Midyear Meeting: Insight & networking as ATSSA members march toward future of roadway safety

ATSSA members convened in Williamsburg, Virginia to discuss the future of the roadway safety infrastructure industry and share ideas

ATSSA’s 2018 Midyear Meeting was a success, bringing more than 300 members and industry partners from across the United States together in Williamsburg, Virginia to discuss the future of the roadway safety industry.

Held at the Williamsburg Lodge, members heard from ATSSA’s Chair Juan Arvizu, Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Commissioner Stephen Brich, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) Director of Engineering and Technical Services King Gee, independent consultant Brian Roberts and VDOT Work Zone Safety Program Manager David Rush at the meeting’s Opening General Session (OGS). ATSSA President and CEO Roger Wentz also spoke with members about customs and trademark infringement.

“We’re all here to march toward the future as leaders in the industry, advancing roadway safety through our committee work,” said Arvizu.

During the OGS, outgoing committee members were recognized for their service and presented plaques by ATSSA Chair Elect Greg Driskell. Additionally, Kathi Holst and David Villani were recognized as outgoing committee chairs, for their leadership and service on the Safety and Public Awareness Committee and Manufacturers and Suppliers Committee.

Members of the Automotive Safety Council (ASC) met with ATSSA members, public agency officials, and industry stakeholders for an ASC Roundtable to discuss the future of connected automated vehicles (CAVs). During the roundtable it was discussed how automotive manufacturers, ATSSA member companies, and transportation professionals can work together in developing technology that makes roadways safer as CAVs become more prevalent on roadways.

ATSSA’s Vice President of Member Services Donna Clark led a Signals Open Forum during Midyear to discuss the possibility of opening up ATSSA membership to traffic signal manufacturers and installers. That discussion will be continued at ATSSA’s 49th Annual Convention & Traffic Expo in Tampa, Florida.

In addition to special events, ATSSA members met for several council and committee meetings, including the Chapter Presidents’ Council, the Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) Council, High Friction Surface Treatment Council, Innovation Council, Guardrail Committee, Pavement Marketing Committee, Safety and Public Awareness Committee, Sign Committee, Temporary Traffic Control Committee, Government Relations Committee, Member Engagement Committee, PAC Oversight Committee, and the Operating Committee.

The first annual Twisted Bowling Tournament to raise funds for The Foundation was hosted by the Virginia and Chesapeake ATSSA Chapters. The event, held at Williamsburg Lanes, raised over $2,500 (including the $585 raised by Wentz’s challenge to the members). The proceeds will be used to support The Foundation’s programs. The event’s mascot Membo, a life sized bowling pin, also made an appearance at the event.

“Midyear offered ATSSA members an important opportunity to discuss what they’re seeing in the industry and work together on issues that impact the future of roadway safety. Many excellent conversations were started in Williamsburg and will be continued at ATSSA’s Annual Convention & Traffic Expo in 2019,” said Wentz.

Industry stakeholders met to discuss the future of the roadway safety industry and CAVs during the ASC Roundtable.

Funds were raised for The Foundation during the first annual Twisted Bowling Tournament.