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Board workshop includes discussion
of inflation, funding on key programs

The Idaho Transportation Board will address a trio of subjects during a Tuesday workshop as a prelude to its monthly business meeting at Headquarters in Boise. The workshop agenda includes discussions of the GARVEE program, the FY08-12 Highway Capital Improvement Program and the Safety Rest Area Program.

The Capital Improvement Program faces substantial changes because of an anticipated leveling of federal funding beyond FY09 and reduced state construction funding.

Recent double-digit inflation in the construction industry and a projected 11- to 15-percent increase in costs for state highway projects also need to be addressed.

After outlining the funding issues that could influence key state highway programs – preservation, bridge, and restoration and expansion – ITD staff members will ask for guidance on development of the FY08-12 Highway Capital Improvement Program. The board will consider several recommendations, including maintaining the present apportionment level, reducing the Rest Area Program from $10 million annually to $5 million and offsetting effects of inflation on the preservation program.

Goals of the rest area program are to provide cost effectiveness, provide service and convenience to the traveling public, explore funding options and partnerships, enhance economic growth, and oversee operations and maintenance of the facilities.

Other board discussion

Annual report on Wellness Program
Statewide resource coordinator Pauline Davis will present a report on the Wellness Program at the board’s Wednesday business meeting. The wellness program began in 1992 with a grassroots employee effort and support from the board. The program has grown the past 15 years and now offers employees convenient health services, monitoring equipment, motivation and educational resources for preventive health care.

The 2006 spring exercise challenge, with an “Interstate 50th Anniversary” theme, set a record for participation – 640 employees exercised at least three hours per week during the 10-week challenge.

On-site health clinics were organized statewide at ITD offices, and the number of flu shot recipients increased. Some of the education/preventive care activities held the past year included a presentation on West Nile Virus in District 6, on-site mammography clinics at Headquarters and districts 4 and 5, and an on-site “Cardio Quick” health screening with options to test bone density, cholesterol, thyroid, liver, diabetes, and other health conditions in District 1.

The Wellness Council continues to look for ways to improve employee wellness, limit health care costs, motivate staff to maintain active lifestyles and encourage better and more consistent monitoring of their physical condition.

Public Transportation Advisory Council appointment
ITD’s Division of Public Transportation reviewed applications for a new Public Transportation Advisory Council (PTAC) member to represent District 5. The vacancy on the council was advertised in area newspapers; local elected officials were notified in writing; and state agency members of the Interagency Working Group were notified.

Staff members will ask the board to approve the appointment of Steve Hadley, a Bannock County Commissioner, to the advisory council. He served in the Idaho House of Representatives and was a member of the transportation committee. He is knowledgeable on governmental processes and budgeting.

The PTAC consists of six members from throughout the state. It advises the department on issues and policies regarding public transportation services.