Geometric Design Support Unit
Goal
The goal of the Geometric Design Support Unit (GDSU) is to ensure that the preliminary designs of projects are consistent with state and national standards and meet applicable MnDOT policies.
Products the unit provides
- Well researched design guidance that is consistent with federal guidelines and industry best practices
- Design-specific training
- Staff approved layouts according to Minnesota Statutes, section 161.162, subdivision 2
- Approved design exceptions that conform to the MnDOT/FHWA Stewardship Agreement and memo (FHWA Memo/May 5, 2016 (PDF))
What to expect from the unit
- The products listed above
- Participation in early idea generation and value engineering studies
- Review of preliminary design concepts/layouts for compliance with design guidance
- Promotion of the application of performance-based practical design
- Coordination with a variety of expert offices to maintain design element consistency
- Maintenance of the GDSU website
What you need to provide to unit
- A fully prepared geometric layout
- Requests for any design exceptions
- Design Memo
What the unit expects from you
- Interaction with GDSU (early informal interaction is encouraged)
- Updates to activities in the P6 schedule