WGI was proud to serve as a Silver Sponsor and exhibitor at the 2025 SASHTO Annual Meeting, held August 3–6 in Lexington, Kentucky. This annual gathering of transportation leaders, organized by the Southern Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, brings together representatives from 15 member states, federal agencies, private-sector partners, and industry experts to advance mobility across the South.
A Conference With Purpose
SASHTO’s mission extends far beyond hosting an annual event. It is about driving meaningful progress in the region’s transportation network. This year’s conference centered on:
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Promoting a balanced multimodal transportation system including highways, transit, aviation, and water systems
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Facilitating knowledge exchange through best practices, shared challenges, and innovative solutions
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Fostering collaboration between state DOTs, federal agencies, and private-sector partners
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Showcasing successful projects and future-ready technologies
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Advocating for legislation that safeguards current investments and supports future improvements
WGI’s Presence
Representing WGI in Lexington were Jacob Gonzalez, PE, Mark Topping, Jeremiah Slaymaker, PSM, Scott Boyles, PE, Walter Kloss, PE, Kim DeBosier, PE, and Eliza Partington. With expertise spanning transportation engineering, geospatial services, alternative delivery models, and building structures, our team’s mission was clear: strengthen relationships with key decision-makers, explore new opportunities for collaboration, and demonstrate how WGI’s multidisciplinary capabilities deliver innovative, cost-effective, and future-ready solutions.
Our booth quickly became a hub for conversation. Discussions ranged from parking facility design and multimodal connectivity to the integration of advanced geospatial technology in project planning. These conversations with state agency leaders, highway construction contractors, and peer consultants often began with specific project needs and grew into broader discussions about the future of mobility.
Conference Highlights
Educational sessions and technical tours provided invaluable insights for our team. Notable takeaways included:
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Innovation in Infrastructure: Updates on transformative projects like VDOT’s Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel Expansion and Kentucky’s Express Lanes Network
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Alternative Delivery Models: Lessons from Florida’s Modified Phased Design-Build approach and Kentucky’s collaborative strategies
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Funding Challenges: Strategies to address revenue declines from increasing electric vehicle adoption
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Technology and Safety: KYTC’s digital project delivery pilots, the WV SAFER initiative, and Kentucky’s Truck Parking Information Management System (TPIMS)
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AI in Public Engagement: Exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance communication and stakeholder involvement
Attendees also participated in technical tours of the Newtown Pike Extension Project, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and the Central Bank Center Transportation network.
Why SASHTO Matters for WGI
Our involvement in SASHTO ensures we remain at the forefront of emerging trends, policy changes, and cutting-edge technology. More importantly, it keeps us connected to the people and agencies shaping the future of transportation across the South.
The conversations we started in Lexington will continue, turning networking into partnerships and ideas into action. As our region faces the dual challenge of maintaining existing infrastructure while preparing for the demands of tomorrow, WGI is ready to deliver sustainable, adaptable, and community-focused solutions.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 SASHTO Annual Meeting was more than just a conference. It was a catalyst for progress. WGI left Lexington energized and equipped with fresh insights to help our clients meet evolving mobility needs. We look forward to building on these connections and continuing our work to deliver projects that enhance safety, improve access, and strengthen transportation networks for millions of travelers.
As the South faces the dual challenge of maintaining existing assets while preparing for future demands, WGI remains committed to delivering solutions that are sustainable, adaptable, and tailored to the unique needs of each community we serve. Events like SASHTO not only sharpen our expertise but also inspire us to continue pushing for innovation that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Connect With Us
Interested in learning how WGI can support your next transportation project? Our multidisciplinary team brings deep expertise in areas ranging from highways to alternative delivery methods.
Contact us today to discuss your project needs, explore innovative solutions, or connect with our experts!
