The Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Center for Local Aid Support (CLAS) presents this month's Innovation Exchange Webinar to showcase the 2026 Build a Better Mousetrap (BABM) Bold Steps, Pioneer and SMART Transformation Award Winners.

Each year, FHWA recognizes and celebrates local government and tribal agencies who pioneer innovative solutions that improve transportation performance by increasing safety and saving time and money on projects.

2026 Winners:

• Bold Steps Award: “Custom Culvert Steamer Hook-Lift Body”

The Claremont Department of Public Works created an innovative mobile maintenance platform. By modernizing a labor-intensive and hazardous process, this practical engineering design significantly improves employee safety while streamlining setup and overall operational productivity.

• Pioneer Award: “Snow Fence Pole Remover”

The Town of Riverhead Highway Department created an innovative Snow Fence Pole Remover built entirely from repurposed materials to solve a longstanding maintenance challenge. By reducing physical strain on workers while boosting productivity and safety, this clever design delivers exceptional, cost-effective benefits at virtually zero implementation cost.

• SMART Transformation Award: “Roadway Survey Mobile Rig”, Johnson County, Iowa

The vehicle-mounted GPS device collection system, designed and fabricated in-house by Johnson County, significantly improves employee safety by drastically reducing exposure to traffic hazards. It streamlines data gathering while bolstering long-term transportation planning and asset management.

Join FHWA to learn how these innovative solutions are transforming the industry, and find out how you can participate in the 2027 BABM program.

Register to Attend