Featured Studies
This page highlights some of the transportation-related research projects and programs at the University of Minnesota that have broad implications for transportation policy, technology, and planning.
Access to Destinations Study
This interdisciplinary research effort takes a new approach to understanding how people use the transportation system, and how transportation and land use interact. Dealing with multiple modes of transportation—including automotive, transit, and non-motorized—the Access to Destinations Study examines the ability of Twin Cities-area residents to reach the destinations they need to visit in order to meet their needs. By integrating travel behavior and land use information, the study aims to create a more meaningful picture of transportation and its role in our lives. Study Web site
Rural Intersection Decision Support
The Intelligent Transportation Systems Institute is working with several state departments of transportation to improve the safety of rural highway intersections through the application of Intelligent Transportation Systems technologies. In addition to gaining a better understanding of the causes of crashes at rural intersections, this study aims to develop a deployable system to improve driver safety without obstructing the movement of highway traffic. Project Web site
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Transportation Sources in Minnesota
In 2007, CTS received an appropriation from the Minnesota Legislature to assess public policy and technology options for reducing greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted from the transportation sector in Minnesota. Study Web site
Moving Communities Forward (AIA Study on Design of Transportation Projects)
This pioneering study, undertaken in partnership with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), examines the benefits that well-designed transportation projects bring to communities in areas such as economic development, public health, personal safety, environmental protection, aesthetic and cultural qualities, and community planning. Project Web site
Transitway Impacts Research Program
The Transitway Impacts Research Program is intended to answer questions about the economic, travel, and community impacts of transitway corridors in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Formed in fall 2006, the program is an initiative of the Hennepin County-University of Minnesota Partnership. It is supported by CTS and the State and Local Policy Program (SLPP) at the Hubert H. Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs. Funding is being provided by Anoka, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Washington counties; Metro Transit and the Metropolitan Council; and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Program Web site
Implementing Transportation Knowledge Networks (NCHRP 20-75)
The National Highway Cooperative Research Program (NCHRP) Project 20-75 is developing a business plan for implementing Transportation Knowledge Networks, based on the recommendations of TRB Special Report 284. The objectives of this project are to define what specific products and services TKNs should offer to maximize value to transportation practitioners, identify the resources that would be required, and develop a feasible and sustainable funding strategy. Project Web site
Evaluation of the Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program
CTS is leading the overall program evaluation of the Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program (NTPP), which was authorized by Congress in the 2005 transportation bill. The work consists of the data-collection and analysis phases as well as several outreach activities. The pilot program provides funding to four communities--Columbia, Missouri; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Marin County, California; and Sheboygan County. Project Web site