One noticeable move has been a refocusing away from expanding highways to reducing vehicle miles traveled and promoting sustainable transportation options. “As a result, we expect future investments to prioritize rail and transit expansions over new freeway widenings,” Quirk notes, “with the long-term trend moving toward more integrated, multimodal transportation solutions that provide reliable, ecofriendly alternatives to driving.” 

Like much of the industry, the region is experiencing challenges related to staffing, materials and inflation. “Finding qualified talent has become increasingly difficult,” Quirk adds.