Quantum Computing and Quantum-Inspired Algorithms for Transportation Network Design

Quantum computing has the potential to transform the classical computing paradigm with improved efficiency for solving NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems modeled as a quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) model, including those in transportation and supply chains. Although the quantum annealing (QA) algorithm is theoretically attractive, there is a lack of computational experience showing its superior performance over the traditional algorithms. The purpose of this project is to explore quantum computing and quantum-inspired algorithms on a class of transportation network design problems. We will develop and implement custom-designed algorithms to solve large-scale QUBO models for transportation network design, and evaluate their performance compared to that of QA. The model and algorithms are expected to provide optimal large-scale network design solutions efficiently. This project aligns with the DOT’s strategic goal of economic strength and global competitiveness, and supports MATC-TSE’s theme on transportation systems of the future.

• Record URL:
  • https://matc-data.unl.edu/research-database/734

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $201,066.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3552348307

• 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:

  Mid-America Transportation Center

  University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  2200 Vine Street, PO Box 830851
  Lincoln, NE  United States  68583-0851
• Project Managers:

  Stearns, Amy

• Performing Organizations:

  University of Missouri, St. Louis

  1 University Boulevard
  St. Louis, MO  United States  63121-4400
• Principal Investigators:

  Li, Haitao

• Start Date: 20240601
• Expected Completion Date: 20260630
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Algorithms; Combinatorial analysis; Network analysis (Planning); Quantum mechanics; Strategic planning; Supply chain management
• Identifier Terms: Transportation System User Benefits
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Design; Economics; Planning and Forecasting; Transportation (General);

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01971691
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Mid-America Transportation Center
• Contract Numbers: 69A3552348307
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Nov 18 2025 1:58PM