Browsing by Author "Thomas, Amyra"

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    Recommendations to reduce semi-tractor trailer incidents on Indiana's major roadways
    (2019) Crowmer, David; Ichita, Maurice; Kesling, Shawn A.; Link, Tucker R.; Luczkowski, Crystal; Thomas, Amyra; Viehweg, Blaire; Foley, William A., Jr.
    The following analysis summarizes research and recommendations regarding the importance of safety associated with drivers utilizing Indiana’s major roadways, specifically, drivers operating semi-tractor trailers. This 34-page analysis including references, has been compiled over the course of one semester and details extensive themes related to the overall well-being of semi-tractor trailers. Based on extensive research, the following items are recommended to reduce semi-tractor trailer accidents on Indiana’s major roadways: • Install ignition interlocks on semi-tractor trailers • Implementing cable barriers is a cost-effective method to eliminate the risk of cars crossing the centerline while driving • Encourage the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) and its partners to conduct research on where to place cable and steel barriers • Create speed restrictions in non-interstate highways for vehicles with a gross weight greater than 26,000 pounds (lbs.) to improve the safety of rural roadways • Increase the width of these roadways will decrease the possibility of vehicles departing the road • Create situational speed restrictions for the counties listed in the “Other Restrictions Regarding Semi-Tractor Trailers” section • Post speed limit and no passing zone signs in regular intervals with proper placement in rural areas where vehicles may attempt to pass local vehicles, including farm equipment, with limited knowledge of the architecture of the roadways • Consider advocating for rest areas to be implemented on U.S. state roads in addition to interstate roadways • Construct additional rest areas on I-69 near Petersburg, IN and on I-70 in either Vermillion or Gibson County • Expand upon the rest area in White County to resolve issues of capacity and safety The transportation infrastructure continues to be a vital instrument for the Crossroads of America. As a global center of transportation and logistics, the economy of Indiana relies heavily on freight movement (INDOT, n.d.). Freight movement will continue to aid the State of Indiana in competitive advantage compared to other states. By 2040, the expected increase of freight flow is 60 percent (INDOT, n.d.). The work behind this analysis directly supports the expansion of freight mobility while promoting Indiana as a leader in prioritizing driving safety.
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    United States Department of State Diplomacy Laboratory An External Evaluation of Kosovo’s American Corners Program
    (2020-12-15) Viehweg, Blaire; Carter, LeeAnn; Kovats, Taylor; Foley, William A.; Albert, Kevin; Bell, Jasmyn; Buck, Michael; Dobbyn, Kevin; Francis, Lauren; Haluda, Sarah; Haynes, Brian; McIntire, Jake; Parham, Abigail; Ronke, Angelica; Schroeder, Alyssa; Thomas, Amyra
    This report provides analysis, findings, and recommendations as they pertain to American Corners in Kosovo as a contribution to an ongoing U.S. Department of State program. Stemming from America’s foreign policy, three corners located throughout Kosovo have been working to educate the populations they serve and to unite the country and improve its identity. The Corners, Pristina, Prizren, and Mitrovica serve their communities with a variety of educational and informational topics to include law, economics, language, STEM, and the promotion of regional stability with economic growth. It is the goal of the research to improve the Corners and support Kosovo as it works to become a democratic state. Methods of research derived from a variety of resources; open online resources, the American Corner’s website, lectures, and resources from the Indiana‐Purdue University Library database. Research was also conducted by Zoom meetings with the American Corner’s staff members. Staff members were asked specific, structured questions, and were also given open-ended discussion opportunities. Findings from research show an overwhelming response for improved collaboration among the three Corners. If done together program planning and implementation would benefit. For further collaboration, there is a need for increased involvement with the US Embassy to implement more cohesive training for all Corners staff. Some staff and space requirements and subject recommendations are presented as well. The authors recognize the limitations of the research. None of the authors have spent time in Kosovo first‐hand. The research is also being conducted during a serious international Pandemic, creating an environment and issues that may not always be consistent. The corners are also a relatively new foreign policy State Department enterprise in Kosovo and as well have been impacted by the Pandemic.