AKTTAP seeking entries for Build a Better Mousetrap

Apr 29, 2026

During the classes offered by the Alaska TTAP and the Alaska LTAP, creative solutions to problems faced by the Alaskan transportation system have been mentioned by attendees. We would like to share those innovations and creative ways of solving problems with others across the state and nationally. You deserve recognition for the out-of-the-box thinking that the Alaska transportation system requires.

The Alaska TTAP and the Alaska LTAP are seeking entries from Alaska tribal and local transportation offices for the FHWA Build a Better Mousetrap (BABM) recognition program. The program is an initiative designed to spotlight locally driven innovation in transportation and provide a national platform for sharing practical solutions to everyday challenges faced by local and Tribal transportation workers. Focused specifically on local roads, the program celebrates creative problem-solving that strengthens the way transportation systems are planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained. These solutions may include new project delivery methods, improved design processes, or the development and modification of tools and equipment that enhance safety, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall quality of local transportation infrastructure. This national program recognizes state, local, and tribal agencies that use innovative solutions to:

Improve safety
Increase efficiency
Save money
Save time
Encourage collaboration

Many winning ideas come from front-line transportation professionals who develop creative, cost-effective solutions to everyday challenges.

2026 Recognition Categories

Innovative Project – Creative solutions across planning, design, construction, operations, or maintenance
Bold Steps – High-risk, high-reward breakthrough innovations
Smart Transformation – SMART process improvements that increase efficiency
Pioneer – First-of-its-kind, homegrown maintenance tools/products
NEW! Putting Families First Innovation – Innovations that enhance transportation and mobility for families and tribal communities

Please complete the entry form in the Build a Better Mousetrap Planning Guide and email it to Vicky Wolf, vgwolf@alaska.edu by May 29, 2026 for consideration in the 2025/2026 BABM National competition. The Alaska TTAP and Alaska LTAP need to submit the Alaska nominations in each category to FHWA by June 6. If you are unsure which category best fits your entry, please submit a form anyway and Josh and I will place it in a category.

Past national winners are showcased on the FHWA website at https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/clas/babm/.