Empowering Para-Transit through Automation: A Behaviorally Informed Optimization Approach
The key innovation of this project is the promotion of behaviorally informed paratransit automation design. The team bridges the gap between behavioral and operational research by integrating insights from both fields to leverage Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) to enhance mobility and independence for people with disabilities. Behavioral research provides a deep understanding of how individuals with disabilities interact with transportation systems, highlighting their unique needs and preferences. On the operational side, the project employs advanced technology and optimization algorithms to develop efficient and reliable paratransit systems. By combining behavioral research with cutting-edge technology and optimization techniques, the Northwestern team aims to set a new standard for transit automation, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the mobility and independence they deserve. This research aligns with the Center for Connected and Automated Transportation (CCAT) theme of Thrust 4: Fairness, as behaviorally informed paratransit automation design aids in achieving the equitable allocation of transportation services for users with special considerations, such as disabilities. The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) is a project partner and will provide key data for the analysis. The research promises to support the mission of RTA by preparing transit operators to develop more widely accessible and cost-effective operational strategies in an era of increasing automation.
Language
- English
Project
- Status: Active
- Funding: $150,000.00
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Contract Numbers:
69A3552348305
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Sponsor Organizations:
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology
University Transportation Centers Program
Department of Transportation
Washington, DC United States 20590 -
Managing Organizations:
University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute
2901 Baxter Road
Ann Arbor, Michigan United States 48109 -
Project Managers:
Bezzina, Debra
Stearns, Amy
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Performing Organizations:
Northwestern University, Evanston
Transportation Center, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
2145 Sheridan Road, A335
Evanston, IL United States 60208 -
Principal Investigators:
Stathopoulos, Amanda
Nie, Yu
- Start Date: 20251015
- Expected Completion Date: 20261015
- Actual Completion Date: 0
- USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program
Subject/Index Terms
- TRT Terms: Autonomous vehicles; Connected vehicles; Optimization; Paratransit services; Paratransit vehicles; Persons with disabilities
- Subject Areas: Passenger Transportation; Planning and Forecasting; Vehicles and Equipment;
Filing Info
- Accession Number: 01970964
- Record Type: Research project
- Source Agency: Center for Connected and Automated Transportation
- Contract Numbers: 69A3552348305
- Files: UTC, RIP
- Created Date: Nov 13 2025 2:58PM