BE INFORMED QUARTER 4 | 2020
QUEST
Your Future | Our Vision YEARS America’s Choice for Marketing and Communications | PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
More than ever, Quest is committed to making the world a better place. ABOUT QUEST THE YEAR We believe a socially committed Quest Corporation of America, Inc. organization must seek not only to (Quest) has maintained a reputation balance its social, economic and for providing high-quality, professional THAT WAS environmental interests, but to creative products and communications I THOUGHT FOR a moment it would be difficult to propose original and innovative ways services to various state departments, put the year 2020 into words. Typically, this fourth- of transforming the world around it. federal and municipal agencies, and ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU quarter message gives me a chance to look back on some of the largest engineering and the year behind us and reminisce – to count down This publication is printed on construction companies in the United the best moments, top stories and highlights of a 30 percent recycled stock. States. Owned and operated by year gone by. It seems, however, most of us don’t partners Sharlene Lairscey and Jessica even want to bother. We just can’t wait to simply Francois, Quest is licensed and minority get this year behind us. certified (DBE/MBE/SBE/WBE) to serve I am so grateful for trails, parks, rivers and lakes. I even nationally. For me 2020 was frenzied, yet honestly, it was did some camping with my siblings. I did not see that also splendid. I took refuge in nostalgia, quietude, one coming. spirituality. I saw a calling for love like never before. I OUR CUSTOMERS found opportunities to express that people are safe, God definitely quieted my heart this year. I have a We believe our goals are ultimately that we care about them and that we value their new appreciation for what matters. I have cut back on to build better relationships with contributions to our team. distractions and realized I am truly blessed to have faith, the societies in which we operate, to family and friends. And that’s what’s important. initiate open, two-way dialogue seeking I realize 2020 brought plenty of suffering, but the understanding and solutions to issues answer to suffering is not anger or bitterness. It is Through technological advances and innovation – and of mutual concern. Our customers mean gratitude and thankfulness. with our profound respect for giving back – we proudly the world to us. We consistently strive continued to serve our communities, our clients and to treat them fairly, honestly and with Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to count your their customers. We spent a lot of our time outside of integrity, maintaining product quality and blessings when things are going poorly. But for me, work helping others. engaging in responsible marketing and suffering always brings me closer to God. consumer information practices. Some 25 years ago in Kenosha, Wisconsin, I sat at my I sincerely appreciate everything our associates in-laws’ kitchen table and wrote a business plan. Little OUR CULTURE OF LOVE are doing to help this organization move forward. did I know it would ignite love and friendship and will Our culture is driven by one thing – LOVE. I discovered once again that at Quest, we are continue to do so for generations to come. Of course, we have revenue targets and united. With our extraordinary friendships, our goals are financially driven. Our unique personalities and irrepressible I think today we stand a little taller and reach purpose, however, is about making our charisma, we have been spreading a little further than ever before. We realized employees and clients happy. We view tremendous joy. we were limitless, even with limitations. our employees as our No. 1 asset, and at Virtually, I continue to see a twinkle in our its core is a belief that work/life balance One of the blessings I experienced in eyes, a smile on our lips and purpose in is always a priority. We share a positive 2020 was that we could be authentic. our hearts as we set our sights on the climate with motivation among workers. We sacrificed who we were for infinite possibilities before us. We are transparent, and there is open who we would become. We had communication and trust. And, we believe the freedom to march to our Thanks to all our clients who help no matter what, at the end of the day we own very special beat, while nurture our dream, for your trust should always have fun. letting go of the baggage we and for being here to share this joy. thought was necessary to A HEALTHY ORGANIZATION our lives. We love you! Happy New Year! Truly a healthy organization, Quest strategically integrates employee well- Before this year, I was on the being into our business objectives road three to four days per and reinforces it through established week. You don’t realize how practices on leadership support, a much of your life you get back learning culture, healthy job quality when you’re not driving two and people-friendly practices. to four hours each day. Also, I spent more time in nature.
1 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE RBG TRIBUTE WINS HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST THIS YEAR, 13 Quest staff members (and some of their family members) entered our annual Halloween Costume Contest. The competition was steep, but Senior Communications Manager Laurie Windham’s rendition of U.S. Supreme Court Ruth Bader Ginsburg was the clear winner. Emphasizing the importance of exercise as part of self-care, Quest President/Owner Sharlene Lairscey offered the winning prize of a new bicycle of Laurie’s choice.
Joan Ruth Bader Ginsburg, March 15, 1933-Sept. 18, 2020, served as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1993 until her death. She was nominated by President Bill Clinton and at the time was generally viewed as a moderate consensus-builder. She eventually became part of the liberal wing of the Court as it shifted to the right over time. Ginsburg was the first Jewish woman and the second woman to serve on the Court, after Sandra Day O’Connor. Congratulations, Laurie, and thanks to all who participated!
THE GREAT TOILET-PAPER SCARE OF 2020 FOLLOWING THE FAST spread of COVID-19 across Honesty-Humility, Emotionality, Extraversion, Europe and North America in March 2020, many people Agreeableness, Conscientiousness and started stockpiling various supplies. With the increasing Openness to Experience. spread of the virus, the demand for particular items – such as toilet paper – skyrocketed. Some companies The study results suggest people who felt more reported an increase of up to 700% in their sales! threatened by COVID-19 stockpiled more toilet paper. It also found a tendency toward Emotionality Despite government appeals to refrain from “panic predicted the perceived threat of COVID-19 and indirectly affected stockpiling buying” or stockpiling, supermarkets across countries behavior. Finally, people higher in Conscientiousness – traits such as organization, faced difficulty stocking toilet paper. In response to the diligence, perfectionism and prudence – tended to stockpile more toilet paper. increased stockpiling, numerous media articles sought to explain its underlying psychology. PLOS One conducted What was Quest’s response to toilet-paper hoarding? Quest Owner/President Sharlene a study examining the relationship between personality Lairscey, along with Quest’s corporate communications staff, developed a fun traits, the perceived threat of COVID-19 and toilet-paper Halloween card and mailed it to staff members and clients. hoarding. “The Halloween card was a way to have a little fun during a difficult time,” Sharlene Researchers collected participants responses on an said. “Although many Quest staff members routinely work remotely, we wanted them assessment called the HEXACO Inventory, which to know we miss them when we can’t gather in person.” measures personality characteristics in six areas: Sources: journals.plos.org, cnn.com
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 2 FUEL YOUR PROGRAM WITH MARKETING AND DELIVER MORE THAN A PROJECT ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU DELIVER HEIGHTENED EXPECTATIONS – DELIVER GROWTH DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES
BUILDING ROADS AND highways can be degree to which your project meets the needs dangerous. Fortunately, through traffic of the public and the industry? Opportunity is safety initiatives and a combination of wide open to leverage awareness and respect awareness, behavior and infrastructure for how road and bridge construction serves strategies, government authorities Florida. throughout the world are working hard to reverse this deadly trend. Marketing and Think of the possibilities when partnering with communications plans historically have the talent and commitment of communications been key to providing a consistent, strategic experts. By showcasing new technologies platform for developing safety plans, and creative solutions, you also are serving strategies and public information campaigns. as an accelerator of progress and new ideas. Publicity at the local and statewide levels, and even receiving maximum worldwide publicity, is key. Do not be afraid to self-promote. A successful program, concept or product, or even a specific project, should be shared.
According to Quest Senior Communications Manager Nick Lulli, “With monumental projects such as Wekiva Parkway, I-4 Ultimate, First Coast Expressway and more, it’s a major chore to build these legacy projects, let alone market them and engage the public. Organizations such as Quest use decades of expertise in communications to sell these projects to your customers, so But what about showcasing your excellence contractors can focus on the bridges and roads in general? What about recognizing that will serve communities for generations. innovative road projects that place the Simply put, we allow contractors to work on transportation construction industry advancing the project, and we focus on making at the forefront of social and economic them look good.” development? What about promoting your innovative use of technologies, Nowadays, having an online presence is not or taking pride in the an option. Today’s construction industry is
Quest is a proud member of the Florida Transportation Builders’ Association (FTBA), the preeminent trade association promoting and supporting the transportation industry since 1933
3 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE
During these unprecedented times in which our industry finds itself, communication has never been more important for keeping employees, owners and stakeholders up to speed with the quickly evolving construction industry landscape.” – C. Pat McGriff, P.E., DBIA/Pursuit Manager/Lane Construction.
changing rapidly, and the days of thinking low-bid now. Anyone who’s been paying attention Video is versatile and with engaging, contractors don’t need marketing are over. Marketing to the construction market during the past quality content, allows you to show your raises awareness and generates new business for century can see the change. Contractors are firm in action. Video is an effective tool for any company. Content marketing educates, builds venturing further and wider than ever before. digital marketing; it should be used across authority and drive traffic to websites. Visual content, The construction industry has become global various platforms including your website, such as infographics, provides digestible information and increased in sophistication. social media platforms, email outreach and in a visually appealing manner. With infographics, it’s YouTube channel. Consider advancing your simple to establish your expertise in the field. Building brand awareness with an online image by including links to video in your presence and strategic social media is the proposals. There are times when a low bid is not the only perfect way to stay in front of potential deciding factor in procuring a project. Consider customers while expanding awareness Developing a new marketing strategy might design-build, best-value selection, emergency throughout the industry. These platforms take a little work and commitment of some projects and the public-private partnership provide your firm with an avenue for sharing resources, but believe me when I say it is consortium. These days you need to build a strong high-quality photos and videos, as well as run an absolute must. So, figure out your niche. reputation, and it’s critical to assemble a strong ads that are extremely targeted. Companies Put some effort into your website, add proposal. positioning themselves as employers of choice social media to the mix and develop some elevate the opportunity to recruit top-level engaging videos. Figure out a budget and Hello, digital marketing! It’s time to step out from employees simply by doing a project spotlight monitor your marketing campaign to gauge behind the curtain and start building a better brand in a specific city to attract local talent. the return on investment. It works!
NEXT LEVEL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY GRADUATION THIS YEAR, QUEST Executive Team members Mary Brooks and Jill In November, Quest held a virtual graduation ceremony that included Cappadoro established the Next Level Leadership Academy – a a video in which participants shared their greatest lessons and how curriculum focused on program and contracts management to they plan to use the knowledge gained. help participants maximize the organization, productivity and profitability of the contracts, people and plans they serve. “Major kudos to Jill and Mary for putting together this virtual leadership academy and filling it with great advice, strategies The purpose of the program is to inspire our associates and and information,” shares South Florida Business Unit Leader managers to grow personally, professionally and spiritually, Sergies Duarte. “The peer-to-peer sessions were therapeutic and to share experiences and information that help each of us as we discussed our experiences and learned from one another. become our own best selves. The program benefits the company by Cheers to everyone who was involved and participated!” increasing employee productivity, engagement and retention, nurturing future leaders and sparking better decision making. Congratulations to the 2020 inaugural class graduates!
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BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 4 QUEST GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND: CONSTRUCTION PLANS READING TRAINING FOR PIOS THERE IS A wealth of knowledge in road construction plans. So, a group of Quest associates ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU recently traveled to Central Florida to dive into information that will help them provide even better service to clients and community members.
In November, some of our newest Quest colleagues came together for a safe and socially distanced Quest Plans Reading Training at our Lake Mary office. This training for years has been provided by veteran roadway construction engineer Armando Perez of Elipsis Engineering & Consulting, in collaboration with the Quest team. Over time, the training has grown in scope to encompass more detail and a wider range of information. The training teaches public information specialists how to leverage construction plans to best inform residents, businesses and elected officials about public impacts before, during and after a construction project.
Quest’s public information specialists learn how to read plans so they can explain the eager to dive into the training. Central Florida Construction practical aspects of construction projects to the public. Having this information allows public Program Manager Lisa Mark and Associate Vice President information specialists to understand all areas of public impacts from a project, not just Mary Brooks welcomed attendees and supported the session. the basic purpose. For example, a Quest public information specialist can review plans and determine whether a business has access to a new median opening, whether new street “Providing this crucial class during the pandemic added a new lighting will be installed, where new sidewalks will go and how new protected turn lanes will aspect to the training. With everyone’s safety in mind, we were improve traffic flow. able to share important information and provide another great opportunity for staff to share experiences,” Mary explains. For this recent training, Quest employees came from as far as Pennsylvania and Miami to learn from Training Instructor Armando Perez’s many years of experience. Even on a Participants were pleased that social distancing, masks, plenty Saturday, Quest Associates Ashley Beck, Maria Camacho, Barbara Catlin, Sophia Fox, of hand sanitizer and extra care with food preparation made Timothy Freed, Miranda Lansdale, Esteban Meneses, Catherine Segar and Colleen Shea were the training safe and enjoyable.
SPREADING JOY WITH THE 2020 TURKEY DROP “This year, Quest’s This holiday season, the warmth of hope and love Pennsylvania team Quest associates for the unfortunate in our wanted families in our in Florida and communities – many of community to have the Pennsylvania helped whom are children. stock the freezers of best holidays possible,” the many food banks “This year was an amazingly shares Communications and ministries who difficult time in the lives of Manager Sophia Fox. feed local, struggling so many people,” says Andy families. The frozen Orrell, Senior Communications “At the Harrisburg turkeys donated went immediately Manager. “It was important to area community food bank, just before to the freezers of area food banks our team to partner with local Thanksgiving, we filled the turkey and homeless shelters. From there community organizations to bring they went into food boxes and onto a little happiness to those in need donation box. I love that Quest believes in holiday meal plates, becoming during the holidays.” giving back to those who are in need.”
5 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED
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QUARTER 4 2020 4 QUARTER INFORMED BE | |
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ANSWERS: 1. Doye O’Dell 2. Paul McCartney 3. James Brown 4. “Elvis’ Christmas Album” 5. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” 6. Carole King
Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas” “Merry Carey’s Mariah
Paul McCartney Paul Carole King Carole Barbra Streisand’s “A Christmas Album” Christmas “A Streisand’s Barbra
Connie Francis Connie Madonna Josh Groban’s “Noël” Groban’s Josh
Bing Crosby Bing Eartha Kitt Eartha “Elvis’ Christmas Album” Christmas “Elvis’
The Drifters The Kylie Minogue Kylie ALBUM OF ALL TIME IN THE UNITED STATES? UNITED THE IN TIME ALL OF ALBUM
WHAT’S THE BEST-SELLING CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS BEST-SELLING THE WHAT’S 4. RECORDED “WHITE CHRISTMAS?” “WHITE RECORDED SONG “SANTA BABY?” “SANTA SONG
WHICH OF THESE ARTISTS HASN’T HASN’T ARTISTS THESE OF WHICH 2. WHICH SINGER HAS NOT RECORDED THE THE RECORDED NOT HAS SINGER WHICH 6.
Marvin Gaye Marvin
Ernest Tubb Ernest Stop the Cavalry, Jona Lewie Jona Cavalry, the Stop Aretha Franklin Aretha
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Doye O’Dell Doye Wonderful Christmastime, Paul McCartney Paul Christmastime, Wonderful James Brown James
Elvis Presley Elvis I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Bing Crosby Bing Christmas, for Home Be I’ll CLAUS IS DEFINITELY HERE TO STAY?” TO HERE DEFINITELY IS CLAUS
BILLBOARD’S HOT 100 IN 1970 WITH “SANTA “SANTA WITH 1970 IN 100 HOT BILLBOARD’S CHRISTMAS?” “BLUE BANNED BY BBC RADIO? BBC BY BANNED
WHO HAD A NUMBER SEVEN HIT ON ON HIT SEVEN NUMBER A HAD WHO 3. RECORDED FIRST ARTIST WHICH 1. WHICH OF THESE CHRISTMAS SONGS WAS WAS SONGS CHRISTMAS THESE OF WHICH 5.
How much Christmas rock ‘n roll trivia do you know (or can you guess)? you can (or know you do trivia roll ‘n rock Christmas much How
Take a moment to have a little holiday fun, Quest style! style! Quest fun, holiday little a have to moment a Take ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE CHRISTMAS THE AROUND ROCKIN’ ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE NEED YOU | ALL VIRTUAL ENGAGEMENT: KEEPING THE QUEST SPIRIT ALIVE QUEST HAS BEEN working remotely since one-on-one discussion with employees
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU late March. One of the first things we did at every level. in the beginning was talk directly to our employees. Just like we do with our clients, According to Employee Relations we took a community-focused approach Manager Kim Licari, “Sharlene and to engaging our employees. Jessica have been transparent with weekly updates about the health of “I believe we took the right approach, our business. We’ve created multiple and we continue to do so,” Quest Owner/ virtual settings for our employees to Vice President Jessica Francois says. get together for non-work purposes “When speaking with our employees, we (including happy hours, coffee clubs and learned they’re sad we are somewhat some game playing).” disconnected. But they communicated workforce relationships without clearly that they feel connected to our Some advice from our company to first understanding where they are overall mission to one another.” yours: be sure to take the time to coming from and what they need. listen to your team. That’s the first Quest routinely takes surveys, and most important step. You cannot It hasn’t been easy, but there’s one organizes group chats and sets up effectively engage or build your thing we know for sure: Quest was successful in 2020 because we We pay close attention to how our team engaged with and cared for our members feel, what’s on their minds and employees – and we’re bringing them along every step of the way. what management can do,” Jessica says.
WINNING BUSINESS IS KEY QUEST IS A relationship-based company and winning can be stressful and expensive. To maintain profitability, seller-doers and business- business is key. Like most professional architecture, development staff must be efficient and effective at securing new business from engineering and construction firms, we subscribe to existing and new clients. the seller-doer model of business development. What does that mean? Well, it is simple. We have leaders and The seller-doer model works when you embrace it and do it right. Employees in the managers who, in addition to their project roles, are field have a constant stream of communication going between existing clients and responsible for and rewarded for revenue growth. prospects where new opportunities surface. They just must pay attention and follow through. It is an advantage to be in the field. According to Owner/President Sharlene Lairscey, this still is the most prevalent sales structure in our Relationship continuity, from the initial stages through a project’s life cycle, is another professional services industry. Why? Because clients advantage. Seller-doers often are tasked with generating repeat work with the clients prefer to meet with people who will be managing or they serve, providing additional services and more. That’s one of the reasons we’ve leading their project or projects. taken our client relationship management and marketing to a new level.
Getting a meeting with the right person, and Quest is a small firm, so the responsibility for revenue growth falls to our cultivating that relationship over weeks, months and firm leaders. It’s not always easy, and it comes with some challenges – but even years until a request for proposal is released, selling and doing are equally important. “Technology continues to change. Quest is not only keeping up, but implementing the technology that works for us,” says Contracts/Client Relationship Manager Elisa DiGrazia.
7 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE PUBLIC WORKS PROFESSIONALS DEDICATED TO COMMUNITY SERVICE AS A PROUD member of the American Public Works Association Public works professionals have huge responsibilities. (APWA), Quest serves public works professionals and their projects Beyond implementing efficiencies and amplifying safety to throughout Florida, and at times throughout the Southeastern critical system improvements, they’re passionate about U.S. Quest provides top-notch marketing, communications identifying and addressing their capital needs. and public-information
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products and services a “And we are proud to serve them,” Maricelle says. “We r i c to local, county, state/ e collaborate and have perfected our communications l le province and federal V programs to help promote public value. From outreach e agencies. ne and education to awareness and community engagement, ga s Quest is instrumental in showcasing their efforts.” Quest serves transportation infrastructure including roads, bridges, pipelines, ports and airports, public spaces, public-services firms Our social media capabilities are available to build and public buildings. awareness about the industry. According to Quest Technology Division Team Leader Amy Lee Diel, “Our “Public works departments pride themselves on customer public works agency clients use social media to convey service,” Associate Vice President Maricelle Venegas shares. A updates and announcements to their communities. m “From clean water and functioning sewers to stormwater, smooth y We’re assisting with videos, photos and commentary to L e streets and seamless traffic flow, our public works clients want e help enhance their community relationships, build trust D i their citizens and visitors to be happy.” el and tell their stores.”
VOTE – IT’S YOUR RIGHT! VOTING IS ONE of American citizens’ most important rights. Originally under the U.S. Constitution, only white male citizens over the age of 21 were eligible to vote. Today, citizens over the age of 18 can’t be denied the right to vote, regardless of race, religion, gender, disability or sexual orientation. However, in every state except North Dakota, citizens must register to vote, and laws regarding the registration process vary by state.
The path to full voting rights for all American citizens was long and challenging. Women were denied the right to vote until 1920, when the Nineteenth Amendment was passed. Previously, women only had been able to vote in some states.
The vote was first extended to African Americans under the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution, passed during the Reconstruction period after the Civil War. But because of widespread discrimination in some states, African Americans weren’t assured full voting rights until President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act in 1965.
Source: whitehouse.gov
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 8 WELCOME JOHN MILLS!
JOHN MILLS, ORIGINALLY from St. Augustine, joins of North Florida. During his time there, he directed a public- Quest as an Area Manager for our Northwest relations campaign for a local nonprofit to maximize revenue, ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Florida Division. He’s responsible for rebrand their image and garner a larger media presence. pursuing public information and community outreach opportunities in Before joining Quest, John was employed with an agency construction programs throughout whose clients ranged from nonprofits and banks to the Florida Panhandle. international industrial companies. John facilitated all facets of their communications efforts. Through those experiences, John previously worked as a welder he realized his passion for helping people and making and maintenance engineer for connections. Turner Industries. While working at a chemical plant in the Panhandle, John spends his free time with his dog, Sadie, and enjoys he gained experience in crisis cooking, binge-watching football (he’s a huge Jacksonville communication efforts and workforce Jaguars fan) and immersing himself in good documentaries. management. If you need assistance with public information or John earned his bachelor’s degree in communication, community outreach in the Panhandle, Quest would love to with a concentration in public relations, at the University help! Please reach out to John at [email protected].
We’re so pleased to have John join the Northwest Florida team,” Associate Vice President Sandee Launch says. “His enthusiasm and passion for communicating with the public is contagious. He is a great addition to the team and we can’t wait to introduce him to our many clients and friends.”
TUESDAY TECH TALKS BY TONY THIS YEAR, QUEST Innovative on effective business continuity during the to software and Catalyst Tony Cappadoro COVID-19 epidemic cannot be overstated. equipment, specific implemented Microsoft industry training and TEAMS as the main source During the implementation, Tony came company announcements. for team collaboration and to Quest’s Corporate leadership with He even helped arrange virtual happy meetings, file management the idea of holding a Tuesday Tech Talk hours, bringing employees together and more. The importance – a weekly, 30-minute lunchtime TEAMS from afar and keeping morale up in the of TEAMS implementation session covering important topics related strangest of times.
To ny Cappadoro The ability for our corporate-office employees to easily move from the office environment to working from home was key to Quest’s ongoing success,” states Quest Owner/Vice President Jessica Francois, “especially with respect to understanding and participating in company-wide training and initiatives, and staying connected as a Quest family.”
9 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST PROJECTS WIN AWARDS QUEST’S “THANK YOU Bus Drivers” video, led filming; wrote the script and storyboard; and Design-Build Award. Quest Southeast by Business Unit Leader Sara Shepherd, for provided narration with in-house talent. The Florida Business Unit Leader Beth Zsoka Pasco County Public Transportation (PCPT) video placed second in the 2020 FPTA Awards served as the community outreach – along with social media posts and more – Sustainable Campaign category. specialist and as public information placed second in the Potpourri Campaign officer through design and construction. category for the 2020 Florida Public The City of Port Saint Lucie’s Crosstown The Quest team also designed and Transportation Association (FPTA) Awards. Parkway Extension Design-Build placed first managed the project website and as Category (Transportation-Structures) provided creative materials including Another Quest-produced video for PCPT, Project of the Year for the 2020 Florida Region videos, signage, flyers and more. “Keep Pasco Moving,” demonstrated the agency’s COVID-19 safety and sanitation efforts and introduced their new Gillig buses. Quest provided live filming; on-site photography and drone Thank You Bus Drivers! (PCPT) KeepPasco Moving (PCPT) Crosstown Parkway Extension Design
HURRICANE ETA BRINGS HEAVY RAINS, FLASH FLOODING HURRICANE ETA, A devastating Category 4 nearly 16,000 in Miami-Dade County. About hurricane, wreaked havoc in early November. 48,500 businesses and homes lost electricity The record-tying 28th named storm was the throughout South Florida. Heavy rainfall also 12th hurricane and fifth major hurricane of impacted the region, with a total of over 16 the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. With a inches in Miramar, while Davie, Hollywood, peak intensity of 150 mph, it was the third Pembroke Pines and Sunrise received over 10 most intense November Atlantic hurricane on inches. Streets flooded in Broward, Northern record behind the 1932 Cuba hurricane and Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. One of the Hurricane Iota two weeks later. state’s largest COVID-19 testing sites, at Hard Tropical Storm Eta made landfall in the Florida Keys on Nov. 9. Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, was flooded. Eta’s extreme initial intensity and erratic In Brickell, recently installed stormwater unanchored and ran aground or were pushed path afterward brought widespread impacts pumps helped clear the floodwater. against a seawall. Losses statewide have been to Central America, the Greater Antilles, the estimated at $1 billion. Bahamas and Florida. Heavy rainfall, strong A sailboat became lodged partially underneath winds and flash flooding caused most of the the Matlacha Bridge. The bridge temporarily We hope our Quest clients, who also are our damage. was closed, cutting off transportation to and friends, remained safe during Hurricane Eta. Our from Pine Island. In the same area, other boats thoughts are with those who still are recovering Eta’s outer bands brought tropical storm- sank and a dock at the Bridgewater Inn floated from the devastating effects of the storm. force gusts to South Florida. Florida Power & away. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Light reported over 30,000 power outages rescued several people from flooded homes Source: wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Eta in the Miami metropolitan area, including and roadways. In Gulfport, sailboats became
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 10 QUEST FAMILY PLAYS IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS GOLF TOURNAMENT QUEST OWNER/PRESIDENT Sharlene The mission of Special Olympics Florida is to provide year-round Lairscey, her husband Lance Lairscey, Central sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type Florida Senior Communications/PD&E – Design sports for people with intellectual disabilities. The event gives ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Program Manager Carolyn Fitzwilliam and her them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, husband Scott Fitzwilliam represented Quest demonstrate courage, experience jobs and share gifts, skills and at the David Haines Memorial Special Olympics friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and Golf Tournament in November. the community.
The tournament, held at Cove Cay Golf Club Special Olympics Florida programs are offered at no cost to the in Pinellas County, was a four-man scramble athletes or their families. Support for the organization’s events “We were honored format tournament. makes it possible. to be a foursome sponsor for this event,” For more information, visit SpecialOlympicsFlorida.org. Sharlene says. Quest Remembers FREDDIE VARGAS OUR TEAM WAS sad to hear about the unexpected passing of Freddie Vargas. Our South Florida team first worked with Freddie on the Florida Department of Transportation University Drive Design Project in the City of Coral Springs.
“Freddie was passionate about his work and loved presenting and talking to the public. He had a great appreciation and skill for public involvement,” Quest Owner/President Sharlene Lairscey shares. “We were fortunate to continue to team and work with him for several years following our first project together. Our team will miss him greatly!”
Freddie was born in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. He had over 36 years of professional engineering experience and was working with Carnahan Proctor & Cross. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Freddie’s family and those who had the opportunity to work closely with him.
STANDING STRONG FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS OCTOBER WAS NATIONAL Breast Cancer the field, and comic strip artists use pink on one Awareness Month (NBCAM), an annual international day in October. The first Susan G. Komen Race health campaign organized by major breast cancer for the Cure was held in October 1983, two years charities. The campaign helps increase awareness before the first NBCAM was founded. The race is of the disease and raise funds for research into its now a year-round event. cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. for prevention and early detection. In The campaign also offers information and support It’s vitally important to take steps to detect October Quest developed, and posted to those affected by breast cancer. breast cancer in its early stages. According to the to social media, this graphic honoring American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is the importance of working together and A variety of events throughout the world are detected early, and is in the localized stage, the inspiring hope in the fight against the organized in October, including walks, runs and 5-year relative survival rate is 99 percent. disease. the pink illumination of landmark buildings. In the U.S., the National Football League promotes breast Quest encourages all women to follow the We stand strong, and together, for cancer awareness by incorporating pink on and off American Cancer Society’s recommendations breast cancer awareness.
11 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE “We hold a multi-day annual meeting and QUEST DESIGNS FAWD reached out to Quest to assist us with our program and printing 2020 PROGRAM needs. The innovative WHEN SHE WANTED a fresh look and professional design for the approach highlighted our Florida Association of Wholesale Distributors (FAWD) 40-page, 2020 Conference program book, President Beth Gosnell contacted Quest ability to pivot during Associate Vice President Joe Duhamel. the 2020 environment, and we look forward to Based in Tallahassee, FAWD is an association of Florida working with Quest in the tobacco, candy, food and general merchandise new year!” wholesale distributors and associate members. Through an inclusive membership program, FAWD represents and advocates for members’ interests in state, local and federal government; in industry and educational matters; and in
J other matters impacting members’ business. o e D The FAWD positively represents members’ u h business concerns and image within and outside am el the industry.
APTA, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY UNVEIL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAM THIS FALL, AT a virtual launch event, the American Public Transportation • Keeping passengers Association (APTA) announced the Health and Safety Commitments informed and Program. The program is the public transportation industry’s pledge to empowered to passengers that public transit systems are taking all necessary measures to choose the safest operate safely as the nation recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. times and routes to ride From the start of the pandemic, public transportation systems have worked • Putting health first tirelessly to keep riders safe from the coronavirus infection. The health by requiring riders and and safety of transit passengers is the most important priority for public employees to avoid public transportation agencies. As of the launch date, over 100 public transit transit if they’ve been exposed systems already had signed on to the program. to COVID-19 or feel ill
The Program was developed after asking transit users throughout Transit systems throughout the nation have pledged to meet the country what would make them feel more confident riding public these commitments by creating specific policies that are transportation amid concerns about COVID-19. From this research, the effective for their systems, riders and communities. A key industry identified four key areas transit systems needed to address to earn component of the Health and Safety Commitments Program riders’ confidence: is transit systems’ and riders’ shared responsibility to follow • Following public health guidelines from official sources the guidelines. Riders rely on public transit systems to follow • Cleaning and disinfecting transit vehicles frequently, and requiring face these commitments, and systems rely on riders to protect coverings and other protections themselves and other customers. Source: American Public Transportation Association
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 12 QUEST GIVES BACK TO U.S. ARMED FORCES QUEST LOVES AND supports all veterans, so it was an offers them a chance to bond and enjoy the very land easy decision for Quest’s Philanthropy Team to support they served is very special. With a staggering suicide rate among veterans, this group offers an outlet for ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU two great organizations near and dear to our hearts. Quest is proud to announce donations of $1,500 to The Fallen servicemen and women in arms. Outdoors and $1,000 to the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club. “The holiday season is a great time to show the U.S. The Fallen Outdoors is an all-veteran volunteer group military we care, and that we thank them for their connecting veterans to each other and the great outdoors. service,” Quest Owner/President Sharlene Lairscey says. U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Brandon Lairscey The group, open to veterans of all military branches and “I have connections to all branches of the military, but periods of service, facilitates outdoor activities such as supporting the Army touches my heart most SAMC is a private U.S. Army organization hunting and fishing. They’re special not only because they at the moment. for enlisted non-commissioned connect U.S. Soldiers, Airman, Sailors and Marines, but officers (NCOs) whose leadership and because they assist veterans who have many types “My stepson, Brandon, currently serves the U.S. Army as performance deserve special recognition. of disabilities. a Sergeant First Class. He enjoys organizations that get Members must be recommended by an vets out and focused on therapy through tasks. He was NCO chain of command and participate Veterans from all branches have one part of The Fallen Outdoors and is part of the Sergeant in a rigorous board examination process. major thing in common: sacrifice. Audie Murphy Club, which focuses on community Only the top 10 percent of Army NCOs To give back to a foundation that outreach through volunteerism.” are chosen. Our service members sacrifice their time and SAMC members work with Habitat for Humanity, participate in establishing a families for our country,” Sharlene shares, “and scholarship fund and raise money for I’m honored to do what I can to give back.” hurricane relief.
CREATIVE TEAM COMPLETES FIRST LINKEDIN LEARNING SESSION PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR Quest’s Creative Team “There are few things you can do ‘wrong’ in the world of video, is in full swing. The goal is for the team’s six members (Joe so an innovative mindset is paramount to producing high- Duhamel, Chip Boeckh, Sophia Tingle, Lisa Lawrence, Chris quality products that stimulate people’s senses,” Tomás says. Ward and Megan Gann) to earn their Adobe Certifications, “These courses have helped tremendously in keeping that through LinkedIn Learning sessions, by April. creative fervor alive.” Adobe certification is an industry standard recognizing “The courses have allowed me to grow in a really expert capabilities with the software. Also on the Adobe exciting way. In addition to Adobe Premiere, I now LinkedIn Learning path are Sophia Fox, Andy Orrell and Amber have experience in Photoshop, Illustrator and Mullins. Tomás Monzón is studying a personalized video and InDesign – and the learning will continue next year. animation path. I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned and add the new skills to my resume,” Sophia Fox shares. LinkedIn Learning offers tens of thousands of courses and videos in all subjects and disciplines. LinkedIn bought “I’ve used the programs in the Adobe Creative Suite Lynda.com and has made it all available via subscription. for over 20 years. Learning about the newer features makes Each session for Quest team members has been curated me even more excited about what I can do for our clients,” to help develop their personal skills, but all content is Andy states. available to advance personal skill sets.
13 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST, FDVA HIGHLIGHT VETERANS FDVA Deputy Executive Director (Ret) Marine Corps Major General James S. “Hammer” DAY 2020 Hartsell
VETERANS DAY IS an extremely honorable day for In 2020, the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) and Quest worked millions. Why do so many of us cherish this day? diligently in partnership to pay their respects to the Florida veterans they serve. Veterans Day is a time to pay our respects to those They promoted and celebrated the 2020 Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame with a who have served. For one day, we stand united in virtual ceremony commemorating 20 inductees. They also released a Quest-created respect for you, our veterans. graphic and a proclamation from Gov. Ron DeSantis saluting and honoring veterans throughout all social-media platforms. Additionally, FDVA Deputy Executive Director This holiday started as a day to reflect on the (Ret) Marine Corps Major General James S. “Hammer” Hartsell was the keynote heroism of those who died in our country’s service speaker at the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System. All was in honor of commemorating and originally was called Armistice Day. It fell on Veterans Day 2020. Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in “It’s an overwhelming feeling of pride to work with others who truly believe in honoring 1954, the holiday was changed to “Veterans Day” to those who served and protected our country, so we may be free to live as we do account for all veterans in all wars. today,” says Quest Project Manager Amy Lee Diel. “May we never lose sight of that.”
QUEST FACILITATES VETERANS’ HALL OF FAME VIRTUAL CEREMONY THE FLORIDA VETERANS’ Hall of Fame recognizes Deputy Executive Director of the Florida and honors military veterans who, through their Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA). work and lives during or after military service, have made significant contributions to the state of Florida For the pre-recorded event, Quest Social through civic, business, public service or other Media Coordinator and Graphic Designer pursuits. It is not a traditional military hall of fame, as Sophia Tingle created “teasers” and it focuses on post-military contributions to the state. strategically blasted them on FDVA social- media platforms. In November, our Quest Each year, an elaborate ceremony commemorates team released the 2020 Florida Veterans’ new Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame inductees. This Hall of Fame Ceremony on all FDVA year, we had to approach the ceremony differently social media for the entire community’s viewing and involvement. The ceremony to ensure the safety of our veterans and their commemorating 20 Hall of Fame inductees immediately had over 1,000 views on families. The Florida Veterans social media. Foundation created a virtual ceremony with the help of Everyone at Quest was extremely proud to watch and share this amazing event with James S. “Hammer” Hartsell, our statewide community. The honor of working with the FDVA is deeply rooted in Major General, USMC (Ret), our Quest team. Working with FDVA has expanded my knowledge about military veterans. It’s given me the insight to be more aware and appreciative of their accomplishments and sacrifice,” Sophia says.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 14 WE RECRUIT QUEST SUPPORTS FDVA VETERANS!
Construction MILITARY VETERANS JOBS ARE RECRUITMENT INITIATIVE AVAILABLE ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU THE MISSION OF the Florida Department of Veterans’ us to promote and engage Florida veterans in ONBOARD 4 JOBS JOBS IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION Affairs (FDVA) is to connect over 1.5 million veterans numerous training programs, virtual career fairs, throughout Florida with their earned benefits, support career-preparation classes and entrepreneurship OnBoard4Jobs.com [email protected] and services. Quest helps FDVA fulfill that mission programs, and obtain transition toolkits for the 866 ON-BOARD [ 866.662.6273 ] ext. 3 daily through outreach and community engagement. private sector career realm. Here’s How it Works THE PROGRAM IT’S EASY The Florida Department of JOB SEEKERS Contact us today! Transportation (FDOT) has an initiative • Experienced and entry [email protected] to help contractors recruit capable level workers needed 866-ON BOARD (866-662-6273) ext. 3 During these unprecedented times, one of the top We held numerous virtual town hall and training workers for roadway construction jobs. • Local construction This includes hiring workers who qualify jobs available IT’S FREE for the On-the-Job Training programs. This program is for you and is • On-the-Job Training provided at no charge to job priorities became employment for our veterans sessions via social media and the response has This Construction Careers Program connects candidates and participating contractors and workers to help increase • We need hard working, contractors. Contact us today! minority and female workers on federal reliable people who residing stateside and those returning home. We been impressive. We partner our social media and state funded road building contracts. want to work in roadway The program also provides opportunities to construction unemployed adults including veterans and quickly realized the need to expand our partnerships outreach initiatives and share them on the FDOT’s high school graduates to secure jobs with our industry’s leading contractors. to prepare our Florida veterans for the job force and Statewide Workforce Development Program and Connecting Workers with Contractors through the Construction Careers Program guide them through the process of obtaining gainful OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers employment. social-media platforms. Our outreach and engagement for these recruitment We partnered with several community agencies initiatives have become vast and fluid. including Veterans Florida; Microsoft Military; Recruit Military; CareerSource; the Florida Department We eagerly anticipate a more elaborate of Transportation (FDOT) Statewide Workforce Quarter One with the FDVA and look Development; Paychecks for Patriots; OnBoard4Jobs forward to fulfilling their mission as we Construction Careers; and Veterans’ Affairs. move into the new year – a better year These amazing community partnerships allowed with more gainfully employed veterans.
QUEST WEBSITE REDESIGN UNDER WAY QUEST IS COMPLETING its 25th year of service to the forward-moving, technology-driven future gives the Technology Division Team industry. What an amazing accomplishment! With a platform to showcase their talents and capabilities. We plan to surpass the magnificent accomplishments comes change. A big expectations of our associates, as well as our current and future clients. change occurring now is a complete revamp of the Quest website, which will launch in the beginning of 2021. The website revamp isn’t a task for the feeble. It requires strong commitment from WOW is right! our team and pushes each of us to step out of our comfort zones and be our best selves for the betterment of our organization. Teammate David Alberts has been This is such an exciting task for the new Technology tasked with developing the new site, and we’re so excited to see his talents Division! This opportunity to step into the shine through.
“The best part about taking on the Quest website revamp is being in a team environment,” says David Alberts, Quest IT Support Manager. “For most of my career in the IT division, I’ve handled issues or projects solo. The website revamp truly is a collaborative effort. Each staff member brings a different and important skillset to the project. It’s comforting and a blessing to be part of such a supportive and talented team. It’s exactly what Quest stands for and what the new website will represent. Stand by for 2021!”
15 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST TEAMS UNITE TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION VIDEO SERVICES THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT of Transportation The Tech Team creates videos to educate the student target audience, (FDOT) Statewide Workforce Development via social-media platforms, about the Construction Internship Initiative Program works with community partners for youths who are 16 to 21. The team also creates adult-focused videos to identify and connect qualified workers for entry-level jobseekers, those being released from prison and military with contractors for gainful employment on veterans who are skilled and experienced workers. roadway construction projects. The program also works to identify entry-level “Interviewing the re-entry candidates for our Fast-Track workers throughout the state and Initiative was one of the best moments in my creative career,” provide opportunities to build shares Business Unit Leader Amy Lee Diel. “Being part of successful careers to improve lives. their second-chance journey was such an honor. Seeing their smiles when they The Quest Technology Team realized there are people who truly care and the Quest FDOT Statewide for them, and want to help them succeed, Workforce Development Program’s was the most heartwarming experience.” Contract Team have partnered to develop campaigns engaging jobseekers and students Video series are researched, produced and throughout Florida. The student initiative offers forwarded to our social-media coordinator who creates campaigns for the Statewide a host of opportunities to learn what it takes to Workforce Development Program’s two social-media platforms. The campaigns engage build highways that keep Floridians moving – jobseekers and contractors statewide and provide outreach to the program’s community and explore possible careers in the partners. The services are an opportunity for the Tech Team to learn more about the road transportation industry. and bridge construction industry, which serves many of our clients.
READY, SET, DREAM … Welcome WITH THE QUEST TECH TEAM JOE ANTONINI The Technology Team gives a great QUEST RECENTLY ADVANCED its computer network and allow us to work big welcome to Sound Engineer magnitude in the industry as one faster and more collaboratively.” Intern Joseph Antonini! of Florida’s leading marketing and communications firms “This will increase Quest’s
T Joe joins Quest as a with the introduction of the o competitive edge in today’s m graduate of the Florida á Quest Technology Division. s technology-driven world and M Institute of Recording Sound The Technology Division is o allow us to exceed our clients’ nz and Technology and has packed with skilled, talented ón expectations,” Webmaster Dylan four years of audio/video associates ready to burst into Conway said. experience. He’s worked with 2021 with a technical savvy so PSAV as an audio visual technician advanced and creative we’ve Business Unit Leader Amy Lee Diel, a for the Hilton Bonnet Creek resort and has expanded our corporate office 20-year industry professional, leads D
y set up live venues for national talent such l to accommodate the division’s a the Technology Division Team. Her n as John Legend, Tedeschi Trucks Band, unlimited future possibilities. C team includes these experts: Quest o and Shovels and Rope. nw IT Support Manager/Drone Pilot David ay “We’re reconfiguring our corporate Alberts; Webmaster Extraordinaire Dylan “It’s always a busy time at Quest,” Joe headquarters into three dedicated Conway; Video Services Manager/Drone Pilot shares, “and there’s always something new production rooms,” Video Services Tomás Monzón; Creative Services Manager going on, which is great!” Manager Tomás Monzón says. “They’ll Sophia Tingle; and Sound Engineer Intern complement our current video-editing Joseph Antonini.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 16 PASCO COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 2020
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE: This month, I am excited to announce the new Route 20, also known as the Shady Hills Route, will start running on October 5! This route will provide a valuable service to an underserved portion of our community. It will run from Fivay High School to the Hernando Blue Bus Route at Bayfront Health Spring Hill. We also have some new faces at PCPT. Welcome aboard Rafael Nunez and Nancy Bushay! And, congratulations to two staff recently promoted! Carleen Tatum is now our new Safety and Training Officer and Joseph Lawrence is now TSS-Training Specialist. Happy September everyone! Lastly, there are no safety meetings this month. PCPT NEWSLETTER JULY EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH ARE
MIGUEL CASTRO AND VARUGHESE MANIEmployee! of the Employee of the month for the month for the East DID YOU KNOW THIS West Side is Miguel Castro. Side is Varughese ABOUT VARUGHESE? Mani. Varughese has Miguel is an exemplary employee. WHAT’SFavorite Color: WhiteNEW He shows his professionalism worked for PCPT for 12 years. He lives Checkin out our latest video, Keeping Pasco Moving, Together. every day. Miguel will always go Favorite Food: Fried Zephyrhills with his out of his way to help his rice and curry coworkers as well as our clients.SEPTEMBER wife and two boys. He is always willing to getANNIVERSARIES out of Varughese moved to Florida from New Bucket List: Travel to QUEST LAUNCHES NEW the driver’s seat to lend a hand. Miguel takes on York in 2002. His hobbies include various places and any task asked of him and with superior spending time with his family and countries performance. Miguel has a very personable 6 YEARStending to plants and agriculture attitude and genuine, heartfelt caring of his JOSEfellow ROJASin his yard. human beings. Lead Bus Driver
4 YEARS Scott Schroetke 2020 “TWO GOODBus DriverSOLES”
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU SHOE AND SOCK DRIVE STRATEGIC MARKETING 3 YEARS UNDER WAY Mildred Jackson Bus Driver Now more than ever, your donation can help a Pasco student in need to put their best2 YEARSfoot forward! The fifth annual Two Good Soles Shoe Patriciaand Sock Farrington Drive is under way, with Pasco CountyBus Government Driver and Constitutional Offices working together during this 1time YEAR of unprecedented challenges Krishnamurthyto collect footwear Nadella for kids in Pasco CountyBus DriverSchools through SERVICES DIVISION October 26, 2020. There is a collection box in the driver’s room as well as a cash donation jar, if you don’t have time to shop New sprayer to enhance cleanliness and safety. for shoes. Masks are now available onboard QUEST IS EXCITED to announce the launch of a new division focused solely on marketing, for customers who need one. www.youtube.com/ branding and advertising services, including: 1 WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! There is a • Branding and brand management comment box in the common area. Let us know what you would Two of our new 40-foot-long Gillig buses include Quantum • Corporate identity like to see in the wheelchair devices. newsletter! Simply write down your idea(s) for • Promotions and promotional campaigns stories and put them in the box! If you would like to contribute by • Digital and social marketing writing an article, let us know that, too!
SEPTEMBER 2020 • Products marketing (graphic design, including newsletters, cross-platform and 2 NEW SERVICE banner ads, flyers, animation, magazines and more) Rider Alert! Fivay High SchoolRoute to TheBus Blue Route 20 (Hernando County) Quest Business Unit Leader Sara Shepherd is leading the new division. at Bayfront Health Spring Hill
This Bus Stop Hernando Bus Blue Route Bayfront↓ Health Sara brings more than 12 years of strategic and integrated marketing- Reopening Spring Hill A Route Starts Shady Hills Monday, October 5, 2020 Elementary communications experience to the division. She has worked in the public ent/
unity D
R
Monday, July 6 LLS I sector, supporting marketing programs for the Florida Department H Destinations Include Little HADY S
Health Departm Ranch Premier Comm 21 HealthCare DENTON • Arthur F. Engle Memorial Park AVE Rd B D R Hudson C PEACE of Transportation, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Estates BLVD • Veterans Memorial Park
ITTLE L NEW Y • Pasco County Health ORK AVE Veterans Memorial Department/Premier Vehicles, a region of CareerSource’s youth programs and a county 4-H Fivay D Park / Hudson High Community HealthCare Sch High D ool* School R • Bayfront Health
ICKS youth-development program. F H Spring Hill
VE Hicks Rd Little A E Bap REGIONAL CONNECTION Rd tist Church
21 ANTON • TheBus Blue Route 16 C SR 52 S (Hernando County) a N Hudson High via Cobra Way, four trips per day. r Sara is supported by Catherine Segar, who serves as an area Landmark ( LEGEND Str eet) SCAN FOR INFORMATION a T Time Point ovided to
S Street ↓ Co manager for the division. During the past 12 years, Catherine nnecting Route h Regional Co Not to sc nnecti e ale, informa on ent Service pr stops are avail tional on p able between ly, add itional h has led innovative integrated marketing and communication timepoints. Follow us Intermitt e * r For more information, visit ridepcpt.com or call 727-834-3322. d campaigns for the YMCA, Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex, Hilton Hotels, Leon County Government and a higher education food- service agency.
Together, Sara and Catherine will lead Quest’s pursuits of integrated marketing and communication projects. The new division will deliver innovative strategies, digital campaigns, creative concepts and marketing content tailored for public- and private-sector clients. The division will pursue marketing- Community and Human C Services Division a Third Quarter 2020 t Housing Operations h services contracts for state, city and county government, as well e Community Housing r Fall 2020 | Community Housing Plan Marketing Report in as tourism and hospitality projects in the private sector. Currently, e Plan Report S e the team is supporting branding and marketing projects for Collier g MARKETING ACTIVITIES OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2020 a OUR MISSION During the fourth quarter of 2020, Quest Corporation of America, (Quest), r County Government, Chatham Area Transit and Pasco Provide comfortable, safe, and attractive housing performed the following marketing activities: a ordability options in Collier County • Continue to update content on the OUR MOTTO CollierCountyHousing.com County Public Transportation. Making our community stronger; website, such as added news stories and resources, and one life, one home, one project at a time provided security updates and general maintenance as needed. • Continuing services related to the CollierCARES COVID-19 Relief funds initiative. • E-blast sent to inform stakeholders of proposed regulatory initiatives to We look forward to supporting improve housing choices. • Coordinating and beginning initial design layout for the 20-Year Anniversary Book. This commemorative piece will be about 60-70 pages in length, featuring housing development projects, including infrastructure improvements, and will be presented in a visually compelling way. Estimated clients with a more strategic completion is early first quarter of 2021.
COLLIERCARES COVID-19 RELIEF FUNDS MARKETING CAMPAIGNS – SECOND CHANCE approach to marketing services Quest continues to provide marketing services for the second round of funds distributed as part of the county’s CollierCARES programs: small business, household assistance, and nonprofit, community healthcare and public safety. Quest provided news releases and created social media graphics and messages for this effort, including Creole and Spanish translations. Quest also coordinated the launch of the public service announcement (PSA) through this new division. video, “Cover up, Collier!” that was directed and produced by Quest. This PSA was live on November 9 on FOX 4, ABC, NBC, WINK, and WXCW. Ongoing services include media management to ensure highest return on investment, website updates to keep content current and any other service related to the CollierCARES efforts and at the direction of the county.
17 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE AND…THAT’S A WRAP! A NOTE OF THANKS FROM MURPHY, THE SOUTHERN FOX SQUIRREL LAST QUARTER, WE reported on the new, movie star extra! The video also features Ms. Slocumb, first-ever animation component of a marketing who was recognized in July as one of Ocala Magazine’s and educational video the City of Ocala’s Water “40 Under 40.” Resources Department needed to promote their first-of-its-kind water recharge park. Quest Senior Murphy recently stopped by the office and thanked us for Graphic Designer Chip Boeckh flexed his creative promoting the city’s efforts to replenish the North Floridan muscles by learning After Effects and working aquifer for his family and other squirrels, and the closely with Quest Video Production Manager monkeys that live along the Silver Springs River, Tomás Monzón, a skilled animator, to bring Murphy as well as the plethora of other animals and – the southern fox squirrel – to life. plants reaping the benefits. He enjoyed visiting with Quest’s team during the video shoot and In addition to Chip and Tomás, the project team shared some of the pictures he took of us. included Senior Communications Manager/ Business Unit Leader Sara Shepherd as project Pictured here is a behind-the-scenes look at the manager; IT and Website Support Manager/FAA Ocala Wetland Recharge Park video shoot. If Certified Drone Pilot David Alberts; and Senior you get a chance, watch and share the three- Communications Manager Karen Harrell as our minute video, available at vimeo.com/qcausa. I just heard back from the granting agency and they LOVE it!” writes Rachel Slocumb, City of Ocala water resources conservation coordinator. “Thank you and your team for all of your work. Everyone that has seen the video just loves it. Your team should be really proud.”
QUEST SUPPORTS VIRTUAL RIBBON CUTTING
FOR NEW BUS SERVICE NEW SERVICE IN OCTOBER, QUEST supported the Pasco County Public The livestream included a preview of the new Route 20 Transportation (PCPT) virtual ribbon cutting ceremony for their route as a countdown to the ribbon cutting. Fivay High School to TheBus Blue Route (Hernando County) at Bayfront Health Spring Hill
new bus service, Route 20, also known as the Shady Hills Route. We filmed the video using a GoPro attached Hernando Bus Bayfront↓ Health Quest helped the agency by livestreaming the ceremony on to the bus windshield and fast forwarded Blue Route Spring Hill Route Starts A Facebook. during post-production to destinations along Monday, October 5, 2020 Shady Hills Elementary D R en t/ un ity
the route. The video and livestream can be LL S I
H Destinations Include
HADY • Arthur F. Engle Memorial Park viewed at https://youtu.be/TZfoFhsPp9s. Little S Ranch • Veterans Memorial Park lth De pa rtmH ea lth Comm Premier H ea lthCare Rd B 21 DENTON AVE PEACE BLVD • Pasco County Health
D C
R Hudson Department/Premier Estates
ITTLE Community HealthCare As part of the campaign to inform residents L NEW YORK AVE Veterans Memorial Bayfront Health Park / Hudson High • D School* Spring Hill Fivay D of the new service, the Quest team designed High R
School ICKS REGIONAL CONNECTION H postcards and mailed them to those along F Hicks Rd • TheBus Blue Route VE E Baptist Church A (Hernando County) Little Rd ANTON son High via Cobra Way, four trips per day. per trips four Way, via Cobra High Hud son the route. We also created digital advertising 21 C SR 52 16 N SCAN FOR INFORMATION
deployed to mobile apps and websites through LEGEND to ov ided Landmark (Street) geofencing targeting. The team also designed T Time Point Street
Connecting Route pr Service ent ↓ Follow us and shared a flyer with businesses, medical Regional Connection Not to scale, informational only, additional tt Intermi centers and educational facilities the new stops are available between timepoints. * route will serve. For more information, visit ridepcpt.com or call 727-834-3322.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 18 BRINGING THE HARVEST HOME IN OCALA THE ANNUAL “BRING the Harvest in December. This year’s efforts all their
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Home” holiday food drive that helps resulted in collecting 13,000 collections to the stock the Ocala area’s three largest pounds of donated items to benefit Ocala downtown food banks – Brother’s Keeper, the food banks. The campaign was square, and Quest Owner/ The Salvation Army and Interfaith the ninth Bring the Harvest Home many people President Emergency Services – took place in 10 years, and Marion County made donations Sharlene Lairscey officials have spearheaded the at that time. Others expanded drive for the past donated at designated approved supporting eight years. county offices and departments this effort by allowing such as the Marion County Quest to spend $200 Organizers asked residents to Supervisor of Elections, Ocala collect canned food, as well as City Hall, libraries, district sheriffs’ on needed items,” baby and toiletry items, and bring offices and solid waste recycling Sara says. “It was a the supplies to one of nearly 100 centers. privilege to share our government locations. Last year, the agency collected about 10 tons Quest Senior Communications good fortune with the of food. Manager Sara Shepherd, who community.” lives in Marion County, dropped The government offices delivered off Quest’s donations.
QUEST SERVES COLLIERCARES COVID-19 RELIEF FUNDS MARKETING CAMPAIGN
QUEST CONTINUES TO provide marketing services for the second round of funds distributed as part of Collier County’s CollierCARES programs: small business; household assistance; and non-profit community health care and public-safety programs.
Quest provided news releases, social media graphics and content for this Second Chance effort, including Creole and Spanish translations. Quest also coordinated the launch of the public service announcement (PSA) video, “Cover up, Collier!” The PSA was live Nov. 9 on FOX 4, ABC, NBC, WINK and WXCW.
Ongoing services include media management to ensure the highest return on investment; website updates to ensure content is current; and any other services related to the CollierCARES efforts.
19 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE Quest Sponsors 8th Annual NORTHEAST Construction Career Days Quest is proud to be a Gold Sponsor for the 8th Annual FLORIDA Northeast Florida Construction Career Days (NFLCCD) event to be held in 2021. Over the years, Quest UPDATE has had the honor of supporting QUEST NORTHEAST FLORIDA is where Senior the NFLCCD in several capacities, Communications Manager Karen Harrell, Senior including publicity committee Administrator Chris Aronow and the Division’s member, food committee member, newest member – Business Unit Leader and Senior event chaperon, learning lab, event Communications Manager Garold Smith photographer, Golf Tournament – use their expertise to serve existing participant and Clay Shoot clients and build relationships with new participant. ones. With the Florida Department “Participating in Northeast Florida Construction Career Days has been a great K of Transportation (FDOT) District
a r experience,” says Quest Senior Communications Manager Karen Harrell. “I’ve e Two office located in Lake City, and n loved seeing the students’ excitement as they learn about career opportunities H the nearly endless opportunities in a r in the transportation construction industry.” r e Gainesville and Jacksonville, Garold l l believes the talented staff are poised to achieve The goal of the event is to introduce high school students, through a hands-on new heights. environment, to the range of career opportunities available in the construction industry. Partner agencies and organizations responsible for the event include “It is really an honor to be a member FDOT, the Florida Transportation Builders Association, the Suncoast Utility of the Quest team and use my Contractors Association and the Federal Highway Administration.
C h years of experience to serve clients, r i s The dates are set for fundraising events! Garold and Karen look forward to A help improve the lives of Floridians r o participating in the NFLCCD Clay Shoot fundraising event. Quest corporate n through our projects, and contribute o w to the growth of this amazing company,” staff will participate in the NFLCCD Golf Tournament. Garold says. “The team is working together to continue our growth and success in HERE ARE THE IMPORTANT DATES! Northeast Florida, and we look forward • NFLCCD Clay Shoot – Jan. 28, 2021 at Jacksonville Clay Target Sports to what 2021 brings for our group.” • NFLCCD Golf Tournament – April 16, 2021 at Eagle Landing Golf Club
G a The Division is focusing on securing r • NFLCCD Main Event – Virtual format; 2021 dates are to be announced o l d contracts with FDOT, municipalities S These days are subject to change. For more information about NFLCCD, m and agencies as well as supporting A/E i th and CEI firms on their pursuits visit NFLCCD.com.
Community Traffic Safety Team Ships Banners to Public Quest works closely with Tindale Oliver and the schools and Florida Highway Patrol stations; “Phone Down Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Buckle Up” banners to high schools, libraries and some District Two, providing administrative services for fire stations; and “Buckle Up Religiously” banners to many the Community Traffic Safety Team (CTST). Quest churches throughout the area. With each shipment, Administrative Support Specialist Christine Aronow Christine asks recipients to take a photo of the works in the FDOT Urban Office in Jacksonville, banners and send them to the Community Traffic supporting Community Traffic Safety Specialist Safety Team to share on social media. Andrea Atran. Also, this is the time of year the CTST team Christine has been busy sending three CTST banners promotes “Celebrate Safely.” Christine has assisted throughout Northeast Florida. She shipped “Seatbelts with shipping posters and stickers to area bars and Save Lives” banners to fire stations, middle and high restaurants, to remind patrons not to drink and drive.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 20 NORTHWEST FLORIDA TEAM KICKS OFF PIO ACTIVITIES ON U.S. 98 AS A COMMUNITY outreach specialist, Quest Project Manager Jessica Francois serves creating a clear and concise, yet innovative FDOT District Three and Mott MacDonald on the U.S. 98 WIDENING AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive in Santa Rosa County
Outreach Plan for any roadway or 4.25-mile widening and improvement project of FINs: 220440-1-52-01, 220440-1-56-01, 220440-1-56-04, 220440-1-56-05, 220440-1-56-06
infrastructure project is key. You have to U.S. 98, from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive in ATTENTION: STORMWATER PONDS WILL BE CONSTRUCTED NEAR YOUR PROPERTY.
Santa Rosa 281 understand your audience – the geographical Santa Rosa County. “Early works” are beginning on COUNTY
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Santa Rosa 191A COUNTY Florida Panhandle communities. From social PROJECT LIMIT media, video creation and animation to To prepare the community, Jessica developed a tailored grassroots campaigns and program press release and notification package for local curriculums for local schools, the district and officials. She also worked with Quest’s Creative local organizations, City of Gulf Breeze and Santa its consultants set the community Team to design a pond construction notification Rosa County. Other outreach activities under way outreach and engagement bar postcard, Jessica’s plan includes outreach to the include social media materials, a corridor-wide work very, very high. homeowners’ associations, Chamber of Commerce, zone safety campaign and a virtual project update. According to Jessica, “It’s really important to have an innovative, effective communications plan that’s also cost efficient. In our 25 years of serving government agencies, we clearly understand how to work with strict budgets without sacrificing quality and stakeholder satisfaction.”
CREATIVE COMMUNICATION ON CRAWFORDVILLE HIGHWAY EARLY THIS YEAR, Quest’s Northwest Florida team this time. So, what does a community FPID: 220495-7-52-01 partnered with Greenman Peterson Inc. (GPI) to outreach specialist do? She STATE ROAD 369 (Crawfordville Highway) From South of East Ivan Road to North of State Road (S.R.) 267 provide community outreach and EEO/Compliance gets creative. WIDENING AND IMPROVEMENT PROJECT in Wakulla County services in the Florida Department of Transportation NEWSLETTER (FDOT) District Three. State Road (S.R.) 369/ Project Community Outreach Specialist FALL 2020 Crawfordville Highway will undergo widening and Jessica Francois worked with Graphic Designer Lisa improvement in the unincorporated community of Lawrence, Video Services Manager Tomás Monzón and Crawfordville in Wakulla County. Technology Team Business Unit Leader Amy Lee Diel to create an interactive newsletter and a project update With this project, FDOT continues to improve video. Both were emailed to stakeholders and community safety along this hurricane evacuation route, ease partners and posted on FDOT’s social media pages. The congestion on the corridor and encourage economic outreach was successful, so Jessica created a calendar development opportunities in Wakulla County, all of newsletters and videos for the team to produce while keeping Crawfordville’s small-town charm throughout the life of the project. alive. Relationships are of the utmost importance to the community, but due to COVID restrictions, FDOT The newsletter and video promote the project, include does not approve face-to-face public interaction at important updates and give stakeholders an opportunity 1 to communicate with a project-specific contact.
21 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE BEULAH ROAD PROVIDES NEEDED
Public Meeting Handout Project Schedule I‐10 at Beulah Road COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Financial Project IDs: 433113‐1‐22‐01, 433113‐2‐22‐01 & 433113‐3‐22‐01 QUEST HAS THE privilege of working with than 100 stakeholders who met in person and discussed potential
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is Parsons and the Florida Department of impacts with the project team. The Beulah area of Escambia conducting a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study to analyze the existing characteristics, evaluate the community needs and Transportation (FDOT) District Three on the I-10 County has seen tremendous growth in recent years because impacts, and develop proposed conceptual interchange and roadway improvements. Transportation Development Process The intent of the I‐10 at Beulah Road (County Road at Beulah Road Interchange PD&E in Escambia of the development of the 2.1 million-square-foot Navy Federal 99) interchange project is to widen Beulah Road from W. Nine Mile Road to Isaacs Lane, construct a new alignment from Isaacs Lane to W. Kingsfield Road, construct a new interchange at I‐10, and County since 2013. In the past few months, Credit Union campus on Nine Mile Road. The campus, which widen I‐10 from the Florida/Alabama State line to the Pensacola Weigh Station. Get Involved the project team completed a Virtual Project employs nearly 10,000 people, hasWe invite you to get involved. Send us your comments and ideas increased traffic and The project study area is planned for a significant improvements. There are multiple ways to get involved – call, wr amount of future development. As a result of planned growth, there is a need to provide Contact Information connectivity from new areas of development to the Update, which went live in October. A hybrid development in the area. surrounding regional transportation system. regarding the proposed Additionally, there is a need to provide an ite, or email. Project Location Map alternative route that will reduce travel times and Eric Saggars, P.E. congestion within the study area. public hearing is scheduled for March 2021. FDOT Project Manager ? (850) 415‐9001 Ian Satter Project Goals What is a PD&E Study? [email protected] District 3 Public Information Officer A Project Development and Environment (PD&E) (888) 638‐0250, ext. 1205 1. Address mobility and connectivity within the Typical Sectionsstudy is the formal process that develops and The intent of this PD&E is to Additional Project Information: [email protected] greater Escambia County area compares alternatives to determine a preferred action that meets project needs, while minimizing Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family sta 2. Reduce congestion within the project corridor impactsExisting I‐10 to the social, natural, and physical wishing to express their concerns about Title VI may do so by contacting Alicia Brininger, District Three Title VI CoordinatoLike us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MyFDOTNWFLFollow us on Twitter @myFDOT_NWFL The purpose of the I‐10 at Beulah Road interchange project is to provide connectivityto from provide new an areas alternative of development route that will environments. Engaging the public by sharing and Quest provides public involvement for this evaluate the addition of the newHighway 90, Chipley, FL 32428, toll‐free at (888) 638‐0250, ext 3. Improve access to local and regional near the study area to the surrounding regional transportation system and The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environ receiving information is a key component of this reduce travel times and congestion within the study area. businesses and communities being, or have been, carried out by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a process and required by the National Environmental Memorandum of Understanding dated December 14, 2016, and execut Policy Act. study, including developing and distributing interchange with Interstate 10 and The proposed improvementsension 1502, or via email at [email protected].fl.us. include widening Beulah Road from W. Nine Mile Road toterchange Isaacs Lane, at constructing I‐10, and widening a I‐10 new alignment from Isaacs Lane to W. Kingsfield Road, constructing a new intus. Persons from the Florida/Alabama State line to the Pensacola Weigh Station. Meeting Date: Meeting information r, 1074 This meeting is being held to present the initial mental laws for this project are Tuesday October 22, 2019 ed by the Federal Highway Administration and FDOT. engineering and environmental analysis to date and I‐10 at Beulah Road Interchange Time: Tuesday 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. CDT notifications, providing meeting setup and to make decisions about capacity Location: I‐10 Widening give the public an opportunity to provide comments Beulah Senior Center concerning proposed improvements. There will be I‐10 would be widened from Proposed I‐10 7425 Woodsidetwo to three travel lanes in Road, Pensacola no formal presentation; however, maps, drawings breakdown, photographing and documenting and safety improvements needed to each direction from the and other study information will be on display. Florida/Alabama State line to FDOT representatives will be available to discuss New Interchange the Pensacola Weigh Station. proposed improvements, answer questions, and Along I‐10 receive comments. meeting attendance and comments, and accommodate anticipated growth in NOT TO SCALE developing the meeting follow-up report. the project area. The study includes A previous public meeting attracted more widening I-10 and Beulah Road. Existing Beulah Road Beulah Road New Alignment Widening Arbor Ridge A new alignment is Beulah Road would be proposed from Isaacs Lane widened from two to four to W. Kingsfield Road to lanes from W. Nine Mile Road connect Beulah Road to the Proposed Beulah Road to Isaacs Lane and would be new I‐10 interchange. “The Parsons team has worked so well together over Deer Run extended along a new alignment from Isaacs Lane to W. Kingsfield Road.
ESCAMBIA
the years,” Associate Vice President Sandee Launch COUNTY says. “This project has undergone more twists and Kaheeley Ridge turns during the last seven years, but the team has adjusted to changes with professionalism and humor. The unexpected meeting changes prompted by COVID-19 have been no different.”
PD&E: A VITAL STEP IN THE TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT PROCESS CONSTRUCTION IS THE During the PD&E, design options and is studied. Quest’s role in a PD&E begins with most visible part of the their social and environmental developing a Public Involvement Plan for the project transportation development effects are examined. One of the outreach. That plan outlines the steps to be taken for process. Everyone has options of every PD&E is “no- public involvement and identifies stakeholders who watched a local road build,” because the purpose of a likely will be affected by the construction. S PD&E is to determine if a specific or bridge constructed, a n d project is needed, has a definite Quest staff also plans and staffs PD&E meetings; widened or resurfaced. e e L purpose and will have limited or develops meeting and project notifications; and The public understands the a un process, has seen it happen ch no social and environmental effects. gathers, shares and responds to public comments and has reaped the benefits. It also is required to meet all federal about the proposed project. guidelines and comply with the National Project Development and Environment Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). “PD&Es are the heart and soul of transportation (PD&E) is another vital part of the development in Florida,” Associate Vice President Transportation Development process, Public input is an important part of all Sandee Launch says. “It’s at the PD&E level that we, but it’s less observable, understood and PD&E studies because it’s during the PD&E as communications professionals, receive public recognized. So what happens during a that anticipated impacts on local homes, input that truly can change the outcome PD&E and why is it necessary? properties, businesses and communities of a project.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 22 AMANDA HOPKINS SHINES AS RCS RESIDENT COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST (RCS) Amanda Hopkins spends quality time with the Hopkins family. Amanda
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU embodies the spirit of Quest. A 10 1/2-year employee, Amanda and Floyd work hard to balance their family’s many came to the Quest family from engineering firm Greenhorne & activities with Amanda’s busy work schedule. O’Mara. With more than 14 years of RCS experience, she’s the go-to expert for RCS services in Northwest Florida. Quest’s 2011 Employee of the Year, Amanda excels at everything she does, handles a crazy-busy Amanda’s can-do attitude and sunny disposition make her schedule and always keeps a smile on her face. in demand in the Panhandle. She currently serves as PIO and Amanda’s clients tell us constantly how happy RCS on the Crawfordville Road construction project in Wakulla they are to have her on their teams. We at County with RS&H and provides RCS services for State Road Quest feel the same. 77 in Washington County with Jacobs. Amanda also provides QC and compliance oversight for Quest’s work under the Districtwide Compliance contract with Mott MacDonald. Amanda is a wonderful person,” Associate As busy as she is with Quest, Amanda finds time to excel as a Vice President Sandee Launch says. “She’s wife, mother, daughter and sister. Anyone who knows her, or always eager to jump in and help in any way she can. spends any time with her, knows how important these roles are to her. The proud mother of three children – Mariah, Michael Her knowledge of compliance rules and procedures and Marc – Amanda and her husband, Floyd, never forget the is complete, and her love of family is inspiring.” importance of family. Amanda’s mother also lives nearby and
CONNECTING THE DOTS IN DESIGN MOST OF THE time, when a project reaches “Our experience and dedication to gaining local the design phase, community issues and perspective enable our team to draft meaningful concerns already have been identified. public engagement plans, compile accurate However, there are times when design stakeholder lists, coordinate required public alternatives must be re-evaluated to meetings or hearings and provide required determine their community impacts. That’s documentation of public involvement activities,” where Quest comes in with a campaign and says Associate Vice President Sandee Launch. communications plan designed for, well, design. With the COVID-19 pandemic still restricting face- to-face engagement, we’re actively employing Quest’s Northwest Florida team provides strategies and approaches that bring turn-key public involvement/ the most value to the agencies and communications services and includes affected communities – all while coordinating pop-up or drive-through events a full-service, award-winning creative staying safe. These strategies to disseminate project information and collect team. With a focus on serving the include holding virtual public feedback; and working with project teams, local transportation industry, we’ve meetings; leveraging neighborhood municipalities and local transportation planning led public involvement efforts for newsletters and gatherings; organizations to share information.
hundreds of projects throughout A s Florida, including several Continuing hle y Lay “Even when design changes aren’t required, many Design Services Contracts. We’re also well- agencies are advocating for continuous public versed in federal and state laws regulating public involvement activities. engagement during this phase,” Communications Manager Ashley Lay adds. “We’re proud to be part of that process.”
23 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST LAUNCHES BLUEPRINT IA WEBSITE IN OCTOBER, QUEST’S work on a project for Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency (IA) in Tallahassee – designing, building and testing the agency’s new website – culminated in the launch of the beautiful and oh-so-functional new site. The interactive site serves as an engaging, intuitive experience for visitors and as a key source of information about the 27 projects that are part of the Blueprint 2020 Infrastructure Program.
Quest Senior Communications Manager Suellen
C Wilkins serves as project manager for this
h i p effort. In the early stages of the project, Quest
B o Creative Services Manager Chip Boeckh and e c k h Senior Network Systems Engineer/Webmaster Dylan Conway identified a need for new images for the site. Quest Video Services Program
Manager Tomás Monzón worked with Blueprint
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a IA client Susan Emmanuel and the B3 team
L a to visit nearly 20 Blueprint project locations w r e and take over 700 photos for use on the new n c e website. Toward the end of the project, Quest Senior Graphic Designer Lisa Lawrence stepped
in to do some work on the site. Among other D
y elements, Lisa developed the 2020 Projects graphic
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a n (pictured) for the new site’s Blueprint Impacts page.
C o n w a Blueprint administers projects funded by the one- y cent sales tax in Leon County. The program is based on holistic infrastructure planning, the concept of
T incorporating individual infrastructure projects in o m a multiuse plan benefiting the entire community.
á s As the agency’s primary communication tool, the M o n website is the source to which all social media is z ó n driven – underscoring its role as the foundation of Blueprint’s communications strategy.
The new website perfectly communicates the agency’s mission and vision, Need marketing and creative services in the increasing brand awareness and visitor Tallahassee-Leon County area? Quest would engagement. Most importantly, the love to help. new site has interested – and met the informational needs – of the agency’s Contact Business Unit Leader Sara Shepherd core target audience, the citizens of at (352) 207-2388 • [email protected] Tallahassee-Leon County. or Area Manager Catherine Segar at (850) 553-0499 • [email protected].
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 24 NOW SERVING THE CITY OF COOPER CITY ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU THE SOUTHEAST FLORIDA team roughly 30,000 residents. In 2007, Family Circle continues to work with municipal magazine rated Cooper City one of the “Best 10 clients to provide communications Towns for Families.” and marketing support using industry best practices. The Senior Communications Manager Nannette team proudly announced Rodriguez will lead the team, working alongside their latest client is Cooper City’s executive team to provide social “Someplace Special,” the media citizen-engagement strategies, social
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a City of Cooper City in media content, website updates and graphic n n e Broward County. Quest was design and video services. t te one of over 30 firms vying Ro dr for the three-year contract. Quest has worked on similar projects with other iguez Broward County cities – most recently the cities The suburban city, founded in 1959, of Weston and Deerfield Beach. They also assist Coral Springs and Port St. Lucie, with community now encompasses 8.3 miles and has other cities in their district, such as Dania Beach, outreach and marketing services.
QUEST SUPPORTS FLORESTA DRIVE PROJECT IMPROVEMENTS SINCE THE GROUNDBREAKING in September, Public Information Just before the holidays, the Officer Beth Zsoka has worked closely with the City of Port St. Lucie United States Postal Service on the Floresta Drive Project Phase 1. Floresta Drive is a heavily (USPS) notified our team traveled neighborhood roadway in Port St. Lucie connecting major they’d be installing kiosks or thoroughfares. Project improvements will provide a two- community mailboxes on nearby lane roadway with landscaping, lighting, sidewalks and side streets for residents along bicycle lanes from Southbend to the Elkcam Waterway Floresta Drive. Quest worked in Port St. Lucie. closely with the team and USPS customer service manager, notifying The project will help preserve the integrity of the residents through a door-to-door effort. neighborhood, enhance pedestrian and bicycle Quest continues to work with residents to movements, improve safety, provide more efficient store their mailboxes on their property. ka so traffic flow and alleviate congestion. Beth Z Project funding was made possible for Quest works closely with neighbors, notifying them of construction Floresta Drive residents through St. Lucie activities and anticipated impacts. Contractor Felix Associations of County and City of Port St. Lucie voter approval of a one-half cent sales tax Florida Inc. is installing drainage in the city right of way, which comes referendum in November 2018. The City also seeks state and federal grant close to residential homes and crosses residential driveways. Our team opportunities to supplement the sales-tax funding. works to communicate upcoming activities and mitigate concerns in advance, or to address residential concerns as they are happening. Looking forward, the City plans to improve Floresta Drive all the way to St. Residents are notified using contact information collected through Lucie West. Quest already has started notifying residents in Phases 2 and door-to-door outreach efforts before the project. The project website, 3 about the upcoming project, collecting contact information, discussing www.cityofpsl.com/floresta, is updated regularly with lane closure potential impacts and preparing a project database. We look forward to information, work activities and construction photos. supporting this project and the city as construction begins in late 2021.
25 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED Virtual Meeting Tips: | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE • If you suspect attendance and/or engagement will be large, consider holding more than one virtual VIRTUAL MEETINGS ARE public meeting. • Hold rehearsals with the team at least a week before the meeting. THE NEW NORMAL • Include scenarios for technology failure, such as VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETINGS are the technology. Post-pandemic meetings likely will audio, internet or video, in the rehearsals. here to stay. Live online video adopt a hybrid method. • Always identify backups for each role in the meeting. conferencing was the alternate way • Ask attendees to identify themselves as they enter to gather the public for meetings In Southeast Florida, public and private venues still the virtual room for attendance. Label attendees by during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, aren’t allowing reservations at FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT FOUR category (committee member, team the time of planning. So, senior- INVITES YOU TO A VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETING State Road 80 / Southern Boulevard Eastbound to Northbound Off-Ramp member or public), if possible. This at Australian Avenue Intersection Improvement Project Southeast Florida Division level team members Beth Zsoka Financial Project ID: 441722-1-52-01 STATE ROAD 80 / SOUTHERN BOULEVARD EASTBOUND TO NORTHBOUND OFF-RAMP makes it easier to identify them when AT AUSTRALIAN AVENUE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Beth Zsoka and Nannette Rodriguez are The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District Four, will conduct a Virtual Public Meeting regarding the improvements for SR 80 / Southern Boulevard at Australian Avenue in Palm Beach County and the Town of Glen Ridge. This Virtual Public Meeting will have representatives available to answer questions. Project information will be posted they raise their hand to speak or working with clients to facilitate at https://www.d4fdot.com/pbfdot/sr_80_southern_blvd_at_australian.asp. Questions and comments may be Business Unit Leader submitted prior to the meeting through the registration link or by emailing the project manager. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to attend. enter a comment. JOIN US AT THE VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETING c: 772.834.1298 virtual-only public workshops in PROJECT IMPROVEMENTS • Widen one lane section of ramp to provide a Wednesday, January 13, 2021, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. dual lane eastbound to northbound exit ramp • Since each device (computer login [email protected] January for two projects. • Widen eastbound Southern Boulevard to To join, please use extend ramp queue length link below or QR code • Resurface inside lane of SR 80 and existing (preregistration required): exit ramp https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ ID or telephone number) is shown • Implement Wrong Way Driving register/5383093891759478543 Countermeasure System • Upgrade existing lighting to LED Participants can use their telephone: as an attendee, it’s important to they’re the new normal because of One advantage of virtual • Add about 500 feet of a mechanically (631) 992-3221 stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall Access Code: 580-043-201 identify those who didn’t provide increased public participation and meetings is the ability to record CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS Please note: If using a mobile device, the free “GoToWebinar • Work will be completed in phases to minimize App” will be required. Download at Apple Store or Google Play. construction impacts • Single lane closures will be required during their full name; logged in on more engagement. In late 2020, some the meeting, attendee list and construction along Southern Boulevard and the off-ramp to Australian Avenue • Off-ramp access will be maintained than one device; or logged in using agencies moved toward holding in- written comments. This meets throughout construction
CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION their partial name or initials. person meetings while keeping the Florida public-records law • Project Letting:July 27, 2022 • Construction Begins:Estimated Winter 2022 • Anticipated Completion:Late Winter 2023 • Construction Cost Estimate:$1.4 million online presence. These are referred to requirements. CONTACT INFORMATION • Make accommodations for those Haiyan Ou, P.E. — FDOT Project Manager as hybrid meetings. Florida Department of Transportation, District Four 3400 West Commercial Boulevard without computer access just Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Our team facilitated several Phone: (954) 777-4641 like you would for someone with FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MISSION STATEMENT The Department will provide a safe transportation system that ensures the mobility of people and goods, enhances Whether via Zoom, WebEx Teams, virtual and hybrid meetings in economic prosperity, and preserves the quality of our environment and communities. a disability. Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. If any Microsoft Teams or GoToMeeting, 2020. Let us help you with your person requires translation services (free of charge), please advise the Haiyan Ou, P.E., Project Manager, at (954) 777-4641 or [email protected] at least seven (7) days before the meeting. the public has quickly adapted to next public workshop.
SOUTH FLORIDA QUEST TEAM SUPPORTS PHILANTHROPY OUR SOUTH FLORIDA Quest Team is counties. Every donation helps someone in need. strategically located to serve our clients and If you’re interested in donating to this great cause, projects throughout South Florida. We have visit https://feedingsouthflorida.org staff covering projects from Vero Beach to Key West. This year proved to be challenging when “It’s so important to give back to the communities our team wanted to come together and give we serve,” says Business Unit Leader Beth Zsoka. back to the community. However, distance “This has been a hard year for so many and we’ll and COVID didn’t stop us from having a South continue to look for opportunities to volunteer. Florida virtual meeting to discuss ways to help A huge thank you to our clients for your support. box lunches of turkey, gravy, our neighbors. We’ve been so fortunate to continue serving our mashed potatoes, green beans and clients and communities in 2020.” cranberry sauce. The lunches were The South Florida team unanimously decided hand-delivered to students to eat in to donate money to Feeding South Florida. Southeast Florida Business Unit Leader Beth Zsoka their classrooms. This schoolwide The organization is committed to providing also volunteered at Renaissance Charter School in Thanksgiving feast always is a special food for children, seniors, families and recently Tradition, Port St. Lucie, serving Thanksgiving lunch day for the students, who dress up unemployed neighbors in need throughout to students from kindergarten to eighth grade. She to celebrate with their teachers and Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe helped place the finishing touches in the students’ friends.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 26 COMMITTEES CONTINUE TO MEET ON LANTANA AIRPORT ENGAGING STAKEHOLDERS IS an Quest supports in organizing and facilitating important communications function the quarterly committee meetings. The
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU in working with public projects and meetings are open to the public and two have studies. The study team of the Lantana been held virtually since the project began. Airport Part 150 Noise Study formed two The next meeting is scheduled for February advisory committees early in the process 2021 and we don’t yet know if the meeting will – a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) be held in person, virtually or as a hybrid. All composed of airport users, operators meeting recordings are available at https:// and jurisdictions with land-use authority www.lnapart150.com/lnapart150. around the airport; and a Community Advisory Committee composed of Land Use and Program Management strategies residents from the towns, communities will be the subject of the next committee and other organizations surrounding the meeting. The Part 150 Study team also will will be presented. The Southeast Florida team is preparing a airport. The FAA serves in an advisory provide information from the two noise- newsletter, a postcard mailer and an extensive outreach plan capacity to the TAC. The committees comment systems (PlaneNoise and Envirosuite). for this major milestone in the study. receive updates and provide input in the Noise Exposure Map and Noise A public meeting is tentatively scheduled for Compatibility Program. April 2021 when the draft Noise Exposure Map
Coral Springs University Drive Water and Force Main Utility Project
Project Limits: Northbound University Drive from Sample Road to just south of NW 40th Street (Cardinal Road) Construction begins: Sunday, March 22, 2020 Construction ends: September 2020 QUEST EMPLOYS GRASSROOTS Work hours within the right of way: 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday night through Friday morning. Maintenance of Traffic (MOT): All lanes will be open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Work area: Northbound lanes of North University Drive. Southbound COMMUNICATION FOR UTILITY lanes will not be affected. In a continuing effort to provide the residents of City of Coral PROJECT LIMITS Springs with superior water and wastewater service, the existing underground lines in the northbound lanes of North NW 40th St PROJECTS University Drive will be replaced. One or two northbound lanes of North University Drive will be closed each night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday through Friday, weather permitting. t S SINCE 1995, QUEST has offered public OUR KEY SERVICES FOR UTILITY PROJECTS No work is being performed in the southbound lanes. th 9 3 W The project is in two phases. The first phase will be to replace N communication to local governments INCLUDE: the potable water lines. The second phase will be to replace the forced main (sewage) lines. The initial construction will NW 38th Dr and transportation agencies • Monitoring 24-hour hotlines for resident be from just south of NW 40th Street/Cardinal Road to about NW 38th Street. Once this section has been completed, the
work will shift to the intersection of Sample Road and North U
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The contractor will ensure access to businesses and P projects throughout Florida. We’ve seen • Identifying key stakeholders residential areas on Brokenwoods Drive, NW 37th Place and r l NW 38th Street remains open. When working at the more agencies improving utilities and intersections, detours will direct residents to alternate • Creating project-specific databases entrances off Sample Road. All road closures on North University Drive be performed at night. Minor sidewalk work Br our Southeast Florida team has taken on ok en may be performed during the daytime hours. w o • Providing creative services, such as door hangers o d s D more utility projects. r highlighting anticipated construction impacts
Should you have any questions, W Sample Rd • Creating mailing lists and preparing mass mailings please contact Peter F. Dobens Our team has the flexibility and 954-699-3556 • [email protected] knowledge to serve these projects. for construction updates Utility projects don’t always need a • Maintaining social media and website content Quest works early and closely with clients, full-time communication or public • Conducting one-on-one coordination with residents creating strategic plans to identify and information specialist, so we work with and impacted businesses reach impacted residents and businesses. clients to provide the resources they • Meeting follow up and project documentation We work with clients throughout projects need and stay within budget. These to develop positive relationships at a • Conducting field reviews and onsite pictures projects require advance messaging, community grassroots level. We resolve one-on-one follow up and coordination. • Presenting to community groups and key citizen concerns, highlight project benefits Our associates serve as an extension stakeholders and communicate potential impacts. We of project teams and support with • Facilitating public events and meetings also help increase awareness in cases of community-outreach services. unexpected construction activities.
27 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE SOUTHEAST FLORIDA TRANSPORTATION SUMMIT DELIVERS REGIONAL MOBILITY UPDATE AS A WAY of staying informed about transportation trends in transportation. Mr. Lindsay discussed how trends locally and globally, Senior Communication studies show public transportation was not a super Managers Maria Camacho and Nannette Rodriguez spreader of COVID-19 and how quickly trends can joined more than 400 participants who attended the change. He discussed the concept of the 15-minute virtual Southeast Florida Transportation city and how cities are using online tools. Summit in December. The event, hosted by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber Mr. Lindsay discussed the future of priced roads and of Commerce, began with 30 minutes of the possibility of invisible tolling using vehicle GPS
N a virtual networking facilitated by a platform and mobile phones. He discussed Uber’s partnership n n with Miami-Dade County to provide late-night service. e simulating a brick-and-mortar event with t t e Other topics were autonomous cars, three-wheeled R floors, tables and networking opportunities. o autonomous scooters and autonomous trash cans dr igu ez Welcome remarks were provided by Julie that move themselves to the curb, among other PRESENTED BY Medley, Executive Director, ULI SE Florida/Caribbean, Jetsons-like features. and Mayor Dean Trantalis, City of Fort Lauderdale. Panelists Oliver G. Gilbert III, Chairman, Southeast Florida The Regional Vision Panel, moderated by Steven Transportation Council; Keith Koenig, Owner & CEO, City Abrams, Executive Director, South Florida Regional Transportation Authority, included an update from. Furniture; and Pamela Rauch, Vice President of External WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2020 Affairs and Economic Development, Florida Power & Light Patrick Goddard, President, Brightline Trains, on the A VI RTUAL EV ENT Company, discussed the importance of regionalism. passenger rail system. Panelist Scott Smith, CEO of Valley Metro in Phoenix and Clinton Forbes, Executive The Future of Mobility, presented by Director of Applied Director of Palm Tran, discussed private-public partnerships and political leadership. Jack Research, NewCities Greg Lindsay, highlighted the next big Seiler, Chairman of the South Florida Business Council, provided closing remarks.
FES WEBINAR DISCUSSES WASTEWATER TESTING ONE OF THE many benefits of being a member of the Florida Engineering Society (FES) is participating in technical webinars about current and local issues. In December, the Miami Chapter provided a virtual webinar about tracking COVID-19 levels in wastewater, According to the Center for Disease Control, and Senior Communications Manager Maria Camacho was data from wastewater testing are not meant to fortunate to participate. replace existing COVID-19 surveillance systems. It’s meant to complement them by providing
M Helena Solo-Gabriele, professor of civil and data for communities where timely COVID-19 a
r i a environmental engineering, led the presentation as guest clinical testing is underused or unavailable. C a speaker. She discussed working with the University of m a c Miami and Source Molecular Corporation/Water Analysis Since joining FES in July, Maria has attended ho Source, located in the Town of Miami Lakes, on a surveillance two virtual events and coordinated Quest’s study that used samples from water treatment plants to monitor sponsorship of the Miami Chapter’s activities and the presence of the virus. More research and testing (funding) are scholarships. She also coordinated a donation to needed to fully demonstrate the usefulness of tracking the virus and MATHCOUNTS, which promotes middle school using it as a potential early-warning system. mathematics achievement.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 28 QUEST, WSP AND MIAMI-DADE TPO SUCCEED IN SURVEY
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU EFFORTS WSP RECENTLY TASKED The project team met virtually to discuss Quest with creating and how to follow Centers for Disease Control distributing a multi-lingual and Prevention guidelines as the COVID survey for the Miami- rates rose in the U.S. The group decided Dade Transportation to pivot and focus on distributing Planning Organization. the survey online to partnering The team, led by Senior organizations and stakeholders, and to D Communication Managers av create a postage-paid mailer to distribute id A Sergies Duarte and Maria lberts at transit stops. Paper copies and fact sheets Camacho and IT Support Manager David in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole also Alberts, created a survey and a plan that were made available at the county library, the included face-to-face distribution at local county commissioner’s office and other improvements, including wide/continuous sidewalks, transit stops and other busy commuter locations. The online version also included a shared-use lanes for bicyclists and frequent operational areas in the Aventura/Ojus area. The Russian-language version of the survey and hours for transit and/or shuttles. The new train station, to survey asked residents to prioritize David created a QR code for posters that were be located at 19700 W. Dixie Highway, will provide a direct multimodal improvements by transit, distributed. connection to downtown Miami, Fort Lauderdale and bicycle, pedestrian and/or vehicle that West Palm Beach. would allow them to travel to and from a The survey asked residents in Aventura and new Aventura/Brightline Train the Ojus area to provide feedback essential We received nearly 400 responses, most of them online. Station safely. to identifying the appropriate mobility Survey results were being compiled at publication time.
shifted. Staying connected with the community and stakeholders has COLLECTING KARMA allowed me to shift with them.
With the increase of folks working from home, there’s an increase of folks POINTS THROUGH complaining about the noise impacts from bridge-work activities taking place during daytime hours. These members of the public, who live in high- KINDNESS rise condominiums near the bridge construction sites, normally would spend most of their daytime hours in an office or away from their condo unit. Metal By Sergies Duarte sheet and concrete pile-driving work usually is performed during daytime operations. A very large hammer is used, sometimes creating an echoing DURING THE PAST several months, many sound along the Miami River, and residents have communicated that things in our world have been uncertain. But to me regularly. I can tell you one thing that’s certain – there are more people at home during the day. One thing remains constant on my end, and these past few months really have demonstrated its importance – addressing residents with kindness and I’ve had the opportunity to serve as senior empathy. We, as community outreach specialists, are here to deliver first- community outreach specialist on two FDOT class customer service. Our role as project representatives can help transform District six bridge construction projects public perception. The way we react can influence a situation, and treating along the Miami River in the neighborhoods every person with kindness shapes the conversation in a positive way. of Brickell, Downtown Miami and Little Havana. We hosted successful construction public-information meetings in 2019, allowing us to Our ability to communicate complex engineering information, combined inform residents and business owners about project benefits and with kindness and empathy, are the tools we need to create a successful potential impacts. Between then and now, public concerns have outcome in each unique situation.
29 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE SECRETARY THIBAULT VISITS THE HEARTLAND HEARTLAND OPERATIONS LABELLE and In the afternoon, the group visited the Arcadia Arcadia yards had special visitors in November yard, where Operations Program Engineer Joel with the triumvirate of Florida Department Hobbs and Field Supervisor II Thomas Gibson, of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Kevin along with Nik Patel, gave a tour of Arcadia Thibault, District One Secretary L.K. Nandam operations. Secretary Thibault took time to and District Construction Engineer Jon Sands. visit each department and talk with staff. He asked about their roles with FDOT and Quest staff members enjoy meeting with FDOT officials – (left to right) The first stop was the LaBelle yard, where inquired about ideas they may have as well as Corine Burgess, Secretary Thibault, Amy Lee Diel, Secretary Nandam and Operations Maintenance Program Manager challenges they face. Tomás Monzón John Anderson and Heartland Operations Engineer Nik Patel gave a tour of the facility. “Watching Secretary Thibault interact Quest Senior Communications Manager with employees, and the genuine smiles in Corine Burgess, Business Unit Leader Amy these unprecedented times, truly made it a Lee Diel and Video Services Manager Tomás magnificent day for me,” Amy Lee says. “The Monzón had permission to take photographs view through a lens is the most beautiful view and video. to have.” It was exciting to be included in the tour and meet FDOT group – (left to right) Jon Quest staff members (left to right) the officials,” Corine shares. “We got some great Sands, Secretary Thibault, John Tomás Monzón, Corine Burgess and shots and thoroughly enjoyed the company.” Anderson, Secretary Nandam Amy Lee Diel take a photo break at and Nik Patel Arcadia yard.
Heartland Fun Facts QUEST PREPARES FOR • The City of Arcadia is known for its antique district of more than 25 antique stores. SECRETARY’S HEARTLAND • DeSoto County is one of Florida’s leading producers of watermelon, blueberries, MEET AND GREET peaches, olives and tomatoes. A VISIT FROM the Secretary of the Florida Department FDOT’s Heartland Operations covers • Lakeport is an unincorporated community of Transportation (FDOT) is a big deal. In November, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, in Glades County, located near the western Heartland Operations was honored to have FDOT Highlands and Okeechobee counties. shore of Lake Okeechobee off State Road 78. Secretary Kevin Thibault, District One Secretary L.K. Operations centers are located in It’s just south of the Brighton Seminole Indian Nandam and District Construction Engineer Jon Sands Sebring, Arcadia and LaBelle. The Reservation and is locally known as the “Fish visit the LaBelle and Arcadia yards. To prepare for the areas has over 269,000 residents and Capital of Florida.” visit, FDOT’s Heartland Operations staff wanted to make spans about 5,453 square miles. The sure the group was informed about the local area. region’s state highway system includes • Hardee County was established out of DeSoto 1,479.9 lane miles and 196 bridges. County and named after Gov. Cary Hardee in Nik Patel, Heartland Operations Engineer, requested 1921. that Senior Communications Manager Corine Burgess The White Paper included an overview • Sebring, in Highlands County, started annual assist FDOT staff in writing a summary White Paper of the Heartland, project highlights, a international sports car racing during the to inform the dignitaries about synopsis of each yard and biographies 1950s, creating the “12 Hours of Sebring.” the Heartland. on key Heartland staff. • Okeechobee County was incorporated in 1917. It was named for Lake Okeechobee, which I learned a lot while assisting with the White was named for the Hitchiti words oka (water) Paper,” Corine says. “Nik was happy with the and chobi (big). Lake Okeechobee is the No. 1 results and I appreciate being part of such location for bass fishing in the state. an amazing Heartland team.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 30 PROMOTING VITAL FEW LEADS TO SUCCESS FOR FDOT DISTRICT ONE QUEST HAS WORKED closely “Working alongside Secretary L.K. embracing innovation; and attracting/retaining/
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU with the Florida Department of Nandam and the District One training their workforce top priorities for the Transportation (FDOT) District communications team, we’ve had entire Department. One throughout the year to a great deal of success educating, promote FDOT Secretary Kevin engaging and exciting employees Secretary Nandam, who’s a firm believer in the Thibault’s Vital Few employee about the tenets of the Vital Few,” Vital Few, is very happy with what the initiative has initiative. Quest’s involvement has says Andy Orrell, Quest senior accomplished in the District. A facilitated the initiative’s innovation nd communications manager assigned y O and success. rrell to District One. “It’s inspiring to see our “Success never happens in a vacuum. It takes teamwork result in so many amazing accolades everyone working together every day for our Using lessons learned from the Vital Few, for the District and their employees.” District to prosper,” Secretary Nandam states. “I’m several District One employees have grateful to all employees for following the Vital Few earned 2020 TaxWatch Productivity The Vital Few initiative is FDOT’s effort to and consistently striving to exceed the expectations Awards. They were recognized make improving safety; enhancing mobility; of every Floridian in District One.” for above-and-beyond efforts to improve the delivery of state services; significantly and measurably increase productivity; and save money for Florida businesses and taxpayers.
The SUN Trail will feature a new 12-foot-wide multi-use trail and CAPE CORAL one new pedestrian bridge over the Zanzibar Canal. It will run about 3.5 miles along residential roads on the north end of the LAUNCHES FIRST city and will be built in the existing right-of-way. “Together with AECOM project manager PHASE OF SUN Keith Riddle and City project manager Pimlomas Tan, we’ve gone door to door to meet TRAIL PROJECT with stakeholders and explain THE CITY OF Cape Coral, with the support of AECOM the project,” Yvonne says. and Quest, is hard at work launching its first segment “There’s nothing like face-to-face of the Florida Shared-Use Nonmotorized (SUN) Trail. interaction, even with masks, to begin building trust and an The multimodal paved trail for bicyclists and open line of communication with pedestrians will be part of a strategic, statewide stakeholders.” system known as the SUN Trail. Cycling is a popular pastime in Cape Coral and the trail will be Funded by the Florida Department a significant addition to the community’s of Transportation, the network cycling and pedestrian corridors. The city will become a refined version of has been recognized for its more than the Florida Greenways and Trails 90 miles of interconnected bike routes, System (FGTS) Plan’s Land Trails
n receiving the League of American Bicyclists’ Priority Network. In Cape Coral, the first phase of the project will begin a ll le “Bicycle Friendly Community” bronze award construction in early 2021. Yvonne has had her boots on the ground, C c in 2015. notifying homeowners with residences along the new trail’s path. e M Yvonn
31 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE FDOT HEARTLAND CONSTRUCTION UPDATE THE PAST YEAR proved to be exciting and Quest Senior Communications Manager Corine productive for the Heartland Operations Burgess worked with the project team and the construction crew with nine projects DeSoto County Parks staff to ensure they were completed, five new projects started and informed about project details. This allowed more than 10 projects coming! them to notify park patrons of the access points during construction. Miss Betty, the park’s Among the 2020 accomplishments, a caretaker, lives on site and Corine made sure she couple certainly stand out. The American was informed and had access to both parks. Legion Drive over the Peace River project encompassed restoring a historic bridge Another completed project is State Road (S.R.) that serves as a walkway between two 80 from Dalton Lane to County Road 833 in parks located in Arcadia in DeSoto County. Hendry County. S.R. 80 has needed upgrades worked with the project team to inform local citizens Veteran’s Park and Morgan Park are popular and widening in various sections statewide – and commuters about traffic-pattern changes. sites and the construction project required and this was the last 11-mile stretch to widen work on the only access from one from two to four lanes. Several traffic switches Corine also assisted the project team with writing park to the other. were required during construction and Corine a nomination for the Roads & Bridges’ 2020 Top 10 Roads Awards, and the project was selected as No. 7 The best part of this job is meeting on the list! people like Miss Betty,” Corine shares. “We have lots more projects coming up and I look “It was great getting to know her and forward to working with the FDOT construction folks hearing her stories about the area.” and the project teams on each one,” Corine says.
GOING PLACES: SARASOTA, MANATEE TOP THE LIST SARASOTA AND MANATEE counties are the and the Florida Governor; resolve citizens’ third-fastest expanding area in the state, complaints; and provide project-related growing four times faster than the national community outreach. Barbara also prepares average. Quest serves the Manatee Operations the Manatee Operations and Northern Six Centers with full-time community outreach Counties weekly RoadWatch Reports, as well services, provided by Senior Communications as individual traffic advisories for I-75 and the Manager Barbara Catlin. wealth of bridges.
Manatee Operations completed four “Transportation affects us all,” Barbara says. “I Pass Bridge enhancement project. The two- roundabout projects in 2020. Quest supported love being in the center of it and helping citizens lane bridge is one of only two links between the recently opened U.S. 41 and Fruitville navigate the maze of construction issues. Long Boat Key and the mainland. Barbara Roundabout and will start three more in The residents’ genuine gratitude makes the will start the new year preparing LBK 2021, including the controversial Gulfstream sometimes-frenetic pace worthwhile residents and businesses, explaining the Roundabout. and certainly elevates FDOT’s customer- scope and reassuring citizens the impact service profile.” should be minimal. As the full-time PIO supporting Manatee Operations, Barbara sees a growing demand to Quest’s FDOT community-outreach support will The project is expected to last roughly seven field media inquiries; respond to congressman ramp up quickly in 2021 with a high-profile New months and wrap up in summer 2021.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 32 Growth Management Department 2685 S. Horseshoe Drive, Suite #103 Naples, FL 34104
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XW 16th AVE SE As part of this effort, Quest Senior could join via GoTo Webinar or by XW 18th AVE SE 20th AVE SE GF GFXW 22nd AVE SE Communication Managers Yvonne phone. Although specific corridors were 24th AVE SE 26th AVE SE
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EVERGLADESBLVD S nm XW 28th AVE SE M nm XW 30th AVE SE McClellan and Miranda Lansdale notified about their meetings by mail, This feedbackGFÍÒ will be critical in 32nd AVE SE ir XWGF 34th AVE SE a DAVISGF 36th AVE SE BLVD 38th AVE SE developed a virtual public meeting n Quest team members delivered door assistingGF4' county leadership with deciding whether 40th AVE SE d INTERSTATE 75 a GF XW 42nd AVE SE XW XW schedule. The schedule organizes seven La hangers to every home within the to build each of the 10 proposed bridges.48th AVE SE n Legend 50th AVE SE s ÍÒ EOC Alternate da 4' Census Block Groups 2017 le Fire Station GF Existing Signalized Intersection custom meetings to inform and solicit project limits. 4' Total Population Future Fire Station GF Future Intersection Improvement Project v® Hospital XW 0 - 1349 a Existing Bridge c Law Enforcement XW 1350 - 2287 ns Future Bridge µ Future Medical feedback from specific communities about the “Working oneXW Suggested Bridgeon by the one 2288with - 3464 Lorraine Lantz and Trinity ns Medical Golden Gate Estates Area Civic Association 3465 - 7049 0 0.5 1 Preserve Areas nm Existing School 2 3 Prepared by the Asset Mgnt & GIS Section 7050 - 15162 County Owned Parcels GMD Operations Support Division. March 2020 nm Future School Miles School District Owned Parcels bridges proposed near their homes, the purpose “We had fantastic engagement,” Miranda says. Scott from CollierTransportation Engineering Projects County and Jeff Perry from of the study and each bridge’s potential benefits. “The comments and feedback we received will be Stantec was a pleasure,” Yvonne shares,H:\C&M\Jonathon Milum\Requests\East “especially of CR 951 Bridge Study - Lorraine\LaurieBridgeStudy.mxd presented in a final public involvement report to the seeing their concern and interest in hearing from “It was important for the county to provide an project team and Board of County Commissioners area stakeholders about their needs and what’s best overview of the study and share feedback with for consideration.” for their neighborhood.”
QUEST PROVIDES FDOT PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT SERVICES pedestrian and multi-modal – and all phases By Miranda Lansdale of development. In District One this involves collaboration with six Metropolitan/Transportation QUEST SERVES THE Districtwide Public Planning Organizations and the many agencies in Involvement Services contract for the Florida the district. Department of Transportation District One. Our Quest team has worked closely with It’s essential these partners and their constituents Districtwide contract. Quest associates Dylan the Department’s Communications Office can access and provide input on the most recent Conway and David Alberts will be maintaining and project managers to ensure the public Work Program proposals. Quest associates the website. receives a complete, consistent message across created a video introducing the public to the mediums. As Quest project manager, it’s been Work Program (thanks to our videographer Tomás In addition to messaging, the team is tasked my pleasure to watch the pieces come together. Monzón and intern Joseph Antonini!), prepared with facilitating public hearings. In November, legal notifications advertising District One Work Quest associates hosted a hybrid public The primary messaging focus for December Program public hearings (thank you, Yvonne!) and hearing for the U.S. 41 63rd Ave. West to 53rd and January is the release of the District’s crafted social media posts featuring Work Program Ave. West Design Project in Manatee County Five-Year Work Program. The Work Program information (thank you, Catherine!). Work Program (thank you, Lori Buck and Olivia Smith!). prioritizes needs and identifies funding information also will be featured on the www. The hearing successfully connected online sources for projects encompassing all forms of SWFLroads.com website, which Quest recently participants with on-site attendees in a single transportation – road, rail, transit, sea, bicycle, was asked to manage as an additional piece of the live event.
33 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE MIC CHECK 1, 2, 3 Facilitating VPMs, Southern Style
WHEN I WAS a junior at Florida A&M University, that has, you guessed it, an audio booth with the equipment and my broadcast announcing professor called software necessary to produce professional-quality voice and me Whitley Gilbert, the fashionable audio work. southern belle with a heavy accent from the 90’s sitcom A Different In the era of COVID-19, virtual public hearings and presentations are World. At the end of the semester, here to stay. Concise delivery of public information is vital, as many and after my southern drawl had public hearings take place to inform the public of potential changes been softened a bit, my professor and improvements. said, “Make sure you use that voice. I don’t care how, just use it.” While working for Quest, I’ve had the opportunity to provide voiceovers for public hearings and to moderate these hearings, Almost 10 years later and after six ensuring the public comment portion runs smoothly. The greatest months working for Quest, I find benefit is the encouragement I receive from my Quest family. myself using my voice more than I Whether it’s taking the time to help with a script, making sure I O ever thought I would. When hosting pronounce a word correctly or sticking it out between the many liv public hearings, delivering the material audio takes, a client complimenting a polished audio and video ia Smith in a clear and affirmative way makes all the presentation is a feeling unlike any other. It is a testament to the difference. The Quest corporate office in Tampa care and effort put into the delivery of a quality product that makes is home to a state-of-the-art production studio Quest poised for much more audio and video success in the future.
DISTRICT WIDE PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT CONTRACT IS IN HIGH GEAR FULL STEAM AHEAD with the FDOT As part of this contract, Drone Operator David District Seven District Wide Public Alberts is flying high in the sky providing footage Involvement contract. of construction projects underway to help tell the story of improvements. One of the projects he has Quest is thrilled to serve on this contract flown was for a new roundabout to view its operation specifically intended for virtual public and another for a new roadway construction. hearings, drone flights and miscellaneous Videographer Tomás Monzón recently produced a services to support the Department such as video for the Department sharing improvements to video production. Quest’s Olivia Smith takes State Road 60 Kennedy Boulevard in Tampa which the lead in coordination and facilitation of starred FDOT staff and utilized animation. The public hearings including doing voiceovers video was created in lieu of an open house because for presentations and moderating the virtual the Department was not holding in-person events component of the hearing. Recently, she at the time but still wanted to share information worked with FDOT staff to coordinate the with the community. We look forward to using the first ever virtual drive-thru hearing. These video concept on future projects. This contract is a public hearings are specifically for median great way to execute tasks quickly and efficiently modifications to improve safety and that are throughout the district and allows for the showcase of not part of a full roadway design project. the many innovative services Quest has to offer.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 34 CROSSING THE FINISH LINE: QUEST LEADS FDOT’S FIRST DRIVE-THRU PUBLIC HEARING QUEST’S WEST CENTRAL Florida team and the in-person public hearing requirement, the Florida Department of Transportation allowing attendees to safely remain in ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU (FDOT) District Seven hosted the first drive- their vehicles while viewing the Public thru public hearing while concurrently hosting Hearing Presentation on a tablet. the online, or virtual, hearing allowing for Attendees were given the option to leave attendees to participate in various ways. The a written comment or a recorded verbal virtual platform has been used by District comment. Seven for a decade but the drive-thru concept was created to meet the in-person At the same time, the virtual public requirement while being sensitive to the hearing took place allowing attendees current environment during the pandemic. to participate using the GoToWebinar platform and leave a verbal or written The purpose of the virtual public hearing comment regarding the median was to inform the public of proposed median modifications. modifications to Kennedy Boulevard (State Road 60), in Tampa, FL. Quest worked “Executing the drive-thru and virtual public hearing alongside FDOT staff, carefully planning each at the same time allowed us to explore all of the many aspect of the hearing, navigating through resources Quest has available to make hybrid events like potential roadblocks and thinking through these happen,” says Olivia Smith, Senior Communications each best possible outcome. Manager. “The event was a success, and we look forward to hosting many more. A big thanks to the Quest family and The drive-thru portion of the public hearing, FDOT for contributing their time and expertise to help us hosted at West Shore Baptist Church, satisfied put on a successful hybrid, drive-thru event!”
QUEST STAYS THE COURSE FOR TAMPA BAY CCD GOLF TOURNAMENT
IN NOVEMBER, QUEST ventured to the Quest Owner/President Sharlene Lairscey, Owner/ course in support of the second annual Tampa Vice President Jessica Francois, Associate Vice Bay Construction Career Days (CCD) Golf President Lori Buck and Business Unit Leader Amy Tournament, held at Heritage Harbor Golf Lee Diel were “par for the course,” playing an Course, Tampa. extremely fun and funny round of golf. Through eagles, birdies, almost holes-in-one and numerous The event served as a chance to connect challenges on the course, the Quest Dream Team and reconnect with industry contractors forged forward in their bright pink polos and even and engineering firms while supporting a brighter smiles, leaving their mark on that glorious great initiative. The Statewide Workforce sunny day in Tampa. Development Program, managed by Quest Associate Vice President Jill Cappadoro, has The Quest ladies supplied each golfer with bright been a key priority for the Florida Department pink Quest golf balls and truly enjoyed catching of Transportation and Construction Career up with friends and clients and networking with Days and serves as a catalyst for continued industry leaders. It was an event to remember and partnership with Quest. we graciously look forward to next year!
35 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE WHEN CRISES OCCUR, PREPAREDNESS MAKES THE DIFFERENCE WHEN A NATURAL gas line was small, but crowded, quarter-mile He then alerted the District five Public Information struck during the widening and bridge project area. He also had a solid list of Office and quickly sat down to pound out email construction along Northeast 36th Ave. in emergency contacts. blasts to key government partners, as well as area Ocala on the Monday before Thanksgiving, residents and businesses. He acknowledged the it was one of those, “Oh no!” moments. When a crisis like this develops, time interruption in service, assuring all that efforts is of the essence. It could be had begun to resolve the situation. Thankfully, no one was injured and the just a matter of minutes resulting disruption in gas and cable before members of the “In situations like this, what you service appeared to have stemmed from public begin calling with don’t say is as important as what the utility not properly identifying the questions or complaints, you do say,” Tom explains. “You location of the line. That, however, was of and the media begins don’t want to go very deeply little consolation to the nearby residents demanding an explanation into the causes of the problem and businesses whose service was as well. or assign blame. You simply affected by the breach. want to acknowledge something The first notification about the T om occurred and FDOT is working with M In this instance, as in the spring, breach came from the consulting cNiff its partnering a preparation and solid relationship building project administrator, followed quickly gencies to resolve it.” by Quest Senior Communications Manager by the FDOT project manager, minutes Tom McNiff were key to defusing a after the incident occurred. Tom It’s also important to reach out personally to potentially challenging situation. called to get a fuller assessment of the certain critical stakeholders who are likely to situation. He deftly determined how it field phone calls about the matter – the City of Tom, the public information coordinator for happened, whether there were injuries, Ocala Public Information Office, for instance – to FDOT’s Ocala and Leesburg Operations, the extent of the service disruption, advise them of the situation and coordinate the had created contact lists of the residents, what was being done to restore service public response, so partnering agencies don’t business owners and managers in this and how long repairs might take. disseminate conflicting information.
THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE: QUEST CENTRAL FLORIDA GIVES BACK
QUEST CORPORATION OF America had Ashley led the initiative for our Central Florida and many reasons to be thankful in 2020. The Turnpike divisions with a contactless food drive to Philanthropy Team wanted to think of a collect canned goods and nonperishables. creative way to show our thankfulness near Thanksgiving in various ways. “Quest is a giving organization at heart,” Ashley shares. “During this pandemic-impacted holiday Normally, we like to give back to the season, an effort like this is more important community with face-to-face interactions, than ever.” such as distributing turkeys, but this year was a little different. The ongoing pandemic We were able to show our thankfulness by meant Quest needed to find a safe and feeding those in need with an astounding 50.1 responsible way to contribute to LBS of food collected from more than our neighbors. 20 employees. Construction Program Manager Lisa Mark, That’s where Philanthropy Team leader Our respectable haul was donated to Second Communications Manager/Philanthropy Team Member Ashley Beck and Communications Manager Esteban Ashley Beck came in. Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Meneses pack the Central Florida Team’s donations.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 36 WHEN GOING BACK MOVES YOU FORWARD A SMALL, ALMOST 32-foot bridge currently water quality. Many implored the City to consider a connects Florida’s mainland with the longer bridge that would allow the waterway to be ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Smyrna Yacht Club and Yacht Club Estates widened to resemble what it once had been. neighborhood in New Smyrna Beach, Volusia County. In 2018, the City of New After months of review and discussion, the decision Smyrna Beach engaged DRMP Inc. to design was made to redesign the project with a longer a replacement for the aging structure, bridge. Quest updated the Community Awareness and Quest was tapped to provide public- Plan to a Public Involvement Plan and added a involvement support. But, this seemingly second public meeting to present the new design. straightforward project took an unexpected turn as a result of public input our “The push to redesign the bridge forced the project team collected. team to perform tasks normally found in a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study,” says The original plan to replace the bridge Quest Senior Communications Manager Carolyn with a 35-foot span met heavy Fitzwilliam. “DRMP did a terrific job completing the commitments to protect endangered species resistance when presented at design and permitting quickly, and developing a and habitat around the bridge. a public information meeting concept the community accepts.” Construction of the new bridge, including in November 2018. Longtime construction of a temporary bridge to
residents explained that, over C The redesigned bridge concept was presented maintain access to the island, is expected to a r time, the distance across o to the community in October 2020. The new begin in fall 2021. The Florida Department of ly Yacht Club Cut had been n bridge will have three spans and stretch 160 Transportation and the City of New Smyrna F it reduced, adversely affecting zw feet. The project also will abide by numerous Beach will fund construction. illiam
QUEST HANDLES COMMUNITY OUTREACH FOR NEW BRIDGE OVER ST. JOHNS THIS SUMMER, CONSTRUCTION began to replace the This $45 million project is expected State Road (S.R.) 44 draw bridge over the St. Johns River. to take over three years to complete The current draw bridge, known as the White Hair Bridge, and will add a new traffic signal at will make way for a taller, fixed-span bridge which has no County Road 42, bike lanes, lighting moving parts and provides clearance for boats. and sidewalk improvements.
S.R. 44 is a busy roadway for local and commuter “The construction team of FDOT, traffic between Lake and Volusia counties. Jacob’s Engineering, Superior The new bridge will be built just south of the Construction and Quest are working existing bridge, allowing traffic to continue closely together to limit impacts to flowing smoothly in the area. Within the the traveling public and ensure any project limits are several businesses and a issues or concerns are addressed popular park where the access points will efficiently,” Amber shares. s n li ul change over time. As the project’s FDOT r M Ambe community outreach coordinator, Quest’s In December, the team met onsite and visited local business and property owners Amber Mullins worked to ensure all community to alert them about potential noise from pile driving later in the month, and to members’ concerns and questions were addressed before answer any questions. Amber adds, “On a large project like this, it truly takes a construction began. team to keep things running smoothly.”
37 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE BEING MINDFUL OF INCLUSION WHEN RELYING ON TECHNOLOGY ALMOST A YEAR into the pandemic, most of us have become used Pre-COVID Quest associates used traveling information to conducting business over the Internet. We’re fortunate to have stations and pop-up events at locations stakeholders technology that allows us to move projects forward during orders to frequented. We went door to door along project stay home or work remotely. corridors to make sure residents and businesses were aware of upcoming meetings or construction activities. Unfortunately, technology still falls short as we try to ensure all stakeholders have an opportunity to participate – especially when Today, in addition to using technology, we’re contacting it must serve as a main platform rather than a bonus. There’s no property owners and neighborhoods by telephone, doubt offering multiple ways to participate helps boost engagement. U.S. mail and email. We might still go door to door, Our virtual and hybrid public meetings all have generated higher but we leave door hangers with project and contact attendance than previous in-person meetings. The issue is those who information. It takes a bit more effort, but Quest has don’t have – or aren’t comfortable using – technology, and also aren’t always shown a commitment to and excellence in comfortable gathering at in-person venues. Couple that with reaching grassroots outreach. underserved population groups who aren’t as likely to participate in any meeting, and inclusivity becomes that much more challenging. Once the pandemic is behind us, we all will have strengthened our ability to use technology. But I imagine So, how do we reach out amid safety protocols requiring physical we also will welcome the ability to engage face to face distance to keep us healthy? once again.
ALL ABOARD! QUEST TO SUPPORT STATEWIDE RAIL PROGRAM MANAGEMENT QUEST IS HONORED to be part have supported more than a looks forward to supporting the of the HNTB team that was dozen transit and rail programs, prime consultant with public selected to serve as the Rail including construction of SunRail engagement, safety education, Program Management Consultant and a study of possibly extending market research, animation, for the Florida Department of the commuter rail system to the video and web services, and Transportation. The contract is Orlando International Airport. more. Many of our staff members anticipated to kick off in 2021 We’ve also provided marketing for have been certified Operation with HNTB providing a range of the TECO Streetcar; construction Lifesaver presenters over the professional engineering, planning, communications on behalf of years. policy and other technical services the Central Florida Expressway to support the Department in Authority, in conjunction with the “We’re very excited to work with conducting its rail activities. Brightline extension along our longtime HNTB colleagues to State Road 528; and public educate communities about new Quest has a long history and engagement for the JTA Skyway approaches and technologies informed them of track improvements particular passion for supporting Modernization effort. at rail grade crossings,” Mary and related closures and detours; public transportation and rail states. “Our staff have helped and helped them understand and initiatives. Our marketing and Our veteran team led by Associate clients and communities address appreciate the need for new systems communications professionals Vice President Mary Brooks anti-trespassing concerns; such as “dynamic envelopes.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 38 ROOM TO GROW IN CONSTRUCTION Lois Cross Michele Guzman ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Administrative Assistant/Associate Administrative Assistant/Associate Contract Support Specialist Contract Support Specialist
AFTER A CAREER in manufacturing management WHEN I FIRST came to Quest in 2019, I was stepping and relocating to Florida, I soon realized the away from a 20-plus year real estate career. Once I settled transportation and roadway industry would be a into my new position as office manager and construction good place to start my search for employment. administrative support, the American Consulting With help from a friend, I landed the Professionals team was great about showing me the ropes role of administrative assistant on this new career path. After about six months, the project for FDOT construction engineer asked if I’d be interested in getting on-the-job projects. Just as I’d done in training to be a contact support specialist (CSS). I’m manufacturing, I began to always ready to learn new things…but little did I know learn all I could about what it entailed! the industry. By March I found myself hitting the books and studying for I soon realized, “Hey, this Final Estimates I, and in December I hit them again for Final isn’t so different. All we Estimates II – the pre-requisites for the CSS role. I’ve been are doing is manufacturing receiving on-the-job training from the American team, and roads and railroads.” they couldn’t have been more supportive!
After a couple years I took the As assistant contract support specialist, I work with the Final Estimates Level I exam and received my project administrator on a day-to-day basis. I assist with certification. I’m now certified in Final Estimates preparing weekly, monthly, and quarterly project reports to Level II and eager to learn even more. I’ve begun send to project managers. Currently I’m working on tracking learning the FDOT procedures for processes quantities, as this needed to complete final project estimates. handled through department systems such as CIM, SiteManager, PTS, Webgate Reporting, MAC, “I’m very grateful for the opportunity Quest provided to ProjectSuite and Adhoc. Working on as many as six advance in a new industry. I wouldn’t be on this adventure projects simultaneously, I’m excited to have begun without the wonderful support of the Quest team.” assisting project administrators with processing supplemental agreements, work orders, monthly progress and final estimates, as well as EEO compliance.
While moving on to become a contract support specialist (CSS) would be financially beneficial, I want to continue growing. I hope never to stop learning, and that I’ll continually reach for something new. There always are differences from one transportation project to the next and the processes and procedures often change. For those reasons, I feel the CSS role would give me plenty of years without having to worry about my worst enemies – boredom and monotony!
39 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE WORKING WITH BRIGHTLINE CONSTRUCTION THE BRIGHTLINE PASSENGER rail project reached an agreement to construct a train station has been taking Central Florida by storm at Disney Springs. since construction started in summer 2019. This high-profile infrastructure project For roughly a year and a half, people have watched includes developing 170 miles of new track the rail construction in Brevard and now Orlando between West Palm Beach and Orlando with great excitement and anticipation. However, International Airport. When the project Quest’s Melanie Hand has had a front row seat for is complete in late 2022, this newest the action since the beginning, when calls to her extension will offer a fast-moving, car-free FDOT Brevard Operations phone prompted her to where she learned about upcoming closures, transportation service that will connect learn more about Brightline’s project. which she relayed to FDOT District Five’s Orlando’s most popular attractions with Communications Office. South Florida. After some calling around, Melanie found a Brightline project manager who worked with FDOT Eventually, Brightline hired a full-time public There also are plans to eventually extend the Brevard Operation’s permits department. Once information manager. Melanie promptly introduced route west to Tampa. In November, Melanie had an inside contact, she was able to herself and made sure she was included on Brightline and Walt Disney World routinely check in and communications improved. Brightline’s weekly closure update list. Resort announced they had She was invited to weekly progress meetings Keeping the lines of communication open with New projects, especially high-impact Brightline is always a work in progress, but it’s a projects, are always a bit of trial and error challenge Melanie tackles with great enthusiasm. This high level of communication helps build and when they begin. Even with roadway projects, the maintain vital relationships with the project team and first few weeks are the bumpiest.” Melanie says. helps keep messaging consistent between agencies.
BRIDGING THE COMMUNICATION GAP IN THE 1972 Led Zeppelin hit “The Crunge,” a significant uptick in train traffic a few years ago front man Robert Plant crooned in a gravelly, when CSX moved many of its freight trains there agonized voice, “Has anybody seen the bridge? to make way for the SunRail commuter service on Please. Have you seen the bridge? I ain’t seen its other lines. These little bridges eliminate rail the bridge!” crossings that could delay traffic dozens of times a day and improve safety by reducing opportunities Well ol’ Bob Plant would have no problem for vehicles to stop on train tracks. of the sheer amount of coordination needed finding bridges in Central Florida. The Florida for utility workers, heavy equipment operators Department of Transportation (FDOT) is FDOT built a bridge like this over the CSX line, and bridge builders to work effectively side building a bunch of them to keep people and along the incredibly busy Southwest 17th St. in by side – and within feet of businesses and goods moving smoothly. Ocala, about 10 years ago – and they’re planning townhomes straddling both sides of the road. another one on Northeast 25th Avenue. In the The bridge on Northeast 36th Avenue in Ocala, years to come, when they’re done, trains and traffic “Getting workers, residents, business owners, although just a few hundred yards long, is vital. will zip through town largely unimpeded by rail patrons and motorists to coexist in such close crossings. quarters can be tricky,” Tom McNiff shares. Launched in 2019, the project is part of a “I help keep the peace by keeping everyone larger FDOT effort to build bridges over tracks The Northeast 36th Avenue bridge was opened apprised of the work schedule, alerting them intersecting with local and state roads along to traffic in October, although it’s still under to significant changes and resolving conflicts CSX Rail’s very busy “S Line.” The S Line saw construction. It’s a complex little project because as soon as they arise.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 40 WORKING HARD ON MAITLAND BOULEVARD SINCE FEBRUARY 2019, the Florida Freed says. “The traveling public is eager to Department of Transportation (FDOT) and see the work finished and this widened road
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU Masci Construction Inc. have been widening will serve them well.” State Road (S.R.) 414 (Maitland Boulevard) from east of Interstate 4 (I-4) to east of As community outreach coordinator for County Road (C.R.) 427 (Maitland Avenue). FDOT’s Oviedo Operations, Tim fielded The road has been widened from four to questions and comments from the public six lanes and the project includes drainage during the latter half of construction. With the improvements, signal improvements at project coming down the home stretch, many Concourse Parkway and Maitland Avenue, community members have asked for updates and additional sidewalks. In early December, on the completion. Tim worked closely with the length of the project was receiving a fresh FDOT Final Estimates Specialist Peter Crespi communicating weekly with the City of Maitland’s Public layer of asphalt – the final major activity to update the public on the project’s progress, Works Department. He also helped with processing damage before completion. answer questions related to traffic and claims and attended regular progress meetings to get a firm signalization, and respond to safety concerns. understanding of the project. “It’s been really neat to see this project take shape,” Quest Tim helped the public plan commutes The S.R. 414 project has an estimated completion date of Communications Manager Tim by sending updates on lane closures and early 2021. Representing FDOT and keeping the public informed about this widening project has been an awesome experience,” Tim shares.
PRODUCING VPMS TO THE QUEST STANDARD IN MARCH 2020, our Quest team serving the Central Plan for bandwidth! Make sure every Florida Expressway Authority had a big public team member is equipped to work meeting planned. Then COVID hit! The team quickly without interruption. Ask everyone pivoted and held it virtually, a first for the agency. to close other browser sessions and Here are Quest Virtual Public Meeting (VPM) programs to preserve bandwidth and Producer Kevin Camara’s tips for preparing for a improve connectivity. successful VPM. Tip No. 3: Practice Tip No. 1: Dive in Schedule at least two practice sessions Every virtual meeting platform has quirks. Know before every VPM. Prepare for the your platform so you’re comfortable using it and unexpected. I have contingencies in place teaching others. for everything!
Tip No. 2: Plan and prepare Tip No. 4: Debrief and follow up Develop a rundown of the VPM and prepare a After a VPM, do a quick debrief with your team. Follow up also is key to Question & Answer document covering all potential success. Address questions requiring additional research and respond to issues. Review the registration list and advise the interview requests, stakeholder meetings and requests for project plans. client if any elected officials or media are attending. Compile and save these to provide to the agency. Set up the registration page to collect contact information (identifying heavy turnout from a If you need training, a second pair of eyes or an experienced team to particular area can alert you to potential questions). work on your VPM, contact our Quest team.
41 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS IN LIFE … AND IN UTILITY CONSTRUCTION MANY TIMES IN life, it’s the little things “It’s so important to let folks know what that make all the difference. That also to expect when we come into their is true with public information on utility neighborhood with loud tools and heavy projects. equipment,” says Central Florida Municipal Projects Manager Laurie Windham. “Most Very early on a recent morning just off people understand maintenance, repair and John Young Parkway in Orlando, more improvement comes with inconveniences — than nine concrete trucks rolled through they just want to know how it will a quiet neighborhood delivering materials affect them.” to construct an Orange County Utilities replacement pump station. By keeping the morning start time reasonable, distributing flyers to The location of the new pump residents’ doors and following up station is directly behind, and with emails and phone calls, the a stone’s throw away from, neighborhood was prepared for a row of houses. Each home the concrete work. To ensure there L has individuals or families a were no last-minute issues, Laurie the key to making these operations as non-disruptive to u r ie the neighborhood as possible,” she shares. “We’ll be at working, going to school or W was on site during the pour. in enjoying retirement – all while dham this location for several months and the project calls for maneuvering through a “Ongoing communication with our several similar concrete pours. I know the residents are global pandemic. contractor and Orange County Utilities was prepared and they know I’m here if they have issues.”
SAFETY EVENT BRINGS AWARENESS TO NEW PEDESTRIAN BEACONS IN ORLANDO IT IS AN unfortunate fact that Trail) between 36th St. and Holden and execution of the safety event. Florida leads the nation in Ave. PHBs are a special type of On Oct. 8, Quest’s District Five pedestrian fatalities. Therefore, it’s beacon used to help control traffic community outreach coordinators; no surprise the Florida Department and keep pedestrians and bicyclists District Five’s Communications of Transportation (FDOT) pours safe when crossing highways. Office and Modal Development a lot of time and energy into department; and the Orange improving pedestrian/bicycle Because PHBs are a relatively new County’s Sheriff’s Office took to safety throughout the state. concept for Central Florida drivers, the streets to educate pedestrians FDOT District Five held a safety and motorists about the new PHBs. In District Five, FDOT event educating pedestrians/ Bike Walk Central Florida, Best explained what each phase recently made bicyclists and motorists about Foot Forward, Orange County of the beacon meant,” strides to improve how these new beacons operate. Government, LYNX, MetroPlan Shemir says. “The event was pedestrian/ Orlando, the Orange Blossom Trail very successful in raising bicycle safety From the beginning, Quest’s Development Board and local awareness. Pedestrians in Orlando by Shemir Wiles was involved in media outlets also helped get the expressed excitement about S activating several h coordinating, disseminating and word out. having a safer way to cross em new pedestrian ir developing educational materials U.S. 441 and the Sheriff’s Wil hybrid beacons, or PHBs, es for the PHBs. It was only natural she “We walked every pedestrian Office did a wonderful job on U.S. 441 (South Orange Blossom would participate in the planning through the entire process and enforcing driver compliance.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 42 WEKIVA PARKWAY UPDATE A YEAR IN REVIEW
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU QUEST IS PROUD to continue supporting the work was being done from the top of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) columns or piers. District Five, AECOM, Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise and Central Florida Expressway Quest staff distributed flyers door to door Authority (CFX) with public and developed press releases, email blasts information services for the and other notifications to alert the local Wekiva Parkway program. community to this major change.
This was a big year for progress Section 8 was very active in 2020 with over N
i c all along the project corridor. 32 construction alerts. Extensive bridge k L u Quest’s team included Nick Lulli, work occurred at the I-4/S.R. 417/future l li Mary Brooks, Ashley Beck, Susan S.R. 429 interchange. Ramps were shifted in Miller, Lisa Mark, Chris Ward and preparation for the new interchange. other associates from the Central Florida division. Bridge beams also were erected over Wilson
M
a Road in another extensive bridge operation.
r y
B Sections 3A and 3B of the Quest coordinated closely with local r o o project were completed in neighbors to make them aware of this work, k s the fall. The flyover bridge at which often occurs late at night. State Road (S.R.) 46 and U.S. 441 opened to the public in CFX in 2020 continued its commitment to September. The key feature making the Wekiva Parkway a source of
A
s of the project is expected to community pride and an iconic thoroughfare
h
l e improve safety and access to the for the region. The agency built, operates y B e Wekiva Parkway. and maintains about 10 miles of the parkway c k between U.S. 441 at Connector Road in Quest helped FDOT celebrate this Orange County and S.R. 46 in Lake County. milestone with press releases, community email blasts and CFX this year finished the initial, enhanced
S creative social media posts. landscaping of its five sections and installed
u s a Wekiva Parkway monument sign. The field a n M In 2020, staff distributed five stone and masonry monument features il le construction alerts to the public the corridor logo, similar to those found on r for activities on this section. Work beloved scenic highways throughout the began on Sections 3A and 3B in country. The agency plans to install lighting October 2017 and finished in and additional landscaping at the base of stone relief and other aesthetic features of fall 2020. the monument. Quest updated the corridor parkway walls and bridges. website, WekivaParkway.com, with a photo of L
i s a Section 6 of the project saw the signature monument. CFX installed more than 24,000 native and M a the non-tolled, service road Florida-friendly plantings, including a variety of r k bridge come to completion in The landscaping of the systems interchange, maple, magnolia, oak and pine trees. The CFX January. To protect the river, located near Plymouth Sorrento Road and contractor in 2020 began a two-year warranty which is designated as a Florida Haas Road-Ondich Road, was finished this period during which the firm is responsible for Outstanding Waterway, crews year. The design incorporates surrounding establishing, maintaining and replacing the
C used “top-down construction.” native plant species while showcasing the vegetation as needed h
r i s No activity or construction W a equipment is working in the river Quest thanks our clients for allowing us to continue to r d channel. The bulk of the span serve this project into 2021 and beyond!
43 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST SUPPORTS SUNCOAST PARKWAY 2, PHASE 2 HYBRID PUBLIC HEARING QUEST PROUDLY SUPPORTS WBQ Design Quest team members Karen Harrell, Nick Lulli, & Engineering and Florida’s Turnpike Ashley Beck, Tony Cappadoro and Kim Licari Enterprise (FTE) for the Suncoast Parkway provided public hearing support. Karen led the 2 (State Road [S.R.] 589), Phase 2 Design public involvement by developing invitation letters, Project. Suncoast Parkway 2, Phase 2 is a newspaper ads, news releases, an Open House video new, four-lane (two lanes in each direction), and the Public Hearing presentation. limited-access tolled roadway that will extend the Suncoast Parkway north from S.R. 44 to Nick, who also serves as client relationship manager County Road (C.R.) 486 (W. Norvell Bryant for Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, lent his voice to the Highway). This new facility will serve the Open House and formal hearing presentations. future traffic needs of Citrus County and the tonight’s Public Hearing,” Francisco said. “Your public traveling to or from the Tampa Bay “Public hearings require a consistent, clear message,” support and efforts with this very important area through Citrus County. Nick says. “I was glad to help get this important milestone are very much appreciated. Again, information across to the citizens of Citrus County. thank you!” A Hybrid Public Hearing was held in December. The hearing gave interested The Suncoast Parkway 2, Phase 2 Design project Quest and WBQ Design and Engineering persons an opportunity to participate team members received praise from Francisco also received praise from Derek D. Hudson, virtually/online, by telephone or Cardona, P.E., Project Manager GEC (HNTB) for FTE. Public Involvement Specialist (E Sciences) for in person at the Citrus County Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise, Environmental Fairgrounds Auditorium “My sincere gratitude to all the team members who Management Office: “Congratulations on a in Inverness. were involved in the planning and execution of successful Hybrid Public Hearing!” In the age of COVID, you never know who’ll show up to the in-person public hearing,” Karen states. “Quest ensured the venue was ready for 10 K a re n H people or 200 people.” arrell QUEST CONTINUES SUPPORTING FLORIDA TURNPIKE ENTERPRISE QUEST IS EXCITED to continue supporting projects Quest recently completed the first for Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) throughout the draft of the Community Awareness Sunshine State. Plan (CAP) for the Orlando South interchange. Quest currently serves these FTE projects and clients: Drafting the CAP is • Turnpike/Taft-Vineland Interchange Design Nick and his team members are the first public (Hardesty & Hanover/WGI) preparing for what will be a busy involvement process of any • Turnpike/Orlando South Interchange Design 2021 ahead for Turnpike projects. design project,” explains (Hardesty & Hanover) Public meetings and hearings are Client Relationship • Turnpike Widening S.R. 408 to S.R. 50 PD&E planned throughout the Turnpike (RS&H) system in the new year, and Manager Nick Lulli. “It’s • Suncoast Parkway 2, Phase 2 Design (WBQ) COVID-19 precautions still are a important to determine • Turnpike Widening Jupiter to Okeechobee Road big part of these events. Quest exactly who we need to PD&E (Lochner) is stocked up on social distance engage for this critical step • Turnpike Widening Palm Drive to Campbell Drive markers for the floor, health signage PD&E (Stanley Consultants/Arcadis) for walls and hand sanitizer stations. of roadway improvements.”
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 44 BUILD MORE THAN A JOB…
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU BUILD A LIFE Proudly serving the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) program to enhance awareness of careers in road and bridge construction and connect job seekers with contractors who are hiring, Quest’s Statewide Workforce Development Program team espouses its mantra: RECRUIT. HIRE. TRAIN. RETAIN.
WORKING CLOSELY WITH FDOT a highlight for our Statewide Workforce contractors throughout Florida, the Development Program team,” Quest team connects with community shared Quest’s Program Manager Jill GOALS: • Provide employment for entry-level and partners to introduce career pathways Cappadoro. “We truly value FTBA’s experienced workers to unemployed and underemployed support to advance this important • Provide direct economic benefit to project adults, military veterans and people program and FDOT’s trust to craft communities re-entering the workforce after an the presentation delivered by their • Consolidate and enhance all FDOT workforce absence. We also enthusiastically program administrator, Joe Santos.” development programs promote entry-level jobs to students • Address the construction labor shortage preparing to graduate from high school FDOT is dedicated to implementing or technical and trade schools. the Statewide Workforce Development Program, authorized by the OBJECTIVES: • Attract adult workers and students to road “Participating in all six FDOT/Florida Florida Legislature and signed construction careers Transportation Builders’ Association into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis • Recruit and train a workforce to meet (FTBA) Fall Contractors’ Meetings was in 2019. transportation industry needs • Support removing barriers for workers to PROGRAM RESULTS AND KEY METRICS pursue construction careers Through December 2020 34 Positions Remaining for Construction Interns 1,958 735 FUTURE PROGRAM REFINEMENTS: Students engaged at Job Candidates referred three Construction to contractors by • Provide an online training platform to Career Days OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers support worker certifications and career 1,646 108 advancement Students stated Contractors interest in participating in Paid Student OnBoard4Jobs Construction Construction Internships 784 Careers People hired by FDOT contractors (combined) 66 66 198 INTERNS Student Statewide Internships filled Correctional Facilities for future partnerships PLACED
80 Program Partners engaged
45 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE
UPDATE ON WHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED Student-targeted Activities: • Student Construction Internship Adult-targeted Activities: positions filled Readiness Hiring and Training • 46 Paid Intern • Contractors Job- • 5 Interns Hired to full time positions • 649 Hires by participating contractors • 80% RLET’Setention GETRate YOUR FIRM STARTED – Fast Track FDOT Contractors’ truction Career Days Participation • Correctional TransitionGeneral Academy Overview • Cons -entry referrals from FDC Meeting• 3 Hires through Re • Statewide planning underway for virtual • Joseph Santos, Operations Programand Engineer, e-learning approachFDOT • 18 entry level positions available for FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF [email protected] STATEWIDE WORKFORCEPROGRAMJob-readiness DEVELOPMENT funding • Military Veterans RecruitmentCorrectional Transition Fast Track, Military Veterans Recruitment • Newest initiative focuses on providing contractors Octoberwith industry2020 -skilledand candidates Construction Internships, • 12 positions funded• Jill Cappadoro, Statewide Project Manager, FDOT Statewide Workforce oard4Jobs Construction Careers • OnB Development,-Job Training [email protected] • Program provides On-the recruitment supportJob-readiness Hiring and Training • 41 Hires by participating contractors • Darcy Foster, Sr. Workforce Development Coordinator, FDOT Statewide Workforce, [email protected] Florida’s road and bridge construction Quest’s Workforce Development Coordinator André www.FloridaRoadJobs.com industry welcomes a workforce reflecting the Perks meets recently hired workers gaining hands-on diversity of communities throughout our state. training in the field.
OVERVIEW The program’s successes and next steps are documented in the Inaugural Summary Report. We encourage you to review the report at www.FloridaRoadJobs.com. Following is an update on program accomplishments from January 2020 through December 2020.
ADULT-TARGETED ACTIVITIES: STUDENT-TARGETED ACTIVITIES: Contractors Job-Readiness Hiring and Training – Provides contractor Student Construction Internship – Provides contractor reimbursement for recruiting, hiring, drug testing and training new entry-level reimbursement for up to eight weeks of hands-on intern employees to work on FDOT construction projects. experience • 649 Hires by participating contractors • 66 paid intern positions filled • FY 21 targeted metric is 304 hires • FY 21 objective is 100 interns • 58% Retention Rate • 6 interns hired to full-time positions Contact: Darcy Foster at [email protected] and 813-599-1515 Contact: Rasheia Freeman at [email protected] Correctional Transition Fast Track – Provides contractor reimbursement for and 941-219-9536 recruiting, hiring, drug testing and training new entry-level employees to work on FDOT construction projects. Construction Career Days Participation – Statewide planning • 3 hires through re-entry referrals from Florida Department of Corrections under way to include virtual and e-learning approach • 15 entry-level positions available for Job-readiness Funding • 1,646 Students stated interest in paid student Contact: André Perks at [email protected] and 813-724-4616 construction internships • 2,494 added to Student Engagement Database • Military Veterans Recruitment and Placement – Newest initiative focuses on Contact: Jill Cappadoro at [email protected] and providing contractors with industry-skilled candidates 813-299-3613 • 12 positions funded Contact: André Perks at [email protected] and 813-724-4616
• OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers – Provides recruitment support for On-the- Website: www.FloridaRoadJobs.com Job training commitments Email: [email protected] • 66 hires by participating contractors Phone: 833 ROADJOB (833) 762-3562 Contact: Brittany Reissfelder at [email protected] and 813-919-5586
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 46 FDOT’S ON-THE-JOB TRAINING OPENS
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU CAREER PATHWAYS QUEST’S ONBOARD4JOBS CONSTRUCTION Careers recruitment team has been busy this quarter, working closely with community partners to identify, recruit and place candidates ready to launch their careers in the road and bridge construction industry. Quest’s OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers program team introduced students at Spruce Creek High School to career pathways in Along with job seekers, we’ve been engaging with high school and technical horizontal construction. school students. Our team – Rasheia Freeman, Brittany Reissfelder and Elaine Rodriquez – has connected with students to promote the benefits of careers in road and bridge construction. Opportunities are wide open for those willing to learn and commit to being reliable workers.
“This is such a wonderful program that helps some of our nation’s greatest resources – graduating high school seniors, young adults and military veterans,” shares Brittany Reissfelder, a program manager for FDOT’s OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers program.
Since the program’s inception, Quest’s team has become a trusted source for providing roadway transportation contractors The Tampa Bay Construction Career Days OnBoard4Jobs Construction Careers with workforce candidates statewide. team celebrates a successful fundraiser golf supported AKCA LLC with identifying and tournament in November. recruiting workers for future road and bridge construction projects.
QUEST TEAM ADDRESSES MULTI-DISCIPLINED FTBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS QUEST VICE PRESIDENT and FDOT Statewide Workforce Development Program Manager Jill Cappadoro addressed the Florida Transportation Builders’ Association (FTBA) Board of Directors in mid-December to provide an update on key initiatives. Joining her in thanking FTBA Board members for their support and participation were FDOT Program Administrator Joe Santos and Workforce Development Coordinator Darcy Foster with HNTB.
As leaders in Florida’s road and bridge The industry-dedicated FTBA Board construction industry, the enthusiastic group of Directors met virtually and in provides guidance, input and feedback on such person, hosted by Ring Power in Hillsborough County. initiatives as Contractor Job-readiness Hiring FDOT’s Statewide Workforce Development Program team updated and Training, Correctional Transition Fast Track FTBA’s Board of Directors. FDOT Program Administrator Joe Santos led the discussion and was joined by Quest Program Manager Jill and Student Construction Internships. Cappadoro and Darcy Foster with sub-consultant HNTB.
47 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE PENNSYLVANIA QUEST TAKES PART IN TEAM SUPPORTS TRUCK PLATOONING PEL STUDY DEMONSTRATION WHEN I MOVED to Pennsylvania, I learned about the state’s equivalent to Florida’s project FOR TRANSPORTATION development and environment (PD&E) study – the EMPLOYEES who work in roadway planning and environmental linkage (PEL) study. construction zones, self-driving vehicles will make a huge difference A PEL study is a collaborative approach to in terms of safety. transportation decision making between the state’s department of transportation and the Federal In October, the Pennsylvania (PA) Highway Administration. The study combines the Turnpike Commission took part planning and PD&E processes and is compatible in an automated truck platooning with future National Environmental Policy Act demonstration that went from Pittsburgh (PennDOT), PA Turnpike, Michigan and Ohio, (NEPA) studies. The goal is to carry the obtained to Michigan. Conducted by the technology organized the demonstration. information into the NEPA process. firm Locomotion, two automated and connected tractor trailers traveled the PA Quest’s Pennsylvania Communications Manager Quest supports Johnson, Mirmiran and Thompson Turnpike in Pittsburgh, went to Ohio and Sophia Fox assisted the platooning demonstration (JMT) with public involvement services for the State ended in Michigan. by capturing video. As the two tractor trailers College Area Connector PEL Study in southern exited the PA Turnpike to travel to Ohio, Sophia Centre County. The team executed the first virtual The Smart Belt Coalition (SBC), a was stationed at the interchange to video the public meeting (VPM) for the study in October 2020. collaboration between transportation innovative demonstration. The video was used for Sophia Fox, Chris Ward and I worked closely with agencies, including the Pennsylvania social media and a media package that was sent the JMT team and PennDOT District Two to create Department of Transportation to outlets throughout Pennsylvania. eye-catching collaterals and graphics for the VPM.
“It’s so interesting to see truck Stakeholder platooning in action,” Sophia says. participation is crucial in the PEL process. “It was great to be a part of a large It allows for the demonstration coordinated by the development and SBC. I hope to help with platooning refinement of strategies and is encouraged during demonstrations in the future.” every step of the study.
PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE TURNS 80 IN OCTOBER, AMERICA’S First Commission’s history website page. The new history page Superhighway, the Pennsylvania (PA) features video and photos with historic explanation of the Turnpike, celebrated its 80th year last eight decades. of service. Although the occasion couldn’t be celebrated in person When the PA Turnpike opened on Oct. 1, 1940, it was just because of the pandemic, Quest’s 160 miles long. Today, it stretches more than 550 miles. Pennsylvania Communications Manager With the Pennsylvania Visitors Bureau and Pennsylvania Sophia Fox assisted the Pennsylvania Historic Museum Commission, the Turnpike created a Turnpike Commission in creating an fun-filled, historic road trip along the original 160 miles. unforgettable commemoration. To go with the new history site, Sophia worked with the Turnpike’s GeoAnalytics team to bring the road trip “From the Exit and Explore map to the Working with the Turnpike’s marketing to life. Through “Exit and Explore,” travelers can find new webpage, I hope travelers will learn team, Sophia assisted with redesigning information about destinations to visit on the Turnpike’s something new about the Turnpike’s and creating content for the original 160 miles. history,” Sophia shares.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 48 FROM BOSS TO BEAST By Dave Alberts
PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS asking me, This could go really well…or really badly. helped me progress in my professional ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE | NEED IS LOVE ALL YOU “What’s it like being Sharlene’s personal career. I am #QUESTPROUD of Sharlene trainer?” “Is it weird training your boss?” In the end, it was one of the best and feel blessed to have such a great boss, “What’s Sharlene like outside work?” decisions I’ve made. To Quest employees, student and friend. Sharlene can be described as a tenacious, I’ll be honest, initially I was hardworking, inspirational, energetic, a little hesitant to be attentive, generous and a loving leader Quest Owner/President who expects the best from herself and her Sharlene Lairscey’s employees. So what’s she like outside the personal trainer. I’ve Quest world, and in the gym? Well, she’s the learned a lot in my exact same! The characteristics that make 10-plus years of lifting. her a great boss and leader make her one of I was strength coach at the best students I’ve trained. a Crossfit gym and have trained friends and family – We set up six weeks of training at a time, but this was going to be different. three days each week. Each six-week period This is my boss! The owner of the has different exercises built in. We just Company I work for! What happens if it finished our 18th week of training and I can’t doesn’t work out? What if she doesn’t wait for our next six weeks! enjoy the workouts I put together? What if there are things she doesn’t Sharlene truly is a beast, inside and outside want to do? What happens if I push her the gym. It’s been a pleasure training her
too hard and she gets hurt? and watching her progress, just as she’s Dave lifts 715 lbs. in the Halloween Deadlift Competition.
NATIONAL BOSS’ DAY
NATIONAL BOSS’ DAY dates to 1958 when Patricia Are you a boss and want to be appreciated? their personal experiences, and they Bays Haroski, an employee at State Farm Insurance If you do, it’s important to determine demonstrate their vulnerabilities,” Company in Deerfield, Illinois, registered the what it takes to encourage, inspire and Finance Manager Lori Morgan says. holiday with the U.S. Chamber of motivate your team. I believe employees Commerce. She chose Oct. 16 want to make a difference and do a good “We work hard, but we have a good because it was her father’s job. It’s up to the boss to communicate time,” shares Client Relationship birthday. The purpose a clear vision. Great bosses demonstrate Manager Elisa DiGrazia. “I love my team, of the day was to show how each employee task supports what an and it’s important to me to gather them appreciation for her boss organization is trying to achieve. and let them know we’re all headed in and other bosses. the same direction, in unity.” “Setting clear performance expectations “It humbles me deeply is key,” Associate Vice President Jill So, to all you client-bosses out there, when one of our associates Cappadoro shares. “And our employees thank you for being great managers, says I am a great boss,” should expect to receive constant feedback mentors, teachers and guides. Thank you Quest Owner/President on how well they are meeting for being the best you can be. And thank Sharlene Lairscey shares. “I our expectations.” you for your vision, your extraordinary believe at Quest we have lots of great bosses. abilities and your leadership to guide us, I believe we have created an environment that “Our managers care about our employees specifically during these times. At Quest, encourages fun and supports productivity.” as people. They are transparent. They share we think you all are amazing!
49 QUARTER 4 2020 | BE INFORMED | ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE QUEST: PERSEVERING WITH LOVE AT QUEST, WE are proud of and inspired by AT ALL TIMES, WE ARE STAYING the way our company and our clients have risen to the challenge of COVID 19 – with FOCUSED ON THREE PRIORITIES: flexibility, resilience, courage and caring 1) Safety is paramount. We can only make positive contributions hearts. As the situation continues to evolve, and live our purpose and values if we stay healthy and avoid we will continue adapting to the challenges spreading this virus. and changes. 2) Business continuity is key. We are focusing on doing the jobs Understandably, there continues to be a great at hand and making extra efforts to go above and beyond – to sense of unease everywhere. Although it overcommunicate and overserve – as we produce the quality saddens us that we aren’t able to connect like products and services for which we are known. we used to, we’re working harder than ever 3) To the extent we can, we are providing a helping hand to to create opportunities to inspire and provide those around us. This is the moment to demonstrate grace, resources and support. empathy, humility and kindness.
On behalf of our Executive Leadership Team, Helping others is part of our Quest values. We have a unique we thank our government-agency and culture and often refer to Quest as a family company. This is the professional-engineering consultant clients for time to live family values. We hope our personal caring and help all you are doing to weather this crisis. Your can make a difference to our colleagues and their families. We commitments make all the difference. We’d know it makes us a stronger and even more united team. like to reassure you that Quest is resilient. Over In the spirit of Quest, please always live and breathe LOVE. the course of 25 years, we have experienced Although this virus is global, we know the situation is different in many challenging moments. We’ve stuck each area of the country, in each county of the states we serve, together, and we’re convinced that if we and within each home. Please follow the guidance provided. Let us continue to stick together, we will overcome continue to work together – across all parts of our industry – so we this one too. can keep going.
BE INFORMED | QUARTER 4 2020 50 ADMINISTRATIVE | ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS | AGENCY ADVOCACY | ANNUAL REPORTS | ANIMATION BILINGUAL/TRANSLATION SERVICES | BILLBOARD DESIGN | BRAND IDENTITY/BRAND STRATEGY | BROCHURES/FLYERS BUS STOP SIGNAGE | COMMUNITY EVENT PLANNING | COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP PROGRAMS | COMMUNITY OUTREACH COMMUNITY WORKING GROUPS | COMMUNICATION PLANS | CONSENSUS BUILDING | COPYWRITING CREATIVE SERVICES | CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS | CUSTOMER APPRECIATION/EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION PROGRAMS DATABASE MANAGEMENT | DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGNS | DRONE SERVICES | ECONOMIC IMPACT BROCHURES AND SURVEYS ENVIRONMENTAL COORDINATION | FOCUS GROUPS | GAMIFICATION TECHNIQUES | GIS SERVICES | GRAPHIC DESIGN GRANT WRITING/GRANT REPORTING | IMAGE CAMPAIGNS | INTERGOVERNMENTAL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS INCENTIVE PROMOTIONS | ISSUE RESOLUTION AND DOCUMENTATION | LOGO DEVELOPMENT | MARKET RESEARCH MARKETING CAMPAIGNS/MARKETING PLANS | MASTER PLAN UPDATE REPORTS | MEDIA BUYING/PLANNING/PLACEMENT MEDIA RELATIONS | MEETING FACILITATION | NATIONAL OUTREACH EFFORTS | NEWS RELEASES | NEWSLETTERS ONLINE/VIRTUAL MEETINGS/BRIEFINGS | ONLINE FOCUS GROUPS | PARTNERING FACILITATION PHOTOGRAPHY | PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT | SOCIAL MEDIA | SPEECH WRITING | STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS VIDEOGRAPHY | WEBSITE DESIGN | WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
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