Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technology can help local agencies improve operations. Using GPS to collect data (telematics) that geographically locates and tracks vehicles and equipment in real time, the technology provides key data points aligned with performance objectives that allow for continuous optimization of operations for improved service and safety. This guide offers insight on using AVL to improve snowplow operations. It includes information on how some local agencies in Minnesota are using the technology and the benefits they are seeing. It also discusses cost and AVL vendors.

Watch this video to learn how Crow Wing County, City of Crystal, and St. Louis County are using AVL to optimize snow removal.

This guidebook addresses two issues local agencies identified regarding asphalt pavements: ride quality and overlays and reflective cracking. Researchers reviewed past research, surveyed local agencies to gather data and current practices, and conducted working group meetings to identify causes and potential resolutions. It offers ideas, examples and solutions for practitioners to consider as they develop their own conclusions on how best to address these issues.

Seasonal and daily temperature variations, freeze-thaw cycles and other environmental factors lead to pavement distress on low-volume rural roads. Modifying asphalt mixtures could improve pavement resistance to these environmentally driven distresses. This project compared the mechanical properties and performances of selected asphalt mixtures and identified a mixture and method that hold considerable promise for improving performance and longevity on low-volume roads.

Permissive left turns, where a driver does not have a green arrow and must wait for a gap in oncoming traffic before turning, can be indicated by different traffic signal configurations. Flashing yellow arrows are becoming a preferred signal type in Minnesota and across the nation. New research provides traffic engineers with confidence that drivers understand the meaning of the signal, even without an accompanying Left Turn Yield sign.

Have you or one of your co-workers recently built an innovative gadget or developed an improved way to do a job? Show off your creativity and help other agencies solve problems by submitting an entry to the Minnesota Build a Better Mousetrap Competition.

Minnesota Mousetrap awards are given in two categories:

• Minnesota Pioneer Award—A locally relevant product/tool that is among the first to solve a maintenance problem with a homegrown solution.
• Minnesota Smart Transformation Award—A locally relevant significant change in any transportation activity or process that is SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound) and results in improved efficiencies.

The Minnesota competition is open to all local transportation agencies in the state. It is sponsored by the Minnesota Local Road Research Board and administered by Minnesota LTAP. Submission deadline is May 15, 2024. 

This position provides overall leadership in the areas of technical assistance and training. It includes serving as the director of the Minnesota Local Technical Assistance Program, which provides training, technical assistance, and technology transfer services for local transportation agencies in managing and maintaining their roadway systems. Applicants from throughout Minnesota who are willing and able to travel statewide are encouraged to apply. Application deadline: March 1, 2024.

We're excited to announce that Lon Aune, county engineer, Marshall County, has begun his term serving as chair of the LRRB. Lon has served on the LRRB since 2020. In addition, Andrew Witter and Mark Ray have joined the LRRB. Andrew is the public works director and county engineer for Sherburne County. Mark is the public works director for the City of Burnsville. We look forward to working with you! Pictured (l-r): Lon Aune, Andrew Witter and Mark Ray.

Congratulations to LRRB board member Brian Giese, Pope County, for receiving the Outstanding County Engineer Award from the Minnesota County Engineers Association! The award was presented by LRRB board chair, Lon Aune, Marshall County. The award was presented at the 2024 MCEA Annual Conference in January. Pictured (l-r): Brian Giese and Lon Aune.