Preparing for the Future of Transportation Construction: Strategies for State Transportation Agencies

Abstract

AbstractThe objective of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework that explains the implications and corresponding strategies of changes for state transportation agencies (STAs) to ensure long-term satisfactory performance in the area of construction. The researchers used their collective knowledge to identify key drivers of change using the systems dynamic methodology and their implications in the context of a range of plausible futures using the scenario planning methodology. The implications were then used to develop strategies to meet the future needs of STAs. The findings suggest that commonly in all scenarios, sustainability, information technology, workforce training, and innovative financing should have priority for STAs. Technology supports sustainable construction practices, while technology development requires an adequate level of funding and human interface. As a result, effective training programs are needed. Public-private partnerships were also identified as a strategy that can prov...