The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $94.8 million to 59 projects on advanced technology projects to increase traffic safety, increase the dependability of public transportation, and deploy drones and sensors for transportation projects.
The $500 million over five years allocated for “Smart” mobility initiatives is part of the one trillion infrastructure package passed in November 2021.
The awards will “encourage ideas that improve people’s day-to-day lives, making transportation safer, more dependable, more efficient, and more sustainable,” according to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Detroit, Michigan’s largest city, will get $2 million for sensors to “predict and prevent traffic accidents” by integrating current traffic cameras and artificial intelligence software solutions.
The number of fatalities on American roadways increased by 10.5% to 42,915 in 2021, the highest number since 2005. After years of decline, traffic fatalities abruptly increased after COVID-19 lockdowns ended in 2020 and more drivers started acting recklessly.
While New York will receive $2 million for an app to help visually impaired New York subway and bus users safely navigate their transit excursions, New Jersey has been awarded $2 million for sensors to address wrong-way driving incidents.
$2 million will be given to Los Angeles to combine event tickets for big activities, such as the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with transit trip planning.
In order to provide emergency vehicles the right of way, Cleveland, Ohio, will receive $1.8 million for smart traffic lights, while Harris County, Texas, will get $2 million for sensors for a new flood warning system.
There are several initiatives including “connected car” technology, which uses cellular signals to prevent collisions.
