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    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
    <image>
      <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
      <url>https://rip.trb.org/Images/PageHeader-wTitle-RIP.jpg</url>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
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    <item>
      <title>Digital process methods and implementations for field</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2724769</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Static information created by siloed production methods can lead to duplication of effort and lack of connectivity between
phases as information is passed between survey, design, construction, and asset management. In addition, not utilizing
effective change management strategies to update processes and train staff can slow progress in adoption of new digital
processes and approaches. This research will build on previously completed research to investigate and provide actionable
methods and change management strategies for utilizing digital processes and technology for construction field applications.
This research will identify and present strategies for streamlining processes for construction including but not limited to,
equipment procurement, staff training, integration of tools, and digital inspection methods.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:55:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2724769</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roadmap for Transportation Systems Digital Infrastructure
</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2719308</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This research is a roadmap for innovative application of Georgia Department of Transportation's (GDOT's) digital information assets in support of developing the digital transportation infrastructure.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:34:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2719308</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Developing Workflows for Digital Project Delivery to Support Transportation Asset Management</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712189</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Digital project delivery (DPD) is emerging to address challenges in the traditional delivery of transportation infrastructure projects, such as low productivity, workforce shortages, and the complexity of managing multiple stakeholders, vendors, and site-specific conditions. Utilizing DPD can enhance project outcomes related to schedule, cost, quality, and safety. A major component of DPD is the creation of digital design models during pre-construction, along with the collection of digital project data during construction to inspect and verify work against those models. While recent research has explored methods for creating digital as-builts (DABs) through field data collection, there is still a need for standardized workflows to transfer this information from construction into long-term operations and maintenance.

Data collected through DPD has significant value beyond project delivery and can be reused to support Transportation Asset Management (TAM) and life-cycle decision-making for transportation assets. State departments of transportation (DOTs) are already adopting DPD to improve project performance while also working to maintain and improve asset conditions with limited resources. As digital technologies continue to evolve, the need for practical strategies that connect project delivery data with long-term asset management is becoming increasingly important. Research is needed to (1) identify current practices and assess emerging strategies for integrating DPD data with TAM business needs, and (2) develop implementable strategies to streamline comprehensive workflows to improve user/owner outcomes.

The objectives of this research are to: (1) Identify approaches developed by state DOTs to implement DPD, (2) Identify challenges experienced by state DOTs in transitioning to DPD, (3) Identify approaches to generating DABs as part of DPD efforts to support TAM and the maintenance of data throughout the asset life cycle, and (4) Develop guidelines for bridging the gap between project delivery and asset management phases to better integrate available data and close the data loop.


]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:57:58 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712189</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Workforce Development in Digital Transportation and Infrastructure Technologies for State DOTs</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712186</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) are undergoing rapid transformation as digital technologies—such as data analytics, sensor networks, connected and automated systems, artificial intelligence, and digital asset management—become integral to transportation systems. While these tools are reshaping how agencies plan, design, and operate infrastructure, they require new technical and interdisciplinary skill sets beyond traditional engineering roles.

Many state DOTs face challenges in keeping pace due to workforce constraints, including skill gaps, an aging workforce, and difficulties recruiting and retaining talent with digital expertise. Legacy workforce structures and limited training capacity further hinder agencies’ ability to adapt, creating a gap between technological advancement and workforce capability.  

The objective of this research is to develop a framework and practical tools to help state DOTs plan, implement, and sustain workforce development strategies aligned with digital transformation. The research will assess workforce capacity and skill gaps and develop guidance to support recruitment, reskilling, retention, and long-term workforce readiness.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:10:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712186</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Multiscale Understanding of Pervious Concrete Using Digital Packing and Automated Permeability Testing</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2696018</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project develops a digital framework to better understand and predict the performance of pervious concrete. The work integrates (i) establishing a database of true three-dimensional (3-D) shapes and surface texture of coarse aggregates in pervious concrete, (ii) development of an automated permeability testing system for conducting reliable and robust measurements of hydraulic conductivity, (iii) reconstruction of a customizable 3-D digital model of pervious concrete by packing the digitalized coarse aggregates from database, which is validated by the key pore characteristics and reference testing results from automated hydraulic conductivity measurement.
To achieve the above-mentioned integration, the research will proceed through a series of coordinated actions. First, the research team will establish a database of digitalized coarse aggregates for modelling pervious concrete by employing an industrial-grade blue-laser 3-D scanner to obtain the true 3-D shape and surface texture of over 1000 coarse aggregates. The quantity of 1000 digitalized coarse aggregates is an adequate number for enabling digital packing. Next, an automated and robust permeability testing system will be developed to perform hydraulic conductivity measurement on pervious concrete specimens with controlled porosity, which provides reliable high-quality experimental results for model validation. Finally, the team will build a customizable 3-D model of pervious concrete cylinder by packing digital coarse aggregates from the database, which can predict the pore structure and transport behavior of stormwater in pervious concrete. The research  team has rich experience in digitalization of materials and developing experimental data-based 3-D models for modelling engineering properties and will complete developing the automated hydraulic conductivity testing system in six months. This testing system will include multiple high-frequency sensors simultaneously collecting pressure change data and flow rate change date, which can balance the accuracy, robustness, efficiency, and cost of hydraulic conductivity test. This framework ties together physical testing and advanced modeling to deliver practical, field-ready guidance with the objective of improving the efficiency and accuracy of pervious concrete design and reducing the construction cost of pervious concrete.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:09:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2696018</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Successful Strategies to Integrate Digital Technologies to Achieve Data Interoperability Across the Lifecycle of Transportation Assets</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2681238</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) are adopting digital processes to improve project delivery and asset management. Federal initiatives such as the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Everyday Counts (EDC) program—including EDC-4 and EDC-6—have supported these efforts.
The Advanced Digital Construction Management Systems (ADCMS) grant program (FY 2022–2024) provided funding for DOTs to implement and pilot digital approaches that connect data from planning through maintenance. These efforts aim to maintain accurate, consistent asset information throughout the asset lifecycle.
DOTs are at varying stages of implementation and use different tools and approaches, but share a common goal of improving data interoperability. A scan of current practices—including data workflows, system integration, and data repository management—would provide useful insights for agencies nationwide.
OBJECTIVE: The scan is expected to identify key insights in areas such as: Digital technologies and lifecycle processes across the asset lifecycle; Integration with enterprise systems; Core data elements and IT requirements; Change management and workforce development; Data visualization and performance dashboards; Incentives and challenges related to technology adoption; Implementation approaches and alignment with agency policies
Findings will provide practical guidance for construction and maintenance staff, engineering managers, executive leaders, and other decision-makers. The scan will compare successful strategies, identify approaches that support efficient digital adoption, and promote consistent, high-quality data practices across projects and agencies.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:44:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2681238</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roadmap for Innovative Application of GDOT's Digital Information Assets in Support of Developing the Digital Transportation Infrastructure</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2596466</link>
      <description><![CDATA[
This project proposes the development of a comprehensive roadmap for digital infrastructure in transportation which will provide the necessary guidance and insights to support the implementation of digital technologies and drive innovation in the transportation sector. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2025 13:03:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2596466</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 56-23. Practices for Integrating Geotechnical and Geologic Data into Digital Delivery Products




</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) are increasingly adopting digital technologies throughout project lifecycles, with many moving toward digital deliverables for construction and comprehensive asset management environments for improved data access and utility. While several states have made significant progress in generating structured digital subsurface data, fewer have developed methods—such as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)—for integrating this data efficiently into digital workflows. Geotechnical model development remains challenging, particularly in relation to data quality, reliability, provenance, and governance.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this synthesis project is to document state DOT practices and policies on the deployment of digital geotechnical and geologic data in the DOTs’ digital workspace.   ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 May 2025 12:41:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction Digital Delivery Technology Scan</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2040453</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is embarking on a digital delivery initiative to move from PDF-based processes to digital. Research is necessary
to determine the impact of this change on statewide construction inspection activities including the surveying and
computing technology that will be necessary in the field. Technology needs may differ by Transportation Service
Center (TSC) depending on their percentage of consultant vs. internal inspection activities, the number of MDOT
construction staff and the complexity of typical projects. This technology may include Global Positioning System (GPS) units, Total Stations,
Levels, Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones, Monitors (at this time UAVs and virtual reality are out of scope) and the
proper software to consume digital deliverables, document inspection measurements and create content for
downstream asset management functions. Digital delivery methods will rely on field connectivity to the internet.
There are issues with the use of cell phone hotspots so other means of connectivity should be investigated.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:17:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2040453</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 56-06. Practices for Transitioning to Digital Delivery Systems and Workflows



</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2384693</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The objective of this synthesis was to document state DOT practices related to adopting and implementing digital delivery. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 16:17:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2384693</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Guide for Integrating Digital Construction Inspection Technologies</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381754</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In recent years, the rapid evolution of project delivery in transportation infrastructure has presented state departments of transportation (DOTs) with an abundance of emerging methods and tools designed to enhance the efficiency of field construction inspections. These advancements promise a revolution in the way inspections are conducted, potentially ushering in an era of streamlined, integrated, and digitalized processes that can significantly augment the current capabilities of DOTs. However, this surge in available technologies has also brought forth a complex maze of choices, leaving DOTs grappling with decisions on which tools to integrate into their existing systems for optimal results. Moreover, the integration of digital tools into construction inspection activities is not just about the adoption of technology; it encompasses a broader spectrum that includes understanding the nuances of tool interoperability, training requisites, and setting achievable milestones. The transition to a digitalized inspection process is a multifaceted endeavor, requiring a holistic approach that considers various interconnected elements that contribute to a successful implementation.

In addition, technology developers generate solutions faster than the transportation sector can implement them, sometimes without clearly understanding the needs and challenges. Research is needed to pave the way for a streamlined and manageable digital inspection process to ensure expeditious integration of technological tools adaptable to state DOTs’ needs and workflows. 

The objective of this project is to develop a guide for integrating digital construction inspection technologies into state DOTs' workflows across the project life cycle. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 May 2024 16:18:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381754</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Guide for Digital Project Delivery: Integrating Design and Construction</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381719</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In recent years, there has been an explosion of digital tools and practices to enhance how transportation agencies conduct business and deliver projects more collaboratively with partners. State departments of transportation (DOTs) are replacing paper and image-based workflows with more intelligent digital processes to tap the potential of digital information more fully for collaboration, productivity, and risk and quality management. Digital practices such as three-dimensional (3D)/four-dimensional (4D) modeling, e-Construction/e-Ticketing, and building information modeling (BIM) for infrastructure are improving project delivery by enabling more effective collaboration and seamless data exchange, reducing errors during handoffs. However, integration of these digital practices remains largely ad hoc, particularly in areas like risk evaluation and management for project delivery. Research is needed on the utilization of digital project delivery practices within the transportation sector, the benefits achieved, and how these practices can be adapted to meet state DOT needs.

The objective of this research is to develop a guide for implementing digital delivery practices from design through construction of the transportation infrastructure life cycle.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2024 17:06:51 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381719</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SPR-4832:  A Digital Inspection System for Training Construction Inspectors</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209626</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Construction inspection is critical to the quality and long-term performance of infrastructure assets.  There is a critical need for effective tools to train novice inspectors and provide updated information for experienced inspectors. This project develops a digital inspection training system. Main deliverables include a digital inspection training system for on-demand training of inspectors, and a training program that can be integrated with INDOT’s learning system.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:18:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209626</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Digitizing Bicycle and Pedestrian Treatments for Promoting Active Transportation Safety 





</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2195112</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Users of active transportation are facing an increasing disparity in traffic-related incidents. However, the implementation of data-driven safety and planning tools is hindered by the lack of high-quality inventories for bicycle and pedestrian facilities and treatments.

There are data management and organizational challenges to maintaining statewide inventories for active transportation treatments. High-quality, contiguous active transportation networks cross many jurisdictional boundaries. Data federated from local authorities are highly variable and often incomplete. Auditing and mapping pedestrian and bicycle treatments are crucial tasks within a geographic information systems framework. There are also emerging geographic data sources (e.g., crowdsourced and remotely sensed data), which can introduce new challenges and opportunities. 

Research is needed for developing a spatial framework for working across jurisdictional boundaries and data sources to digitize, maintain, and share active transportation-related assets while minimizing costs and risks associated with poorly governed data.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to develop a guide that will assist state departments of transportation (DOTs) and local agencies in digitizing bike and pedestrian treatments and provide examples of how organizations have used digitized data to better fulfill their safety goals. 

At a minimum the study shall (1) examine existing best practices; (2) explore the potential and benefits of using emerging geographic data sources; and (3) develop a standardized framework for data collection, maintenance, and sharing of the active transportation facilities and treatment inventory data.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jun 2023 19:56:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2195112</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>The Digital Twin Paradigm for Real-Time Transit Infrastructure Maintenance</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2093176</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County will partner with University of Nevada to build and demonstrate the Digital Twins Technology of real-time transit infrastructure monitoring throughout the City of Reno. The Digital Twin Technology would be very helpful and would automatically identify structural / visual changes that would indicate damage to bus stops and other amenities along the bus routes.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:53:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2093176</guid>
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