The I-89 Exit 14 Scoping Study is an exciting and transformative initiative led by the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission (CCRPC) aimed at significantly enhancing transportation in Vermont. This comprehensive project seeks to evaluate and propose alternatives for the I-89 Exit 14 interchange, addressing critical issues such as vehicular capacity, geometric layout, multimodal accessibility, and safety, while also prioritizing the decarbonization of construction processes. Considering embodied carbon early in the transportation planning process allows project sustainability to be a key factor in decision-making while multiple alternatives are still viable.
A standout feature of the study is VHB's embodied carbon pilot program, which aims to enhance environmental consciousness in infrastructure planning. Embodied carbon includes the carbon emissions associated with the entire lifecycle of the materials used to build infrastructure, including material extraction, manufacturing, transport, construction, and disposal. In alignment with the American Society of Civil Engineers 73 Standard, VHB’s pilot program promotes sustainable construction by estimating and managing emissions from the start of a project. This information informs design decisions and incentivizes sustainable material choices and construction methods. VHB’s program also encourages conducting embodied carbon analyses for proposed design alternatives to identify options that minimize the overall carbon footprint of a project.
For the I-89 Exit 14 Scoping Study, VHB is evaluating various interchange options, with an emphasis on improving bike and pedestrian accessibility as well as vehicular flow. Following the recommendations of the I-89 2050 Study, this initiative is a crucial step toward achieving the long-term vision for the interstate corridor. Since the I-89 Exit 14 interchange serves as a gateway to South Burlington and the University of Vermont area, addressing existing challenges is essential for improving travel time reliability, reducing congestion, and enhancing safety for all modes of transportation, including cycling and walking.
A primary objective of the scoping study is to refine previously identified alternatives and explore new options that enhance connectivity and safety at the Exit 14 interchange. By clearly defining the project's purpose and need, developing alternative configurations, and evaluating trade-offs, CCRPC and its partners aim to identify a locally supported preferred alternative to recommend to the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans).
The I-89 Exit 14 Scoping Study symbolizes a forward-thinking initiative aimed at transforming a critical interchange to better serve the needs of all users. VHB's introduction of embodied carbon calculations at the scoping phase enables practitioners to compare design alternatives while considering the carbon implications of each option. Incorporating this approach at the planning phase represents significant progress in sustainable infrastructure development, setting a benchmark for future projects and highlighting a shift toward a more sustainable and efficient transportation network. This initiative reflects the collaborative, evidence-based planning necessary to meet the needs of current and future generations.
Learn more about VHB’s sustainability work.
