The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) today kicked off the Transportation Innovation Partnership Expo, a two-day meeting of leaders in transportation technologies to support Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) and other innovative transportation systems technology.
The Expo is a component of RIDOT's connected and autonomous vehicles program, engaging the industry with the goal of developing pilot programs for this emerging technology at various locations around Rhode Island. It supports a Request for Information (RFI) process that is open now for companies to submit proposals to identify and meet the substantial technical, regulatory and practical challenges associated with the implementation of CAV technologies.
"We're pleased to have this audience of transportation officials, policy makers, manufacturers, and our stakeholders in academics and the industry join us for the Expo," RIDOT Director Peter Alviti, Jr. said. "It's another example of Rhode Island stepping forward to be a leader in emerging technologies that literally will change our world."
The Expo begins today with a series of panel discussions on infrastructure planning, environmental issues, workforce changes and more. The second day is devoted to tours of potential testing sites for connected and autonomous vehicles in Pawtucket, Central Falls and Providence, including existing and future transit links such as Providence Station and the upcoming Pawtucket/Central Falls Train Station; the Quonset Business Park; and the University of Rhode Island's Kingston Campus and nearby Kingston Station. More than 150 attendees are expected.
More information about the Expo can be found at www.ridot.net/TRIP.
Through the ongoing RFI for CAV, RIDOT is seeking information in six topic areas. They include:
- Opportunities for partnerships
- Impact on the state's capital planning and execution process
- Regional safety programs (including law enforcement and security)
- Environmental conditions
- State laws and regulation
- Workforce and professional training needs within the state
Companies submitting proposals also will be asked to share other innovative next-generation ideas such as on-demand ride sharing, high speed intercity and inter-suburb transporter technology, among others.
Respondents are encouraged to submit proposals for a proof of concept pilot CAV or on-demand ride sharing service deployment in Rhode Island that would support and/or resolve issues included in the six topic areas. Submissions are due back to RIDOT in early October. The RFI can be viewed at: www.ridot.net/CAV.