The DOT POD

Every time we pull up to an intersection and the light cycles smoothly from green, to yellow, to red, there is literally a team behind that moment - those who work behind the scenes in our NYSDOT Signal Shops. In this episode of the DOT POD, we are stepping into a world that most drivers rarely think about...until the lights go out. We are talking about traffic signals at one of our many signal shops.Josh and Anya are joined by Jess Muller and Don Paciello from the Mohawk Valley Signal Shop, about how they maintain all those signals as well as the communications systems that tie everything together.

Its hard to believe that the DOT POD is celebrating its second birthday. And from safety stories to snowstorms, wildlife rescues to worm toilets, this year's podcast had it all. Join Josh and Anya as they take a look back at all the great stories shared by the people who are keeping New York moving!

This Veterans Day the DOT POD is taking time to honor the veterans within our DOT family; the people whose dedication to our country continues through their service to the people of New York. Their sacrifice, discipline, and commitment inspires all of us, and on this episode, Josh and Anya are joined by one of these dedicated employees who is ensuring that our veterans are supported every day at DOT -- Cody Baker, Director of Facilities and Employee Safety, as well as NYSDOT's Veteran Services Liaison.

When it comes to battling snow and ice, no one does it better than our DOT crews. Plowing and deicing may look straightforward, but there's a lot of science and skill behind the scenes.On this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya are joined by Rob Fitch, Director of DOT's Office of Transportation Maintenance, and Joe Thompson, DOT's Snow and Ice Program Manager, to give a behind the scenes look at how DOT plans, prepares, and tackles New York's unpredictable Winter weather.

Many airports are run by counties, or airport authorities, but Republic Airport on Long Island is actually owned and operated by the New York State Department of Transportation.  The airport is one of the busiest in New York State in terms of aircraft operations and it is home an annual airshow and supports regional sporting events and venues including the U.S. Open Golf Championship at Bethpage State Park Golf Course.On this episode of the DOT POD, Josh and Anya are joined by Republic Airport's Director, Tony Ceglio to talk about the airport and DOT's involvement.