A trio of public universities in North Carolina are slated to receive $1 million grants from the Department of Transportation to study future challenges the state might incur in that area and to improve safety and mobility across the region.
Beginning this year, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University will each receive research grants over the next three years as well as work on the problem with experts from other local institutions. The program is part of the University Transportation Centers of Excellence initiative, and the other universities involved include Appalachian State University, North Carolina Central University, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Duke University and Fayetteville State University.
“Disruptive technologies will reshape the transportation industry,” Transportation Secretary Jim Trogdon told Spectrum News. “This research will provide North Carolina with data we need to prepare for these changes.”
Much of the research is expected to focus on new technology, such as the growing use of electric, autonomous and other fuel-efficient vehicles.
“North Carolina is uniquely positioned to perform research on transportation technology and enable the progress and improvement of transportation systems while improving on the mobility and safety of our citizens,” said David Howard, chief deputy secretary for the N.C. Department of Transportation. “This research should lead to North Carolina having competitive advantages in a global economy.”
Alerts Sign-up