AASHTO Journal - November 5, 2010 - Panelists Examine How to Make Every Day in Transportation Construction Count

Maryland's approach is to improve transportation and environmental outcomes and streamline environmental processes through regular, ongoing dialogues with resource agencies, communities, and other stakeholders.

"That way we can anticipate issues early in the project development process," Sanghavi said. "When you go above and beyond [what is required], regulatory agencies recognize this and it helps develop collaborative partnerships over the long-term."

For example, through an agreement with the Maryland Department of the Environment, the highway administration conducts self-certification for inspections of erosion and sediment controls.

Maryland is currently involved in a particularly challenging "mega project:" constructing the Intercounty Connector across Montgomery and Prince George's counties in the Washington suburbs. The construction zone includes an area of significant environmental challenges. Sanghavi said that the MSHA is proving its environmental stewardship one community at a time, building support for the long-planned project to move into construction.