Research News

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.

Development of a Specification for Quality Acceptance of Chip Seals Using a Laser Texture Scanner

Chip seals are widely used in Washington state as a cost-effective pavement surfacing method. However, they can be subject to variations in performance and premature failures. This project developed a quality acceptance specification for chip seal construction that incorporates the use of a laser texture scanner to provide valuable, data-driven insights for quality control and performance assessment to enhance the quality and effectiveness of chip seals.

Washington State Rest Area Site Evaluation Study

Washington state has 42 safety rest areas. These rest areas differ in their capacity, facilities, and accessibility in each traffic direction. Some are located at the most traffic-dense corridors such as I-5 and I-90, whereas others are on less traffic-dense state routes. This project provided information on Washington rest area use and user experiences and evaluated the impacts of rest areas on traffic safety.

Ensuring Stream Stability with the Use of Organic Material in a Flume—Design Recommendation

Fish populations in the Pacific Northwest have declined as spawning grounds have disappeared because of river and stream barriers, often under-road culverts. This research investigated ways to incorporate different kinds of organic material inside a culvert that would both maintain the stream channel shape while also improving the ability of fish to successfully navigate those culverts during low water flow.

Equity Analysis of WSDOT’s Toll Program

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) uses tolling as a key mechanism for managing demand on I-405, SR 167, SR 99, SR 16, and SR 520 and for funding megaprojects on those facilities. Tolls impose an expense on roadway users, and imposition of these fees can raise concerns about equity. This project provided insight into the use of WSDOT’s toll facilities that is intended to serve as the basis for evaluating the equity implications of those toll facilities.

Washington State Transportation Center