System Preservation
By: Scott Smith, Assistant Projects Engineer
Minnesota’s local agencies face challenges in maintaining existing infrastructure in a state of good repair when considering aging systems and historic funding shortfalls. Being challenged with funding constraints, many city and county staff have become experts at maximizing their available funds by modifying levels of service and by implementing innovative maintenance strategies.
System preservation goes beyond the asset management concept by considering the overall investment strategies for maintaining the network as a whole. Communication is a foundational element of success, including both the citizens that rely on transportation systems as well as the local elected officials as key partners with public works staff.
State Aid and the Local Road Research Board have continued to develop resources to support new and seasoned staff in addressing these challenges. Beginning in June, a series of five one-hour webinars will share how agencies can assess the performance of their system, identify funding gaps, and explore resources and strategies to maintain or even improve overall system performance. Join them all, or choose areas that interest you.
| Date | Topic |
|---|---|
| June | Module 1: Introduction to system preservation and resources |
| July | Module 2: Determining funding gaps and transportation planning strategies |
| August | Module 3: Capital improvement planning strategies |
| September | Module 4: Operations and maintenace strategies |
| October | Module 5: Modifying the network - right sizing your system |
Watch for your email from State Aid for the invitation to join each webinar!