On any given day in New York, animals are vulnerable to being struck by vehicles on our roadways...and these collisions aren't just dangerous for wildlife.

On this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya discuss how the New York State Department of Transportation is working to provide safe passage for wildlife with the safety of nature and humans in mind.

They are joined by two people who are helping the cause in Stephanie DeLano, Director of DOT's Environmental Science Bureau within the Office of Environment, and Chris Standley, Environmental Specialist with the Office of Environment.

To get an up close and personal look at one of these Wildlife Crossings, head to the 2025 Great New York State Fair where one will be on display in the Science and Industry building!

In this episode of The DOT POD we are heading into the halls of NYSDOT's Main Office where a group of dedicated employees ensure everything runs like clockwork.

We are talking about our facilities team. They are the hardworking caretakers of our mail room, crucial documents, surplus, and inventory. They take care of our lost items and help us organize our events.

In short, they do a TON of work behind the scenes in this episode they are given a spotlight and the appreciation they deserve.

Josh and Anya welcome in David Pierce, Director, Facilities Management Bureau, and Toni Fusco, Administrative Assistant under Facilities Management.

Work at NYSDOT can sometimes be a messy business. Think about maintaining worm-composting toilets at a state rest are - or transforming roadkill into renewal by cleaning and composting animal carcasses from our state highways.

Those are just a couple of the MANY challenging jobs our dedicated DOT employees tackle daily, and we'll find out more about them on this episode that looks at the dirtier side of DOT.

Josh and Anya are joined by Lou D'Astrii who oversees the Southern Tier Welcome Center in Kirkwood, NY and Russ Burckhard, Highway Maintenance Supervisor 1 based out of Voorheesville, NY for this special, Dirty Jobs Edition of the DOT POD.

This episode explores a critical part of emergency preparedness at the New York State Department of Transportation - our yearly staging area drills.

These drills aren't just routine exercises, they're basically huge rehearsals for real events, ranging from hurricanes and floods, to snowstorms and other emergencies.

Recently, Josh and Anya had the chance to observe a staging drill in Utica and learn first-hand how they are a crucial learning opportunity. Regional Director of Operations for Region 2, Mike Palowski, and Senior Transportation Analyst join the podcast to discuss.

Safety doesn’t just happen by accident; it takes carefulplanning. To keep New York’s roadway safe DOT has developed a Strategic Highway Safety Plan which is aimed at drastically cutting down on serious crashes and fatalities, with the ultimate goal, of course, being zero deaths.

In this episode, Josh and Anya explore the key factors thatmake us vulnerable to serious crashes, what DOT is doing to protect all roadway users, and the changes we may see in the near future.

Joining the podcast are Rob Limoges, Director of the Officeof Traffic Safety and Mobility, and Mary Harding, Director of the Highway Safety Bureau, to help break all of this down .

In this episode, we are shining a spotlight on rail safety - an essential aspect of our transportation system, that millions of people rely on for their daily commutes as well as in getting the goods we need.

But did you know that the New York State Department of Transportation plays a crucial role in keeping our rail system safe?

Guests Mike Labello and Brian Galvin walk us through the vital work DOT is doing through rail inspections to monitor New York's rail infrastructure and how these efforts protect not just passengers - but also the communities surrounding the rails.

We often hear of the inspiring stories of DOT workers who go above and beyond their duties, helping those in need; like aiding stranded drivers during major snowstorms or after accidents.

On this edition of The DOT POD, we're sharing the stories of DOT employees who come to the aid of animals in distress.

Josh and Anya are joined by DOT workers Brett Stoner, Ryan Wilson, and Kim Latour. From rescuing animals in need, to collecting donations for a local shelter, their stories will show a different side of DOT.

DOT's projects and initiatives are deeply rooted in our communities. But to truly meet the needs of the people we serve, we've got to meet them where they are.

This principle is at the core of public engagement and we're continually seeking innovative ways to connect with our communities.

On this episode, Project Director for the I-81 Viaduct Project, Betsy Parmley, and Community Liaison and Public Information Officer TeNesha Murphy join us to talk about DOT's groundbreaking I-81 Connect, our first ever app linked to our largest ever project, as well as give an update on this transformative project.

The New York State Department of Transportation prioritizes safety 24-7, 365, to ensure our roadways remain safe for everyone who uses them.

Every time we travel, whether it's our daily commute, or shuttling our kids to school, we share the road with large commercial trucks and motor carriers. But have you every thought about the people responsible for making sure these trucks and their drivers are safe and fit for the road?

In this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya welcome in Larry Johnson and Danielle Adair form DOT's Office of Modal Safety and Security to talk about the individuals dedicated to minimizing crashes involving commercial vehicles and incidents with hazardous materials by conducting inspections throughout New York.

Airports are critical to the health and well-being of the communities in upstate New York. They are gateways to local economies and make lasting impressions.

In September, $230 million was awarded to nine upstate airports as part of the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition.

On this episode, Josh and Anya sit down with Deputy Chief Engineer Carlos Rivera and Aviation Director Lowell Lingo to discuss the projects as well as the importance of these facilities.