage by clearing ditches with a population of 20,000 and under. year 2005 totaled approximately delaying costly reconstruction. By and making drainage improvements, MDOT continues to contract security $151.6 million, with an average cost investing in preventative maintenance controlling roadside vegetation by services for all rest areas and welcome per mile of $10,947. Routine mainte- to resurface highways at the appropriate mowing more than 203,711 acres and center facilities along the interstate. nance—such as patching, sealing, litter time during their life cycle, valuable applying herbicide, providing 24-hour This security helps ensure that removal and mowing—made up the highway money is being stretched disaster repair upon demand, painting Mississippians, as well as visitors to this bulk of the program at a cost of $73.3 even further. and repairing bridges, and replacing state, enjoy the use of rest area facilities. million. Maintenance repair and overlay MDOT maintenance personnel pavement markings and traffic control

ANNUAL REPORT 25 Mississippi paves Awards received by the way in paving. Maintenance division:

MDOT recently received several awards District One >> Innovation and at the American Concrete Pavement Commitment to Long-Life Pavement on Association-Southeast Chapter banquet. U. S. Highway 82 Starkville Bypass in The awards banquet was held in the Oktibbeha County. Ethnic Heritage Building at the Agriculture District Three >> Long Term Performance and Forestry Museum in Jackson. Award on the Highway 61 project from The awards program recognizes the Arcola to Leland in Washington County. achievements of paving contractors, District Five >> Excellence in Pavement engineers and state agencies whose Resurfacing for the ultrathin whitetopping concrete pavement construction resurfacing project on Interstate 55 Exit projects represent some of the Ramps at County Line Road Interchange, nation’s best in terms of efficiency, and Hinds and Madison counties. quality, and reduced costs. District Six >> Excellence in Concrete Pavement Restoration on the US 90 CPR Project in Hancock County. District Seven >> Excellence in Concrete Pavement Restoration on the Interstate 55 CPR Project in Pike County.

26 ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT 27 Right of Way 28 NULREPORT ANNUAL entirely by the right of way division. way entirely by therightof ar Mississippi development project forthenorthwest assistedinthismajoreconomic MDOT Express facilitycurrently a by route thatwillbeused inDeSoto Countyisnow a Highway 305 Creating inroads for newbusiness>> ea, anditwashandled underway. new Federal Surveys, maps and deeds help find the right of way.

2005 was a year of change and meet the schedule, ROW staff came up was handled entirely by ROW Division The division has launched the use of progress for the right of way division with a new idea. Why not have staff staff, and as of the time of this report, Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The vision of our management, along and consultants work together? This the project will go to construction This will aid in our efforts, as well as with the expertise and teamwork of turned out to be a great fit for this as anticipated. become a great tool for other divisions our staff, have combined to enable our particular project as the staff and Our map and deed process, which is and the public. GIS is rapidly becoming division to not only reach but exceed consultants worked together well and the backbone of the right of way process, a technology tool that will benefit the measurable milestones during fiscal the experience proved to be fruitful. has made great improvements. The entire transportation field, both in the year 2005. The items below are the Another highlight was the speedy teamwork involved in production is public and private sectors. most significant accomplishments that delivery of the Federal Express road obvious, and the Survey, Maps & Our staff of field agents has done an illustrate our on-going efforts project in DeSoto County. The right Deeds Section (SM&D) of ROW has excellent job of appraising, acquiring, to boost production, precision and of way process met and exceeded undergone a substantial transformation relocating and clearing projects for efficiency throughout the division. expectations. Hwy. 305 in DeSoto over the last couple of seasons. The construction, making a complicated The Highway 19 project was acquired County is a route that will be used by SM&D Section has emerged as a great process operate efficiently and with a combination of staff and the Federal Express facility currently example of an organization making productively. The staff maintains consultants working side by side. being installed. Commitments were itself more efficient and productive. professional standards in dealing Highway 19 is a major part of the made by MDOT to assist in this major This improvement is due mainly to with landowners as well. Our goal VISION 21 program enacted by the economic development project for the the dedication of the staff. The use of is to treat those impacted by highway legislature. The ROW division was northwest Mississippi area. ROW was consultants in right of way map and improvements as we would like to be asked to deliver the project in a handed this project with a request for deed production has increased, further treated. The experience and dedication demanding time frame. In order to enhanced delivery. This project boosting the production level. of ROW agents is reflected by the

ANNUAL REPORT 29 success shown on the projects that With an ongoing commitment have been delivered. to excellence and achievement, ROW has tremendous challenges to we anticipate new and greater face in the coming year. The workload accomplishments in the is expanding and the staff is not only coming year. up to the challenge, but looking forward to it. The support staff and office personnel are key members and cannot be left out of the credit ROW has earned. Every member of the division is looking forward to improving efficiency and service. We’re proud to be a part of the MDOT of the 21st century. It is recognized that the division’s accomplishments are a part of making Mississippi a better place to live. We want to do our part.

30 ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT 31 Crash-proofing our highways >>

Currently in its second phase of testing,

MDOT’s Safety Analysis Management

System (SAMS) will provide detailed

spatial and non-spatial highway crash

analysis. The system will ultimately

employ MDOT’s Geographic Information

System network to identify hazardous

locations across the state, becoming

the “backbone” of our hazard elimina-

tion efforts. Traffic Engineering Traffic

32 ANNUAL REPORT Giving traffic a good name.

The Traffic Engineering Division MDOT’s Intelligent Transportation was scheduled to have a new video wall federal, state and local agencies that is responsible for many different System (ITS) continues to grow into a by Fall 2005. Plans are underway for need to participate in this process. MDOT duties related to the design, operation statewide network involving multiple localized Traffic Management Centers in is in the process of hiring a facilitator and maintenance of the state’s high- jurisdictions and interested stakeholders, Oxford, Columbus, and Ridgeland. Plus, to help manage this project as well. way system. These duties include the most of which have different systems and there are plans for a Combined TMC in The division is now in phase II of the operation of the sign shop where the technologies in place. In order to ensure Southaven (with the Southaven Police Safety Analysis Management System majority of signs placed on MDOT- a uniform system, MDOT advertised a Department) and a Regional TMC/EOC (SAMS) project which will provide both maintained roadways are manufactured, Request for Proposals (RFP) to secure facility in the new District 6 headquarters spatial and non-spatial detailed crash maintenance of all interstate signing, the services of a National ITS integrator Building in Hattiesburg. MDOT partnered analysis capabilities. This particular maintenance of over 700 traffic signals who will assist traffic engineering with with the Arkansas Department of phase consists of the design, develop- statewide, and providing engineering developing ITS regional architectures, Highways & Transportation to place ment, implementation, training and and field personnel support to MDOT ITS standards & procedures, hardware homeland security cameras on the transition required to incorporate and district offices. and software implementation, and Mississippi River bridges at Helena and utilize MDOT’s Geographic Information The traffic engineering division regu- quality control. Greenville, and we are currently working System network to identify hazardous larly fields requests for signs and traffic Traffic camera sites have been added with LDOTD to place homeland security locations across the state. Once SAMS signals from MDOT personnel and the in Jackson, Southaven and the Gulf cameras on the bridges at Vicksburg is complete, it will be the “backbone” general public, studies these requests, Coast with additional fiber being and Natchez. of MDOT’s hazardous elimination efforts. and then makes recommendations to installed in Jackson, Southaven, and Also in the planning stages is the MDOT, along with the Mississippi improve guidance, and safety on state Oxford. The Central Traffic Management Comprehensive Highway Safety Plan Department of Public Safety, recently maintained highways. Center (TMC) has been expanded and (CHSP). MDOT has contacted the various released electronicrash reporting

ANNUAL REPORT 33 software at no charge to all law MDOT has utilized paid law enforce- agency to provide additional speed available for demonstration upon enforcement agencies in the state. ment officers in urban work zones over enforcement along the US 49 corridor request. MDOT currently demonstrates This software includes 95% of the the last several years. The University of and with the local media to educate the simulator at approximately 100 validation checks that are necessary Southern Mississippi is in the process the public. Mississippi was the first locations a year in the hopes that this to capture accurate data. In addition, of evaluating the effectiveness of this state to successfully complete this study educational effort will increase our we purchased and distributed practice. Initial indications show that the which illustrated that a balance clearly safety belt usage rate. approximately 3,500 GPS units to law enforcement presence has provided does exist between speed and safety. Rumble strips were recently placed law enforcement agencies, again at good safety benefits. After installing several red light on the state’s entire interstate system. no charge, with the understanding Over the last couple of years, we running detection systems across the Additionally, we set a policy that rumble that GPS coordinates had to be participated in the National Highway state, we will be able to determine the strips will be included on all new included on all crash reports. Transportation Safety Association’s extent of the problem. Aggressive construction and rehab projects on In April 2005, we adopted a new (NHTSA’s) Rational Speed Study. MDOT driving is becoming more and more of 4-lane divided highways. Also, MDOT Hazard Elimination Plan to better did dozens of engineering studies to a hazard in Mississippi. This research has been installing “rumble stripes” on define how the Hazard Elimination (HE) evaluate the current speed limits on and data collection will be used in the various sections of highway to increase money will be used. This plan placed several miles of US 49 in Harrison future to try and obtain a photo wet night reflectivity. MDOT defines a more emphasis on areas of need and County. Upon conclusion of the enforcement law. Mississippi currently rumble stripe as a rumble strip that clearly defined the process MDOT will engineering studies, the speed limits does not allow photo enforcement. contains the edge stripe. This rumble use. This plan will need to be updated were raised to represent the 85th A safety belt education campaign strip/stripe combination has proven once SAMS is fully implemented. percentile speeds. Additionally, MDOT has been implemented across the to provide similar effects to inverted worked with the local law enforcement state. A rollover crash simulator is profile stripping.

34 ANNUAL REPORT Lastly, a policy to provide a minimum two-foot paved shoulder on all state maintained routes has been established. The shoulders will be installed on all new construction and rehab projects. MDOT believes that the rumble strips and two-foot paved shoulders will help reduce the number of run-off-the-road crashes in our state.

ANNUAL REPORT 35 Funding for the road ahead >> How

does Mississippi pay for its highways?

From a mix of sources, actually, but

mainly through receiving 70% of the

18.4 cents per gallon fuel tax. Last year,

we only received 64.6% of the fuel tax,

which added up to $255 million. Administrative Services Administrative

36 ANNUAL REPORT Administrative Services: The people who crunch our numbers.

The Office of Administrative Services’ Funding of that amount last fiscal year — at $255 Federal-Aid Highway Program mission is the effective oversight of MDOT is funded through million. Millions of dollars went to non- Federal highway construction assis- budget development, financial opera- appropriations by the United States road construction entities such as Wildlife tance is paid to all states through the tions, and administrative support within Congress and the Mississippi Legislature. and Fisheries and Marine Resources. The Federal-Aid Highway Program (the the department. This oversight provides Congress provides funding through the remainder went to cities and counties for “Program”) from revenues collected by the financial framework and a comput- Federal Highway Administration, the road projects, the State Aid Road fund — the United States Treasury from certain erized support system from which all Federal Transit Administration, the for county bridge replacements; and the federal taxes on fuel, tire sales and other other functions of MDOT operate. Federal Railroad Administration, and bond sinking fund. items, from which taxes are deposited Administrative services also provides the Federal Aviation Administration. For MDOT is also funded through receipts into the Federal Highway Trust Fund support to the Jackson offices in the fiscal year 2005, the MDOT received derived from other dedicated state taxes, (HTF). Distribution of assistance from form of building maintenance and office $409.7 million in federal funds. such as truck and bus fees—which the HTF is subject to periodic authori- supplies. Divisions under the supervision The Mississippi Legislature provides include the truck and bus privilege tax, zation and annual appropriation by of the administrative services include state funding through motor fuel taxes weight and size permits and trip per- Congress. Since such assistance was financial management, budget, and other fees described below. mits —a contractor’s tax of 3.5 percent established by the Federal-Aid procurement, asset management, assessed on each 1987 Four-lane Highway Act of 1956, the program has professional development, general State Revenue Sources Highway Program project contract; a been reauthorized some 15 times in services and facility and Mississippi has a fuel tax of 18.4 cents $5 per vehicle tag registration fee, various forms at generally increasing records management. per gallon. Historically, MDOT receives lubricating oil tax and interest income. funding levels. Actual payments to approximately 70 percent of total fuel states have continued without inter- taxes. MDOT only received 64.6 percent ruption since 1956.

ANNUAL REPORT 37 Certain Program features are Apportionment >> For each federal fiscal Role of Obligation Authority under the Program in a given year explained below: year (FFY), the Federal Highway The culmination of the federal (e.g., due to lags in spending), Obligation The Federal Highway Trust Fund >> Administration (FHWA) apportions the authorization and appropriation Authority levels will determine over time The HTF is a dedicated federal fund with authorized funding among the states process for the Program is the provision the amount of reimbursements that dedicated revenues held in trust for according to formulas that are estab- of Obligation Authority to a state. a state may receive. Since 1989, reimbursement of expenditures by the lished in authorizing statutes. The Obligation Authority, which is appor- Mississippi has received substantial states for costs of eligible transportation distribution of federal funds that do tioned to states on an annual basis, funding through the Program. projects, including highway projects. not have a statutory formula is called sets the upper limit on the federal gov- Authorization >> Authorization is the “allocation” rather than “apportionment.” ernment’s commitment to pay, through process by which Congress authorizes Obligation Authority >> “Obligation” reimbursements, its share of eligible the expenditure of federal revenues on is the commitment of the federal gov- expenditures on approved projects. federal programs. For the Program, ernment to pay, through reimbursements Current year Obligation Authority plus authorization historically has been, to a state, its share of the eligible prior years’ Obligation Authority obligated and continues to be, provided on a expenditures on an approved project. but not yet expended determines the multi-year basis. This, together with The amount of such federal revenues maximum amount of federal highway the availability of HTF revenues and that a state can obligate in a given FFY assistance that a state may receive future HTF collections permits states is called its “Obligation Authority.” under the Program. Although annual more certainty in planning long-term Obligation Authority is not a direct highway projects. representation of the amount of reimbursements a state will receive

38 ANNUAL REPORT Use of Obligation Authority reimbursements received by a state in fuel taxes and federal sources provided the department’s expenditures were Mississippi has consistently utilized any year is not necessarily equal to the 87 percent of the department’s funding focused in the Construction Program its entire total Obligation Authority. state’s apportionment for such year. for fiscal year 2005. (dollar amounts are in millions): MDOT reasonably expects to continue to Many projects and contracts extend MDOT received $255 million in funds utilize its entire total Obligation Authority. over a number of years. The aggregate from state motor fuel taxes during this Maintenance Program $151.6 17.9% amount made available to a state in reporting period. As stated above, the Future Utilization of Federal any one year, if fully obligated, may be state motor fuel tax is a primary funding Construction Program $594 69.9% Highway Assistance received as reimbursement over a source for the department. Other state Under the Program, as projects are longer period of time relating to the taxes for fiscal year 2005 included the Administration Program $27.7 3.2% approved by the FHWA, the aggregate actual period of construction. MDOT following: dollar amount of each state contract expects that, as a result of its extensive Truck/Bus Tax Fees $53.9 million Equipment & Buildings $22.7 2.6% relating thereto is obligated against statewide road and bridge program, it Contractor’s Tax $4.2 million the remaining annual amount of will have sufficient federally-eligible Lubricating Oil Tax $1.0 million Debt Service Program $27.8 3.3% Obligation Authority still available to project expenditures to be able to utilize Railroad Mileage Tax $0.2 million that state. The state then pays the all Program assistance that my be made Tag Fees $14.5 million Enforcement Program $11.4 1.4% amounts owed under each contract available to the State. as the work progresses and receives Expenditures Aeronautics, Rails and reimbursement from the federal Revenue MDOT’s budgetary expenditures for Transit Programs $14.8 1.7% government for the federal share of the MDOT’s total receipts for fiscal year fiscal year 2005 totaled $850 million. total costs. The aggregate amount of 2005 were $769.7 million. State motor As shown below, the large majority of TOTALS $850 100%

ANNUAL REPORT 39 Bonded Debt The State Bond Commission issued Fiscal Year 2006 Budget cities and counties for the acceleration State statutes provided authority for $200 million in general obligation bonds MDOT’s budgeted expenditures of previously scheduled highway con- the issuance of $200 million in bonds in October 2002 to retire the outstanding (as appropriated by the Mississippi struction projects. This statute affords for the Four-Lane Highway Program and $100 million in general obligation notes Legislature) for fiscal year 2006 are a city or county the opportunity to $325 million in bonds for the Gaming and to provide $100 million for new $783 million while estimated receipts advance to MDOT the cost of a high- Roads Program. As of June 30, 2002, Gaming Roads Program construction. are $801 million. way construction project and in turn, the State Bond Commission has issued MDOT repays this debt. bonds for these programs as follows: H.E.L.P. Program Financial Successes The MDOT has entered into three 1987 Four-Lane Highway Program Under the Highway Enhancement In the 2004 Annual Report we such agreements thus far and more are June 1999 >> $200 million in 10-year through Local Partnerships (H.E.L.P.) discussed some of the financial planned in the future. The three in revenue bonds statute, MDOT through the Mississippi challenges that MDOT is facing. which the MDOT is involved are a Gaming Roads Program Development Bank and Tunica County Although those challenges have not paving project on State Route 304 in July 1998 >> $125 million in 20-year issued in January 2005, special obligation dissipated, we have enjoyed some Tunica County, bonds issued in the general obligation bonds bonds in the amount of $45 million for successes during 2005. amount of $45,000,000, Harrison October 2000 >> $100 million in the paving portion of Tunica County MDOT instituted an innovative County, State Route 601/Canal Road, one-year general State Route 304. financing program entitled Highway bonds issued in the amount of obligation notes Enhancement through Local Partnerships $102,000,000 and the city of Laurel, (H.E.L.P). This program, authorized by I-59 S-Curve, bonds issued in the state statute, allows MDOT to enter amount of $32,000,000. into cooperative agreements with MDOT will utilize the bond

40 ANNUAL REPORT proceeds on the Harrison County of the debt service as it would if utilizing rated offering in the market the same project for engineering/design and the normal construction process. day by the New Jersey Transportation the acquisition of right of way for State In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Trust Fund. Route 601, better known as Canal concern arose regarding the stability of MDOT also instituted a $100,000,000, Road, a new north-south connector the State of Mississippi. The Canal Commercial Paper program that is for four lane highway between Highway Road and Laurel bond issues were the express purpose of providing cash 90 and I-10. This project will alleviate first long-term debt offerings from flow for the robust construction congestion on Highway 49 and also Mississippi in the public markets program MDOT provides for the serve as another hurricane evacuation following Katrina. These transactions citizens of Mississippi. route for the Coast. MDOT will use not only met expectations, they bond proceeds on the City of Laurel exceeded expectations and earned a project for the reconstruction of the nomination as “Deal of the Year” from I-59 S-Curve in Laurel, which will the Bond Buyer, the paper of record for facilitate making this section comply the municipal finance industry. One with current interstate standards. reason cited for this nomination is MDOT will pay the debt service on the based on the innovative structure of bond issues based on agreements the deal. signed between MDOT and the Federal The tremendous demand for Highway Administration (FHWA). FHWA MDOT’s securities allowed for pricing will reimburse MDOT 80 or 90 percent at lower yield levels than a higher

ANNUAL REPORT 41 Financials

42 ANNUAL REPORT SASHTO attendees AASHTO attendees

Purpose >> To participate in discussions of BALENTINE, WILLIAM R Purpose >> To participate in discussions of BALENTINE, WILLIAM R administration, construction, maintenance, BROOME, DARRELL L administration, construction, maintenance, BROWN, LARRY L and other operations on a regional level in BROWN, LARRY L and other operations on a national level in MINOR, WILLIAM R order to share problem-solving techniques BROWN, WAYNE H order to share problem-solving techniques TARLTON, NAN P unique to this region. BUTTROSS, JAYNE L and to forge a cohesive national transporta- ZNACHKO, BRENDA S CARAWAY, GEORGE M tion system. Total: $10997.11 CARR, CHARLES R DAVIS, JIMMY R DEAN JR, ROBERT W DICKERSON III, JAMES Q DUCKWORTH, JACKIE R FOSTER, JOHN D HALL, RICHARD E HUFF, WILLIE R JAMES, HARRY L LEE, RICHARD A LYONS, WALTER G MAY, WILLIAM R MCGRATH, MELINDA L MINOR, WILLIAM R SHEFFIELD, RICHARD H SWINDOLL, WILLIAM P VALENTINE, JOHN M ZNACHKO, BRENDA S Total: $37218.09

ANNUAL REPORT 43 Annual Budget

FY2005 Revenues by Source FY2005 Expenditures by Program

other tag fees truck & bus fuel tax federal maintenance debt service admin, enforcement aero, rails construction $35.9 $14.5 permits/tax $255.6 funds program program equipment, program transit program 5% 2% $54.1 33% $409.7 151.6 $27.8 & building $11.3 & ports $594 7% 53% 18% 3% 50.5 1% $14.8 70% 6% 2%

Total Revenues >> $769.8 MM Total Expenditures >> $850 MM

44 ANNUAL REPORT Statement of receipts and disbursements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2005

Cash Balance as of July 1, 2004 $113,385,540 Receipts Fuel Tax $255,624,652 Federal Funds $409,743,431 Truck & Bus Taxes/Fees $53,982,583 Lubricating Oil Tax $1,078,320 Contactor’s Tax $4,275,209 Tag Fees $14,521,428 Commercial Vehicle Fees $4,424,380 Interlocal Proceeds $1,050,081 Interest $52,720 Other Receipts $24,998,783 Total Receipts $769,751,587

Funds Available for Fiscal Year 2005 $883,137,127

Disbursements Salaries, Wages & Fringe Benefits $133,529,541 Travel $2,730,671 Contractual Services $91,658,446 Commodities $28,552,076 Capital Outlay: Equipment $15,172,820 Other than Equipment $510,075,721 Subsidies, Loans & Grants $68,376,437 Transfers* $6,160,000 Total Disbursements $856,255,712

Cash Balance as of June 30, 2005 $26,881,415

*The $6,160,000 transfers is not included as part of fiscal year 2005 expenditures.

ANNUAL REPORT 45 Projected FY2006 Annual Budget

FY2006 Projected Revenue by Source FY2006 Projected Expenditures by Program

other motor truck & federal tag fees maintenance debt service admin, enforcement aero, rails construction $34 fuel tax bus fees funds $13 $151.3 $27.7 equipment, program transit program 4% $292 $52 $410 2% 19% 4% & building $13.7 & ports $514.8 36% 6% 52% $51.2 2% $24.3 65% 7% 3%

Total Revenues >> $801 MM Total Expenditures >> $783 MM

46 ANNUAL REPORT Budgeted revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2006

Cash Balance as of July 1, 2005 $26,881,415 Revenues Motor Fuel Tax $292,000,000 Federal Reimbursement $400,000,000 Other Federal Funds $10,000,000 Truck & Bus Taxes/Fees $52,000,000 Lubricating Oil Tax $1,000,000 Interest Income $1,000,000 Tag Fees $13,000,000 Contractor’s Tas $5,000,000 Commercial Vehicle Fees $5,000,000 Transfers & Other Fees $22,000,000

Budgeted Revenues $801,000,000 Total Available $827,881,415

Expenditures Salaries, Wages & Fringe Benefits $141,215,144 Travel and Subsistence $2,759,523 Contractual Services $105,040,930 Commodities $30,699,140 Capital Outlay: Other $354,874,958 Land $36,663,164 Buildings $10,000,000 Equipment $13,500,000 Subsidies, Loans, & Grants $88,271,600

Budgeted Expenditures $783,024,459 Estimated Cash Balance Jund 30, 2006 $44,856,956 Total Accounted For $827,881,415

ANNUAL REPORT 47

Intermodal Tenn-Tom turns 20 >> This year marks

the 20th Anniversary of the Tennessee-

Tombigbee Waterway. Eight open

houses and three inspections were

conducted as part of the anniversary,

enabling the general public to view

exhibits, displays, and videos of

Tenn-Tom’s history, its construction,

and economic impact over the past

two decades. Ports and Waterways and Ports

50 ANNUAL REPORT Trade and transportation: a view of Mississippi from the water.

Inland and coastal waterways remain economy (nearly three percent of the themselves at Tenn-Tom ports. Ports continue to be an asset to the State a vital element of the State’s intermodal total State Domestic Product). Skyline Steel LLC of Parsippany, NJ, of Mississippi’s economy and the next 20 transportation system, providing low cost, Our ports and waterways are grow- announced it would build a $17 million years should bring even better prosperity environmentally friendly transportation ing in importance as a vital part of plant at Yellow Creek Port. The facility to northeast Mississippi as well as the and fostering industrial development Mississippi’s intermodal transportation will produce spiral welded steel pipe entire state. opportunities. The state’s main shipping system. Mississippi is geographically used in heavy construction. Global Also this year, the Mississippi arteries are the Mississippi River (the positioned to become a leading gateway Material Service will spend about $8 Transportation Commission awarded largest commercial river in the country), for growing Latin American trade as well million at the Port of Amory for a loading $3,000,000 in National Highway System the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, and as trade with the rest of the world. and blending facility for materials to be (NHS) funds for Intermodal Connector the Gulf of Mexico. Neighboring states are investing used at the Kerr McGee plant in nearby Improvement Program (ICIP) projects. Sixteen public ports lie along our increasing amounts of public funds into Hamilton to make paint pigments. The The Commission established this program waters – six on the Mississippi River, six their ports, and we must continue to do Lowndes County Port was one of the to improve the connectors from modal on the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, likewise to remain competitive. major reasons that SteelCorr will be hubs---such as ports---to the NHS. For FY and four on the Gulf Coast. Two of these, This year is the 20th Anniversary of building a new mill near Columbus to 2005, $1,796,067 was allocated to the the State Port at Gulfport and the Yellow the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, make rolled steel primarily for the Port of Natchez, $414,000 was allocated Creek Port are under State authority, the and several inspection cruises and automotive industry. The Port is hopeful to the Port of Pascagoula and $789,933 remainder are entities of either county or “open houses” were conducted, allow- that much of the steel scrap, pig iron was allocated to the Port of Bienville. city governments. ing the public to see the history of the and finished steel rolls will be shipped The significance of the Commission’s All of these ports continue to pump waterway. This year also saw more through there. action in supporting multimodal trans- almost two billion dollars into the State’s than a few new industries situate The Tenn-Tom and its six Mississippi portation can’t be overlooked.

ANNUAL REPORT 51 The Mississippi Department of Transportation allocated $5 million in FY05 funds for Multi-Modal Transportation improvement projects. Funds were distributed in accordance with Sections 65-1-701 through 65-1-711, Mississippi Code of 1972, as amended. Ports received $1.9 million and the Ports Multi-Modal Committee met on July 20, 2004, to review funding applications submitted by 10 ports for $6.1 million in Multi-Modal funds. The committee selected the following port projects for the $1.9 million in available funds, and the Transportation Commission approved the projects for funding on July 27, 2004.

52 ANNUAL REPORT Ports Multi-Modal Projects Selected For Funding

PORT PROJECT DESCRIPTION MM FUNDS APPROVED

Warren County Port Upgrade structure to support 40T crane $200,000 Rosedale/Bolivar County Port Purchase 3 forklifts $170,000 City of Greenville Port 20% match for ICIP Project $120,000 Lowndes County Port Acquire 19 acre industrial site $73,000 Lowndes County Port 20% match for ICIP Project $40,000 City of Amory Port Repair dock wall $200,000 Natchez/Adams County Port 20% match for ICIP Project $104,000 Port of Pascagoula Repair port wharf system (Bayou Casotte) $500,000 Port Bienville Port plan & eng for Berth Ext. $200,000 Yellow Creek Port Purchase of large capacity crane $293,000

TOTAL $1,900,000

ANNUAL REPORT 53 Giving planes a place to land >>

Mississippi has 74 airports across the

state open to the public. Seven of

them have air carrier service and are

located in Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi,

Columbus-Starkville-West Point,

Meridian, Tupelo, Greenville, and

Hattiesburg-Laurel. The remaining 67

are general aviation airports that

serve corporate, business and privately

owned aircraft and play a vital role in

the economic development of several

Aeronautics small communities. There are also 5

privately owned general aviation

airports open for public use.

54 ANNUAL REPORT Aeronautics keeps watch over the skies and the runways.

Mississippi has 74 public use airports federal funding and to fund state/local Business Enterprise plans for general The division also updates the airport that are owned by local governmental projects for development at public aviation airports in the state. These layout plans for the general aviation entities. The mission of the aeronautics airports which have low federal plans are required by the new Part 26- public-owned airports in Mississippi. division of MDOT is clear cut: to assist funding priority. Participation by Disadvantaged These plans provide for the orderly these airports in developing a safe and The Aviation Safety Program includes Business Enterprises in Department expansion and development of the air- effective air transportation system in annual field inspections of the 79 public- of Transportation Financial Assistance ports and are required to be current for the State of Mississippi. To meet this use airports. Aeronautics is responsible Programs and must be approved before the individual airports to receive federal mission, the division has two programs for inspecting 66 general aviation public- an airport can receive federal funds. funds. Ten plans were updated and – Airport Development and Improvement owned public-use and 5 private-owned Nineteen plans were prepared/updated approved in FY2005 with fifteen other and Aviation Safety. public-use airports and reports any by the division and approved by the plans updated and provided to consult- Under the Airport Development and noted deficiencies to the owners. Follow- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ing engineers to assist with preparing Improvement Program, the division up actions are taken to encourage in FY2005. plans for airport development projects. provides technical and administrative timely correction of any identified safety The annual update of the State Aeronautics also assisted the assistance to the public airport owners deficiencies. Information collected during Aeronautical Chart and Directory was Mississippi Airports Association in (cities, counties and airport authorities) these inspections is used to update air- published and distributed in July, 2004. hosting their 2005 Annual Conference in project formulation and preparation port master records, aeronautical The chart includes an aeronautical map in Tunica, MS. The conference hosted of applications for Federal Aid Airport charts and aviation publications that of the state and a pertinent information/ the largest attendance in the history of Improvement Program (AIP) funds. State are distributed throughout the nation. directory of the public-use airports. It the organization with 221 attendees funds are also provided to supplement For this fiscal year, the division con- is in great demand by pilots in the and 34 exhibitors. owner’s funds when needed to obtain tinued to prepare Disadvantaged state and across the nation. Funding for the operations of the

ANNUAL REPORT 55 division comes from a percentage of During the year, 215 project 13 of which were approved for funding for missing and downed aircraft and aviation fuel sales in the state. These payments were made to airport using the division’s share of $1,700,000 assists with disaster relief. collections are: 5.25 cents ($.0525) per owners in the amount of $3,126,062 and an additional $202,701 from the gallon on jet fuel, 6.40 cents ($.0640) with a record number of projects (97) division’s annual aviation fuel tax revenue per gallon on aviation gasoline and 1 being closed. This additional workload for the projects. The projects were cent ($.01) per gallon of automobile was accomplished with no increase in selected by a seven-member gasoline for which a refund has been staff personnel. committee consisting of five airport made because it was used for aviation Recognizing the need for additional managers and a representative from fuel. Another revenue source is the 7% funds for the non-highway transportation the Mississippi Development Authority sales tax collected from automobile modes in the state, MDOT provided a and the aeronautics division, who parking lots on airports. The revenue in total of $5,000,000 for funding of airport, administers the projects. FY2005 was $1,750,810 from aviation ports, public transit and railroad projects With the addition of these multi- fuel and $480,949 from parking lot in FY2005. These multi-modal funds modal funds, a total of fifty-three taxes for a total of $2,231,759. were used for high priority projects that airport projects were funded in part In FY2005, forty funding grants were will have a positive economic impact on with a total of $2,801,641 in state issued to provide one-half of the local 5% the airport or community and assist in funds during FY2005. share of the 95% FAA funded projects. meeting critical needs for which federal The aeronautics division also provided The total cost of these projects was or local funds were not available. $60,000 in FY2005 for the operational $41,668,767 that included state funds Applications for airport multi-modal expenses of the Mississippi Wing Civil in the amount of $898,940. projects were received from 28 locations, Air Patrol that provides search and rescue

56 ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT 57 The best way to work >> Mass transit

services not only offer local job

opportunities but also give people

a way to find jobs in nearby cities. Public Transit Public

58 ANNUAL REPORT Turning public transit into an economic engine.

The coordination of transportation extends beyond just making more resources has become increasingly transportation services available. There important in an effort to improve the are also ongoing efforts to be part of quality of life in our communities. Viable the economic development strategies public transportation is widely recognized of local communities. Along with the as the central component of a coordinat- traditional impact on access to health ed transportation network that fosters care, education and social services, our sustainable community and economic focus is increasingly on better access development. Developing coordinated to employment opportunities for local and sustainable public transportation citizens. MDOT supported transportation networks remains a major goal of MDOT. services not only continue to provide There is a growing need to provide more local job opportunities, but to a larger regional transportation options that are extent allow local residents access to affordable, safe, efficient and reliable. jobs in neighboring areas. Through the Public Transit Division, One of the most notable indicators MDOT continues to develop partnerships of MDOT’s support for public with local communities to respond to transportation can be seen in the local and regional transportation investments that were made as a part demands. Our commitment to improving of the Multi-Modal Transportation Union Station Center in downtown Jackson. public and social service transportation Improvement Program. During FY 2004,

ANNUAL REPORT 59 a total of $800, 000 in Multimodal funds collaboration arrangements with other transportation contractors received Asset Acquisition and Management were made available to support public state agencies to implement joint this year. It was gratifying to have the Program, and the Rural Transit transportation capital and operating planning and “mobility management” support and cooperation of MDOT Assistance Program. These core costs. Recipients included Coast Transit strategies. The department joined in recognized in a feature edition of the programs represented an annual Authority (three Gulf Coast counties), the efforts to establish a Statewide Community Transportation Association investment of approximately $10 million HUB City Transit (Hattiesburg), JATRAN Coordination Coalition that will develop of America’s (CTAA) Community dollars to support local transportation (City of Jackson) and 14 rural transit some local transportation coordination Transportation magazine entitled “GO, services. Other special projects and operators. This investment leveraged demonstration projects. MDOT’s primary Mississippi, Continue to Roll.” We’re initiatives included special grants to over $7.5 million in federal dollars by goal is to focus on collaborative efforts extremely pleased that the Bolivar local municipalities for developing providing much needed matching funds that help to meet the full range of County Council on Aging was intermodal transportation facilities and for the purchase of 30 vehicles and transportation needs of community recognized as the National Community grants to support the continuation of operating assistance. These funds residents. As a result of the effective Transportation System of the Year at inter-city bus services throughout the helped support public and coordinated cooperation among local public and the CTAA Annual Meeting and EXPO, held Mississippi Delta region. rural transportation services in approxi- specialized transit service providers, in St Louis, Missouri, earlier this year. The growth in utilization of local mately 38 % of the state’s 82 counties there continues to be reductions in As in prior years the Public Transit transportation resources is illustrated by on the Coast and in the Jackson and resource duplication and increases in Division’s core programs during fiscal the following performance summaries Hattiesburg urban areas. access to public transportation at the year 2004 were the Rural General Public for the Section 5311 Rural General Public During Fy 2004, through the Public local community level. The true impact Program (Section 5311) the Elderly and and the Section 5310 Elderly and Persons Transit Division, MDOT continued it’s of these efforts can be seen in Persons with Disabilities Program with Disabilities Transportation long standing emphasis on developing the national recognition that local (Section 5310) the Statewide Capital Programs. During FY 2004, MDOT

60 ANNUAL REPORT authorized a total of 17rural general facilities. These partnerships included through the joint efforts of several rural public contractors. Despite a slumping working with the City of Jackson to general public transit contractors. economic environment, these providers complete the Union Station Center in Operating out of a dedicated office within reported a 12.5% aggregate increase in downtown Jackson. Another was in the the main Union Station terminal, the employment-related passenger trips. This Biloxi Gulfport area that involved intercity focus is on providing ticketing, passenger increase included more intra-county bus service. A third involved the City of information, transfers, trip scheduling, commuter trips. During this period, Brookhaven in developing an intra- parking for rural transit vehicles and a there was also a 5% decrease in the county commuter park and ride facility. driver stopover location. The emphasis number of contractors authorized for During this fiscal year, there was a areas will be on daily suburban and rural the more specialized Elderly and Persons planned investment of approximately commuters who work in the immediate with Disabilities Transportation Program. $1.75 million dollars programmed for downtown area and expanding the This reduction is attributed to increased these facilities. access of persons with disabilities to coordination among local service A unique feature of the Union metro area destinations outside of the providers and more reliance on Station facility is the incorporation routine service area of the city’s public transportation by social of a collaborative rural transportation JATRAN bus routes. service organizations. connector service , aptly named “The During this year progress continued Rural Connection” (TRC). Brought on in the partnerships between MDOT line this fiscal year, the TRC offers a and local municipalities to develop point of contact for services to and intermodal passenger transportation from a five county catchment area

ANNUAL REPORT 61 Saving lives through Operation

Lifesaver >> Never drive around lowered

crossing gates, never race a train to

the crossing. If your vehicle stalls on a

crossing, get everyone out immediately

and get far away from the tracks. These

are just a few of the tips offered by

Mississippi Operation Lifesaver.

MDOT’s rails division engineer serves

as chairman of this organization. Railways

62 ANNUAL REPORT Railroad crossing safety is of the highest priority.

Operating under state statutory Passenger rail service is provided by a Eastern Division classification switchyard of Mississippi Operation Lifesaver. Rails requirements, MDOT maintains direct national railroad passenger cooperation, is experiencing tremendous growth. Division Inspectors are frequently stewardship of railroad conditions and which operates on three existing freight This yard is the largest in the state and involved with Operation Lifesaver, Inc., practices. This is accomplished by lines. These services run from Memphis, provides off-loading capabilities. assisting with railroad/highway grade resolving rail and highway congestion Tennessee, to New Orleans, Louisiana; The Gulf Coast High Speed Rail crossing safety blitzes. problems, administering state and from Atlanta, Georgia, through Meridian, Corridor was officially designated by During fiscal year 2005, there were federal funds, and conducting statewide Mississippi, to New Orleans; and along Congress in 1999. The Corridor is located approximately 70 grade crossing signal safety inspections and projects. the Mississippi Gulf Coast from Mobile, from Houston, Texas, through Baton and surface projects approved by the Mississippi’s 2,584 miles of mainline Alabama, to New Orleans. Rouge and New Orleans, Louisiana, Mississippi Transportation Commission. railroad provide excellent service Of the total rail miles in Mississippi, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, There were also approximately 10 grade between major centers throughout the 1939 are grouped as Class I Major Mississippi, Mobile, Alabama, to crossings closed and approximately $5 state. This mileage is comprised of 24 Railroads. Class I Major Railroads are Pensacola, Florida. Other routes to million in federal funds obligated. railroads that range in size from fairly those which consist of 1,000 or more be considered for later addition to the Railroad safety continues to be a short intrastate railroads to members miles of rails and produce annual corridor are between New Orleans, primary concern at MDOT. Since 1975, of large rail systems extending from revenues of $40 million or more. Louisiana, and Hattiesburg, Mississippi; a total of over $81 million in federal the Gulf of Mexico into Canada. Large There are five Class I Major railroads New Orleans, Louisiana, and Jackson, safety funds has been obligated to rail systems account for more than 75 in Mississippi. Class III Local Railroads, Mississippi; and Pensacola, Florida to upgrading and improving railroad percent of the state’s rails with the which are railroads of 100 miles or less, Jacksonville, Florida. signals and railroad crossing surfaces. small operators accounting for the account for the remaining miles. MDOT’s rails division engineer serves remaining 25 percent. Kansas City Southern’s intermodal as the chairman of the board of directors

ANNUAL REPORT 63 Fenced in for their own good >> One

of the special measures to protect

wildlife, in particular the endangered

gopher tortoise, is specially designed

fencing to keep them from getting

out in the roadway. Environmental

64 ANNUAL REPORT Safeguarding the natural and human environment.

The environmental division of MDOT >> Evaluate and document the potential maintaining the extensive wetland to partner with the Federal Highway continually strives to effectively perform environmental, social and economic banking system comprised of a network Administration (FHWA) concerning its duties in a thorough and efficient effects of proposed undertaking. of numerous watersheds encompassing consultation requirements with federally- manner. These duties are essential to >> Render objective solutions to inter- a total of 6,000 + acres throughout the recognized American Indian Tribes of the fulfillment of MDOT’s mission. modal problems based on the need state. MDOT also participates in the Mississippi. As a result, a Memorandum Obtaining environmental clearance for for a safe, efficient, and economical acquisition of suitable land for the of Agreement (MOA), developed by the federally-funded transportation projects transportation facility balanced with purpose of providing habitat for various environmental division addressing these requires adherence to the requirements the environmental, social and eco- endangered species including gopher requirements, was recently adopted by of the National Environmental Policy nomic effects of the undertaking. tortoise, gopher frog, the indigo snake, the MS Transportation Commission and is Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended, with Personnel within the environmental the Louisiana quillwort and the sandhill currently in the final stages of acceptance emphasis in the following areas: division have continued developing crane. MDOT has coordinated with two by the MS Band of Choctaw Indians. This >> Development and evaluation of their expertise necessary to perform environmental groups for expanding our MOA will serve as the platform to all reasonable alternatives to the requirements of the NEPA process wetland and stream mitigation bank improve existing relationships and build intermodal problems, including through professional training seminars, credits: one in south Mississippi in the new relationships with the federally the “No-Build” Alternative. interacting with piers in other states, Red Creek watershed in concert with recognized tribes in Mississippi. >> Actively and constructively involve and environmental conferences to The Nature Conservancy and another The environmental division also federal, state and local agencies ensure proficiency within the division. with Wildlife MS in Monroe County continues to emphasize the need for and officials, as well as the general Through the environmental division, adjacent to the Buttahatchie River. community involvement in the decision- public, during the project MDOT continues to exhibit its commit- To promote compliance with federal making process by promoting public development process. ment to the natural environment by law, the environmental division continues meetings and hearings. Through these

ANNUAL REPORT 65 Local roadsides awarded for excellence. forums, our program impacts that It’s easy to take for granted the Thorne was nominated for the award in the field.” affect the human environment can be beautiful roadsides and highways that by Wayne Ducote, a sales specialist Mississippi’s Department of more adequately addressed. Every line the state of Mississippi. But those with BASF Professional Vegetation Transportation has seen a significant cost effort is extended to address issues roadsides recently received national Management and Will McMillan, a savings, as well as a safer environment such as historical and archaeological attention thanks to the hard work of sales specialist with UAP Timberland. for drivers and employees, as a result preservation, residential and business MDOT, led by Johnnie Thorne, District Collaborating with Thorne and Hailey of this award-winning program. Much displacements, changes to neighbor- 5 Manager, and Kent Hailey, District in the last year to experiment with of this is due to the reduced number of hoods, environmental justice concerns Field Manager. herbicide and mowing applications, mowings now required. and other community disruptions in an MDOT received the Roadside Ducote and McMillan helped them *Article written by Amye Zemke for BASF Professional Vegetation Management environmentally sensitive manner. Excellence Award from the National develop an integrated vegetation Roadside Vegetation Management management plan that helps control Association (NRVMA) at its recent weeds along roadsides and keep annual conference. The award is given driver visibility and safety in place to the state that demonstrates best using a variety of tools including practices and innovative management Plateau® herbicide. of roadside vegetation. “Thorne and his team were detailed in “This is really an honor,” said Thorne. their analysis of the different test plots, Thorne and Hailey receive the Roadside “My team and I have worked very hard and weren’t satisfied with anything less Excellence Award from Terry Barret, 2004 to ensure our roadsides are not only nice than near perfection,” said Ducote. NRVMA President, at the annual NRVMA to look at, but are kept safe for drivers.” “MDOT is definitely a leader for others conference on September 9, 2004.

66 ANNUAL REPORT You’re looking at a thing of beauty and safety >> Through an integrated plan for managing the state’s roadside areas, MDOT is able to control weeds and enhance driver visibility. Such planning also saves taxpayer money, since roadside grass areas don’t need to be mowed as often.

ANNUAL REPORT 67 Building new careers >> Every other

year, MDOT, in partnership with

Mississippi Roadbuilders, Mississippi

Asphalt Pavement Association, the

Federal Highway Administration, the

Mississippi Department of Education,

and various other civic organizations,

hosts Career Construction Day. The

occasion allows students to meet

various contractors at one location,

learn about the many job opportunities,

and in some cases even operate

equipment first hand. Our last fair

held on September 29, 2004 attracted Civil Rights

over 500 students and teachers from

three school districts with some 30

contractors and exhibitors.

68 ANNUAL REPORT Doing everything we can to ensure equal opportunity.

Giving every Mississippian the same Jackson. Louisiana DOT also took part was held June 16 and 17, 2004, in race neutral. During this reporting period chance at a career at MDOT, regardless in this training. District 6 and 7, July 7 and 8 in Districts MDOT’s DBE Commitments totaled of age, race, sex or disability. That’s the Every other year, MDOT, in partnership 3 and 5, and August 18 and 19, 2004, in $23,851,119 in contracted Federal-aid job of our Office of Civil Rights. Here are with Mississippi Roadbuilders, Districts 1 and 2. This training was representing a 10.75% overall-all some of the highlights for fiscal year Mississippi Asphalt Pavement designed for those who have direct attainment, of which 5.47% (12,130,559) 2005. FHWA arranged to bring “Six-Pack Association, the Federal Highway responsibility for helping monitor MDOT’s was attained through race conscious Training” to Mississippi the week of June Administration, the Mississippi DBE participation on construction jobs. means, and 5.28% ($11,720,560) 27-June 30, 2005. This comprehensive Department of Education, and various Conducted by MDOT’s Office of Civil through race neutral means. 4 day training session covered the six other civic organizations, hosts Career Rights and FHWA, this training is The proposed goal for FY 06 (Oct. 1, areas of Civil Rights to include State Construction Day. The occasion allows implemented to ensure that everything 2005 – Sept. 30, 2006) is 10%, of Internal Equal Employment Opportunity students to meet various contractors at possible is being done to prevent fraud which 4% will be achieved through race (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA), one location, learn about the many job and abuse within the DBE program. conscious means and 6% through race Contract Compliance, Disadvantaged opportunities, and in some cases even In the last Federal Fiscal Year that neutral means. Business Enterprise (DBE), Title VI and operate equipment first hand. Our last ended September 30, 2004, MDOT NOTE: Information is not yet available Environmental Justice (EJ), Complaint fair held on September 29, 2004 placed $221,816,776 in Federal-aid for Federal FY 05 (Oct 1, 2004 – Sept. Investigations, and American’s with attracted over 500 students and teachers highway funds under contract. MDOT’s 30, 2005.) Disabilities (ADA). This training was from three school districts with some DBE goal for FY 04 was 10.5 percent attended by MDOT personnel with job 30 contractors and exhibitors. (10.5%) of which 2% was to be duties in these areas as well as other Disadvantaged Business Enterprise achieved through race conscious local agencies such as the City of (DBE) Program Administration Training means and the remaining 8.5% through

ANNUAL REPORT 69 Tipping the scales with technology >>

The Office of Enforcement now has ten

permanent scales that electronically

pre-screen commercial vehicles on the

highway, enabling those vehicles to

by-pass weigh stations. The program,

called PrePass, allows carriers with

good safety records and tax status to

enroll. Approved trucks are equipped

with transponders which emit an

electronic signal read by a receiver

on the roadside. Enforcement

70 ANNUAL REPORT Weighing almost six million trucks in a year is a big job. And that’s not the half of it.

The responsibilities of MDOT’s Office consists of two officers in a fully trucks are equipped with transponders, generated revenues of $10,491,325.02 of Enforcement are to enforce laws and equipped law enforcement patrol car. which emit an electronic signal read by a through permit fees and weight penalties. regulations governing the operation of Each car carries 4 portable scales on receiver on the roadside approximately commercial vehicles, primarily those laws which to weigh trucks. All MDOT officers one mile from the weigh station. If pertaining to vehicle size and weight, are academy trained and certified law everything is in order the transponder fuel tax compliance, registration and enforcement officers. will flash a green light indicating that driver/vehicle equipment safety. Enforcement continues to operate the driver may by-pass the weigh station. Based on authority assigned by the one joint port with Louisiana on I-55 At the same time, the weigh station is Legislature during the 1999 session, at Kentwood, Louisiana, with plans notified on a computer screen that the the office is also involved in highway underway to add two additional carrier will be passing. drug interdiction, focusing on commercial locations on I-10 at the NASA Scales During the FY 2005, MDOT vehicles. The Office of Enforcement and I-59 at the Nicholson Scales. Enforcement Officers weighed 5,858,287 issues permits for vehicles hauling The Office of Enforcement currently trucks, issued approximately 11,148 non-divisible loads which are oversize operates ten permanent scales with overweight penalties, issued 16,490 and/or overweight as well. electronic pre-clearance of commercial oversize/overweight non-divisible load MDOT operates 27 permanent weigh vehicles on the highway, allowing them permits and made 49 drug arrests and stations adjacent to highways across to by-pass weigh stations. Carriers with issued 6 drug citations. The Permit the state, including 14 stations on the good safety records and tax status are Division issued 127,131 permits for Interstate System. The agency operates eligible to enroll in the PrePass program. oversize/overweight non-divisible 75 portable scales units. Each unit Upon approval by the state, the carriers’ loads. The Office of Enforcement

ANNUAL REPORT 71 Engineers of the future >> The next

generation of civil engineers may be

coming along through our RIDES

program. RIDES (Roadways Into the

Development of Elementary Students),

is focused on teaching K5-6th grade

students about transportation and

civil engineering. Piloted in fifteen

schools across the state in 2004, the

program continues to enlighten kids

about engineering, science and math,

while incorporating other subject

areas such as art, music and reading. Educational Programs Educational

72 ANNUAL REPORT Getting Mississippi students on the right track.

As our Professional Development Through an MDOT grant, Roadways distance learning center, and class- Nashville, Tennessee. Director and the creative force behind into Developing Elementary Students rooms. While working closely with The Alfred E. Johnson Award is MDOT’s commitment to education, (RIDES), was designed for elementary Tupelo Middle School and MDOT given annually to recognize an Danada McMurtry has been very busy schools. The program incorporates Commission and the Executive Director, outstanding contribution by a these last few years. every element of the state curriculum, and the Federal Highway Administration, transportation professional. For starters, in her role as regional from math to music. Originally piloted the Transploreum became a reality. Danada was also presented the 2004 director of AASHTO’s TRAC program, in 15 schools across the state, RIDES is MDOT’s staff training—developed, Friend of Education Award at the annual Danada launched TRAC in 17 pilot increasing in popularity. Through an implemented, and evaluated by Mississippi Association of School schools in 2003. That was the year innovative partnership with Region 8 Danada—is among the most Administrators Conference. The Friend Mississippi became the first state to Mental Health, additional RIDES comprehensive in the nation, with of Education Award is given annually to grant the TRAC program a place in materials were assembled and ongoing customized management, individuals who have contributed required school curriculum through distributed to more than 100 teachers technical, and administrative training gracious time and effort to see that Career Discovery classes. Focusing on at seven teacher trainings statewide in programs that are highly effective and education is the best it can be in transportation related careers with an June 2005. well-received by attendees. Mississippi. Former recipients include: emphasis in math and science, TRAC is Another project that has reached Of course, all of this hard work was Senator Thad Cochran, Representative now in 187 Mississippi schools. completion with Danada’s close bound to draw attention. And it has. Billy McCoy, Jim and Sally Barksdale, With plans to introduce transportation involvement is the Transploreum, a Danada was recently presented the House Speaker Tim Ford, Governor Ray career opportunities at the elementary transportation exploration museum. 2005 Alfred E. Johnson Achievement Mabus, Governor Ronnie Musgrove, level, Danada has spearheaded the Located in Tupelo, MS, on the Tupelo Award at the annual American Governor William Winter, and Jack Reed. development and secured funding for a Middle School campus, the Association of State Highway and K5 – 6th grade TRAC-type program. Transploreum serves as a museum, Transportation Officials Conference in

ANNUAL REPORT 73 Pat Fordice and MDOT share spotlight for “I’m not your mama!” campaign.

MDOT led the nation by winning the Fordice’s wonderful talent and sincerity, betterment of Mississippi communities. of accomplishment, and through their First Place National Litter Prevention the campaign would not be the caliber “Keep Mississippi Beautiful and the involvement in education and getting Award at the Keep America Beautiful that it is, and we (MDOT) thank her very Mississippi Department of Transportation citizens to take part in community (KAB) Awards Ceremony, recently held in much for all she has done and continues have one of the strongest partnerships improvement initiatives, these award- Washington, D.C., for its litter prevention to do each day to improve our state.” in the nation. Our goals are the same – winning programs serve as powerful efforts through the “I’m Not Your Mama Mississippi Transportation to protect, preserve and beautify our catalysts. They help keep America – Pick it Up Mississippi!” educational Commission Chairman Wayne Brown state’s highway rights of way, city beautiful across the entire nation, campaign, according to The State Litter said, “It goes without saying that this streets, county roads and public one community at a time.” Prevention Coordinator. campaign is a bright spot when you places,” KMB Executive Director This national honor was shared with think about the depressing effects of Barbara Dorr said. Former First Lady Pat Fordice, as her litter. We, as citizens of Mississippi, According to Dorr, KMB was recog- starring role in MDOT’s “I’m Not Your should feel proud that our state is nized with the KAB Gold Award as an Mama” commercial spots paved the leading the way to proactively prevent outstanding KAB affiliate and the way for the additional public awareness and reduce litter. What a great way to President’s Circle Award for the extreme and educational campaign components end the year by being recognized as effort made by KMB to reduce litter, – such as the Myrtle the Turtle School having the best campaign in the nation. minimize waste, and beautify and Program, Outdoor Advertising, and the We’re grateful for such a tribute.” improve local communities. Web Site. KAB presented a Partnership Award KAB President G. Ray Empson said, MDOT Executive Director Larry L. for the work performed by MDOT and “Keep America Beautiful’s National “Butch” Brown stated, “Without Ms. Keep Mississippi Beautiful (KMB) for the Award winners represent a wide scope

74 ANNUAL REPORT Working to keep Mississippi beautiful.

On April 21, 2005, Keep Mississippi awards in the State Government Mississippi Transportation Commissioner Beautiful (KMB) hosted its 13th Annual Category for their continued leadership Dick Hall and the State Litter Prevention Awards Luncheon at the Jackson Country and public awareness of litter abatement Coordinator were among the many Club. Participants from across the state and prevention. The first place award dignitaries at the event. Other guests traveled to Jackson to attend the pro- signified the successes and efforts of of honor included Leland Speed, gram. The event recognizes individuals, MDOT’s total litter program. The second Mississippi Development Authority groups, companies and government place award honored a specific event, Executive Director; Dolphus Weary, agencies who partner with KMB to Trash Splash, which was initiated by President of Mission Mississippi; make a difference in the quality of life MDOT and shared with the Department of Barbara Dorr, Executive Director of in Mississippi. Marine Resources, a strong partner in the KMB; and Louise Godwin. “MDOT’s commitment and dedication clean up of Mississippi’s coastal areas. to the program have increased the Also receiving awards for their contri- public awareness of the litter problem butions and efforts in litter prevention in our state,” said Barbara Dorr, KMB were Ronnell Cummins and Forrest Executive Director. “Without the help Gordon, both employees of MDOT’s of MDOT and other partners joining Shop Complex. MDOT received the KMB together to remove the negative Partnership Award, which recognizes impact of litter in our state, it would its strong and serviceable partnership be impossible to reach our goal.” with KMB. MDOT received first and second place

ANNUAL REPORT 75 TRAC and Transploreum earn national honors

In April, both the TRAC program and the Transploreum received recognition at the American Road and Transportation Builders Association’s (ARTBA) PRIDE Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. Placing 2nd in Public Relations/ Education, TRAC was acknowledged as a program that successfully educates the public and opinion leaders about the significant contributions made by the transportation construction industry to the economy and quality of life. Bringing home the 2nd place honor in the Community Relations category, the Transploreum was recognized for fos- tering positive civic involvement within those communities in which a public agency, firm or association is located.

Mike Vinson stands with Danada McMurtry after she received the Friend of Education Award.

76 ANNUAL REPORT Additional Educational Programs

Mississippi Summer Transportation 62 counties and 25 municipalities to Keep Mississippi Beautiful in the Great reinforce the litter prevention message Institute (MSTI) >> This year 25 high use inmate labor to remove hundreds American Cleanup in March. During the among young children and to educate school students got the chance to gain of thousands of bags of litter from the year, MDOT also implemented an and encourage young males and the a better understanding of career State’s rights-of-way. The Adopt-a- advertising campaign designed to general populace to stop littering. opportunities associated with the Highway program gives citizens and transportation industry. Partners in this local governments an opportunity to program include Jackson State adopt and remove litter from sections University, the Federal Highway of highway in our State. The Adopt- Administration, and ERGON. an-Interchange program encourages Trash Bash and other Anti-Litter community beautification efforts. Both Efforts >> Anti-litter coordinators are on programs boast hundreds of participants staff in every MDOT district and provide and thousands of volunteers. Trash litter prevention and abatement programs Bash was held in Spring 2004 across on a statewide basis. Myrtle the Turtle the state, providing an opportunity for teaches students in grades K-2 about MDOT employees to volunteer to pick litter prevention. During the past year, up litter from highways, increasing litter 395 presentations were made to students awareness to the traveling public. This Recognized for their contributions at the ceremony were Linda Clifton, in schools and libraries throughout the year, 1,700 volunteers removed over Tupelo Middle School Principal; Dr. Debbie Davis, Pierce Street State. MDOT and Keep Mississippi 9,400 bags of litter from Mississippi Elementary School Principal; David Barton, Executive Director of Mississippi Road Builders Association and Susan King and Beth Beautiful (KMB) currently partner with highways. MDOT also partnered with Ann Watson of MDOT’s Professional Development Division.

ANNUAL REPORT 77 Schooling everybody up >> Through

the Civil Engineering Pilot Education

Program, college students in their last

two years of undergrad or graduate

level study can finish their degree on

a full-time basis as an MDOT employ-

ee. The program has really helped

with recruitment. Professional Development Professional

78 ANNUAL REPORT All the essentials of employee training

The Professional Development Support Certification Program (ASCP). Succession planning >> MDOT leader- Transportation technician Division (PDD) plans, develops and There were 74 MDOT employees actively ship recognized the need for a process certification exam preparation >> coordinates all employee training involved in the CSM/CPM Program, with of succession planning as our most MDOT technicians who choose to seek activities for MDOT based on input seven having attained certification status experienced employees retire. PDD certification in various fields of trans- assisted with the development and received from key staff in each of the this year. A total of 49 employees portation may do so through the implementation of the Leadership districts and divisions. Activities and participated in at least one of the National Institute for Certification in three ASCP levels this year, with 29 Enhancement and Development (LEAD) Engineering Technologies (NICET). In accomplishments in this area for having graduated in May, 2005. initiative to meet this goal. This year 90 an effort to assist technicians in 2005 are summarized below: employees who took part in this two preparing for certification exams, Customer service initiative >> year program successfully graduated. MDOT offers NICET exam “prep” classes. Developing supervisory and PDD assisted in providing Customer managerial capacity >> Working with Civil engineering pilot education Service training to approximately 150 the State Personnel Board, the PDD program >> This program assists MDOT administrative staff within the agency. facilitated the enhancement of employee in meeting its long term staffing needs This training charges staff members supervisory and managerial capabilities. in the engineering field. It allows with identifying internal and external Employees participated in a number of students in their last two years of customers, developing strategies to developmental programs including the undergraduate or graduate level study meet the ever-changing needs of our Certified Public Manager Program (CPM), to complete a degree on a full time customers, and tailoring individual Certificate in Supervisory Management basis as an MDOT employee. During FY division mission statements reflective Program (CSM), Basic Supervisory 2005, two students completed their of the commitment to outstanding Course (BSC), and the Administrative degrees under the program and joined customer service. MDOT as full time employees.

ANNUAL REPORT 79 An automated training tool >> The PDD administers an on-line training system, HUBERT (HUB of Educational Resources for Transportation), which assists MDOT employees in managing their own professional development plans by providing them with a schedule of training events including descriptions, dates, times, locations and registration information.

80 ANNUAL REPORT Continued Excellence in Communication

Each year, MDOT’s External Affairs The team was more than proud to Division competes with state agencies bring home the following awards: and private companies for public relations LANTERN Award for the 2004 awards. In Mississippi, the highest honor “People of MDOT” is a PRISM Award from the Public PRISM Awards for the 2004 “People of Relations Association of Mississippi MDOT” and for Glenn Smith’s photo- (PRAM), while regionally, a LANTERN graph of Ms. Fordice award is given by the Southern Public Awards of Excellence for the Ronell Relations Federation (SPRF). Commercial Series (Messages from the In 2004, the staff of eight communi- Director); MDOT Annual Report; Vision cation professionals spent the entire 21 Report; Senator Delma Furniss year working diligently to produce Hospitality Station poster- designed by magazines and newsletters that would Jason Moulder serve the MDOT family, as well as gain Certificates of Achievement for recognition for their creativity. Connection Magazine; Stateside News; Media Day; Delma Furniss Hospitality Station’s Grand Opening; and for seasonal window displays in the Administration building’s lobby

ANNUAL REPORT 81 POST OFFICE BOX 1850 JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI 39215 GOMDOT.COM