The bulk of our fall training has been scheduled, so have a look and sign up before they fill up.  These training workshops are free for public agencies and private sector folks are welcome for a modest fee when we have space.  So what’s on the docket?

  • October 8, we will present a one-day session on the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) at the Paradee Center in Dover. This requires no prior experience with the MUTCD and is focused on lower volume, lower speed roadways.
  • On October 9, we have Concrete Best Construction Practices at the Paradee Center, a half-day workshop intended as an introduction to concrete (particularly sidewalks, curbs, etc.) and the practices needed to better ensure a lasting, durable concrete.
  • On November 12, we will present the first Winter Maintenance (Snow and Ice Control) training at the Delaware Biotechnology Institute in Newark. This all-day training is structured in six modules that include planning, pre-season preparations, plowing, salting (and other ice control techniques), post storm needs, and post season activities.  Anyone involved in winter response, from plow and loader operators to supervisors to municipal clerks, city managers, and elected officials are encouraged to attend.
  • We will present Asphalt Best Construction Practices November 19 at Delaware Biotechnology Institute. Like its concrete counterpart, this introductory course imagines the perfect job where we have perfect control over every aspect of the job, the materials, the weather, and the contractor.  Recognizing that this is fantasy, we break down the elements that would ensure a long-lasting outcome and then explore what happens when we ultimately have to compromise one or more element because of weather or funding or interference or the like.
  • Our final (we think) training for the year will be another offering of Winter Maintenance December 3 at the Paradee Center.

As noted, these training workshops are introductory in nature and all local personnel (including those that take the angry calls back at city hall) can follow along, so even if you’re not the equipment operator or direct supervisor, consider these for a better understanding of what the streets and public works department folks encounter and the role you can play.

If you are interested in any of these trainings, you must register (it’s quick and easy online).  We have to plan for space, handouts, and food/drink.  If you just show up, someone is not getting a donut (and if that’s Matt, it’s going to be a long day); more importantly, some of our venues are limited in space and we like to provide a comfortable environment for everyone to maximize the learning experience.  Conversely, if you have registered and a few days before the event, something comes up, just give us a call or an email and let us know.  That way, we don’t waste food, we don’t waste handouts, and we can maybe get someone in that was on a waiting list.

So, this fall, come to one of these or come to all of them.  See the Delaware T2/LTAP Center’s website for further descriptions, details, and registration links.  If you have questions, contact Sandi Wolfe at (302) 831-4094 or at sandiw@udel.edu.

Link to pdf article