JEFFERSON PARISH, La. (WGNO) — Jefferson Parish received an honor award for the “Move Metairie Tracking Forward” app at the 2024 Engineering Excellence Awards in Washington, D.C.
The American Council of Engineering Companies presented Councilwoman Jennifer Van Vrancken and Gresham Smith Engineering with the National Recognition Award for the “first-of-its-kind” app, according to Jefferson Parish officials.
The app was created to combat the heavy traffic and delays that Metairie residents face due to the Norfolk Southern railroad crossing on Metairie Road. Van Vrancken consulted Gresham Smith Engineering to develop the app and make it available to download for all residents.
To create “Move Metairie Tracking Forward,” Gresham Smith worked alongside Jefferson Parish Engineering and Electronic Information Systems to install cameras and detectors, which provide information about the train’s path, presence, speed and direction. Gresham Smith officials said that the app “provided users with quick notice of train traffic to help people plan ahead and enjoy a better quality of life.”
Van Vrancken said that she is proud to see the app come to fruition.
“I am thankful to the engineers who could take my idea and turn it into a reality,” Van Vrancken said. “The innovation saves our residents time and spares them frustration daily! I am eager to bring it now to other crossings.”
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