Every local agency faces the challenge of maintaining infrastructure with limited resources. Fortunately, every state has a Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) designed to help agencies do more with less through training, equipment, and hands-on expertise.
What is a Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP)?
Local Technical Assistance Programs are operated by each state’s Department of Transportation and jointly funded by FHWA. These programs were created to support local agencies with a variety of resources that support the management and maintenance of roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure projects in the state. The first LTAPs were started in 1982 by FHWA to provide mission-critical services in areas where resources may be limited.
What services do LTAPs offer?
Each state’s LTAP is unique, but the majority offer a mix of low to no-cost training services, technical assistance, and information on the latest transportation technologies and best practices. Many programs offer technical courses to assist with the day-to-day operations of an agency in addition to administrative courses that teach agencies how to apply for federal aid or meet federal compliance requirements.
Here are a few examples of the kind of classes and resources you can expect to find at your state’s LTAP center:
- California’s Local Technical Assistance Program (CALTAP) offers classes like “Sustainable Engineering Training Academy: Fugitive Dust Mitigation” and “Introduction to Pavement Engineering & Management”
- Michigan’s Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) hosts a “Michigan Winter Operations Conference” to support winter operations staff
- Louisiana’s Local Technical Assistance Program offers a “Roads Scholar” program that consists of six courses focused on maintenance and safety, where attendees can earn 6 PDHs
- Vermont’s LTAP (Vermont Local Roads) offers hands-on chainsaw safety training and culvert maintenance courses for rural road crews.
These are just a few examples of the learning opportunities your state’s LTAP can offer. In addition to classes and workshops, many LTAP programs also offer:
- Loan equipment
- Resource libraries
- Grant writing assistance
- Technical support
How do LTAPs help local communities achieve their goals?
Helping to grow local agency expertise: States can pass down resources and information that help local agencies improve their knowledge base and expertise to manage transportation assets effectively, with access to the latest methods and technologies. Many LTAPs are also exploring how digital construction data, GIS, and asset management technologies can improve maintenance planning, helping agencies prepare for a more connected, data-driven future.
Improving safety statewide: State agencies can leverage their LTAP to standardize safety protocols and best practices throughout the state to improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Saving costs: By providing training at low costs and offering equipment loans, LTAPs can help local agencies reduce their overhead and focus resources on infrastructure improvements. Grant-writing workshops can also provide local agencies with access to increased federal resources.
Long-term infrastructure success: LTAPs often offer courses and certifications that help local agencies bone up on specific best practices for asset maintenance and long-term management to ensure that communities are getting the most out of their infrastructure investments over time.
Staying ahead of the curve: In an industry that can sometimes be slow to adopt new technology, LTAPs help locals stay on top of technology trends by ensuring access to innovative hardware and software tools like drones or construction management systems.
Information exchanges: LTAP centers don’t operate in a silo – they often work together to share information and resources across state lines. This collaborative mindset ensures that each LTAP offers the best possible information to local communities. LTAP workshops and conferences also serve as networking opportunities, helping local engineers and public works staff share lessons learned, challenges, and success stories with peers from nearby counties or municipalities.
How to find your state’s LTAP program?
The National LTAP and TTAP Association offers a comprehensive list of state-by-state LTAP information, including addresses, websites, and contact information.
Get Started: Visit the NLTAPA Member Centers page to find your state’s LTAP contact. Ask about upcoming training schedules, loan programs, or conferences in your area.
Author
Nate Binder
Digital Marketing Manager
A proud graduate of Florida State University, Nate works with subject matter experts and sales professionals to produce targeted marketing collateral.