Carlos Braceras, UDOT Innovation, Efficiencies and Plans for 2023 KEYNOTE SPEAKER Every year since, for the last twenty-five years or so, the UDOT Innovation and Efficiencies Report has been published in response to UDOT’s budget asks from the legislature. As Carlos Braceras, the longtime Executive Director of UDOT puts it, “At first, we were required to provide an accounting, and now we continue to do it because we feel it’s important to be accountable for what we do and what we spend. This report has also evolved into something that motivates our people to innovate. We’ve saved at least six million in efficiencies every year. It’s something we’re really proud of.” This year’s report starts with “The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) has a Mission to enhance quality of life through transportation. As careful stewards of taxpayer dollars, we aim to execute that goal in the most effective way – providing the greatest value with every penny we invest. Since 1997, UDOT has reported on the ways we deliver value with efficiency and innovation, and every year we continue to find new and better ways to fulfill our Mission. The imperative for UDOT to provide a safe, reliable transportation system has perhaps never been more important or challenging. Utah’s population is increasing at a tremendous rate, with our population expected to double by 2050. We cannot, and will not, double our lane miles to match the increasing population. With so much change in our state, industry, and technology, we’re constantly adapting in every part of our business. At UDOT, innovation is part of our DNA. Utah is nationally recognized for its legacy of continually seeking ways to do things better, faster, and more efficiently. We’ve had some high-profile successes, like accelerated bridge construction (ABC) and delivering the country’s first designbuild transportation megaproject. And we’ve also had successes that were less obvious, yet still incredibly important. This report includes examples that cover the spectrum, from moving bridges to improving safety. And regardless of whether these innovations made the news or are behind the scenes, they all have one thing in common: they help us make life better and safer for everyone using Utah’s transportation system.” 18
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