Develop an Asset Management Tool for Collecting and Tracking Commitments on Selected Environmental Mitigation Features

Wisconsin has constructed many environmental mitigation projects in conjunction with transportation projects that have been implemented pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act.  Other mitigation projects have been constructed pursuant to discussions and negotiations with WDNR. These mitigation projects offset or replace a certain environmental function(s) lost as a result of construction of the transportation project.  Examples include storm water management facilities, wetland replacement projects, stream restoration projects, reforestation projects, construction of sound walls, replacement of parklands and wildlife crossing structures.

In order for the environmental mitigation projects to continue to provide long term functionality intended when they were first constructed, they must be properly maintained, and when necessary, rehabilitated or reconstructed.  These environmental mitigation projects may be considered as assets similar to other transportation features.

Wisconsin DOT (WisDOT) has identified the need for better understanding the costs of selected features in the overall scheme of project development and ongoing maintenance.  Projects including cultural resources, routine hazmat commitments, wetlands, and wildlife accommodations are of particular interest at this time.

1. Review existing studies and asset management systems for environmental features. This literature review will include analysis with particular focus on Section 106 compliance for cultural resources, (historic properties & archaeology sites), wetlands, hazardous materials, and wildlife accommodations commitments.
2. Meet with WisDOT personnel in Regions, and central office and WDNR “Liaisons” as identified by WisDOT environmental staff to review existing procedures for collecting and tracking environmental commitments. Meetings with WisDOT and WDNR personal shall be coordinated through a WisDOT Environmental office contact. 
3. Develop list of recommendations of priority environmental features for further exploration.  These may include noise barriers, retaining walls, air quality, and culverts or crossings.
4. Develop and test tools and recommended processes to inventory and track past, current, and future projects.
5. Develop pertinent case studies. The research team will review plans at WisDOT archives, as-builts and thoroughly document current conditions of three case studies.
6. Discuss barriers to implementation and describe opportunities for continued development of technical memorandum.
7. Develop implementation strategies and provide guidance for using the tool to WisDOT managers.