PROPOSAL
Training and Implementation for Risk Corridor Study in Rappahannock Region and
Other Virginia Localities
James H. Lambert, Research Associate Professor and Associate Director
Center for Risk Management of Engineering Systems, University of Virginia
Center for Risk Management of Engineering Systems, University of Virginia
INTRODUCTION
In phase 1 (www.virginia.edu/crmes/corridorprotection, through November 2007) of the risk
corridor study, we demonstrated a GIS-based methodology to identify and prioritize highway
sections that are vulnerable to land development. In this phase 2, we will train Virginia localities
and implement the methodology for the surrounding counties of Fauquier (the Rappahannock
Rapidan Regional Commission, RRRC) and for six additional localities to be selected from
across Virginia. There are two appendices with supporting emails from the RRRC and Fauquier
County.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
The Virginia Department of Transportation is increasingly involved with the land development
process in rapidly evolving transportation corridors. The land development process on
transportation corridors includes rezoning, points of interest, real estate, public utilities, right of
way, access management, and the transportation facilities themselves. Localities, who are
competing with one another for economic development, may be slow to share their plans for
developing corridors, or they may not be aware of impending development. It is therefore
important that VDOT transportation planners anticipate future development to avoid surprise,
regret, and belated action. Timely action includes working with the localities and regions and the
private sector to identify and protect vulnerable corridor sections for future road, pedestrian and
bicycle facilities, and intermodal facilities such as park and ride lots.
BACKGROUND
Section 15.2-2222.1 of the Code of Virginia requires localities to submit comprehensive plans
and amendments to comprehensive plans that will substantially affect transportation on statecontrolled highways to VDOT in order for the agency to review and provide comments on the
impact of the item submitted. This section also requires localities to submit traffic impact
statements along with proposed rezoning, site plans, subdivision plats, and subdivision
development plans that will substantially affect transportation on state-controlled highways to
VDOT for comment by the agency. Chapter 527 of the 2006 Acts of Assembly directs VDOT to
promulgate regulations for the implementation of these requirements. VDOT is working to
establish a comprehensive access management program that includes corridor protection. At
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present, right of way purchases are managed in the project development process of the Six-Year
Program and State Transportation Improvement Program.
The Phase 1 effort collected and assembled GIS layers from multiple sources to prioritize
corridor sections of the Fauquier County primary roads that are relatively more vulnerable to
development. The results of our Phase 1 effort were presented in 2007 to the Rappahannock
Rapidan Regional Commission, the Joint Planning Managers Meeting, the Rural Planning
Managers Meeting, and in several occasions to a ten-member Steering Committee representing
VDOT, localities, and other Virginia agencies. The consensus of discussion was to proceed with
training of Virginia localities and implementation to the RRRC region and additional counties.
This training and implementation phase will provide Virginia localities a base of knowledge and
experience on which to expand use by the localities of the Statewide Planning System and other
GIS data in support of corridor protection, access management, and related initiatives.
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The purpose of this Phase 2 effort is to provide training and implementation of the Phase 1
methodology that supports the identification, prioritization, and protection of transportation
corridor sections that could face significant land development in five to ten years. The effort will
be conducted in close partnership with VDOT Transportation and Mobility Planning Division,
the RRRC, and Virginia localities.
METHODS
The proposed effort will consist of the following tasks.
Task 1: Training workshops for Virginia localities
We will deliver training to Virginia localities via on-site approximately five on-site workshops
with times and locations to be determined in consultation with TMPD.
Task 2: Implementation in Rappahannock Region
We will implement the Phase 1 methodology in the surrounding counties of Fauquier and work
closely with Jeff Walker, Rick Carr, and others of the Rappahannock Rapidan Regional
Commission and the counties to ensure the effective demonstration of the results for regional
planning that encompasses multiple contiguous counties. The steps of this task are: travel to the
Rappahannock Region, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of the results with the
local planners.
Task 3: Implementation in six selected localities
We will implement the Phase 1 methodology in six additional counties to be selected in
consultation with TMPD. We will make a diverse selection of the localities with respect to size,
metropolitan area proximity, geography and terrain, and status of local access management
2
plans. The steps of this task are: travel to the selected localities, data collection, data analysis,
and interpretation of the results with the local planners.
Task 4: Additional data layers and streamlining of methodology
We will incorporate additional GIS data layers and indicators to the methodology as appropriate,
including zoning, the linear sequential nature of corridor development, and non-locally held
parcels. We will streamline the methodology to facilitate its timely and efficient implementation
by Virginia localities.
Task 5: Updates of training manual including lessons learned
We will provide monthly updates to online versions of a training manual that includes the
cumulative lessons learned from the RRRC and other localities (see version 1.0 of the training
manual at www.virginia.edu/crmes/corridorprotection, Appendix B of the VTRC December
2007 final report). The manual will be clear what are the data needs, what is the needed time, and
what are the uses and benefits.
Task 6: Other materials and presentations
We will provide additional training materials including slide presentations, make travel
presentations in addition to the workshops of Task 1, provide telephone support, and otherwise
promote adoption of the methodology in various forms as appropriate for localities throughout
the Commonwealth, including VACO and GIS transportation user groups.
Task 7: Recommendations developed with TMPD, regions, and localities
We will work closely with TMPD and others to develop recommendations based on the effort for
data, practices, policies, and procedures of VDOT, the regions, and the localities.
EXPECTED BENEFITS
The results of the research effort will benefit transportation accessibility, mobility, economic
development and safety for corridor sections that are vulnerable to development in five to ten
years. The implementation of the methodology will train local and regional planners to
systematically identify needs for corridor protection and access management, including the
identification by Virginia localities of urban development areas by 2010 as required by HB3202.
SCHEDULE
Tasks
Duration Start month End month
(months)
14
1
14
4
1
4
4
3
6
1. Training workshops for Virginia localities
2. Rappahannock region implementation
3. Other selected localities implementation
3
4.
5.
6.
7.
Additional layers and streamlining methodology
Updates of training manual
Other materials and presentations
Recommendations for data and practices
4
4
14
14
4
1
1
1
11
4
14
14
14
DELIVERABLES
The effort will deliver:
 Workshops and presentations with localities, VACO, TPRAC, Rural Planning Managers,
GIS user groups and others
 Data collection from localities
 Implementation of methodology for Rappahannock Region
 Implementation of methodology for six additional localities to be determined
 Additional data layers and streamlined methodology in consultation with TMPD
 Statewide GIS layers of employment centers and population centers
 Periodic revisions of an online training manual including lessons learned
 Other training materials and presentation materials
 Recommendations to be developed with TMPD
Documentation of progress will be provided through a web site at the University of Virginia,
e.g., www.virginia.edu/crmes/corridorprotection2.
CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS
The Center for Risk Management of Engineering Systems has been engaged in research
activities for VDOT since 1996. The aim of the research has been to bring as much relevant
evidence as possible, as early and straightforwardly as possible, to various processes of planning
and prioritizing transportation improvements. The efforts provide comprehensive representations
of risk, cost, and performance metrics that rely on existing or available data. The efforts have
applied risk-based multi-objective decision analysis in support of expert deliberation. The efforts
have influenced the prioritization and other planning methodologies being deployed by VDOT.
The results have been presented to the Commonwealth Transportation Board, transportation
agency staff, the MPOs and PDCs, public meetings, national and international professional
conferences, and others. Samples of the publications and products of the research efforts are
available at:
1. http://www.virginia.edu/crmes/corridorprotection (2007)
2. http://www.virginia.edu/crmes/multimodal2 (2007)
3. http://www.virginia.edu/crmes/prioritization(2006)
4. www.virginia.edu/crmes/multimodal (2006)
5. www.virginia.edu/crmes/stip (2004)
6. www.virginia.edu/crmes/comparison (2002)
7. www.virginia.edu/crmes/lighting (2003)
8. www.virginia.edu/crmes/guardrail (2001)
9. www.virginia.edu/crmes/VDOT (2000)
The reports of the above individual efforts are available online from the Virginia Transportation
Research Council http://vtrc.virginiadot.org. Various other related publications are available by
email to <lambert@virginia.edu>.
Founded in 1987, the Center for Risk Management of Engineering Systems, University of
Virginia, has provided an environment conducive to strong faculty-student learning and
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collaboration. Graduate students, along with fourth-year and occasionally third-year
undergraduates, join in regularly scheduled brainstorming sessions on topical research areas.
Over the last fifteen years, the Center has supported more than sixty graduate students (and
twelve undergraduate Capstone teams, of over fifty undergraduates) at the University of
Virginia.
The CRMES develops theory and methodology for the assessment of risk in a variety of civilian,
defense, water resources, and other engineering systems. Industry and government sponsors of
research at the Center work closely with faculty and students, contributing their unique strengths
and interests to the Center and sharing in experience from a broad range of ongoing projects at
the Center. The CRMES is unique for:
1. Its cross-disciplinary range of projects within and beyond engineering,
2. Is status as one of few groups to apply risk management to engineering and
technology-based systems, and
3. Its experience since 1987--the Center is in a strategic position to evaluate and manage
risk in a broad scope of technology-based systems.
Areas of expertise include (1) water resources, transportation, and technology management, (2)
environmental impacts, (3) electronic, safety-critical systems, (4) computer-based systems,
including hardware and software performance and reliability, (5) reliability modeling of multiple
failure modes of complex systems, and (6) protection of interdependent critical infrastructure
systems from terrorism.
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APPENDIX A. Supporting email with Jeff Walker, Rappahannock Rapidan Regional
Commission
From: "James H. Lambert" <lambert@virginia.edu>
Date: January 29, 2008 11:54:22 AM EST
To: Jeffrey Walker <jpwalker@rrregion.org>
Cc: Robin Grier <Robin.Grier@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "Chad J. Tucker"
<chad.tucker@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "Marsha C. Fiol"
<marsha.fiol@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "John A. P.E. Giometti"
<John.Giometti@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, Rick Carr <rick.carr@fauquiercounty.gov>,
"Wayne S. Ferguson" <Wayne.Ferguson@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "John S. Miller"
<john.miller@vdot.virginia.gov>
Subject: Re: Risk Corridors Study Phase 2 Monday meeting
Hi, Jeff,
This morning I listened to your phone message from 1:40pm Monday, yesterday. You
did exactly the right thing by calling in. We all heard the phone ring and I apologize I
forgot to check that it might be your call.
I transcribed your voice message as "…would love to offer up whatever insights may be
helpful from the PDC side, needless to say we would love to work with you on a
continuation of your risk management study on Rt 29 that you did on Fauquier…give me
a call…"
A main theme of the meeting was the transition of the methodology to a production
version, ready to apply to a dozen plus localities (RRRC counties and the six others
tbd). We made several refinements to the scope of work you saw last Thursday/Friday.
The other significant refinements are:
(i) update a "lessons learned" document online throughout the project,
(ii) develop criteria for selecting the localities that are in addition to the RRRC case
study extension--diverse with respect to size, metro area proximity, terrain, status of
access management plans,
(iii) plan for additional meetings and liaison with localities and VACO et al.,
(iv) harmonize to various access management initiatives, including the 3202
requirement to identify urban development areas by 2010
(v) continue to revise the user handbook, putting the benefits/uses, the data and time
needs, and the link to our website at the very front of the handbook
(vi) add the linear sequence of development to the potential new layers (which already
included zoning and non-locally held parcels).
We very much look forward to continuing the effort with your support.
Thanks and best wishes,
Jim
James H. Lambert, P.E., D.WRE, Ph.D.; Associate Director, Center for Risk
7
Management of Engineering Systems; Research Associate Professor, Department of
Systems and Information Engineering; University of Virginia; PO Box 400747; 112C
Olsson Hall, 151 Engineers Way; Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA;
<lambert@virginia.edu>; (434)982-2072/924-0960; fax 924-0865; home 979-4490;
www.virginia.edu/crmes
On Jan 24, 2008, at 3:54 PM, Jeffrey Walker wrote:
Hi Jim,
Am also scheduled to be in Richmond on Monday so if it sounds like I am
just down the hall from you guys, it may actually be the case!
Seriously, would be happy to look over and dial in during the referenced
times, and join you all in the discussion.
Have printed out your email and look forward to catching up with you on
Monday via phone.
Best,
Jeff
-----Original Message----From: James H. Lambert [mailto:lambert@virginia.edu]
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2008 3:26 PM
To: AICP Walker Jeff
Cc: Robin Grier; Chad J. Tucker; Marsha C. Fiol; John A. P.E. Giometti;
Rick Carr
Subject: Risk Corridors Study Phase 2 Monday meeting
Hi, Jeff,
I recall you suggested at our May 2007 steering committee meeting to
extend our "risk corridors study" to all of the RRRC region. Having
finished Phase 1 at the end of November we are eager to proceed.
I believe VDOT-TMDP would benefit from a statement from the RRRC that
you support the concept, and that you would endorse the study to some
county authorities I would soon contact for the parcel assessment and
zoning databases.
Would you offer your comments on the attached draft scope of work
8
either by email or by telephone Monday 1/24/08 anytime in our meeting
between 1:30 and 2:30pm. Robin Grier, Chad Tucker, and I will be ready
to dial out to you or take your call at (434)982-2072.
Thanks and best wishes,
Jim
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APPENDIX B. Supporting email with Rick Carr, Fauquier County
From: "Carr,Rick" <rick.carr@fauquiercounty.gov>
Date: January 25, 2008 10:32:28 AM EST
To: "Robin Grier" <Robin.Grier@VDOT.Virginia.gov>
Cc: "Chad J. Tucker" <chad.tucker@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "Marsha C. Fiol"
<marsha.fiol@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "John A. P.E. Giometti"
<John.Giometti@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "Wayne S. Ferguson"
<Wayne.Ferguson@VDOT.Virginia.gov>, "James H. Lambert" <lambert@virginia.edu>,
"Jeffrey Walker" <jpwalker@rrregion.org>
Subject: RE: Risk Corridors Study Phase 2 Monday meeting
Robin:
I am out of pocket this Monday on site visits and other scheduled
meetings. However, I am excited to see that there is movement to expand
this project throughout our RRRC area. I strongly recommend that be
done, and will respond to any advice or requested assistance folks may
need. This project is well worth the effort from my perspective.
-----Original Message----From: James H. Lambert [mailto:lambert@virginia.edu]
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2008 6:12 PM
To: Jeffrey Walker
Cc: Robin Grier; Chad J. Tucker; Marsha C. Fiol; John A. P.E. Giometti;
Carr,Rick; Wayne S. Ferguson
Subject: Re: Risk Corridors Study Phase 2 Monday meeting
Jeff,
I appreciate it!
Regards,
Jim
James H. Lambert, P.E., D.WRE, Ph.D.; Associate Director, Center for
Risk Management of Engineering Systems; Research Associate Professor,
Department of Systems and Information Engineering; University of
Virginia; PO Box 400747; 112C Olsson Hall, 151 Engineers Way;
Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA; <lambert@virginia.edu>;
(434)982-2072/924-0960; fax 924-0865; home 979-4490;
www.virginia.edu/crmes
On Jan 24, 2008, at 3:54 PM, Jeffrey Walker wrote:
Hi Jim,
10
Am also scheduled to be in Richmond on Monday so if it sounds like I
am just down the hall from you guys, it may actually be the case!
Seriously, would be happy to look over and dial in during the
referenced times, and join you all in the discussion.
Have printed out your email and look forward to catching up with you
on Monday via phone.
Best,
Jeff
-----Original Message----From: James H. Lambert [mailto:lambert@virginia.edu]
Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2008 3:26 PM
To: AICP Walker Jeff
Cc: Robin Grier; Chad J. Tucker; Marsha C. Fiol; John A. P.E.
Giometti;
Rick Carr
Subject: Risk Corridors Study Phase 2 Monday meeting
Hi, Jeff,
I recall you suggested at our May 2007 steering committee meeting to
extend our "risk corridors study" to all of the RRRC region. Having
finished Phase 1 at the end of November we are eager to proceed.
I believe VDOT-TMDP would benefit from a statement from the RRRC that
you support the concept, and that you would endorse the study to some
county authorities I would soon contact for the parcel assessment and
zoning databases.
Would you offer your comments on the attached draft scope of work
either by email or by telephone Monday 1/24/08 anytime in our meeting
between 1:30 and 2:30pm. Robin Grier, Chad Tucker, and I will be ready
to dial out to you or take your call at (434)982-2072.
Thanks and best wishes,
Jim
11