As CAV technology and Cooperative and Automated Transportation (CAT) sectors advance, several states have established programs or designated staff to plan and prepare for the changes these technologies bring to transportation.  The Mid-America Association of State Transportation Officials (MAASTO) Board unanimously nominated MDOT to lead an initiative to coordinate and facilitate the creation of a pooled fund study project.  

The intended purpose of the proposed TPF study is to support a collaborative research and project consortium on the topic of CAV technology. There is a need for establishing a common strategic direction for advancing CAV’s deployments amongst its member states.  This proposed pooled fund project will focus on movement toward resolution of a common direction for the body of ten (10) states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin) in the Region.

The objective of this TPF study is to provide as needed engineering and/or technical support services for the research, development, and deployment of CAV technology and assist/support advancing various CAV related initiatives.

MDOT, as the pooled fund study’s lead agency will perform the program’s required administrative duties and tasks, in compliance with the federal program’s administrative regulations/laws and guidance.

Perform Major Tasks As Follows:

·         Support the CAV regional strategy.

·         Provide guidance and direction for collaborative information sharing among the member states.

·         Review and assess both current and past research and testing partnerships and pooled fund projects relating to CAV technologies.

·         Perform a review and analysis of relevant policies and laws for possible alignment improvements.

·         Review and evaluate current outreach and education strategies and recommend possible future improvements.

·         Promote and coordinate viable pilot projects to help expediate CAV deployments nationally.

·         Evaluate current organizational alignment and coordination efforts for possible improvements.

A minimum pledge contribution of $30,000 per fiscal year for 5 years (FY 2024- FY 2028) is required.