The DOT POD

The New York State Department of Transportation is all about serving our communities and over the years we've expanded our focus to encompass a wide range of initiatives that listeners may not at first associate with transportation. One area where our department has taken the lead on a nation level is in the fight against human trafficking. In honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Josh and Anya welcomed in Jonathan Nicastro, Director of DOT's Office of Modal Safety and Security and Rich Lindemann, Roadside Inspection Manager to discuss how DOT is working closely with our partners in law enforcement and the trucking and bussing industries to address this crime and help raise awareness.

In this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya visited one of DOT's Traffic Management Centers, or TMC's. These 24/7 hubs are the eyes and ears of New York's roadway network. Inside, skilled operators track live camera feeds and analyze data so they can take quick action in case something serious happens like a crash, storm, or floods. Joining the podcast are Senior Transportation Analyst Anthony Roach and System Operator 3 Elana Walchusky, both based out of the Utica Region.

Every time we pull up to an intersection and the light cycles smoothly from green, to yellow, to red, there is literally a team behind that moment - those who work behind the scenes in our NYSDOT Signal Shops. In this episode of the DOT POD, we are stepping into a world that most drivers rarely think about...until the lights go out. We are talking about traffic signals at one of our many signal shops.Josh and Anya are joined by Jess Muller and Don Paciello from the Mohawk Valley Signal Shop, about how they maintain all those signals as well as the communications systems that tie everything together.

Its hard to believe that the DOT POD is celebrating its second birthday. And from safety stories to snowstorms, wildlife rescues to worm toilets, this year's podcast had it all. Join Josh and Anya as they take a look back at all the great stories shared by the people who are keeping New York moving!

This Veterans Day the DOT POD is taking time to honor the veterans within our DOT family; the people whose dedication to our country continues through their service to the people of New York. Their sacrifice, discipline, and commitment inspires all of us, and on this episode, Josh and Anya are joined by one of these dedicated employees who is ensuring that our veterans are supported every day at DOT -- Cody Baker, Director of Facilities and Employee Safety, as well as NYSDOT's Veteran Services Liaison.