VTrans outlines hydraulic modeling guidance and a draft multimodal roadway guide

Matthew Arancio of VTrans walked TAC members through recent technical updates and guidance documents. He said VTrans published hydraulic and hydrology modeling instructions and a technical resources webpage for consultants performing hydraulic modeling; the guidance is intended to reflect current best practices and does not impose new, direct costs on municipalities.

Arancio also described the Vermont Multimodal Roadway Guide, an update and replacement for the Vermont State Design Standards. Phase 1 (the guide outline) was completed in April 2025; Phase 2 (the draft) is scheduled to be available in January 2026 to meet a legislative deadline, and Phase 3 covers implementation. Arancio emphasized that "Context" is a key word for this plan: the guide is context-driven and presented as a menu of options rather than a prescriptive, one-size-fits-all standard. He said three committees are guiding development and CCRPC and other regional planning commissions are involved.

TAC members asked whether the legislature would act on the plan; Arancio noted a previous legislature required presentation of the draft. He said VTrans will share the draft when it is available and provided a link to the guide webpage for more information.