VTCA Connects with Local Transportation Partners at 2026 Local Programs Workshop
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From left to right: Eddie Gupton, Rogers Group, Inc.; Brian McPeters, |
Transportation projects that improve communities across Virginia often begin at the local level. That was the theme of VDOT’s 2026 Local Programs Workshop, Local Action, State Impact, held September 21–23 at the Hotel Roanoke. The event brought together nearly 700 local government officials, VDOT staff, consultants, contractors, and other transportation professionals for training, discussion, and networking.
VTCA sponsored the workshop and exhibited there for the first time. Localities Engagement Program Manager Pete Compher and Program Manager for Engineering Consultants & Associates Kevin McGhee spoke with attendees about how localities, VDOT, engineers, contractors, and aggregate suppliers can work together to deliver projects. VTCA Board members Eddie Gupton, Brian McPeters, Kathleen Linehan, and Darell Fischer also attended, alongside members of VTCA’s consultant engineering leadership.
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| Rushing River |
VTCA moderated the Industry Insights panel, “What Makes a Project Attractive?” Patrick Moore of VDOT’s Culpeper District, Steven Hicks of the City of Charlottesville, and Kamesh Manivannan of Caton Construction Group shared perspectives on project readiness, attracting qualified bidders, and successful delivery.
Through breakout sessions, certification training, and conversations among public and private partners, the workshop offered practical ways to strengthen local project delivery. VTCA appreciated the opportunity to support VDOT’s Local Assistance Division and connect with the localities and member firms helping turn transportation investments into improvements across the Commonwealth.