Transportation agencies don’t just operate in a silo — they are increasing focused on serving their communities through engagement opportunities, networking events and beautification efforts. Roads & Bridges rounded up agencies making an impact beyond infrastructure.
Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT)
MaineDOT is calling on the public to participate in a study aimed at addressing congestion in communities west of Portland.
The Portland-West Study will examine traffic, safety and multimodal challenges along a corridor affecting Gorham, Scarborough, South Portland and Westbrook, building on previous work in the region.
An advisory committee — comprised of residents, municipal and business leaders, transportation and planning stakeholders and advocacy groups — will help guide the study and provide recommendations.
The first bi-monthly meeting is scheduled for April 28th in a hybrid format, allowing the public to attend in person or virtually. The first of three engagement sessions is planned for the week of Mahy 18th, including a virtual meeting and in-person workshop.
The study is expected to last 15 months, with results anticipated in the spring of 2027.
Alabama Department of Transportation (ADOT)
ADOT is hosting a Small & Disadvantaged Business Transportation EXPO to connect businesses with project opportunities.
Scheduled for May 12, the event will highlight opportunities through the agency’s Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) program, which supports businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
Attendees will hear from state and local transportation leader, participate in panel discussions and network with potential partners. Sessions will cover project updates, contracting opportunities and topics such as women in construction.
The event is open to businesses, public agencies, vendors and community partners.
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)
MDOT crews is engaging communities through litter prevention and cleanup events across the state.
Crews in multiple districts step away from their regular duties to remove trash from highly visible highways, raising awareness about the impacts of roadside litter.
The agency’s long-running “Trash Bash” initiative — launched in 1989 — results in thousands of bags of litter collected each year.
In addition to cleanup efforts, MDOT also promotes litter prevention through outreach at schools and community events, aiming to reduce future roadway debris and improve overall highway conditions.
