Volume 4, Issue 1. June 2011.
ESITAC
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Eastern Seaboard Intermodal Transportation Applications Center E-Newsletter
Director’s Message
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Proposed Research
Projects
Distracted Driver
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
We began the Year 2011 with continued commitment to research,
education, and technology transfer activities. It was a busy Spring
Semester in which our research team wrapped up three projects
and submitted the next round of proposals.
Our student
researchers worked with ESITAC team members on public bus
driver distraction studies, investigation of pollutants around a
major roadway, and non-destructive testing of highway bridges. An
intern project on HRT bus driver distraction has grown into a full
blown research project in which distraction data was collected and
is in the process of analysis. A problem statement for an expanded
study has been submitted to TCRP for the FY 2012 grant solicitation and an initial
proposal was submitted to AAA Foundation to conduct research on texting-while-driving.
The research results emanating from the projects were disseminated through four
conference presentations and two publications. In addition, the ESITAC has two
forthcoming presentations including one at the 18th World Congress on Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS) in October, 2011. Dr. Devendra Parmar, ESITAC research
investigator received recognition from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing
for his contributions to NDT methods. Our bright students have kept up the same pace
with research presentations. Mr. Shaun Harvell, an Aviation major, won the CUTC‘s
Outstanding Student of the Year Award for his research on Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard
(BASH) Deterrent Technology: Ultrasonic versus Infrasonic Sound Waves.
As we move into the summer months, I am excited about starting the new proposed
projects which have been unanimously approved by the Research Selection Committee.
Our Associate Director (Education) will participate in the STI program, and finalize
educational programs developed by the ESITAC. We will collaborate with Virginia Port
Authority in the areas of student internships, guest lectures, and development of a
transportation specialization.
I hope you enjoy reading articles presented in this newsletter. I encourage you to visit
our updated website to learn more about our activities. Please contact me or any of the
ESITAC staff listed at the end if you need more details.
Kelwyn D’Souza, Ph.D.
Director, ESITAC
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 1
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Completed Research Projects
Project 1: Modeling and Predicting Traffic Accidents at
Signalized Intersections in the City of Norfolk, VA.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Objective:
The major objectives of the research project were:
To develop and validate exploratory statistical models for the intersection accidents in
the City of Norfolk. These models include independent variables such as geometrical
and roadside hazard factors which provide more valid explanation of the traffic
accidents.
To develop a predictive statistical model for the intersection accidents in the City of
Norfolk.
Partner:
Transportation Division, City of Norfolk.
PIs for the Project:
Drs. Sharad Maheshwari and Kelwyn D‘Souza.
Project Summary:
This study was an extension of the previous work done with the City of Norfolk‘s accident
database. The analysis of accident rates at the 62 signalized intersections included two
different sets of variables: road geometry and traffic control variables. The basic road
geometry variables included total number of lanes, number of turn lanes, number of
driveways, median, etc. and the traffic control variables included vegetation, pedestrian
signal, restricted left turn signal, and signage on speed limit, signal light, turn lanes, cross
street name, etc. The AADT data for all major roads was obtained from Department of
Transportation of Commonwealth of Virginia and Hampton Roads‘ MPO: HRTPO.
Basic descriptive statistics were computed for all 62 signalized intersections. Analysis
was performed using two different methods. First, a smaller set of intersections (29
intersections) was analyzed by eliminating intersections where traffic count data (annual
average daily traffic—AADT) was not available. In another set, AADT was not used as
an independent variable in the analysis as AADT showed significant covariance with
geometric factors; especially with total number of lanes and total number of turn lanes.
For both data sets, multiple correlation analysis was performed. The number of lanes,
speed limit, total number of turn lanes, pedestrian crossing, median, next-street sign
showed significant correlation with the average accident rate. AADT also had significant
correlation with the average accident rate. Following the correlation analysis, a multiple
linear regression model was developed using step-wise regression (R-square of the model
is 0.71.) The model is shown below.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 2
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Project 1: Modeling and Predicting Traffic Accidents at
Signalized Intersections in the City of Norfolk, VA.
(Cont.)
ACCAVG
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Variable
ACCAVG
LANE
TURN
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
SPED
DRWY
Transportation Edu
MEDN
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
NEXT
=
-9.12 + 0.38*LANE - 2.06* TURN + 1.21 SPED - 1.32*DRWY
- 2.17*MEDN + 1.95* NEXT
Definition
Total Number of Accidents from 2001-2004 with 250‘ of a
Given Intersection
Total Number of Lanes at The Intersection
Total Number of Turn Lanes at The Intersection
Max Speed Limit in Miles/Hour on Any of the Legs on the
Intersection
Total Number of Driveways at The Intersection
Total Number of Physical Median at The Intersection
(MEDN1+MEDN2+MEDN3+MEDN4)
Total Number of Next Street Name Sign on All Legs
Approaching an Intersection
Project Status: This project has been completed.
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 3
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Project 2: Investigation of NOx and Tropospheric Ozone
Transport Around a Major Roadway.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Objective:
Vehicular emissions are the major contributors to atmospheric NOx constituting about half
of all anthropogenic emissions. Most of NO2 and all other nitrogen species are formed in
air as a result of the chemical reactions of NO with other pollutants. Therefore, nitrogen
oxides play a major role in the atmospheric photochemistry, controlling ozone formation
and generation of the hydroxyl (OH) and other reactive radicals. These reactions produce
a complex mixture of chemicals, which can further transform into secondary aerosols that
increase the particulate matter (PM) content of the ambient air.
Measurements done at the air pollution monitoring stations provide regional data with
some temporal resolution. Air pollutant concentrations can be significantly higher close
to major roadways. This makes the local pollutant concentration measurements and
finding ways to predict concentrations with a much higher spatial resolution essential in
making decisions about locating buildings that will house sensitive populations.
Therefore, the objectives of this project was to obtain coordinated measurements of NO,
NO2 and ozone concentrations and meteorological conditions at varying distances from a
major roadway, together with the traffic volume and vehicle type data; and to use
CALINE4 to estimate the NO2 concentrations at receptors located at the measurement
points.
Partners:
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Virginia Department of
Environmental Quality (VDEQ).
PIs for the Project:
Drs. Jale Akyurtlu and Ates Akyurtlu.
Project Summary:
An ozone analyzer was added to the mobile NO and NO2 measurement unit with the
associated weather monitoring instrumentation. Coordinated measurements of NO, NO2
and ozone concentrations and meteorological conditions at varying distances from I-64 off
the Hampton University campus interchange 267 along with the traffic volume data were
collected. CALINE4 was used to estimate the NO2 concentrations at receptors located at
the measurement points. Since the concentrations measured at the original location of the
receptors were not high enough for the validation of CALINE4 results, a new set of
measurements were taken at a different location closer to the roadway.
The measured NOX values at the receptors beyond 50 meters from the roadway median
were lower than the recent EPA 1-hour NO2 standard (100 ppb), the current average NO2
standard (53 ppb) and the 24-hour emergency exposure guidance level (40ppb). The main
health effects of nitrogen oxides are through their role in the formation of ground level
ozone (smog) and nitrogen containing particulates. The measured ozone concentrations
are also at levels below those that will pose a significant health risk. Particulate matter
will be measured in the next research cycle and will provide information on the secondary
species other than ozone.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 4
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Project 2: Investigation of NOx and Tropospheric Ozone
Transport Around a Major Roadway. (Cont.)
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
The effect of the traffic volume is through the increased emissions, increased mixing due
to mechanical turbulence, and increased vertical thermal dispersion at high vehicle
volumes. The last two effects tend to decrease the effect of increased emission. The
effect of wind direction is very significant. When the measurement locations (receptors)
are located downwind, the wind creates a plume toward the receptors and carries the
emitted and formed species to the receptors. Higher wind speeds create longer and
slender plumes, and thus, determine how fast the plume is diluted with the surrounding
air. Standard deviation of the wind direction and the atmospheric stability class are also
factors determining the dispersion rate. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations at the receptor
locations are strongly affected by the ambient ozone concentrations. Ozone plays a
primary role in the generation of NO2 from NO. It is also significant in the formation of
secondary nitrogen-containing species, thus depleting NO2. The latter group of reactions
is not considered in the estimation of NO2 by CALINE4.
Project Status:
This project has been completed.
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 5
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Project 3: Non-Destructive Bridge Testing With Advanced
Micro-II Digital AE System
Objective:
Monitor structural health of highway bridges to prevent spread of structural failures.
Partners:
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), District Structures and Bridge
Engineering Department, and Virginia Council for Transportation Innovation and
Research (VCTIR).
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
PI for the Project:
Dr. Devendra Parmar.
Project Summary:
The proposed research at the Coast Guard Blvd. in the City of Portsmouth was completed.
Major elements of the investigation are:
Planning and relocation of the acoustic emission (AE) sensors on predetermined
test sites on the bridge back wall for data collection with newly designed and
acquired Micro-II Digital DAQ system,
AE testing, data acquisition and analysis,
Analysis of the AE data in a linear and 2D framework to locate the damages ,
Establish AE bridge inspection procedure and methodology based on the studies
during quiet/low and peak traffic periods,
Investigate the AE generation from freight trains on the bridge structure
component, and
AE data acquisition, recording and analysis on a near real time basis.
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Bridge on Route-164 at the Coast Guard Blvd. in the City of Portsmouth, Virginia (left);
and The West Bound Lane (WBL) supported by 4 steel girders (right).
BRIDGE ON COAST GUARD BOULEVARD
The test bridge (Virginia Structure ID # 1809, Federal Structure ID # 21212), located on
Route-164, falls on the stretch between the Cedar Lane and the Norfolk Road. The bridge
was built in 1991. It crosses over the W. Norfolk Road and N&W Railroad (R/R).
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 6
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Project 3: Non-Destructive Bridge Testing With Advanced
Micro-II Digital AE system--Cont.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Heavy cargo component on the WBL of Route-164 on the test brigde (left); and under the
bridge in proximity of the test site (right).
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Newly designed advanced Micro II-Digital AE Sensor DAQ system collecting AE data
during monitoring of the test bridge back wall (left); and relocated AE sensors on the
West Bound Lane (WBL) backwall (right).
AE activity has been related to four types of activities in the concrete:
1. Expansion of the pre-existing cracks,
2. Formation of new cracks,
3. Friction due to rubbing of the two walls of a pre-existing or a newly formed crack,
and
4. Contribution of significant AE activity from rail traffic.
Cluster of AE hits due
to arrival of freight
train under the bridge.
Responses from AE sensors for a freight train movement under the bridge.
Project Status: This project has been completed.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 7
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Student Research
A Pilot Study of Bus Driver Distraction at HRT
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
In Spring 2011, Hampton University‘s Eastern Seaboard Intermodal Transportation
Applications Center (ESITAC) conducted a pilot study on Transit Bus Driver Distraction
at Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) to identify sources of distraction and the risks
associated with drivers engaging in potential distracting activities. The objectives of the
study were to develop a taxonomy of the sources of distractions for transit bus drivers; and
to examine the relationship between driver‘s characteristics and distractions. The
characteristics include background information about the driver (age, gender, driving
experience, driving hours/week etc). An examination of background information was
necessary to identify any drivers‘ characteristics which significantly contribute to
distraction. The second part of the study would identify the top five sources of driver
distraction and the risk they pose to safety and performance of transit operations. Student
intern, Ms. Mercedes Moore assisted with the bus driver survey and developed a database
for further analysis.
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
.
Ms. Mercedes Moore participated in the driver distraction study at HRT.
AE Investigation of Highway Bridges
An undergraduate Electrical Engineering student, Ms. Shelitta Sheffield, worked on the
research project: Non-destructive bridge testing with Advanced Micro-II Digital AE
system during the 2010-2011 academic year. Shelitta used the AEWin software for AE
data analysis of bridge structures.
Ms. Shelitta Sheffield analyzing digital data acquired from AE sensors.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 8
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Investigation of Pollutants
During Spring 2011, two undergraduate Chemical Engineering students, Ms. Courtney
Mitchell and Ms. Andrea Osborne, worked on the project entitled Investigation of NOx
and Tropospheric Ozone Transport Around a Major Roadway. They successfully ran the
MOVES software for the emission rates option and obtained the input data to CALINE4.
Ms. Osborne also operated the nitrogen oxide and ozone analyzers.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
In summer 2011, an undergraduate Electrical Engineering student Mr. LaMarr Hill, and an
undergraduate chemical engineering student, Ms. Avian Lain, will process the data and
assist with the start-up of the new PM analyzer. Once the analyzer is operational and its
enclosure is acquired, they will make ozone, NOx and PM measurements in the commuter
parking lot across the Hampton University Convocation Center, using a Thermo Scientific
Model 49i ozone analyzer, a Thermo Scientific 42i chemiluminescence NO-NO2-NOx
analyzer, and a Thermo Scientific Model 1405-DF Particulate Matter (PM) analyzer,
respectively.
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
Ms. Avian Lain and Mr. LaMarr Hill assembling the new PM Analyzer
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 9
ESITAC e-Newsletter
TRANSPORTATION EDUCATION
Logistics and Transportation Course
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
During the Spring 2011 semester, the School of Business offered a Quality and
Transportation Management course at the MBA level. This course focused on
transportation management as it relates to the business world, that is, transportation of
goods and services from point of production to the point of usage. The course material
was generally delivered through case studies in quality and transportation management.
Eighteen graduate students attended this course conducted by Dr. Sharad Maheshwari,
Associate Director (Technology Transfer). Three students from this course also
participated in the Institute for Supply Management‘s (ISM) annual case competitions.
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
HU’s Business Students Wins Third Place in the ISM’s
Logistics Case Competition
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
A student team from Hampton University School of Business participated in the 8th
Annual Black Executive Supply Management Summit hosted by the Institute for Supply
Management (ISM) from February 9-11, 2011, Boca Raton, Florida. The team prepared
and presented a solution to an assigned logistic/supply management case titled ―Tiger
Manufacturing Inc.‖ The case assignment included relocation of Tiger Manufacturing‘s
facilities to Asia for worldwide market. The student team had to evaluate several aspects
of the projects including various transformation options and their cost. The team
members were Ms. Valerie Fomengia, Mr. Jason Moore, Ms. Devin Hairston and Ms.
Brittany Howlett. The team won third place in the competition.
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Students making case presentation at ISM’s Black Executives Summit.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 10
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Distinguished Lecture Series
Aviation Lectures
1. U.S. Marine Captain Justin Howe, an Aviation Department Alumni, and Marine
One Pilot in the Presidential Support Squadron, spoke to students about
responsibilities of transporting the President and high ranking cabinet members.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Captain Justin Howe making presentation to students
2. Ryan Keesecker, Newport News Air Traffic Control Supervisor and Hampton
University Aviation Graduate spoke to students about Air Traffic Control (ATC)
and employment opportunities with FAA
3. Ms. Ashley Wimbush, HU Aviation graduate and FAA Intern, Newport
News/Williamsburg Int‘l Airport; and Mrs. Diana O‘Connell, Operations
Supervisor, Newport News/Williamsburg Int‘l Airport Control Tower, spoke to
students about Air Traffic Control
4. USAF Capt John Synder, Chief, Flight Safety, 1st Fighter Wing, Langley AFB,
VA, spoke to students about aviation safety, aircraft accidents, and accident
investigation
5. Ms. Melissa Mulholland, Operations Manager, Newport News/Williamsburg Int‘l
Airport; and Mrs. Whitney Blackburn Robare, HU Aviation graduate and Airport
Operations Supervisor, Newport News/Williamsburg Int‘l Airport discussed
airport operations, both airfield side and business side, with Aviation
Management class.
6. USAF Capt. Brad Meissen, Aviation Physiology Lab, Langley AFB, talked to
students about the effects of flight on the human body and mind—altitude,
fatigue, acceleration, noise, spatial disorientation and situational awareness.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 11
ESITAC e-Newsletter
7. First Officer Steve Hendrickson, Federal Express Boeing 757 Pilot, delivered a
lecture to the Aviation Management Class.
8. John Bacote, FAA Control Tower, Newport News Air Traffic Control Tower
delivered a lecture to the Aviation Management Class.
9. Mr. John Beaulieu, Manager and Owner of Horizon Aviation and Aircraft Sales,
delivered a lecture to Aviation Majors.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
10. USAF Capt. Brad Meissen, Aviation Physiology Lab, Langley AFB, lectured
about the effects of flight on the human body and mind—altitude, fatigue,
acceleration, noise, spatial disorientation and situational awareness
11. Ms. Camille Harris, Secret Service Agent assigned to the Vice-Presidential
Protection Detail, and HU Aviation Department Alumni, spoke to students about
coordinating travel details for and traveling with the Vice President of the United
States.
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Secret Service Agent Camille Harris
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 12
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Transit Internship Program (TIP)
Spring 2011
In Spring 2011, Mr. Joel Gardner, an MBA student worked as a finance intern at HRT.
Joel worked on various activities within the departments of Grant Management,
Budgeting, Accounting, Financial Analysis, and Payroll. His tasks included daily cash
reconciliations, account payable and receivable reconciliations, as well as
monitoring usage of the company issued credit card, for compliance with
company regulations and monetary limits.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Joel Gardner Spring Student Intern at HRT.
Dwight David Eisenhower Transportation Research Fellows for
Fall 2011-Spring 2012
Ms. Donica Harper, Mr. Devin Bouthillett, Ms. Tiarra McDonald, and Mr. Justin Bright
were selected for the 2011-2012 Eisenhower Transportation research fellowships. They
will conduct research during the school year, and will attend the Transportation Research
Board meeting in Washington, DC in January 2012.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 13
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Highlights
Presentations and Publications
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Presentations
Maheshwari, S. K. & D‘Souza, K. A. Impact of Education and Awareness Programs
on the Usage and Attitude Towards Texting While Driving among Young Drivers.
Presented at the Spring International Conference of Allied Academies, Orlando, FL.
April 6-8, 2011.
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Dr. Maheshwari making a presentation at the Allied Academies Conference.
Maheshwari, S. K. & D‘Souza, K. A. Modeling Traffic Accidents at Signalized
Intersections in the City of Norfolk, Virginia. Presented at the Spring International
Conference of Allied Academies, Orlando, FL. April 6-8, 2011.
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
Parmar, D. S. & Sharp, S. R. Remote Sensing and Analysis of Acoustic Emission
Signatures from Active Cracks in Stressed Concrete Structure. Presented at the
ASNT 20th Annual Research Symposium & Spring Conference, San Francisco, CA.
March 21-25, 2011.
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Dr. Parmar making a presentation at the 2011 ASNT Spring Conference.
Parmar, D. S. & Sharp, S. R. Remote Sensing and Analysis of Acoustic Emission
Signatures from Active Cracks in Stressed Concrete Structure on a Highway Bridge.
Presented at the 53rd Acoustic Emission Working Group (AEWG) Meeting, Denver,
CO. May 18–19, 2011.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 14
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Dr. Parmar with Dr. Marvin Hamstad, Conference Chair, 53rd AEWG. Dr. Parmar was
the opening speaker at the Conference.
Publications
Maheshwari, S. K. & D‘Souza, K. A. Modeling Traffic Accidents at Signalized
Intersections in the City of Norfolk, Virginia. Accepted for publication in Academy of
Information and Management Sciences Journal (AIMSJ).
Parmar, D. S. & Sharp, S. R. Remote Sensing and Analysis of Acoustic Emission
Signatures from Active Cracks in Stressed Concrete Structure. Proc. ASNT 20th
Annual Research Symposium & Spring Conference, 68–73(2011).
Forthcoming Presentations
Parmar, D. S. Role of Broadband Communication in Management and Efficient
Analysis of Acoustic Emission Data from Transportation Infrastructure Assets.
Accepted for presentation at the 18th World Congress on Intelligent Transport
Systems, Orlando, FL. October 16-20, 2011.
Parmar, D. S. & Sharp, S. R. Acoustic Emission Investigations of Active Cracks in the
Concrete Back Wall of a Highway Bridge Crossing Freight Rail Tracks with
Significant Cargo Traffic. Accepted for presentation at the ASNT Fall Conference
and Quality Show, Palm Beach, CA. October 24-28, 2011.
Spotlight on Research
Research Proposal Submitted to AAA Foundation
Dr. Sharad Maheshwari has submitted an initial proposal to the American Automobile
Association (AAA) Foundation to conduct research in texting-while-driving area. The
objective of the proposed work is to test long term impact of the education program in
altering young driver behavior towards texting-while-driving. This proposal matches with
ESITAC‘s safety themes.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 15
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Non-Destructive Testing Method
Dr. Devendra Parmar, HU Research Professor and ESITAC research investigator,
received Proclamation from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing for his
contributions made towards the growth and betterment of nondestructive testing methods
on March 24, 2011.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Dr. Parmar received ASNT Proclamation at the 20th Research Symposium and Spring
Conference, San Francisco, CA. March 24, 2011.
Dr. Devendra Parmar, HU Research Professor and ESITAC research investigator, visited
the research laboratory for the Absolute Calibration and Standardization of Acoustic
Emission Sensors at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Boulder,
CO, May 20, 2011.
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Laboratory for Absolute Calibration and Standardization of Acoustic Emission Sensors
(left) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Boulder, CO (right).
Pilot Study on Bus Driver Distraction at Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)
The Eastern Seaboard Intermodal Transportation Applications Center (ESITAC)
conducted a pilot study on Transit Bus Driver Distraction at Hampton Roads Transit
(HRT) to identify the major sources of driver distraction and to examine their occurrences
in everyday driving and to assess the potential risk associated with drivers engaging in
distracting activities while driving.
.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 16
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Bus Driver Distraction Study at HRT
This pilot study at HRT is one of only a few studies to collect real-world transit bus
driving data on the source and duration of distractions and measures of associated risks.
A survey instrument was utilized to collect driver distraction information from a sample
of HRT bus drivers. Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR) was applied to model the
risk associated with distracted driving. This model utilized the extent of driver distraction
as the dependent variable and driver characteristics and driving pattern factors as
independent variables. The results of the study are being processed and would be
submitted to HRT in Fall 2011.
Student of the Year
Mr. Shaun Harvell, an Aviation Major was awarded CUTC‘s Outstanding Student of the
Year Award for his research project entitled: Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH)
Deterrent Technology: Ultrasonic versus Infrasonic Sound Waves. Shaun is an
outstanding student, and peer leader having earned and held the respect of faculty,
staff, and fellow students. He e x e mp l i f i es as a ―Hampton man‖ w h i c h i s
evidenced from his intelligence, independence, honesty, and courtesy. Shaun carries a
full academic load in the Aviation Management‘s Air Traffic Control program and
maintains an above average GPA in his major courses, thus setting the standard for
academic success. He also works on the FAA Design Competition and a class airport
design project while using opportunities to support the school, department, and
community through recruiting events and public speaking engagements. In addition to
the Outstanding Student Certificate, Mr Harvell was awarded a $1000 prize by the
ESITAC.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 17
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Student of the Year (Cont.)
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
Shaun Harvell, CUTC Student of the Year
Industry Partnership
The ESITAC held monthly teleconference meetings with Parsons Brinckerhoff (PB)
representatives to match its research and educational needs with available resources at
PB. Our partnership with HRT has been extended through the Transit Bus Driver
Distraction Study. Other transit agencies in the Commonwealth of Virginia have
been invited to participate in an expanded study through possible funding from the
TCRP.
The ESITAC has been invited to participate in the proposed Virginia Port Authority‘s
educational programs that will include student internships, lecture series, and partnering
with George Mason University and Old Dominion University for developing
transportation specialization.
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Carney Island Eastward Expansion Project (VA Port Authority, 2011 Project Updates)
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 18
ESITAC e-Newsletter
Air Pollution Laboratory
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
A Thermo Scientific Model TEOM 1405-DF Monitor was received on May 26, 2011 for
this year‘s ESITAC research project in environmental stewardship. This equipment was
acquired by funding from the ESITAC. It is capable of simultaneously measuring PM-10,
PM-2.5 and PM-Coarse (PM10-2.5). The 1405 DF system is composed of two ‗Filter
Dynamics Measurement Systems (FDMS)‘ and two tapered element oscillating
microbalance (TEOM) mass sensors. As the emission standards for PM2.5 were being
made more stringent. This led to the recent introduction of new advanced measurement
methods and the establishment of improved measurement procedures by EPA. One
instrument that was relatively recently commercialized for real time measurements of
diesel exhaust PM is the tapered element oscillating microbalance (TEOM). It provides
mass concentrations, mass rates and total mass as a function of time. Mass measurement
modules using this method are included in the EPA‘s onboard measurement program.
Recent TEOM instruments are coupled with a filter dynamics measurement system
(FDMS), which provides the ability to account for volatiles and semi-volatiles, as in the
1405-DF monitor. An enclosure, a carrying cart, and a generator are needed and will be
acquired to take the equipment to the field for measurements.
The goal of establishing a pollution monitoring laboratory is to measure several pollutants
from transportation in the air, so that these measurements can be compared with the
results from existing air pollution models, with the ultimate aim of determining the
adequacy of these models to predict the pollution levels from transportation. Two recent
developments highlighted the importance of this work. The first one is that in revisions to
the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in January 2010, EPA set the new
1-hour standard for nitrogen dioxide at 100 ppb while retaining the current average NO 2
standard of 53 ppb. This increases the importance of measuring the peak concentrations
over shorter time periods especially near major roads in urban areas. The second
development is the January 7, 2010 announcement by EPA proposing to change the
standard for ground level ozone to no more than 0.06 to 0.07 ppm from the current value
of 0.075 ppm. Since ground level ozone is formed by the reaction of nitrogen oxides with
volatile organic compounds, the proposed change emphasizes the importance of the
investigation of nitrogen oxide and ozone concentrations around major roadways.
Environmental effects of NOx include the formation of acid rain that can lead to nutrient
overload and deterioration of water quality and aquatic life. They are also greenhouse
gases and contribute to global warming. The secondary species formed in the atmosphere
are also known to cause a wide variety of health and environmental problems.
Tropospheric ozone (O3), NO2, nitrate particles, and acid aerosols can trigger chronic
respiratory and cardiopulmonary ailments. Children were found to be more susceptible to
pollutant exposures that lead to asthma. Positive associations between O3 and NO2 levels
and human mortality were reported. In addition to these health effects, air pollutants may
also have psychological effects such as annoyance or minor disorders, which are
important for human well-being. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for ozone can be found at
the USEPA website for any location within the U.S.
(http://www.epa.gov/air/ozonepollution/pdfs/2008_03_aqi_changes.pdf)
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 19
ESITAC e-Newsletter
ESITAC Committees
The Transportation Steering Committee serves as an advisory body to govern the
ESITAC. The Committee provides advice relating to project goals, implementation,
coordinating partnership activities and funding. The following is a list of Transportation
Steering Committee members.
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Member
Dr. Moges Ayele
Mr. Michael Chapman
Dr. Sid Credle
Title/Organization
Senior Liaison for Higher Education, FHWA, USDOT.
Assistant Deputy Director for Aerospace Testing, NASA Langley
Dean, School of Business, Hampton University.
Dr. Michael Demetsky
Dr. Kelwyn D‘Souza
Mr. David Gehr
Dr. Asad J. Khattak
Professor and Chair, Civil & Environmental Engineering, UVA.
ESITAC Director, Hampton University.
Senior Vice President, Parsons Brinkerhoff.
Frank Batten Endowed Chair Professor, Civil & Environmental
Engineering Department, Old Dominion University.
Dean, School of Engineering and Technology, Hampton University.
Director, Department of Engineering, City of Newport News.
Associate Director, Virginia Council for Transportation Innovation
and Research, VDOT.
NOVA Endowed Chair, Professor of Public Policy, President,
Intellectual Property and VP for Research and Economic
Development, George Mason University.
Associate Vice President, Gov. Relations, Hampton University.
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Dr. Eric Sheppard
Mr. Everett Skipper
Mr. Michael Sprinkel
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
Dr. Roger Stough
Mr. Bill Thomas
The Research Selection Committee assists and advises the ESITAC on selection of
research projects that fit the theme, expertise of the University, and the regional needs.
The Center‘s Associate Director (Research) serves as Chairperson of the Committee. The
following is a list of Research Selection Committee members.
Member
Dr. Guzin Akan
Dr. Jale Akyurtlu
Mr. Lynn Allsbrook
Mr. Thomas Ballou
Mr. Lorenzo Casanova
Ms. Lisa Colbert
Mr. Stephany Hanshaw
Mr. Jim Ponticello
Dr. Camelia
Ravanbakht
Dr. Stephen Sharp
Dr. John Sokolowski
Title/Organization
City Transportation Engineer (Retired), City of Norfolk, Division of
Transportation.
Associate Director (Research), ESITAC, Hampton University.
Traffic Engineer and Operations Manager, City of Hampton, Dept of
Public Works.
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ).
Programs and Technology Engineer, FHWA, Virginia District Office.
FTA, Head Office, Washington D. C.
Regional Traffic Operations Manager, VDOT Eastern Region.
Air Quality Program Manager, VDOT.
Deputy Executive Director, Hampton Roads Transportation Planning
Organization.
Research Scientist, Virginia Council for Transportation Innovation and
Research, VDOT.
Executive Director, Virginia Modeling and Simulation Center
(VMASC), ODU.
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 20
ESITAC e-Newsletter
ESITAC Directory and Contact Information
ESITAC Directory
Director’s Message
Completed Research
Projects
Traffic Modeling
Pollution Modeling
Bridge Testing
Name
Dr. Ates Akyurtlu
Dr. Jale Akyurtlu
Dr. Sid Credle
Dr. Kelwyn D‘Souza
Mr. Carey Freeman
Dr. Sharad Maheshwari
Dr. Devendra Parmar
Responsibility
Researcher
Associate Director
Budget Executive
Center Director
Associate Director
Associate Director
Researcher
Email
AkyurtluA
AkyurtluJ
Credle
Dsouza
Freeman
Mahesh
Parmar
Student Research
Distracted Driver
Infrastructure
Pollutant Researcher
Transportation Edu
Graduate Course
Logistics Case
Lecture Series
Student Interns
Eisenhower Fellow
Highlights
ESITAC Contact Information
School of Business
Hampton University
Hampton, VA 23668
Tel. (757) 727-5361.
Fax. (757) 727-5048.
Please Visit ESITAC Website!!
Res. Presentations
Res. Publication
Forthcoming Pub
AAA Foundation
Non-Des Testing
Student of Year
Industry Partner
Air Pollution Lab
ESITAC Committees
ESITAC Directory
Contact Information
Top of Document
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, HAMPTON, VA 23668
Page # 21
Phone #
757-727-5599
757-727-5589
757-727-5472
757-727-5037
757-727-5519
757-727-5605
757-728-6874