VHB mobilized rapidly to support the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) during three major hurricanes—Hermine, Matthew, and Irma—providing critical emergency management services across the state. The team coordinated debris removal operations, temporary traffic signal restoration, structure monitoring, bridge safety inspections, and damage assessments while obtaining permit authorizations for damaged roadway sections. VHB also staffed the Emergency Operating Center to support district personnel in coordinating county response efforts and arranged logistical support for both VHB and FDOT staff throughout the emergency operations.
VHB's comprehensive approach delivered significant value to FDOT and Florida communities by pre-positioning crews before storm arrival and deploying teams immediately afterward to clear roadways for first responders and returning evacuees. The team utilized GIS analysis to evaluate storm preparedness activities and conducted initial roadway inspections to verify safe travel conditions. VHB served as a liaison between FDOT District 6 and Central Office, monitored contract compliance, and tracked all costs and documentation in accordance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulations to support reimbursement efforts. By identifying environmentally sensitive areas and verifying debris staging locations against Florida Department of Environmental Protection permits, VHB helped protect natural resources while enabling efficient recovery operations that restored mobility and safety for Florida residents.
