Research News

Environmental DNA: From Knowledge to Action for Management

Transportation agencies are frequently required to conduct analyses of the biological elements of ecosystems as part of their work in constructing and repairing roads and culverts. However, measuring ecosystems—and particularly the impacts of construction projects on those ecosystems—is not a straightforward or standardized process. The goal of this project was to demonstrate a widely applicable, rigorous, quantitative method for reporting on environmental impact using environmental DNA.

Linear Scheduling Evaluation and Best Practices Development

This project evaluated the importance of the use of the linear scheduling method (LSM) for planning and conducting linear construction projects, including large, complex transportation-related construction such as highway, tunnel, and bridge projects. Two off-the-shelf LSM software programs demonstrated potential to support the implementation of LSM for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

2050 Transportation Scenario Visualization

With the state’s population projected to rise sharply by 2050, within the next 25 years numerous factors will affect transportation mobility, economic vitality, and quality of life in Washington state. To aid in planning, this project developed a data-driven, web-based visual tool, called Mobility Washington 2050: The Future in Motion, that is intended to make complex, disparate transportation data accessible and actionable for both policymakers and the public.

Smart and Cooperative Truck Parking Monitoring and Calibration System Empowered by Machine Learning

Truck parking information management systems (TPIMS) are intended to help monitor, identify, and broadcast the real-time availability of truck parking stalls to commercial vehicle operators. This study developed a framework for improving TPIMS by better detecting anomalies in collected parking data and better calibrating counting systems to improve the reliability of truck parking occupancy information.

Analysis of Lane Departure Crashes with Emerging Data, Machine Learning, and Field Evaluation

Vehicle lane departure is a primary cause of roadway crashes, and it leads to serious driver injuries and fatalities in Washington state and beyond. This study characterized the leading factors that contribute to lane departure crashes in Washington, looking particularly at lane markings, by developing an analysis framework and leveraging new types of data.

Improving Mobility for Suburban and Rural Communities through Innovative Transit Approaches: A Comparative Cost Evaluation

With limited funding, transit agencies search for ways to more cost effectively serve their riders, particularly in low-density communities. Transit incorporating mobility-on-demand (TIMOD) is one possibility, but how does it compare to services such as fixed transit or ride-hailing services? This study compared the cost-effectiveness of TIMOD to that of other modes in suburban and rural settings.

Truck Parking Information and Management System (TPIMS)

Truck parking availability for commercial drivers traveling through Washington state is limited. To help truck drivers plan their trips and maximize the use of available parking, the University of Washington STAR Lab developed a self-learning and optimizing truck parking information and management system (TPIMS) for installation at state-owned truck parking facilities such as weigh stations and safety rest areas.

Washington Infrastructure Workforce Internship proves successful for students and WSDOT

With a shortage of civil engineers looming in Washington state and beyond, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is helping a new generation see the potential of civil engineering by offering internships to high school and college students. In late June, a second round of internships ended successfully, with constructive outcomes and positive comments from both students and WSDOT staff mentors.

I-90 Digital Twin Bridge Proof of Technology Evaluation

This proof-of-concept research initiative evaluated the benefits, limitations, and tradeoffs of implementing Internet of Things (IoT) digital twin (DT) technologies for managing, maintaining, and operating bridge assets.

Pathways for Civil Engineering and Land Surveying Workforce Development in Washington State

Washington state’s ability to deliver infrastructure programs is being constrained by a widening shortage of civil engineers and land surveyors. This study quantified current and future workforce gaps, diagnosed their root causes, and proposed education-centered solutions.

Washington State Transportation Center