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Abstract

In-depth knowledge of geometric design principles is a prerequisite for delivering road projects that provide safe and efficient multimodal mobility for all users. Historically, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) early-career design staff arrived at the agency with little design experience. The agency has relied on a combination of short courses and mentorship provided by experienced personnel to bring early-career design staff up to speed on design best practices. However, this approach to training carries limitations. Employee turnover and imposing workloads make it challenging for early- and even mid-career design professionals to receive guidance from seasoned designers who have long tenures at KYTC. And it hinders efforts to implement a consistent design philosophy across the agency. Recognizing that young designers, as well as project managers and project reviewers, would benefit from a course focused on geometric design, Kentucky Transportation Center (KTC) researchers worked with Cabinet staff to develop and deliver the Roadway Geometry Fundamentals Course. This five-day training introduces participants to a mix of foundational concepts (e.g., horizontal and vertical alignment, sight distance, cross-sectional elements, speed management, intersection design, roadside safety) and advanced topics (e.g., innovative design, context classification, human factors). The course blends instructor-led lectures, group exercises, and discussion to achieve learning objectives. A pilot version of the course was delivered in October 2025, and multiple offerings are planned for 2026. Long term, KYTC views the Roadway Geometry Fundamentals Course as an important vehicle for achieving agencywide consistency in design practice and elevating Kentucky to a position of national leadership in innovative design and road safety.

Report Date

12-2025

Report Number

KTC-26-14

Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2026.14

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