HDR’s Latest Experts Talk: Custom-Fit Transportation Solutions Through Performance-Based Practical Design

OMAHA, Neb. — The latest in HDR’s Experts Talk series features Jon Markt, P.E., RSP1, a traffic engineer and transportation planner, who explains the performance-based practical design approach and how it can benefit infrastructure owners.

Each project has unique purpose and needs, whether congestion relief, safety, asset management or something else. Performance-based practical design recognizes every project is different and one that explores ways to help agencies find the most cost-effective solution to the specific challenges driving the project. The approach requires careful planning to implement it effectively.

“To make a shift toward PBPD, agencies need to expand their design toolbox,” he said. “With some up-front investment, states like Kansas and Nebraska have decided to build PBPD tools with their designers in mind, automating the performance calculations.”

Markt shares how this approach leads to smarter and more cost-effective upgrades for a variety of projects. He notes that this approach works especially well on rural corridors. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, the approach identifies targeted improvements that have the most impact on a project’s highest priorities.

“Two corridors can have similar intended uses while operating very differently,” he said. “The PBPD approach allows us to focus on specific issues, whether that’s crashes, delays or something else, and then define the most effective and efficient way to solve the problem.”

Read the whole article here.

HDR’s Experts Talk interview series shines a light on various aspects of transportation infrastructure design and delivery. Each subject matter expert offers unique expertise and insights about new and ongoing trends, emerging technologies and the human side of infrastructure.

About HDR

For over a century, HDR has partnered with clients to shape communities and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Our expertise spans more than 10,000 employees in more than 200 locations around the world — and counting. Our engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services bring an impressive breadth of knowledge to every project. Our optimistic approach to finding innovative solutions defined our past and drives our future. For more information, please visit www.hdrinc.com.