Workshop Description and Presentations>

Todd A. Leiss, TIM Heroes, Inc.
Prioritize the well-being of your public works personnel and enhance roadway safety in this impactful 1-hour session. We'll delve into the essentials of traffic incident management (TIM) and crucial crew safety measures. Utilizing the innovative RealScene VR platform, attendees will participate in a virtual tabletop exercise, allowing for hands-on, interactive discussion and strategic planning to prevent incidents and protect those who maintain our roads.

Presentation

Brady W. McNab, Area Manager (PA-NY-NJ), CMC Bridge Systems
When flooding repeatedly damaged a critical rural bridge, the municipality turned to a modular, integral solution and was able to install a new bridge system in 5 days. This session highlights the planning, design, and self-performed installation of a disaster-resilient structure using corrosion-resistant materials, minimal equipment, and limited road closure, and a case study in rapid replacement for flood-prone infrastructure.

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Roy Landsiedel, Telematics Coordinator, Marshall Machinery, Inc., and Chad Dulansky, Kubota Tractor Corporation  
Discover how telematics technology is transforming fleet management for municipalities and public works departments. In this session, we'll explore how real-time data tracking, preventative maintenance alerts, and usage analytics can lead to increased equipment uptime, reduced operating costs, and more efficient service delivery. Whether you're looking to justify budget decisions, optimize your fleet, or improve accountability, this session will show you how telematics can make your department more proactive, transparent, and future-ready.

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Steve Bloser, Director, Center for Dirt and Gravel Road Studies, Penn State University
The PA Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Road Maintenance Program provides $28 million annually in grants to PA townships and boroughs for road improvement projects. This session will cover the basics of the Program, including how to apply, and will showcase a variety of recently completed Program projects from around the state.

Presentation

Michael Powell, Senior Research Technologist, Penn State Extension, and Pennsylvania Chair, American Tree Farm System
In the United States alone, there are over 35,000 reported chainsaw accidents annually. Most of these incidents occurred when the individuals were not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary for the operation of a chainsaw.

The classroom portion of this class will focus on proper PPEI, correct fit, and replacement. Other topics to be covered include safety features on the chainsaw, basic maintenance, safe handling, starting techniques, and hazard assessment of the area prior to chainsaw use.

These techniques can then be tested and applied during the hands-on training in the afternoon.

Presentation

Mary Robbins, Ph.D., P.E., Director of Technical Services, Pennsylvania Asphalt Pavement Association
In this session, we will cover what RAP (reclaimed asphalt pavement) is, why it is important, and how your municipalities can efficiently and effectively use it on your municipal roads with equal or improved performance.

Presentation

Annette Ginochetti, GISP, FAA Certified Remote Pilot sUAS, GIS Services Manager, and Daniel Yelito, Transportation Services Manager, NEPA Alliance
Take to the skies with us as we showcase the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance's innovative approach to drone technology. Discover the "why" behind launching a UAS program and the "how" it takes flight - unveiling its transformative impact on transportation. We'll share pathways for you to get involved in this fast-moving field and show how you can be part of shaping the future. So buckle up, get ready for takeoff, and prepare for a hands-on drone demonstration.

Presentation

Michael Powell, Senior Research Technologist, Penn State Extension, and Pennsylvania Chair, American Tree Farm System
The demo portion of this class will allow attendees to practice their chainsaw safety skills, including on a downed tree across roadway.

Tim Abbey, Commercial Horticulture Educator – Green Industry Team, Penn State Extension
This session, which is eligible for Category 10 continuing education credits for licensed pesticide applicators, will discuss the challenges of managing and eliminating invasive plant species in and along municipal rights-of-way. Identification, biology, and non-chemical and chemical management options will be covered.

Presentation

Tony Guizzotti, Account Executive, Unique Paving Materials Corp.
This session will include a brief classroom session followed by an outdoor demonstration that will show attendees the best ways to patch potholes in cold weather while using cold patch applications.

Presentation

Michael Powell, Senior Research Technologist, Penn State Extension, and Pennsylvania Chair, American Tree Farm System

The demo portion of this class will allow attendees to practice their chainsaw safety skills, including on a downed tree across roadway.

Tommy Perkins, TP Trailers
At the end of this workshop, attendees will understand the importance of specing the proper PTO with the appropriate pump and hydraulic system to avoid failure. The workshop will review work truck applications and how to select a PTO, pump, reservoir and valving on to satisfy the needs of the work truck application.

Presentation

Rex W. Eberly, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Association of Asphalt Material Applicators
Learn the five keys to making every pavement preservation project a successful one. From project inception through final closeout, this information is intended to assist townships in managing costs, minimizing complications, and achieving effective results for your municipality.

Presentation

Jameel Farruk, Director of Sales, MuniciBid
Municibid has spent almost 20 years helping public works departments monetize their surplus assets into revenue generators. This workshop will cover why surplus sales are important with regards to reinvesting in your DPW, how surplus sales provide an advantage during weakened market conditions, and create opportunities for sellers and buyers during economic stress and variability in the supply chain.

Presentation

Pennsylvania State Police, Troop N, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit
This session will ensure that your municipal road crews are aware of the rules associated with proper load securement, which is a must for all vehicles having a gross vehicle weight of over 10,000 pounds and all cargo and hazardous materials. It will cover load securement, load preparation, methods of securement (including tie-down assemblies), and safety guidelines. We will also cover distracted driving and issues arising from equipment violations.

Marvin Ta, PE, Technical Expert, LTAP, and Staff Engineer II, Pennoni Associates
State law mandates that all roadway workers implement proper Temporary Traffic Controls (TTC) measures in accordance with PennDOT standards. This session will guide attendees through the process of selecting appropriate TTC setups using PennDOT’s Publication 213. Through two practical examples – one rural and one urban – participants will learn how to interpret and apply the guidelines effectively.

Presentation

Doug Haupt, Manager, Public Safety, PPL
This demonstration will reinforce the importance of safety awareness around power lines and other electrical equipment. PPL Electric Utilities staff will create arcs and sparks that can occur as a result of contact with energized electrical equipment. The visuals demonstrated with this exhibit WILL get your attention!

Sam Gregory, Technical Expert, LTAP
Salt brine is a useful tool in a comprehensive winter maintenance program and is a proven technique that can help provide high level service while limiting environmental impacts. However, as with any “new” changes to standard operating procedures, it may take a cultural change. This session will provide insight regarding how to successfully implement this best practice.

Presentation

Tim Moore, TDRI Solutions
This session will introduce you and your teams to a new tool that easily measures moisture under roads and allows you to identify and respond to problems more easily and cost-effectively.

Presentation

Terry Crouthamel, Jr., Managing Member, Asphalt Maintenance Solutions LLC
This presentation highlights innovative paving systems that offer cost-effective alternatives to conventional overlays. It will focus on the Ultra-Thin Bonded Wearing Course (UTBWC) for pavement preservation and on Cold Mix Paving (FB Modified and FB-3 Modified) for rehabilitation projects. Attendees will leave with an understanding of these processes and gain practical insights into project selection, design considerations, and the benefits of utilizing these treatments along with a cost analysis comparing these treatments to traditional methods.

Presentation

Michael Fleming, Technical Expert, Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP)
Join us for a hands-on demonstration focused on the annual calibration of salt spreaders as part of essential winter preparation. Proper calibration ensures efficient salt usage, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances roadway safety during snow and ice events.

Pat Wright, Technical Expert, LTAP, and Senior Traffic Engineer, Pennoni Associates
Municipalities are often confronted with confusing situations related to the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The best way to approach potential problems is to have a plan – an ADA Transition Plan for Pedestrian Facilities in the Public Rights-of-Ways. This demonstration will cover the key aspects of that plan, as well as review requirements for sidewalks, ramps, and curb ramps.

Dave Fokken, Asphalt Zipper

Learn how Pennsylvania townships with two-three person crews are repairing their roads for substantially less than contracting out. See how simple process changes and the right equipment transform limited road repair budgets, allowing for significantly more roads repaired each year.  

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