Employee Communication

Recently, CDOT released a survey to all employees to measure the effectiveness of the agency's COVID-19 response, including our employee communications, the changes to workplace safety and the transition to working from home.

Thank you to all of the employees who completed the survey, and special thanks to the Office of Process Improvement for its work on developing questions and analyzing results. Watch for a follow-up survey in the next few weeks. The graphics below share some of the key findings from employees’ answers: 

Social Activities during COVID-19

Weigh the health risks

We recognize some people have privileges and resources that allow them to choose how and when to interact in person, while others must work to provide the goods, services, and care we depend on.

Right now, you are allowed to participate in most in-person social activities with prevention precautions, and activities that are open should follow guidelines aimed at lowering the potential for disease spread.

While there is no way to ensure zero risk of infection, the suggestions here are to help empower you to make the best decisions -- to weigh the health risks to yourself and others with the benefits to your personal social, emotional, and physical needs, and the needs of others in the economy. Activities listed are limited to optional in-person activities and do not include work, education, or child care/camp options as those are often not optional.

Read the entire list of risks-benefits

Helpful tools now available!

A useful free new app and website has just been launched that guides Americans through a series of questions about their health and exposure to determine whether they should seek care for COVID-19 symptoms. The tools provide CDC recommendations on next steps, including guidance on social distancing and self-isolating, how to closely monitor symptoms, recommendations on testing and when to contact a medical provider. These helpful guides are the result of a partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the White House Coronavirus Task Force and Apple Inc.

Users can download the free app from Apple’s App Store or access the tool online at www.apple.com/covid19. Everyone has a role to play as we work together to stop the spread of COVID-19. The latest recommendations can be found at www.coronavirus.gov.

Helpful Resources

Childcare: This crisis has created a strain on working parents. While those who can work remotely are adapting to work-life with a child at home, other essential workers who still need to report to work have the added difficulty of obtaining child care. 

Recognizing this need, Gov. Polis called together a group of early childhood providers, advocacy groups, school districts and foundations to partner with Gary Community Investments and the Colorado Department of Human Services to establish a system of emergency child care. Read more about this program, and visit this site for information about how you can take advantage of this collaborative.

Mental Health: The Colorado State Employee Assistance Program (CSEAP) is standing by to help employees navigate these uncertain times. The program provides resources, both internal and external, you may find helpful.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is releasing data from about 1,000 Coloradans who took a short survey designed to track symptoms of COVID-19. Additionally, when people identify that they have symptoms of COVID-19, such as shortness of breath, cough or fever, the symptom tracker will now offer users text messages that help them manage their symptoms. Texts are only sent to users who consent to receive text messages. 

After filling out the symptom tracker and consenting to receive text messages, users will receive text messages daily for seven days asking about their symptoms. From there, they may be connected with information on how to use telehealth to connect with medical advice or how to access resources that can help manage mental health needs. 

To date, about 1,000 Coloradans have filled out the symptom tracker. Aggregate data is available on the symptom tracker dashboard page, which is now linked on the “do you have symptoms?” webpage and at covid19.colorado.gov. There, you can see anonymized survey responses, including what symptoms people reported and the demographic characteristics of respondents. 

The more that Coloradans report their symptoms using this symptom tracker, the more useful the data will be for state and local public health agencies. The tracker will provide local public health agencies with data for their geographic coverage area. This could help public health officials understand when outbreaks are occurring in given locations and, in some cases, follow up with certain individuals who may need additional support. By using symptom tracker, users consent to share this information with and receive messages from their local public health agency. Data is only shared with CDPHE and the local public health agency for responding to COVID-19. Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

C-SEAP Can Help

As we deal with the COVID epidemic, we encourage you to share your thoughts, feelings and perspective with your coworkers, your supervisor and your family and friends. 

If you are not comfortable with these conversation avenues, remember our valuable connection through the Colorado State Employee Assistance Program. C-SEAP provides access to free-of-charge, short-term counseling services that may help employees manage their mental health and well-being.

Confidential Counseling

Yesterday Gov. Jared Polis sent an email to all state employees about the stressful times we are going through and thanking everyone for their service. The governor also took a moment to remind all state employees that if you need help in managing stress, anxiety or depression, the Colorado Employee Assistance Program is available for free counseling services. 

CSEAP provides short-term, solution-focused counseling to state employees. Call 303-866-4314 or 1-800-821-8154 for more information or to schedule an appointment with a counselor. Click here for information on how they can also serve family members of state employees.

Drop the Distraction

More than 90% of Coloradans surveyed admitted to driving distracted weekly

As many Coloradans get back on the road heading into summer, CDOT is reminding drivers to leave distractions behind and just drive. According to the AAA Foundation, over 95% of drivers in the United States view reading or typing a text/email on a hand-held cellphone while driving to be very or extremely dangerous. 

“When you get behind the wheel, you’re not only in control of your own safety, your actions impact the safety of everyone around you,” 

Shoshana Lew, CDOT Executive Director 

In a 2019 survey of Colorado drivers conducted by CDOT, 91% of Coloradans admitted to driving distracted at least once every week. With handheld technology more prevalent than ever, distracted driving is one of the biggest threats to safety on Colorado’s roads, causing thousands of crashes each year. The latest data from CDOT shows:

15,673 crashes involved a Colorado distracted driver in 2018, amounting to an average of 42 crashes a day.

Overall, 53 (6%) of the 890 drivers in a fatal crash in 2018 were distracted.

Of the 81 drivers aged 15-20 involved in a fatal crash, 17% were distracted, the highest percentage of distracted drivers for any fatal crash age group.

With increasing numbers of Coloradans beginning to leave their homes following the governor’s Stay-at-Home order, CDOT is finding unique ways to remind drivers to stay focused on the road. In its latest campaign, Distraction Reactions, CDOT shines a light on the impact and impression distracted driving leaves on others by harnessing the power of human reactions and social stigma. Coffee sleeves in local shops, videos on gas station televisions, and digital ads on mobile devices ask the question: If drivers saw how others reacted to their distracted driving, would they change their behavior?

“Unfortunately, while the risks associated with distracted driving are well documented, studies show the majority of Coloradans still choose to engage in this behavior — and that’s a very disturbing problem.”

Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol

Click here to view the Distraction Reactions campaign PSA video and materials.

Bike-Friendly Drivers

Our friends over at Bicycle Colorado have just announced a free upcoming Bicycle-Friendly Driver course. This course is focused on motorists by teaching preventative behaviors to motorists. The class will hopefully provide useful information and tips to contribute toward a reduction in the total number of bicycle-related crashes and keep all road users safe. Feel free to share internally and externally: Friday June 19, noon to 1:15 p.m. Find out more here.

CDOT Campaign Awarded 

One Breathalyzer at a Time wins Awards and Makes an Impact

CDOT’s “Blown Away–Preventing DUIs, One Breathalyzer at a Time” campaign recently won the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Western District Best in the West award. This prestigious award recognizes impactful work carried out from PRSA’s 11 chapters throughout five western states and represents more than 2,200 PRSA members. This breathalyzer campaign — an extension of CDOT’s The Heat Is On high-visibility enforcement campaign — was also the Grand Gold Pick winner from PRSA Colorado’s 2019 annual awards ceremony.

Each year in Colorado, more than 20,000 people are arrested for DUI—an average of 50 every day. To help combat this critical issue, in 2019 CDOT continued its partnership with leading breathalyzer company, BACtrack, to encourage the use of mobile breathalyzers by offering the devices at a 50 percent discount. The goal was to raise awareness and  provide education about the benefits of personal breathalyzers as a tool to prevent impaired driving.

CDOT was able to reach a high volume of alcohol consumers and gather meaningful data about breathalyzer use

The campaign successfully drove awareness and sales of over 1,400 breathalyzers and 245 of those who purchased a breathalyzer agreed to participate in a survey. The survey revealed that using a breathalyzer positively impacted driving decisions and provided education not only to the user but also to their family and friends.

Research also showed promising trends toward changing Coloradans’ behavior when it comes to impaired driving. The campaign’s highlight was its hands-on approach to collecting data while also educating the community about safe driving. 

Congratulations to the  CDOT Comms Team for receiving these recognitions.

Seat Belt Campaigns

Ramping Up for July

As Coloradans get back on the road this summer, CDOT is set to begin a seat belt awareness campaign to ensure drivers are conscious of Colorado’s seat belt laws, heightened enforcement periods and the importance of buckling up starting next month.

The campaign is based on the concept that we live in a polarizing world but can all agree on the importance of buckling up. Whether it’s politics, lifestyle choices, sports loyalties or even the preference of cats vs. dogs, there is no shortage of topics that emphasize our differences. However, there’s at least one thing we should all get behind: seat belts. The Common Bond theme celebrates all Coloradans while bringing “unlikely” pairs together. Regardless of how different our interests, passions or whatever else separating us may be, we’re all united by our choice to always wear a seat belt.

In addition to the “unlikely pairs” concept, CDOT will also employ a campaign based on people’s reasons for wearing a seat belt. Whether the reason is big or small, funny or serious, the reasons are personal and serve as a constant reminder of why we choose to buckle up. This campaign will launch directly following the “unlike pairs” campaign, reminding drivers and passengers across the state that we all have a reason to buckle up.

#DoingMyPartCO

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Jared Polis’ office launched the #DoingMyPartCO campaign, which calls on Coloradans to share how they are helping keep the community safe during the coronavirus pandemic. While CDOT’s traffic safety campaigns have paused to dedicate attention to important messages from the governor’s office and state health officials, CDOT is supporting our communities and the #DoingMyPartCO by discouraging nonessential travel and encouraging safe driving behaviors. 

CDOT’s #DoingMyPartCO topics include:

• Partnering with the Colorado State Patrol, asking drivers to follow speed limits and drive safely, even with fewer cars on the road.
• Partnering with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources to remind Coloradans to recreate in their local neighborhoods, avoid unnecessary mountain travel and stay out of the backcountry.
• Thanking the trucking community, an essential link in our state’s supply chain.
• Appreciation posts for CDOT employees in the office and out in the field.

Click here to view the #DoingMyPartCO images and social posts.

Headquarters Blood Drive

Appointment Required - NO walk-ins

July 29, 2020
9 a.m until 1 p.m. -  Headquarters Auditorium
All Blood Types Needed!

Vitalant is now testing all donors for COVID-19 antibodies. Whether you're eligible to give whole blood or have recovered from COVID-19 and can donate convalescent plasma, you are saving lives.

Safe Practices by Vitalant: 

• Temperature Checks: Upon arrival you will get a temperature check--you must be under 99.5˚F to proceed with your donation.
• Social Distancing: To create space, donors are required to have appointments and may even wait in their vehicles before they donate. 
• Continuous Sanitation: We are using sterile, one-time use collection sets for every donation and wiping down all high-touch areas often and after every collection.
• Masks Required: Donors and staff are required to wear a face covering.
• Appointments Required:  Please contact Jenni Fogel @ [email protected] to schedule your appointment. 

More information available at https://www.vitalant.org/Home.aspx.

The need is urgent. In health care settings all across the United States, donated blood is a lifesaving, essential part of caring for patients. The need for donated blood is constant, and blood centers are open and in urgent need of donations. CDC encourages people who are well to continue to donate blood if they are able, even if they are practicing social distancing because of COVID-19. CDC is supporting blood centers by providing recommendations that will keep donors and staff safe. Examples of these recommendations include spacing donor chairs six feet apart, thoroughly adhering to environmental cleaning practices and encouraging donors to make donation appointments ahead of time.

We have included a  link to the Vitalant website here in Colorado where CDOT employees can go to get more information about how to donate locally in their area. Vitalant is the new name of the previous blood donation Nonprofit that most of us knew as the Bonfils Blood Center.

50th Anniversary of Earth Day

Today, April 22, is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. In 1970, more than 20 million people (10% of the U.S. population) participated in the first Earth Day. Here is some fun information compiled by Sarah Mitchell, sustainability program manager with CDOT’s Division of Transportation Development, to help increase your awareness and participation in Earth Day.

Commuting Options

Have you noticed the air is clearer and you have better visibility/views since there are significantly fewer vehicles driving on the roads? Now is a great time to consider alternate commuting options when the majority of folks return to work. Learn more about CDOT’s options here!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Since the stay-at-home order began, have you noticed you have more trash and recycling? What can you do to cut back on your footprint and reduce what ends up in landfills? Click here to learn some ways to save money and minimize your impact on the earth at the same time!

Victory Garden

Do you know what a victory garden is? With some items being in short supply at stores, consider one!

• Learn more about starting a victory garden here at PBS!

NASA Earth Day Activities

NASA has put together an online toolkit specifically for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, featuring quizzes, videos, posters and much more. Kids and adults alike can even go on a "webquest' to see how NASA helps study the Earth and all its wonders. 

"NASA Science Live" will also host a special show Wednesday featuring NASA experts discussing how NASA plays a big role in understanding and improving the earth. The show airs at 3 p.m. ET on NASA TV and YouTube. 

Southwest & Colorado Plateau Coloring

Want some images for you or the kiddos to color? Enjoy coloring these scenes from nature created as a part of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators Connects project, or explore its website for other ideas!

Let’s all do our part to make every day Earth Day!

What You Need to Know 

The U.S. Internal Revenue Service has provided the following information on the COVID-19  Economic Impact Payments 

Are you: employed full or part time? Unemployed? A temporary or gig worker? Retired or disabled? Receive public benefits? Have no income? Most U.S. residents — under certain income levels — will receive the Economic Impact Payment if they are not claimed as a dependent of another taxpayer and have a Social Security number.

Here’s how much the payments will be:

• Eligible individuals will receive up to $1,200.

• Eligible married couples will receive up to $2,400.

• Eligible individuals will receive up to $500 for each qualifying child.

Taxpayers will receive a reduced payment if their adjusted gross income is between:

• $75,000 and $99,000 if their filing status was single or married filing separately
• $112,500 and $136,500 for head of household
• $150,000 and $198,000 if their filing status was married filing jointly

Eligible taxpayers who filed tax returns for either 2019 or 2018 will automatically receive an Economic Impact Payment.

Payments will also be automatic for people who receive Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), or survivor benefits or Railroad Retirement benefits who don’t normally file a tax return. Those receiving these benefits who aren’t claimed as a dependent on someone else’s return or required to file a tax return are eligible for a $1,200 payment. However, people in this group who have qualifying children under age 17 will need to provide information using the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info tool to claim the $500 payment per child.

The IRS encourages people to share this information with family and friends. Some people who normally don’t file a tax return may not realize they’re eligible for an Economic Impact Payment.

For additional and updated information, visit the Coronavirus Tax Relief page on IRS.gov.

More information:

• Economic Impact Payment
• Adjusted Gross Income
• Do I Need to File a Tax Return?
• Whom May I Claim as a Dependent?
• What Is My Filing Status?

Tax Assistance for Coloradans

Due to the extension of both federal and state tax filing and payment deadlines until July 15, 2020, there is still time to get free tax help.

Taxpayers were given an additional 90 days to file their federal and state income tax returns and make payments without penalty if they owe.

Free online filing options can be found through Get Ahead Colorado, a program from the Piton Foundation. Tax Help Colorado also provides free, online tax assistance to help Coloradans file their tax return and claim their tax refund as quickly as possible.

Taxpayers will be connected to an IRS-certified volunteer who will prepare their return remotely. Filers can visit GetYourRefund.org to get started today.

Shout Outs

CDOT employees go above and beyond the call of duty every day in service to the citizens of Colorado. Here is just a sample of the submissions that have come in from across the agency recognizing and thanking CDOT team members for their hard work and dedication.

Dominic Martinez, Region 1 TM III, T2 Eisenhower Johnson Memorial Tunnel

“Dominic takes pride in seeing his team complete projects efficiently and accurately; he simply appreciates a job well done. Morale building is on his radar daily, taking time to acknowledge his co-workers, no matter if the individual's position is directly related to his own. He appreciates that all components of operations at the Tunnel integrate to create a safer environment for mountain corridor travelers.”

Eric Medina, Region 2 Admr IV Civil Rights

“He's training me, and while I understand that it's expected he helps me with things I don't understand, I will continue and feel comfortable to call him when I have problems I can't work through myself and appreciate the fact he's diligent about not letting me drown in new information.”

Tim Holbrook, Region 3 TM III

“Tim developed and implemented and improvement which saves a lot of time when loading deicer into the tanks on plow trucks by increasing deicer outflow. This, in turn, allows those plows to get into service faster for clearing our highways of snow and ice during winter operations. Many thanks to Tim for this wonderful enhancement”

Chris Ukowich, Region 4 Safety Spec IV

“Chris has consistently supported the efforts of the Maintenance Training Academy and taught 10 sessions on Safety topics throughout FY20. Chris's expertise in Safety and his ability to engage a classroom audience has served to improve the programs we deliver. Chris, thanks for your continued support and collaboration. Your efforts are very much appreciated by DMO Training Services!”

Kent Baxstrom, Region 5 LTC Ops - Mtc

“Kent has supported the Maintenance Training Academy consistently over the past 3 years and in FY20 he delivered over 20 individual sessions through the MTA. Kent has "owned" the delivery of the TIMs class for New Hires but also taught classes to TM I's, II's, and III's and supported the design process as well.  Thanks, Kent, for your continued support of Maintenance Training!”

Savannah Martinez, Headquarters Admin Asst II Facilities

“Savannah has spent a lot of time researching and locating vehicle cleaning supplies and wipes. When located, she has helped me ship them to all areas of the state that needed them. She always has a positive attitude and is always willing to help. Thank you, Savannah, for all you do.”

Do you know a CDOT employee or team that has gone above and beyond the call of duty? Or, one who just simply deserves recognition for excelling at the incredible work they do to support the CDOT mission and vision? We invite you to give those teams/employees a SHOUT OUT by filling out this form. Stay tuned for future highlights from the submissions here in the Daily Broadcast and for our upcoming website where you can see all the submissions.

Thank Essential Workers 

#OutThereForUs

Now more than ever those on the front lines deserve to be recognized for their hard work and dedication to our well being.  #OutThereForUs is an effort that lets the public thank our critical essential workers during this global pandemic.  The Ad Council is working with leaders across the industry to create timely, critical messaging around the coronavirus with this non-profit initiative.  The campaign utilizes donated outdoor media and social media channels.  Their efforts are aimed at reaching at-risk populations and the general public around social distancing, mental health and more.

Essential workers go out every day, for us. 

Now you can do something out there for them.

The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization that is the nation's leading producer and distributor of public service advertising (PSA) campaigns, addressing critical social issues.  They bring together the top level media, tech, advertising, entertainment and marketing professionals to develop campaigns that inspire action—and change lives.

To learn more and to thank an essential worker click here for more information.

Vail Pass Project Will Receive $60.7 Million

Region 3 wins federal INFRA Grant

Yesterday the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) announced the latest round of the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) discretionary grant program for nationally significant freight and highway projects. CDOT, in coordination with the Intermountain, Gunnison Valley, and Northwest Transportation Planning Regions (TPR), and the Grand Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)/TPR,  applied for  a grant to make improvements to I-70 between mileposts 180 and 190 in Eagle County.  The funding will be used to make necessary improvements to this vital stretch of interstate including, automatic de-icing systems, the construction of an eastbound auxiliary lane, a variable speed limit system, shoulder widening and dynamic messaging signs, among other improvements.

Congratulations to everyone involved in securing this critical federal support — the full amount CDOT applied for!

Air Aware

Keeping with the aeronautics angle today we wanted to highlight the work that another front line component of our state’s transportation system is doing to keep everyone in Colorado safe. Colorado airports and the general aviation sector have been essential for volunteer groups like Angel Flight West, the Civil Air Patrol, and others like them in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. These organizations are using airports and general aviation to ensure that PPE and front line medical workers are transported to where they are needed most in the fight against the disease.

Click here to see a Division of Aeronautics video on the aviation sector’s efforts to help Colorado at this time.

Front Line Salute

Warriors of the 140th Wing, Colorado Air National Guard, will fly F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft around Colorado cities and towns on today, May 6, from 4:30-6 p.m., to salute those fighting on the front lines of the war against COVID-19. Approximate locations & times can be seen on the map below.  We have also attached a more detailed schedule with this email.

Thank You to Our Administrative Professionals!

A big thank you to all our administrative professionals, on the day set aside as Administrative Professionals Day. This special day is celebrated annually on the Wednesday of the last full week of April every year and salutes the unsung heroes that make our work lives run smoothly.

We could not do what we do at CDOT without the support from the people behind the scenes.  Our administrative professionals wear many hats each day and deal with all the “little” things that are actually big things that keep us running smoothly and able to do our jobs. 

On The Front Lines

With the CDOT Hesperus Patrol, Section 3

We found this item from Jim Creek TM I, in Region 5 and wanted to share with everyone at CDOT to underscore the importance of the critical work all our front line staff are performing to keep our essential services up and running during this emergency.

This time is unprecedented in our country as we all deal with the coronavirus pandemic. Please bear with me as I tell a story about the photo above. As we were fixing a fence on State Highway 140, it suddenly dawned on me how important our work is. My patrol and I are really doing our part to keep things rolling in Colorado. As a matter of fact, every TM I across the state is doing its part.

The image above shows Steve Beh, TM I from Patrol 4 out of Hesperus, fixing a fence after a tree fell onto it, knocking it over and putting a hole through it. But there are some things this picture does not show, or that may not be so clear. There is a patch of melting snow that is greening up the grasses. The ranchers are bringing their cows back to the summer pastures to fatten them up and feed our country.  

This photo does not show how the cow could possibly get out onto the highway had we not fixed this fence. That loose cow could get hit by a vehicle, causing an accident. This potential crash would put a strain on our police, fire and local hospitals. If serious enough, the crash could cause a critical traumatic injury to the driver. The patient would need to be flown to Denver where the trauma centers and intensive care units are already being stressed with COVID-19 patients. 

This photo does not show another possible scenario. The cow could get out onto the highway and be hit by a coal truck, fuel truck, or grocery truck carrying supplies to our stores that are in dire need of being stocked. Not to mention, there would also be a monetary loss to the rancher.

So, even though this is a photo of just one CDOT employee fixing one hole in the fence, it truly shows how important a relatively small job can be and how significantly it can potentially impact this unprecedented time in our country and our world as we all deal with the COVID pandemic.

Keeping Our Social Distance

Our Front Line Workers Doing Their Part Across Colorado

Extra kudos to all our mission critical plow drivers and others keeping our roads open and safe during this first day of spring snow storm.

CDOT Crew Goes the Extra Mile to Help

 The CDOT team on Poncha Pass is doing great work. Region 5’s  Section 7 Poncha Pass Patrol #5708’s efforts to assist the public recently inspired a citizen to write in and compliment their good works. Below is a letter we got from a traveler passing through Colorado at the start of the month.  

“Hello! I am from Ohio and was traveling through Colorado on March 8th. There was an accident on Poncha Pass that we were behind for about two hours. In that time, a young man's battery died behind us. A CDOT employee came back to jump him. Right after the accident, we saw a CDOT employee changing the tire for another person. Needless to say, we were very impressed with your department.”

A big shout-out to the team and all our crews across the state who go the extra mile to help, even though letters are not sent in every instance. This is evidence that we are doing good work that’s appreciated by the public.

CDOT is working to implement an executive order issued this past weekend by Gov. Jared Polis that temporarily allows food trucks to operate at rest areas along Colorado highways.

“This action will help Colorado’s truckers have access to fresh and affordable meals on the road and help our small food truck businesses continue to support themselves in a way that also supports our critical supply chain needs and our community.”

Gov. Jared Polis

The COVID-19 crisis has made it hard for truckers to obtain meals as they transport critical supplies over long distances. CDOT is in the process of establishing regulations to outline hours of operation, social distancing guidelines, insurance requirements and other details for food truck operations. A web page will be added to the CDOT site for vendors to apply for permits. CDOT hopes to complete the planning and set up by Monday of next week to allow for this needed service during these challenging times.

Wearing Facial Coverings

 A Common Sense Requirement

For the most part, CDOT employees have been doing a great job of wearing their face coverings while at work--thank you for that.  Recently however, we have received some feedback that compliance with the mandate to wear facial coverings while at work may be starting to slip in some locations.  It has also been suggested that this unsafe behavior is the direct result of employees and supervisors being unclear about the current requirements for using facial coverings at work. 

To prevent any further confusion, the following directive, communicated by CDOT Executive Management in April, remains the requirement for all CDOT employees:

All CDOT employees shall wear a facial covering over their mouth and nose in public spaces or when social distancing is not possible.

The above CDOT directive supersedes any guidance or mandate by local jurisdictions and meets the Governor’s statewide mask mandate. This applies while the employee works in the field or is conducting business at a CDOT facility such as a headquarters building, engineer residency, project trailer, patrol barn, materials lab, tunnel or storeroom. 

Public Space in CDOT facilities includes but is not limited to restrooms, social areas (lobbies, reception areas, social hubs) conference or meeting rooms, building hallways, corridors, elevators and stairwells, lunch or breakrooms and CDOT fleet vehicles or equipment (when other people are in the cab).  Also included are public buildings visited by a CDOT employee while working such as restaurants, convenience stores, gas stations or retail stores. 

Social Distancing means maintaining a constant clear space of six (6) feet or more from another person.

To help employees comply with the facial covering requirement, CDOT continues to provide bandanas or facemasks by request and allows employees to bring their own facemasks from home.  CDOT Safety provides a large amount of information about COVID-19 prevention, wearing facial coverings properly (and during high temperatures), guidance from medical professionals, and CDOT’s current employee requirements on the     Employee Safety Website. Supervisors are charged with being accountable to ensure the requirements are understood and followed by their employees. 

COVID-19 is still spreading at an increased rate in Colorado.  People with COVID-19 can spread the virus even when they don’t have symptoms.  A July 10 summary released by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 40% of people infected with COVID-19 are asymptomatic and a chance of transmission from people with no symptoms is around 75%.  The most common way people become infected with COVID-19 is through respiratory droplets produced from a cough or sneeze from an infected person.  Therefore, the best way to minimize infecting others is to prevent those respiratory droplets from contaminating the air or other surfaces around you.  The best way to do that is to wear a facial covering over the mouth and nose in public spaces or practice social distancing. 

As more cities and towns around Colorado open to the public and people strive to return to a sense of normalcy, we’ll find ourselves interacting with larger groups of people without any way of knowing whether they may or may not be infected.  Therefore, it remains critical that all CDOT employees persist in following these best practices to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash and disinfect your hands regularly (avoid touching your face)

• Practice social distancing

• Wear a facial covering over your mouth and nose in public spaces

The three safe practices above are the same measures broadcasted by medical experts and CDOT Safety since April and remain the best solutions for CDOT employees to reduce their risk of COVID-19 exposure and transmission—and remember, they are also a requirement while working at CDOT.  

If you need a facial covering or have questions regarding the proper use of facial coverings contact your Regional Safety Officer.  If you need general COVID-19 or return-to-work information or want to log a COVID-19 concern, visit the Employee Safety Website or contact your Regional Safety Officer.

Community Support

Masks for front-line workers

As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, the Central 70 team would like to come together to support our friends at the Colorado Sewing Coalition. This is a coalition of community members from the Sun Valley and Globeville, Elyria, and Swansea neighborhoods as well as nonprofit and for-profit companies who sew cloth masks for our front-line service workers and community members in need. Together, we can address an urgent need for masks to fight the COVID-19 pandemic while providing much-needed sewing jobs to out-of-work community members. If you would like to purchase masks for yourself, your family, your crew, etc., you can submit a request here. 

Note, the minimum contribution per mask is $3. Or, if you prefer, you can send your donation to Brenda Tierney with the Central 70 Communications Team  (venmo: @Brenda-Tierney-2) by Wednesday, June 24. Brenda will track donations and then submit one on behalf of CDOT and Central 70 team. 

We will follow up with a note to everyone about how much money was raised.

Advice from a Survivor

Last week Director Lew and Governor Polis shared a story about Mike Clark, a CDOT employee who contracted COVID-19 and survived. In case you missed it, you can see the full message from Executive Director Lew and Mike Clark's entire letter from June 11. 

Mike Clark, a Civil Engineer with  Region 1 came down with COVID-19 on Sunday, March 15, and spent nine days in bed getting progressively weaker and sicker. He went with his wife to urgent care and the next thing he remembers is waking up nearly two weeks later in the ICU at St. Anthony's Hospital. 

“If there is anything that should prompt you to wear a mask at work, it is the thought of lying in bed, in a hospital, atop a bedpan.”

Mike Clark-CDOT

After 34 days and a terrifying near-death experience in the hospital, Mike was finally able to return home.  Click here to view the Governor's press conference where he shares Mike’s story and reiterates the importance of wearing face coverings.  

Masks 

Our Passport to the Colorado We Love

Yesterday, Gov. Jared Polis introduced a new effort to promote the use of face coverings. The “Our Masks Are Our Passport to the Colorado We Love” campaign will be featured on social media and billboards across the state using various sports and music personalities. The use of masks, along with social distancing, are simple measures that can allow us to continue to enjoy our favorite outdoor spots like parks and open spaces. As we continue to deal with the reality of the virus, we need to protect ourselves and those around us.

You can view the campaign on the Governor's Facebook page here and also at this Youtube link here. Feel free to share on your social media and with your friends and family members and help spread the word about the importance of wearing face coverings to get our state back on track.

Face Mask Order

Extended to June 16

This past weekend Gov. Jared Polis issued Executive Order D-2020-067, which extends the executive order for “Workers in Critical Businesses and Critical Government Functions to Wear Non-Medical Face Coverings.” The extension is in effect for another 30 days and goes until June 16. The order calls for critical government employees to cover their faces while at work and while serving the public. Click here to view the extended executive order

Keep It Covered

Gov. Jared Polis is encouraging every Coloradan to wear non-medical face coverings when leaving their homes to do essential activities.

The state is also urging all employees to wear simple face coverings that cover both the nose and mouth, dust masks or masks made with household items when you need to leave your house for essential activities or critical work. The example you set by these actions will reverberate across your communities.

At CDOT, a face mask requirement is in effect for all staff and will continue to be in effect at least until May 16, 2020, or until otherwise directed. 

While you are at work and interacting with fellow coworkers, you must wear a mask, bandana, scarf, or other type of covering over your mouth and nose. 

This includes: 

• while riding together in fleet vehicles with two (2) or more employees. 
• working in a control room or other enclosed facility where you are in regular contact with employees sitting adjacent to or near you. 
• wearing face coverings in Maintenance facilities and at CDOT worksites where you are interacting with fellow coworkers or members of the general public and cannot maintain at least six feet of separation at all times. 

If you have a health/medical reason why you may not be able to wear a face covering, please consult your supervisor.

When riding in a vehicle alone or working at a facility alone with no other employee contact or interaction, you will not need to wear a mask or similar type of face covering. 

Cloth face coverings should:

• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• be secured with ties or ear loops
• include multiple layers of fabric
• allow for breathing without restriction
• be able to be laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to the shape

There are online tutorials available for simple homemade masks, and the state of Colorado is partnering with coloradomaskproject.com, where people can learn how to make masks and order materials.

For more information visit CDOT Safety Office Face Mask Guide and info on Facemask and Coverings from past Daily Broadcasts can be found here  scroll down to Face mask and Coverings Guide in the list at the bottom of the page.

How to Wear a Cloth Face Covering

Be the example for your community

On Friday, April 3, Governor Polis encouraged every Coloradan to wear non-medical face coverings when leaving their homes to do essential activities.

Colorado state agencies are working with urgency to procure masks for those state employees performing essential and critical functions at work. The state is also urging all employees to wear simple face coverings that cover both the nose and mouth, dust masks, or masks made with household items when you need to leave your house for essential activities or critical work. The example you set by these actions will reverberate across your communities.

Cloth face coverings should:

• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face

• be secured with ties or ear loops

• include multiple layers of fabric

• allow for breathing without restriction

• be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to the shape

Putting on your face covering:

• Mask with Earloops: Hold the mask by the ear loops. Place a loop around each ear.
• Mask with Ties: Bring the mask to your nose level and place the ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow.
• Mask with Bands: Hold the mask in your hand with the nosepiece or top of the mask at fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely below hands.  Bring the mask to your nose level and pull the top strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of your head.  Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of your neck.
• Bandanna Mask: Grab the ends and tie behind your neck/head, pull down the point in front to cover your nose and mouth

How to Remove your Face Covering:

• Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching your face covering/mask. Avoid touching the front. The front of your face covering could be contaminated. Only touch the ear loops/ties/band.  Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing your face covering/mask and wash hands immediately after removing.
• Mask with Earloops: Hold both of the ear loops and gently lift and remove the mask.
• Mask with Ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and pull the mask away from you as the ties are loosened.
• Mask with Bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first then pull the top strap over your head.
• Bandanna Mask: Grab the ends that are tied behind your neck/head and remove by pulling away from your face.

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CDC on Homemade Cloth Face Coverings

CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

CDC also advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.

Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

• Should cloth face coverings be washed or otherwise cleaned regularly? How regularly?
  • Yes. They should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use.
• How does one safely sterilize/clean a cloth face covering?
  • A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering.
• How does one safely remove a used cloth face covering?
  • Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing.

There are online tutorials available for simple homemade masks, and the state of Colorado is partnering with coloradomaskproject.com, where people can learn how to make masks and order materials.

Face Coverings

The Safety Office has just released a new video to help inform and guide employees on the new orange bandanas that were shipped (2-day shipping)  to your regional storerooms today

Link to CDOT Using Bandana Face Mask Video

Getting Gasoline

• If available, use gloves or disinfecting wipes on handles and buttons before you touch them.

• After fueling, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when you get home or somewhere with soap and water.

Trouble with Meet Grid View

Uninstall and reinstall

A few weeks ago we told you about a new feature in Google Meet called grid view. It’s a great way to give your virtual meetings more personality! Unfortunately, some users recently experienced challenges with the grid view display due to an update Google ran on the Chrome browser. 

If you are experiencing issues with the grid view, you can fix it by uninstalling and reinstalling the extension.

To uninstall grid view:

1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer. 
2. At the top right, click More, More tools, Extensions.
3. On the extension you want to remove, click Remove.
4. Confirm by clicking Remove.

To reinstall grid view:

1. Open the Chrome Web Store.
2. Find and select the grid view extension.
3. Click Add to Chrome.
4. Some extensions will let you know if they need certain permissions or data. To approve, click Add extension.

You might also want to check out the new tiled view, which doesn’t require the installation of an extension.

To enable the tile view in Meet:

1. Join a Meet.
2. Click the three dots in the bottom right corner of the Meet screen.
3. Click Change Layout.
4. Click on Tiled.

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Google Meet Shortcuts

Next time you’re using Google Meet, don’t scramble to turn your mic or camera on and off. Try these shortcuts instead. 

Windows

• CTRL+D to mute or unmute your mic
• CTRL+E to turn the camera on or off

Mac

• CMD+D to mute or unmute
• CMD+E to turn the camera on or off

Want more tips like these? 

Drop-in on OIT’s Google Team virtual office hours, available every week to help support the state's remote workforce. Join on the TechU home page. Also, let our team know if the office hours are working for you by taking this short Google Office Hours Interest Survey. 

Google Grid View

Looking to add a little personality to your next meeting? Get the Google Meet Grid View Chrome extension so you can see all the participants in your meeting. You can download the extension by following the instructions below or viewing this video posted on TechU.

• Click here to access the Google Meet Grid View extension
• Click the blue Add to Chrome button
• Click Add Extension 

The extension will show up in the upper right-hand corner of your screen as a grid box icon. When you click on the icon, a drop down contains viewing options.

Now that many state employees have begun working remotely, you may have questions about G Suite apps that you don’t use regularly or want some tips to help you get the most from those apps. The OIT Google Team is here to help with daily virtual open office hours!  

WHEN: The virtual open office hours will start on Monday, March 23, 2020, at 11 a.m. Please use this link to add the event to your calendar. 

DO I NEED TO TAKE ACTION?
No, but if you have questions, join us by URL or by dialing in. Use the link above or you can use this meeting code. If you have any questions about this opportunity, please email [email protected].

Ask Google Meet to Call You

If you need to walk away from your computer during an important meeting, Google Meet has an easy option to transition from computer to phone without missing a beat. Simply click the three dot menu in the bottom right of your computer screen and select Use a phone for audio. You’ll be prompted to enter your phone number. Google will call you, and upon answering, will add you right into your meeting. It’s that easy.

If this is a feature you like, you can also initiate it before joining a meeting. Click on the Join with Google Meet button in the calendar invite. Select the option Join and use a phone for audio. 

Google 

Drive and Spam updates

Google Drive: Google updated the look and options for Drive sharing yesterday. Whether you are sharing at the folder or file level. You can learn more about this change on the Drive page of TechU or by watching this video.

Spam: OIT also worked with Google this week to fix a glitch that resulted in important emails being sent to spam. Be sure to check your spam folder in case you might have a non-spam email there.

Share Securely in Google 

Google Drive is a group of cloud-based apps available in your state Google account. Drive apps offer easy collaboration but there is the potential you could share too much publicly if you aren’t familiar with the permission settings. The best way to keep data secure while working in Drive is to understand the sharing option available to you and make sure permissions are set appropriately. Here’s a summary of the permissions available. 

Public on the web means that anyone performing a Google search using a keyword that is in your document could come across it in a search and view it. 

Allowing anyone with the link to access it is a good option if you need to share the document outside of the state or if contributors will be sharing the document with others. 

Selecting state executive branch employees means your doc is discoverable by anyone logged in to their state account who searches for a keyword in the doc. 

State executive branch employees who have the link means state employees can’t find it through a search, but if you include the link in an email, anyone logged in to their state account can view it and can share with anyone else who has a state Google account. 

The most limited way of sharing is to select the specific people option which means you will have to directly take the action to indicate who can view or edit your document.  

Click here for more advanced tips on sharing permissions in Drive. 

Training for Google Hangouts 

Sessions Added - March 31 & April 7 

A wise person once said, "If something's going to go wrong, it's the tech." For so many of us working virtually right now, this class will help you get more comfortable with Google Hangouts so you can have more productive meetings and better connect with coworkers. No registration is needed. Simply join a session!

Available sessions:

• Tue. 3/31/2020, 1-2 p.m.: meet.google.com/rjb-skgs-orb  
• Tue. 4/7/2020, 1-2 p.m.: meet.google.com/mvj-ejyw-sbr

What You Will Learn

• Pre-Trip Your Tech: How to join a meeting, when to use the Google Hangout link or phone dial-in (or both), audio use and headphone use.
• Passenger Basics: How and when to mute and unmute, video, chat, closed captioning and screen sharing.
• Taking the Wheel: Scheduling Hangouts, sharing screens, recording and resources.

What You Will Learn

• Pre-Trip Your Tech: How to join a meeting, when to use the Google Hangout link or phone dial-in (or both), audio and headphone use.

• Passenger Basics: How and when to mute and unmute, video, chat and screen sharing.

• Taking the Wheel: How-to meetings and other resources.

Need an Advanced Class?

Stay tuned! We'll be scheduling a few sessions on how to conduct a meeting in Google Hangouts. Email [email protected] with questions.

CDPHE Briefing
 

If you did not have time to catch yesterday COVID-19 briefing from the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment on the current epidemiological data yesterday afternoon. You can still watch it at your convenience, at the following link: https://youtu.be/SvB-Opfv6mM.

COVID-19 Update

New guidelines announced by Gov. Jared Polis

Yesterday Gov. Jared Polis outlined a new round of Safer-at-Home guidelines to further relax restrictions on our economy and society in as safe a way as possible. The Protect Our Neighbors phase will provide a framework that will empower local governments that can demonstrate strong public health and health care systems, paired with low virus levels, to make decisions about how they should reopen. The governor also announced additional draft guidelines under Safer at Home and discussed the state’s efforts to prepare for a potential second wave of the virus.

“The message now is that we need to take personal responsibility by wearing a mask when leaving the house and social distancing.” -Gov. Jared Polis

Coloradans can visit www.coloradosaferathome.com to provide feedback on the draft guidelines. The new guidelines will be open for comment for 48 hours and will be finalized on Thursday, June 18.

Governor Jared Polis provided an update this week on Colorado’s response to COVID-19 and announced a stay at home guide for Coloradans.

“Everyone is working hard, doing their part, and giving what they can so that we can defeat this virus and get back to normal life here in our great state. This is a critically important time for Coloradans to stay at home to do our part to help save lives,” 

Governor Jared Polis 

The Governor’s administration has released guidance for the upcoming religious holidays Coloradans of different faiths will be celebrating, including Easter, Passover, and Ramadan. The Governor encouraged faith leaders to offer online or drive-in services in order to serve their congregations or safely accommodate worshippers by ensuring a six-foot distance between them.  You can read the guidance here. 

The Governor also announced new online resources for Coloradans in the form of https://stayathomeco.colorado.gov which includes free resources to support Coloradans while they are at home, from wellness to services, to education, to entertainment and more. Coloradans can also visit covid.colorado.gov to get information from all state agencies, including the Department of Public Health and Environment’s COVID19.colorado.gov which has the most recent available data. 

This week Governor Polis also provided an update on the Help Colorado Now relief efforts. To date, Coloradans have donated nearly $10 million, with $1 million of that coming from more than 5,000 donors. Coloradans can visit www.helpcoloradonow.org to donate their time or money to the relief efforts.

Governor Polis Town Hall | April 7, 2020

Gov. Jared Polis joined Denver 9NEWS anchor Kyle Clark for a one-hour town hall on Tuesday, April 7, that focused entirely on questions about the state’s response to COVID-19. The interview begins at 7 p.m., and the town hall will also air on KRDO in Colorado Springs and KKCO/KJCT in Grand Junction.

You can also watch the town hall on 9NEWS.com, 9NEWS YouTube channel, 9NEWS Facebook and the free 9NEWS phone apps and free Roku, Apple TV and Fire TV apps.

For more information on the broadcast and how you can submit questions visit the 9News story on the town hall.

Gov. Polis Provided An Update | April 16

Wednesday, April 16, Gov. Jared Polis outlined three phases for the state’s response to COVID-19: urgent, stabilization and recovery. Colorado is currently in the urgent phase, and the governor discussed how our state will get to the stabilization and recovery stages:

The State of Colorado continues working toward a return to a sustainable way of life that protects public health and the economy. 

“As we reopen our state, we know that things will work differently than they did before, and we must enshrine social distancing in the way we live, work and play in a sustainable way for a matter of months.” ~ Gov. Jared Polis

Within the next five days, the state expects the data and the science to determine what level of suppression the stay-at-home order has achieved. Also, within the next five days, the state expects to be able to determine what level of ongoing social distancing Coloradans need to strive for to effectively manage the future spread of COVID-19. 

• Watch the governor’s presentation on Google
• To volunteer visit: HelpColoradoNow.org
• Keep up to date: COVID19.Colorado.gov

Reminder: All CDOT exercise facilities will be closed for use at HQ and in the Regions. In compliance with the statewide order to close all gyms  Employees need to remove personal items as soon as possible.

Take Time to Smell the Flowers

Benefit CDOT Families In Need

CDOT Helping Hand is hosting the 2020 Flower Power Event. For every purchase made the CDOT Helping Hand will get 50%. A great gift idea, these flowers will add color to any garden. Simply visit the site, choose from a wide variety of bulbs that will arrive in time for fall planting, and you will have made a difference to a CDOT family member in need. The deadline to order Spring flowers is May 1. All orders are made online, and bulbs are shipped directly to the purchaser. 

Click on the link for more information, and to place an order.

We're All in this Together! How to Help

Since Governor Polis declared a state of emergency for Colorado early last month, people and organizations across Colorado have jumped at the opportunity to help. The Help Colorado Now website is a site where residents can make monetary contributions or seek out volunteer opportunities to assist during this crisis. To date, this site has generated more than $7 million, and 5,000 Coloradans just like you have signed up to volunteer their time and talents to those who are hurting most. We’re all in this together.

CDOT staff are encouraged to share helpcoloradonow.org with your friends and family members who might be interested in volunteering, offering services, or donating personal supplies.

1918 Spanish Influenza

History Lesson

From our friends at the Durango Herald: a look back at how social distancing made a difference in Southwest Colorado over a century ago.

Link to story here:

• https://durangoherald.com/articles/319788-a-lesson-from-the-spanish-influenza-outbreak-a-century-ago

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Significant dates in the life of CDOT

1909: The first highway bill was passed by forming a three-member Highway Commission to approve work and allocate funds. The commission first convened on Jan. 1, 1910.

1917: The State Highway Fund was created, and a State Highway Department was formed.

1935: Highway Department employees were joined by 44 new coworkers selected from among 7,500 applicants to become the first members of the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol. The patrol became a division of the Highway Department.

1947: The first National System of Interstate and Defense Highways was approved by the administrator of the Federal Works Agency. In Colorado, approved routes included all of I-25 from the Wyoming border to Raton Pass, all of I-80S (now I-76), and I-70 from Denver to the Kansas border.

1953: The state legislature passed a new law reorganizing the Highway Department and renaming it the Colorado Department of Highways.

1956: Congress passed the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways Act (commonly known as the Federal Interstate Highways Act). Among the approvals was the section of I-70 from Denver to the Utah border.

1973: The Eisenhower tunnel on I-70, one of the greatest engineering accomplishments in state history, was completed. The Eisenhower Tunnel took 13 years and $125 million to complete. The eastbound bore Johnson Tunnel, named after former governor and U.S. Senator Edwin C. Johnson, opened in 1979. These tunnels were vital to the completion of I-70 through the Continental Divide.

1991: CDOH became Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)

2006: The $1.6 billion T-Rex project, which expanded I-25 and I-225 and added adjacent light rail service in Denver, is completed. The project was composed of a team that included CDOT, the Regional Transportation District (RTD), Federal Highway Administration, and Federal Transit Administration and was one of the nation’s first Design-Build projects. T-Rex was completed under budget and ahead of schedule.

2010: CDOT celebrates its 100-year anniversary.

Badges cannot be produced currently at HQ. It is unclear at this time when new badges can be issued. Please send your badge requests to [email protected]  and CC: [email protected] New staff working from home do not need a badge immediately.

Get the Word Out

New internal announcement request form

We are rolling out a new online form for CDOTers to use if you have something you would like to go out to a wider CDOT audience. This form is a one-stop shop for any department within CDOT to request information be sent via our internal communications channels. With the form, you can specify an individual region, HQ, HQ/R1 or all of CDOT. Please refrain from emailing such requests moving forward. 

Users can also select their preferred mode for posting their announcements and/or events. All submissions are subject to approval by the Communications team.

• Employee E-Blasts/Regional eNewsletters (email)
• FourWinds - TV Screens (only available at HQ and Region 4)
• Intranet
• The Loop (email for supervisors only)

Click here to access the new CDOT Internal Announcement Request form.

Intranet Moving to Google Sites

CDOT to launch new Intranet by end of summer 

In an effort to create a sustainable and user-friendly Intranet platform for all CDOT employees, CDOT Communications and the Office of Information Technology will be moving the current CDOT Intranet (VPN required) to a new and improved Google Sites. This will become your one-stop-shop for all internal information and resources.

What does this mean to you? CDOT Communications is currently working on moving over content from the current Intranet platform to a new, approved CDOT template. There is also an approved theme for department/division sites that align with the CDOT web and brand standards. 

Updates on this project will be shared here as the project develops. The goal is to launch the new site by the end of summer 2020. 

Do you currently manage or are you interested in a Google Site for your team? 

• If your team currently has a Google site you will need to contact Felicia Michael, web & digital experience manager, to ensure your site aligns with the updated CDOT web and branding standards. 

• Any team that does not yet have a Google Site but who is interested in hosting and managing their own site should also contact Felicia to begin the intake process.

The 9-1-1 resources are being stretched thin with unnecessary calls related to COVID-19. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has put together some tips on when you should and shouldn’t call 9-1-1.

Legislative Wrap Up

OPGR Issues Summary of Session

The Office of Policy & Government Relations has released a memo summarizing the recently completed Colorado General Assembly legislative session.  Here are the bills that passed that will impact CDOT.

Transportation Finance

House Bill 20-1376 (Transportation Funding).  

Impacts to CDOT: For two years, CDOT’s budget will be reduced by $62m/year.  

House Bill 20-1381 (Modify Transportation Funding Mechanisms). 

Impacts to CDOT: The General Assembly transferred almost $100m to the Multi-Modal fund in 2018. The majority of the funding ($80m) went to local governments for dedicated transit type projects. CDOT had $14 million in the fund, and the legislature took $10 million of that to help balance the budget.

Freight Office

Senate Bill 20-118 (Hazardous Materials Transport Permit Issuance).

Impacts to CDOT: This legislation creates efficiencies for hazardous material haulers to get permits. Since freight haulers get overweight and oversize permits through CDOT’s freight office, bringing hazardous material transport permits into this existing CDOT system consolidates the process. 

House Bill 20-1030 (Commercial Vehicle Annual Fleet Overweight Permits). 

Impacts to CDOT: The CDOT Freight Office will incorporate these changes into the existing software permitting system available to freight owners. Owners will be able to apply online.

Senate Bill 20-218 (CDPHE and Hazardous Substances Response).

Impacts on CDOT: The total of the fee revenue to CDOT will be around $1.8m annually for freight safety projects statewide. This funding will be useful for a variety of different projects designed to improve safety and efficiency for freight hauling in Colorado.

Human Resources

House Bill 20-1153 (Colo. Partnership for Quality Jobs and Services Act).

Impacts to CDOT: The department will work closely with the Department of Law to formalize the new labor practices outlined in the bill.

View the full final legislative memo with bill descriptions from Andy Karsian, CDOT Legislative Liaison.

Limit Weekend Travel

CDOT and DNR remind people to stay local

With the weekend approaching and warm temperatures tempting Coloradans, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are reminding people to keep recreational activities within 10 miles of home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Digital message boards on Colorado roadways across the state will remind motorists about the restrictions and to stay close to home.

This week Governor Polis moved the state from a Stay-at-Home to a Safer-at-Home status. Coloradans are still urged to stay home but continue to avoid unnecessary travel and visiting our mountain communities. Coloradans along the Front Range should not travel to the mountains or foothills to hike, ski, snowmobile or engage in any other recreational activities. Residents are reminded to stay in their local neighborhoods or communities this weekend. 

“We have a responsibility to protect our state and our community by staying close to home during this pandemic. Please follow the public health order and recreate within 10 miles of home. It’s up to us all to keep each other safe.”

Shoshana Lew, Executive Director of CDOT

The virus is still present in Colorado and can re-surge at any time. According to the Center for Disease Control, any travel increases the risk of spreading COVID-19 across communities.  Many Colorado counties have extended their local Stay-At-Home orders. Check with your local public health agency for the latest local ordinances: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/find-your-local-public-health-agency.

Campgrounds at state parks and on national forests and other recreation areas remain closed. Picnic areas and facilities at some trailheads are not available and some backcountry parking lots are closed (or have limited capacity). Coloradans are urged to be aware of any local closures or public health orders and avoid busy trailheads.

New Customer Service Tool | Luma

The next time you need IT assistance, log in to the Customer Service Portal and let Luma help. Luma is our new chatbot and is quickly learning about the state workforce needs. 

Right now Luma can help with things like:

• password resets,
• submitting a new ticket,
• accessing your existing tickets,
• directing you to knowledge articles on a variety of IT topics, and
• connecting you to a live Service Desk analyst via chat.

You can find Luma in the bottom right corner of the Customer Service Portal. Just click on the icon to get started! Haven’t used the Customer Service Portal yet? Simply click on the reset password link on the login page to give it a try.

Maintenance Q&A with EMT

All-Hands Maintenance Meeting, April 23

As essential workers, we are both fortunate to remain employed and responsible to our team and the public to do our job safely and effectively. Sections and patrols have stepped up to the plate and implemented shift changes, social distancing and additional cleaning procedures to keep ourselves and our team safe. 

To ensure we are cohesive in our efforts, we will be hosting a Virtual All-Hands Maintenance meeting from 11 a.m. to noon on Thursday, April 23 with executive leadership, including Executive Director Lew, Director of Maintenance and Operations John Lorme and directors from Human Resources and the Safety and Risk Management Office. You will be able to watch the live YouTube video feed on a smartphone or computer or watch a playback at any time. Please notify your supervisor if you believe you will have difficulty accessing the meeting. This will be a great opportunity to hear from our senior leadership, get guidance on important questions and procedures and recognize your hard work. 

We would like to ask you to submit any questions ahead of time, so we are able to make the meeting as useful as possible for you. 

You can submit questions using this form Q&A Session with EMT before/by April 15, 2020. 

COVID-19 Workplace Guidelines

Fueling Up

When fueling fleet vehicles, employees are urged to use caution at the gas station. Wear disposable nitrile gloves when pumping fuel, and discard them before getting back into the vehicle. If you do not have gloves on hand, try to use plastic bags, old bread bags or paper hand towels that are sometimes available at the pump. Carry these items in your vehicle to cover your hands when you grip the handle. Always wash your hands (20-second rule) as soon as possible or try to carry hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes with you. These tips can also be used when fueling the personal vehicles you use.

Understanding every maintenance patrol and section is different with its own challenges, and we have developed a (one-page) general plan of action for TMIIs and TMIIIs to refer to while working through the crisis down to the first level supervisor level. 

CDOT has a new video on disinfecting fleet vehicles.  It is more important than ever to keep our fleet clean. Please watch this video if you use a CDOT fleet vehicle. 

Maintenance and operations is all about teamwork, and social distancing can be challenging in this type of setting. These guidelines will help our teams do their best to protect the force and still perform their critical functions. 

Maintenance Patrol Preparedness

Vehicle Cleaning

The Safety and Well-being of Our Employees is a Core Value of CDOT

CDOT has guidance to help keep our fleet clean and safe for our workers. These guidelines will help to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19 and other seasonal diseases. By employing regular cleaning and disinfecting practices to our maintenance (orange fleet) and light fleet (white fleet) vehicles, we can effectively minimize the transmission of these diseases while using these vehicles and equipment.

Recent studies indicate bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19 (coronavirus), can live on surfaces in excess of 72 hours. This resiliency provides a source of contamination for the next operator or occupants in our vehicles.

Cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces with approved cleaners and disinfectants removes the vast majority of bacteria and viruses that cause flu, colds and other seasonal illnesses reducing the probability of transmission.

Vehicle Cleaning Procedure

We Will Never Forget

Best wishes for a  happy and safe Memorial Day as we pause to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. 

Memorial Day honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2020 occurs on Monday, May 25. 

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated following the end of the Civil War in 1865 and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer travel season.  Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades (most parades are canceled this year due to the pandemic). 

For More Information on Memorial Day visit the History Channel site here

Memorial Moment

Governor promotes honoring the fallen

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis on Wednesday urged citizens to be responsible during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.  Polis said it is not the time for large family reunions and massive cookouts and celebrations during a live press conference on his Facebook page yesterday.

“This isn’t exactly a normal Memorial Day weekend. This is a Memorial Day weekend in the middle of a worldwide pandemic -- the worst pandemic that we hope to ever face in our lifetime” 

Governor Jared Polis

The Governor urged Coloradoan to honor this Memorial Day by doing what Memorial Day is all about: solemnly honoring the fallen.  He suggested citizens take a quiet time out to remember why we have this holiday and to honor those who died in our nation’s service.

Travel Forecast

Due to COVID-19 the American Automobile Association (AAA) won’t be issuing its annual Memorial Day travel forecast.  This will be the first time since AAA began issuing travel forecasts 20 years ago, that they will not track holiday travel numbers.  Memorial Day is viewed as the unofficial start of the summer travel season. The pandemic has halted many plans for one of the highest volume travel holidays of the year.   

“With social distancing guidelines still in practice, this holiday weekend’s travel volume is likely to set a record low.” 

Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel 

The previous record low took place in 2008 during the great recession with only 31 million travelers. AAA noted that just last year, 43 million Americans traveled for Memorial Day Weekend—the second-highest travel volume on record. AAA expects that many Americans are choosing to stay put, or at least close to home this year even as some states begin to reopen from COVID-19 restrictions.

Memorial Day Memo

Memorial Day Weekend traffic counts at the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnels were down 25% from last year’s totals for the holiday weekend. Traffic was measured over the course of four days from Friday through Monday.

A number of seasonal roadways normally open by Memorial Day have delayed openings this year. Listed dates or time frames are subject to change: 

• State Highway 5 – Mount Evans. Date to be determined.
• State Highway 82 – Independence Pass between Twin Lakes and Aspen.  Monday, June 1.
• Trail Ridge Road between Estes Park and Grand Lake (Rocky Mountain National Park). Date to be determined. 
• Guanella Pass between Georgetown and Grant. Date to be determined.
• Kebler Pass between Crested Butte and the Paonia area. OPEN.
• Cottonwood Pass between Buena Vista and Gunnison County. Monday, June 1.

For the current status of the seasonal roads above, please check cotrip.org.

On the Move

Colorado recorded the highest increase of trips over 250 miles or more (for the 49 contiguous states) since the pandemic began this past holiday weekend. This was a 185% increase in these types of trips. Trips between 100 and 250 miles were also up significantly in our state. The data comes from the Daily Travel Index published by Arrivalist, a location analytics company based in New York. The company uses GPS data from personal mobile devices to anonymously track how much people are moving. The index does not track where people are going. They subtract out flights, work commutes, freight traffic and trips less than 50 miles. Other states that recorded large increases in longer trips include: Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Kansas and Arizona.

On March 27, Colorado came in with the lowest number of long-distance trips, and for several weeks afterward, the numbers remained very low. Since the lowest numbers in late March and early April, road trips of 50 miles or more in Colorado are up 144%.

A spokesperson for the company noted that Americans used to consider 300 miles a cutoff point for taking a flight versus driving. Five-hundred miles is now the new distance the company has observed, and that could correlate to Colorado seeing more visitors drive rather than fly this summer.

You can read the full travel index here:  Daily Travel Index.

Stay Home

CDOT Employees across Colorado are doing their part to keep their social distance and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please remember that no one should be going to the office on any type of a regular basis (even if for a limited number of hours or days/week). We should only go to the office for necessary trips and tasks.  Doing this might be putting yourself and others at risk. If you have been approved to work from home the expectation is you work from home and not work at the office for non-essential reasons. 

All employees should avoid entering their office during this crisis unless absolutely necessary.

If you do go into the office: 

1. Wear a face covering
2. Limit your time in the facility
3. Wash your hands frequently
4. Maintain distance from others
5. Do not go in if you feel sick 
6. Did we mention frequent washing of your hands?
7. Avoid touching your face

CDOT employees across Colorado are doing their part to keep their social distance and reduce the spread of COVID-19. Thank you for doing your part. It has been trying on all of us, and we all need to practice social distancing to keep each other safe and healthy. 

Thank you for doing your part-it has been trying on all of us and we all need to practice social distancing to keep each other safe and healthy.  

Stay-at-Home Order Extended

Gov. Polis announced on Monday, April 6, an extension of Colorado’s stay-at-home order until April 26. It is hoped that by this date, the state will have reached a point where we can successfully test and contain the virus, and our medical infrastructure can safely treat those who fall ill. If there is any way to end this stay-at-home order sooner, the governor announced that he will.  

You should continue to follow the guidance of your supervisors on when or how you should report to work. Transportation is considered essential and our front line workers are keeping the state’s transportation infrastructure and network functioning and able to allow for essential travel and the movement of goods and supplies to help combat this pandemic.

• CDPHE Stay-at-Home Info and FAQs

Six-Foot Rule 

Please be respectful of the personal space of others. If you need to be in the presence of another employee (at the office or in the field), please stay at least six feet apart from each other.

Stay-at-Home Order Explained

The Data Behind the Decisions

The governor recently gave a presentation to discuss some of the predictive modeling guiding the public health decisions he and public health experts are making. A copy of Governor Polis' presentation is online.

This data explains why the governor issued the Stay-at-Home Order. The more we can do to increase social distancing, the more time we have to build additional intensive-care capacity, secure medical equipment, build ventilators and produce more protective equipment while fewer patients show up in hospitals all at once. Watch the update on COVID-19 press conference on Facebook here.

Pictured: A Region 1 crew practicing Social Distance while doing critical highway work.

Explore Our Great State without Leaving Your Home

For a little Friday fun, here are 14 interesting facts about Colorado that you can enjoy and research while staying “Safer at Home” this summer.

1. “America the Beautiful” was inspired by a climb up Pikes Peak.
2. The term “cheeseburger” was originally trademarked by Denver’s Humpty Dumpty Drive-In in 1935. A stone monument marking this fact is located on Speer Boulevard at Firth Court in the parking lot of the Key Bank where the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In used to be.
3. There were once more than 1,500 ghost towns in Colorado following the mining era. Today, a little over 600 still remain.
4. Mesa Verde National Park is one of the richest archaeological sites in the world and contains more than 4,000 protected areas, many from 600-1,300 A.D.
5. Nederland is home to a body that has been frozen cryogenically for decades. It’s the namesake for the annual “Frozen Dead Guy Days” festival.
6. Colorado is home to the Four Corners Monument, the only place where the corners of four states meet.
7. Colorado has one the largest sets of dinosaur tracks in the world at Picketwire Canyon. You can find more than 1,300 steps across roughly one-quarter mile.
8. Dove Creek in Dolores County is the “Pinto Bean Capital of the World” due to the many beans grown in the area.
9. Colfax Avenue in the Denver metro area is the longest continuous street in the United States.
10. Pagosa Springs is home to the deepest geothermal hot spring in the world. All attempts to measure an official depth have failed. It is at least 1,002 feet deep.
11. Glenwood Springs is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool.
12. The tallest sand dunes in the USA can be found at Great Sand Dunes National Park, the highest dune is over 750 feet.
13. The highest suspension bridge in the country can be found in Cañon City above the Royal Gorge at 955 feet.
14. The road to the top of Mount Evans is the highest paved road in America at 14,238 feet.

MORE...Staycation ideas

Culture, music, thrill-seeking — channel your inner beast

1. Watch a Broadway play

2. The curtain may have closed on Broadway in New York City, but it can rise again in your home thanks to the many live versions of popular Broadway musicals that are available via streaming services. Netflix is home to many popular musicals. You can stream your favorite Broadway hits with BroadwayHD, which is offering a seven-day free trial. The platform contains more than 300 titles. You can also watch the talents of Broadway royalty like Billy Porter and Kristin Chenoweth on The Actor's Fund YouTube each day for free (donations are encouraged to help fund coronavirus relief). This is a great way to introduce your kids to the magic of live theater — with the ability to pause for bathroom breaks.

3. Attend a virtual concert
   COVID-19 has ushered in the availability of many musical performances from the likes of Diplo, Tinashe, Daft Punk, Miley Cyrus, Questlove, and more while social distancing. Austin City Limits (ACL), the longest running music series on TV, opened its online archives for free streaming. ACL concerts include popular artists such as Billie Eilish, Janelle Monáe, Mitski and Vampire Weekend, to name a few.
   
   Or maybe introduce the kids to opera with some of the Met's nightly opera streams. If classical music is more your thing, you can stream any of the 600 orchestral concerts from The Berlin Philharmonic free of charge for 30 days with the code BERLINPHIL.

3. Ride a virtual roller coaster 
   Forget the hour-long waits in line, videos on The Coaster Views or The Sharp Productions (both on YouTube) let you take virtual roller coaster rides from some of the best amusement parks including Disney World, Universal Studios, Cedar Point and Six Flags (puke bags not provided.).

4. Visit a zoo 
   Zookeepers across the U.S. are live-streaming animals from some of their most popular exhibits. Panda lovers can spend hours checking out pandas across the states while viewing the Panda Cam at Zoo Atlanta, two different panda cams at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., or the Panda Cam at the San Diego Zoo. For an up-close look at giraffes, gorillas or elephants, check out the Giraffe Cam at the Houston Zoo. 

For more behind-the-scenes videos, stories and virtual tours, visit the San Diego Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo's daily live stream, The Smithsonian National Zoo, or the Minnesota Zoo. Go local and visit our very own Denver Zoo. 

CDOT’s Summer Work Plan 

COVID-19 Response

Earlier this week, Executive Director Lew provided an update to what the next few months will look like for CDOT. She also stressed the need for us to stay focused on managing the risk of COVID-19 to protect each other and our communities.

Highlights Include:

➺The need to maintain current COVID-19 protocols through at least Labor Day, Sept. 7, as fully as possible

➺It is strongly encouraged for employees who are able to work from home to continue doing so, through at least Labor Day, Sept. 7. 

➺You are required to work with your supervisor if you wish to return to the office. 

➺The CDOT safety team will be providing more details on a “return to work safely” plan in the weeks to come.

➺CDOT will continue to be responsive to your needs to balance work with family or other personal responsibilities. 

➺Employees may be asked or provided the opportunity to continue to work from home beyond  Labor Day as we will continue to monitor recommendations.

➺We must maintain the ability to pivot and respond to rapid change for some time to come.

To see the full update from Director Lew check your email or click here.

USDOT | Learn about the Federal Agency that Oversees Transportation

Did you know the USDOT employs almost 55,000 people across the country, in the Office of the Secretary of Transportation (OST) and its operating administrations and bureaus, each with its own management and organizational structure? The top priorities at the USDOT are to keep the traveling public safe and secure, increase mobility and have our transportation system contribute to the nation's economic growth.

Here are the various components of the USDOT

• Office of the Secretary (OST)

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

• Office of Inspector General (OIG)

• Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

• Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

• Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (SLSDC)

• Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

• Maritime Administration (MARAD)

Learn more about USDOT and its operating administrations and bureaus here.

USDOT COVID-19 Response

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) plays an active part in the response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). As a member of the federal Coronavirus Task Force, USDOT helps support efforts to contain and mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 and ensure the continuation of critical infrastructure support and relief for the American people.

Below are links to resources demonstrating how USDOT is responding to COVID-19. The safety of our transportation networks is vital to maintaining economic durability and the free flow of essential supplies, food, fuel, and medical equipment. Response measures implemented by the department to date have included stakeholder outreach and guidance, expanded federal assistance and regulatory relief. These pages will be updated by the USDOT on a regular basis as new information and resources become available.

Recent Updates & Resources

Visit Coronavirus Resources at the Department of Transportation for more information. 

Use of Personal Devices

Tips and Advice from OIT

When using a personal device to conduct state business, you must comply with the guidelines found in the Statewide Acceptable Use of State Data & IT Resources Policy (also known as the AUP). It is incumbent upon you to read the AUP in its entirety to ensure you understand your responsibilities.

Before using a personal device make sure:

• All of your software is up to date. This includes the operating system, antivirus and security software, etc.
• It is free from malware infection and running anti-malware protective software.
• It is protected by strong authentication, such as a password or PIN.
• It is set to automatically receive security and operating system updates.
• Do not save any work-related documents to your personal device.

In accordance with the AUP, the use of personal computers is not allowed when using a remote access tool such as eVPN.

Personal Phones

• You may use your personal phone to participate in meetings or to conduct state business in general.
• You may also download Google apps onto your personal smartphone and log in using your state credentials to access Gmail, Docs and your Calendar. You can download each of the apps from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
• Do not download or save work-related documents to your personal smartphone.

Good for Kids at Home

It’s easy to get cabin fever, and you do the same walk around the neighborhood only so many times. When you need a trip to a new and interesting place, check out these video tours of Open Heritage Sites from around the world… and how to go to the bathroom in space. 

Virtual museum tours include:

• British Museum, London 
• Guggenheim Museum, NYC
• National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC
• Musee d’Orsay, Paris 
• National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul 
• Pergamon Museum, Berlin
• Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam 
• Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
• The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles 
• Uffizi Gallery, Florence
• MSAP, Sao Paulo 
• Blarney Castle and Gardens, Scotland

7 Habits & Speed of Trust Classes - New Dates Added!

Now Virtual > Enrollment Required

Leadership Journey classes are converting to virtual format! The first two are available for enrollment. We're converting more classes to virtual and will continue to teach Leadership Journey virtually until we can return to in-person delivery.

Available for Enrollment

Classes are open to anyone statewide. Enrollment in the LMS is required for long-format virtual training. Enrollment is first-come, first-served.

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 8/4-8/5 and 8/25-8/26

• Leading at the Speed of Trust: 7/28-7/29 and 8/19-8/20

How to Enroll

1. Log into the SAP LMS. (Interns/temps: use this SAP Portal link.)

2. Under Find Learning, search for the course by name.

3. Click the date you want, then click Register Now.

4. Have your supervisor approve your seat in the LMS. (Instructions are here.)

You do not have a seat in this class until your supervisor approves you in the LMS!

Future Classes

CDOT Values and Mastering Emotional Intelligence are soon to be released, so keep an eye on Public Announcements.

Leadership Journey Evolution

This program continues to evolve.  From adding virtual sessions that allow us to engage statewide as one Team CDOT to making additional changes to the courses and program structure, our goal is to make sure this program best serves you.

Questions?

Email [email protected]

Virtual Training

Training Survey

Provide feedback on employee development training

Training Survey > Virtual Tech Training & Virtual Leadership Training

The CDOT Office of Employee Development (OED) provides training to all employees. We need your feedback about our virtual training, including:

• Virtual MS Office training

• Virtual Google training

• Virtual 1-Hour Leadership training

• Virtual Leadership Journey classes

Your feedback will help us improve our current training offerings AND help shape future training offerings. This survey will take you three to five minutes to complete. The survey closes July 24, 2020.

TAKE THE ANONYMOUS SURVEY NOW >

Virtual Technology Training & 1-Hour Leadership Training Survey

About OED

Visit and bookmark the Learning Lane website, where you can find information about CDOT training.

Questions? Send to [email protected].

Thank you! Stay safe and healthy, all.

Cyber Security E-Learning

June 30 deadline

OIT requires all state employees to take cyber security e-learning every year. If you have not already done so, please complete your required Q2 training, which is due 6/30/2020.

How to Take Cyber E-Learning

• Go to CDOT’s SAP LMS (VPN required) 

• Interns and temps use this SAP Portal link (VPN required).

• Log in with SAP Portal user ID, password.

• Navigate to Employee Self Service then go to Learning In My Learning Assignments courses that are due can be found on your page. You must complete each module in sequence.

7 Habits & Speed of Trust Classes

Now Virtual > Enrollment Required

Leadership Journey classes are converting to virtual format! The first two are available for enrollment. We're converting more classes to virtual and will continue to teach Leadership Journey virtually until we can return to in-person delivery. With that said, post-COVID, we envision offering the Leadership Journey both in-person and virtual formats.

Available for Enrollment

Classes are open to anyone statewide. Enrollment in the LMS is required for long-format virtual training. Enrollment is first-come, first-served.

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 7/16-7/17 and 7/28-7/29

• Leading at the Speed of Trust: 7/21-7/22

How to Enroll

1. Log into the SAP LMS. (Interns/temps: use this SAP Portal link.)

2. Under Find Learning, search for the course by name.

3. Click the date you want, then click Register Now.

4. Have your supervisor approve your seat in the LMS. (Instructions are here.)

You do not have a seat in this class until your supervisor approves you in the LMS!

Future Classes

We'll soon announce additional virtual classes for July-September, so keep an eye on Public Announcements.

Leadership Journey Evolution

The Leadership Journey program continues to evolve in many ways! From adding virtual sessions that allow us to engage statewide as one Team CDOT to making additional changes to the courses and program structure, our goal is to make sure this program best serves you.

Questions?

Email [email protected].

See the full schedule here.

NEW! 

NEW! Distributed Teams

• 6/16/2020, 1-2 p.m.: meet.google.com/gaw-eiux-pmo

NEW! Project First

CDOT’s Project First Program is a partnering program for construction projects across the state. Drawing on the strengths of CDOT and our contractors, Project First identifies mutual goals that we can achieve together to ensure we complete projects on time and within budget. 

Who should attend? Resident Engineers (PE) and anyone acting in the PE or Assistant PE role on a CDOT project, including PE Is, CEPM IIs and Consultant Project Engineers as well as Contractor Project Superintendents and Project Managers 

When and where is the course offered? This instructor-led course is now being offered online, using Adobe Connect software. Installation and login instructions and course materials will be emailed before the session. Computer audio (microphone and speakers or a headset with a microphone) is required; a webcam is optional. 

Tuesday, June 16, 2020, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

Wednesday, June 24, 2020, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. 

This is NOT a lecture. It is intended to be a shared learning experience. There will be some presentation sections. But there will also be group activities and discussions of project issues. We hope that everyone will participate, ask questions, and share their experiences. Go here for more information and to register in the LMS.

NEW! Excel Level 2 (6/3) & Excel Level 3 (6/4)

Two virtual Excel classes are now available to CDOTers statewide. Each session is limited to 20 attendees. Registration in the CDOT LMS required. You are welcome to sign up for both sessions. Attendance is first-come, first-served.

NEW! Microsoft Excel 2016 - Level 2

• Date: 6/3/2020, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

• Attendance: Virtual – After your attendance is approved in the LMS, you’ll receive a calendar appointment with a link to attend

• Course description: This course is for people with a foundational knowledge of Excel 2016. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to leverage the power of data analysis and presentation in order to make informed, intelligent organizational decisions. Topics include Excel functions, lists, data analysis, visualizing data and charts, pivot tables and pivot charts.

NEW! Microsoft Excel 2016 Level 3

• Date: 6/4/2020, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

• Attendance: Virtual – After your attendance is approved in the LMS, you’ll receive a calendar appointment with a link to attend.

• Description: This course is for people with strong Excel 2016 experience. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to perform advanced data analysis, collaborate on workbooks with other users and automate workbook functionality. Topics include: multiple worksheets and workbooks, Lookup functions and formula auditing, sharing and protecting workbooks, automating workbook functionality, creating sparklines and map data, and forecasting data.

NEW! Trauma and Resilience Foundations and CDOT Peer Support Program 

As employees of CDOT, we are proud public servants who help the traveling public in myriad ways. However, sometimes we experience the stress of high-stakes situations that can be dangerous or even deadly. Many of us have witnessed traumatic events, regularly work in high-pressure situations and have experienced the loss of colleagues on the job. In this virtual training, you’ll learn more about the foundations of trauma and resilience, as well as learn more about the CDOT Peer Support program (VPN required) that is available to all CDOT employees.

About This Training

Nicole Weis from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) will discuss trauma and traumatic experiences, the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and resilience and coping through trauma and stress. Nicole will also discuss the CDOT Peer Support program (VPN required) that launched in 2018; this program, which was developed by CDOT and UCCS, supports CDOT employees who have experienced trauma or a stressful work or life event. Training attendees will hear from current CDOT Peer Supporters who will share their experiences serving in this role.

Session Dates & How to Sign up

Available sessions include:

• 6/2/2020 9-11 a.m.

• 6/9/2020, 9-11 a.m.

• 6/16/2020, 9-11 a.m.

• 6/25/2020, 9-11 a.m.

Sessions are limited to 100 participants. To sign up, please complete this registration form. Once you sign up, you will be added to the calendar appointment with the session link.

For more information, view this article.

About CDOT’s Peer Support Program 

CDOT’s frontline employees frequently respond to and deal with traumatic events on a scale that is unknown and unimaginable to most people. The CDOT Peer Support Program provides support and understanding of how continuous job stressors, compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma profoundly impact the employee, their personal lives and CDOT. As a CDOT employee, should you need the assistance of a peer supporter, please contact a CDOT Peer Supporter. There are Peer Supporters in each region. Their support is confidential. Learn more about the Peer Support Program here: http://intranet.dot.state.co.us/employees/cdot-peer-support-program.

NEW! Tuckman's Group Lifecycle: Did you know that when a team forms to do something, whether it's an intact work team, a cross-functional team, your family, a group of kids or any group, they go through four stages? The stages are: Forming, Storming, Norming and Performing. Understanding these stages is a great tool because it helps you navigate team breakdowns and help move your team along toward Performing — which is where you want to be. Learn all about this diagnostic tool and how to use it effectively for greater team performance!

5/27/2020, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/dhx-jmhw-xee

NEW! The Leadership Compass: The Leadership Compass has four directions, or ways in which people approach work. We call these North, South, East and West. Many of us work in all of the directions at different times. Many of us have a resting place where we tend to be most comfortable. What is your compass point? 

6/1/2020, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/gpg-tnaj-zdc  

NEW! Google Suite Top Tips & Hangouts Meet

We've added a new training called Google Suite Top Tips. In this class, you'll learn more about Google Suite (a.k.a., GSuite) and the cool ways you can use this suite to be more productive both while working virtually and when we're back in the workplace.  You'll learn lots of great tips about Gmail as well as Google Drive, Forms, Hangouts Meet, Slides, Sheets, and much more.  Don't miss this session!

4/29/2020, 9-10 a.m.: meet.google.com/cgj-fazs-ywx

NEW! Self-Care Tools and Tips

If we can't care for ourselves, we can't focus on what's truly important: our families and our jobs. Learn three tools and a bunch of tips to help ourselves so we can help others.

4/30/2020, 11 a.m. to noon  meet.google.com/vfz-hucz-dee

How Do I Get Reimbursed for Tuition, Licenses and Certifications? 

Learn about the program and how it works. Learning Lane has what you need!

Video recording now available. This video recording of a Hangout held on April 23 outlines this opportunity that is available to all CDOT employees. Spend an hour learning about the possibilities and resources that are out there!

Many more virtual training classes are available; see the full list here (VPN required)

CANCELLED > Two CFR 200 Uniform Cost Principles, Admin & Audit Requirements for Federal Aid Awards

Please note that all upcoming sessions of this training for CDOT engineers and external partners are canceled.We will reschedule them, so stay tuned.

The session on 5/13-14 at the CDOT HQ in Denver and the session on 5/19-20 at the CDOT R2 HQ in Pueblo are both canceled. We will notify you when they are rescheduled.

Questions? Please contact Gina Sanchez of DAF at [email protected].

Get in the Learning Lane!

Ever wonder what CDOT Training Services are available to you? From required training to Leadership Journey, Business Professional Skills, HR training, All-Access Pass and Jhana, TETP, Maintenance & Ops training, SAP Time Entry & Approval, e-Learning, the LMS and more. Learning Lane has what you need!

This video recording of a Hangout held on April 16 outlines LOTS of training opportunities that are available to all CDOT employees.  Spend an hour learning about the possibilities and resources that are out there!

Managing Anxiety and Sustaining Engagement

In these challenging times, we're under unique stress. How can we effectively deal with it so it doesn't impact our performance and our teams? Find out the four main causes of anxiety plus five simple tools to help ourselves and our teammates stay engaged and keep moving forward.

• Wed. 4/15, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/rqz-hivn-ggx

The Outward Mindset: Focus on People

We all know the big picture purpose of CDOT. But when we get stressed, we get so focused on work that we forget why we’re doing what we do. Join this session to learn how to keep focusing on what’s really important: the people who need, and are the customers of, our best work.

• Wed. 4/22, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/fdy-ninf-usz

Performance Management Process Refresh - 1 p.m., April 9

As you know, the Performance Management Process (PMP) deadline was extended by DPA. (See details here.) With a little extra time, you're invited to attend a virtual session so you can be sure to follow the process accurately. This session will cover: details about the new PMP dates; staying connected as many of us work remotely; and managing work remotely (both as supervisors and as employees). This session is open to all employees — including both supervisors and employees. 

No registration is required; simply join the session to participate

Session Details

• View Recorded Session | View Presentation
• Where: Google Hangouts: meet.google.com/aqz-nogx-tdm

Please mute your microphone in Hangouts when you dial in. This moderated session will include informal polls, discussion and Q&A.

Neuroscience & Fight or Flight - 4/8, 1 p.m.

Everyone knows that there some instinctual reactions to threats. It could be anxiety from standing too close to the edge of a cliff, or a flinch from a physical threat. But did you know that the neuroscience of fight or flight advises almost every reaction we have, all day long? 

In the transportation industry, understanding fight or flight is key. Overreacting -- or underreacting -- could mean the difference between getting injured vs. staying safe in our physical working environments. But fight or flight also advises our interpersonal reactions. How exactly? Attend this webinar to find out. This is important stuff to understand, especially in our current environment with COVID-19. No registration is required; simply join the session to participate.

Session Details

• 4/21/2020, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/zwq-ybfd-dvs

• 4/27/2020, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/edm-vmiy-edi

• View Presentation

• Where: Google Hangouts: meet.google.com/ewk-mqis-eeo

Please mute your microphone in Hangouts when you dial in. This moderated session will include informal polls, discussion and Q&A.

There's no need to sign up for virtual sessions (except where otherwise noted). Simply join the desired session.

The Outward Mindset - Focus on People: Learn about stress and how to keep focused on what’s important: people who need and are customers of our work.

• 4/22/2020, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.: meet.google.com/fdy-ninf-usz

Kubler-Ross 5 Stages: Learn about the 5 stages and how you can more effectively manage yourself and your team through each stage.

• 4/29/2020, 1-2 p.m.: meet.google.com/qdu-vpdi-rww 

New Employee Orientation: We proactively invite all new hires. However, If you know of a new hire who hasn’t been invited, they can attend the session (via the link below). Contact [email protected] with questions.

• 4/28/2020, 8-11:30 a.m.: meet.google.com/kst-xtne-gom

THINK! Fostering Inclusive Relationships (REGISTRATION REQUIRED): Explore unconscious bias in how we interact with others as well as in hiring, development, coaching and supervising. Here's how to register in the LMS (instructions at the end).

• 5/7/2020, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Session will be virtual

• 6/8/2020, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.: Session will be virtual OR at CDOT HQR1, Snow Plow Training Rm. 414, depending on our work situation by this date

Google Hangout Tips/Meet

New to Google Hangouts? Take our virtual training (schedule here) and refer to these Google Hangout training slides. Learn all about Hangouts: how to join a meeting, audio, video, best practices, scheduling, sharing screens, recording, etc.

• 4/30/2020, 8-9 a.m.:  meet.google.com/jgx-qxgy-kib

• View Recorded Session | View Presentation

Wifi Security

If you are having difficulty with your home Wi-Fi, contact your service provider. The OIT Service Desk will not be able to assist with this issue. 

The default username and password of home routers are freely available and known to attackers. Change the default password to a complex password or an easy-to-remember passphrase. OIT’s password standards can be found here. 

Before you log into a site, and if your transaction contains sensitive information (e.g., password, credit card, etc.), confirm that connections are secure (HTTPS). The “s” in “https” stands for “secure” and indicates that communication with the webpage is encrypted. Alternatively, look for the lock symbol (it’s sometimes green) in the internet address bar. If you do not see the “https” or lock, do not enter a password or any other sensitive data on the website. 

Note: There are different levels of protection on Wi-Fi networks. WPA2 and WPA3 provide the strongest protection, followed by WPA. WEP is the least secure, and if possible, should not be used. Depending on your router, you may be able to turn on WPA2 encryption for your wireless networks. If you don’t know which level you have, refer to your router manual, contact your internet service provider, and click here to learn more on TechU.

VPN Connection 

Password Reset Needed

Following yesterday’s resolution of technical issues with VPN, users will need to log into the Password Self-Service Portal online at https://mypw.state.co.us/PMUser to set a new password.

Use this link to learn more about using Password Self-Service: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gtKWOZAuqUqhQ4CYr0L40cP51oyAWln09bkBshMWSlg/edit

If you have issues with Password Self-Service please submit a ticket from the self-service portal (https://oitservicedesk.state.co.us/) or email the service desk at [email protected] or call 303.239.HELP.

Video Streaming

Limits began Monday, March 30, 2020, at 7 p.m.

To help ensure adequate bandwidth for all state employees working in the office or on the state network via VPN, OIT is restricting access to all audio and video streaming services not used for business purposes. 

Many of CDOT's working parents are juggling childcare and at-home instruction with business and operational needs while working on-site or at home. Employees are encouraged to keep talking to their supervisors about options to balance the needs of their work with that of caring for their children during the day, including flexible or adjusted schedules, continued remote work and intermittent FFCRA leave. Additionally, the Colorado Emergency Child Care Collaborative emergency childcare system for essential and emergency workers still has spots available, and 2-1-1 Colorado can help interested families. For at-home instruction, here are some best practices from the Colorado Department of Education that may help with keeping children on task https://www.cde.state.co.us/learningathome/bestpracticesfamilies.

Childcare

Talk to Your Supervisor About Options

Many of CDOT's working parents are juggling childcare and at-home instruction with business and operational needs while working on-site or at home. Employees are encouraged to keep talking to their supervisors about options to balance the needs of their work with that of caring for their children during the day, including flexible or adjusted schedules, continued remote work and intermittent FFCRA leave. Additionally, the Colorado Emergency Child Care Collaborative emergency childcare system for essential and emergency workers still has spots available and 2-1-1 Colorado can help interested families. For at-home instruction, here are some best practices from the Colorado Department of Education that may help with keeping children on task.

CDOT & Zoom

CDOT utilizes Google meet for most video conferences, but CDOT does have a Zoom account that can be utilized for free 40 minute meetings and a limited number of licenses for unlimited meeting length. Employees who want to hold a free meeting (40 minutes in length or less) can use this service by finding the Zoom icon on your desktop. If it does not work, and you need a free zoom account tied to your email, please contact Gregg Miller: [email protected]. 

The limited number of Zoom Pro licenses (unlimited meeting length) CDOT uses have been reserved for “significant events” (transportation commission, board meetings, large trainings, etc.) If your meeting needs fall into one of these categories, please send a request to Gregg Miller, and he will try and accommodate your request.

If your meeting does not meet this criteria, you should use Google Hangout/Meet for your meeting. CDOT has used this meeting method for many years and has found that the majority of time, issues with this meeting tool can be resolved with training. If you are having issues with Google Hangout/Meet and need some assistance in solving those issues, please reach out to Gregg Miller. Another option is to take the Google Tips and Tricks class that the Office of Training and Development offers. Check out their website for all the class offerings: Full Training Schedule