Transportation Research Board
What Is the Transportation Research Board?
The Transportation Research Board (TRB) is a division of the National Academies, a private, nonprofit institution that includes the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council. Created as the Highway Research Board in 1920, TRB promotes innovation and progress in transportation through research. Much more information about TRB.
TRB Research Overview
TRB administers a number of major research programs sponsored by other organizations. The oldest and largest of these programs, the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), is sponsored by the state transportation departments in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP), initiated in 1992, is sponsored by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Both are applied research programs in which the potential users of research results have a direct role in project selection. In 2002, TRB began administering the Commercial Truck and Bus Safety Synthesis Program (CTBSSP), which is sponsored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The congressionally requested Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP), which began work in 2006, is sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Two other new programs were initiated in 2006—the Hazardous Materials Cooperative Research Program (HMCRP) and the National Cooperative Freight Research Program (NCFRP), both of which were authorized in the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU).
For all of these programs, TRB organizes panels of experts to provide guidance on technical aspects of the research and to translate the problems into project statements with well-defined objectives. Research proposals are then solicited from private and public research organizations with capability and experience in the problem areas to be studied. The technical panels review the proposals, recommend contract awards, monitor research in progress, provide technical guidance, and determine the acceptability of the final reports. More than 3,000 experienced practitioners and research specialists currently serve on Cooperative Research Program panels. TRB also manages programs of smaller studies focused on synthesizing current practices and analyzing legal issues in the NCHRP, ACRP, and the TCRP programs.
National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP)
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NCHRP Regular Projects
Total Annual Funding: $40.0 million (approximate total annual program funds)
Range of Project Costs: $200,000–600,000
Statements Due: Mid-October
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General Description
Administered by the Transportation Research Board (TRB), the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) was created in 1962 as a means to conduct research in acute problem areas that affect highway planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance nationwide. NCHRP is sponsored by the state departments of transportation in cooperation with FHWA. Support is voluntary and funds are provided from the states' Federal-Aid Highway apportionment of State Planning and Research (SP&R) funds (information on the SP&R funds may be found in the state DOT section of this report.) Each state's voluntary contribution amounts to 5.5 percent of its SP&R apportionment, resulting in an annual cooperative pool of about $40 million to fund the program’s activities.
AASHTO committees, state DOTs, and FHWA propose research topics each year, and the AASHTO Standing Committee on Research (SCOR) recommends both the projects to be funded and the levels of funding for those projects subject to approval of the AASHTO Board of Directors. The funds can be spent only for the administration of problems approved by at least two-thirds of the states.
There are several continuing projects that are run under the NCHRP umbrella, with a specific focus and different administrative details; these projects are described in detail below. The “regular” NCHRP problem statements are collected, reviewed and revised, and then judged each year. A technical panel of experts is assembled for each selected project. These technical panels review the problem statements and contractor proposals, recommend contract awards, monitor research in progress, provide technical guidance, and review reports for acceptability and for accomplishment of the agency's research plan. They also provide counsel to TRB staff in matters of overall project administration. TRB solicits research proposals from private and public research organizations that can demonstrate capability and experience in the problem area to be researched. These organizations include universities, nonprofit institutions, consulting and commercial firms, and individual consultants.
Type of Research Funded
As the program title suggests the focus is on highway research—although as is the case with the transportation community in general, the program is very broad and considers many aspects of transportation (including multi-modal transportation, environment issues, community concerns, etc.). NCHRP does not conduct basic research; instead the program’s focus is on solutions that are practical and readily usable. Successful problem statements address issues of critical concern and interest to many states. In addition, the review committee considers whether the problem can be handled effectively in the cooperative research environment supported by NCHRP and will have a high probability of success.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Each fiscal year the NCHRP program receives approximately $40 million to fund new and continuing. Individual project budgets range from $200,000 to $600,000.
Schedule
- Early July – AASHTO Standing Committee on Research (SCOR) solicits problems
- Mid-September – Problem statement submission deadline
- December/January – Ballots sent to selection panel (SCOR and Research Advisory Committee (RAC))
- February/March – Ballots compiled
- Late March – Projects selected by SCOR
- Mid-April – Technical panel nominations requested
- May/June – Final list of projects approved by AASHTO Board of Directors
- June/July – Panels selected
- July/August – First panel meetings
Project Solicitation and Submission
Each year in early July, the AASHTO Standing Committee on Research (SCOR) solicits problems from three authorized sources: (1) AASHTO member transportation departments, (2) the chairs of AASHTO committees and subcommittees, and (3) the Federal Highway Administration. The membership list of the AASHTO SCOR, RAC, and other committees may be found at on the committee dropdown list. Problem statements are due by mid-September of the same year. Upon receipt, FHWA and NCHRP evaluations are performed. These evaluations are sent to submitters around mid-November, and submitters have until early December to comment on the evaluations or to withdraw the problem statement. The NCHRP also uses evaluation panels to assess problem statements in some of the more popular subject areas, such as bridge, materials, and traffic and safety. In these cases, the collective thoughts of the panel are conveyed back to the submitter, instead of separate evaluations from FHWA and NCHRP. At the same time that new problem candidates are submitted, NCHRP panels and staff are also working on recommendations for continuations of projects begun in earlier years.
Selection Process
Late each December, a report on the continuation projects and new problem candidates goes to the SCOR and RAC with a ballot for rating the candidates according to priority.
The ratings are returned to the SCOR Secretary (i.e., the Director of TRB’s Cooperative Research Programs) and are translated into priority rankings based on the average ratings of SCOR and RAC. A summary report is sent to the SCOR for review prior to its spring meeting in Washington, D.C., to determine final priorities and formulate a program. This meeting is held annually in late March. Based on the funding expected from the Federal-Aid Highway apportionments for the given fiscal year, SCOR determines which completed or ongoing projects should receive additional funding for further work and which new problem submittals should be programmed.
An Announcement of Research Projects is prepared each year in April. This Announcement details the preliminary scopes of work that will be considered in requests for proposals. A list of these projects.
Once the program is developed, SCOR sends a report to the AASHTO Board of Directors requesting approval of the program. The final program for each year consists of those continuations and new problems that receive a favorable vote by two-thirds or more of the Member Departments. After AASHTO approves the program, it is referred to TRB for administration.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
As mentioned earlier, the NCHRP program evaluates problem statements for four basic criteria:
- Does the proposed topic represent a critical research need and is of interest to many states?
- Can the topic be handled effectively under in a cooperative program?
- Are similar efforts already underway or are satisfactory answers already available?
- Is there a high probability of the research producing a well-defined, implementable product?
When writing a problem statement for NCHRP, it is helpful to keep several things in mind. First, it is important to remember that the selection panel is composed of state DOT employees and the DOTs are the only sponsors of this program. Although the states have very broad responsibilities, it is important to connect your problem to the state DOTs. Use examples of how this problem specifically affects state DOTs and make the case that this is a wide spread phenomenon. Second, those selecting the statements are leaders in their respective DOTs who may not have complete current technical knowledge of every area they are asked to evaluate. Providing sufficient background in non-technical language (without jargon) will help the committee understand the importance of the problem. Finally, referencing complete and ongoing research in the area makes the case that you have conducted a literature review and know the current research in the topic area. In acknowledging other work, be sure to discuss how your proposal builds on that work or why the work does not address your specific concern. Avoid suggesting that the work has already been done or is already underway.
Remember the program is intended to fund projects that result in practical remedies for operational problems. The problem statement should address the Applicability of Results to Practice; clearly describe how the anticipated research results can be used to improve practices; and clearly indicate the expected audience for the research results. The writer should present the strongest case possible to convince SCOR that the results of the research will be practical and implementable. Research interests which demonstrate strong support from national experts are favorably considered by SCOR.
Further Information
The NCHRP Web site has up-to-date information about the NCHRP program, how to submit statements, etc. A more detailed description of the NCHRP program. For specific questions on NCHRP, please contact:
Christopher Hedges
Manager, NCHRP
202-334-1472
NCHRP Domestic Scans
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Domestic Scans (NCHRP 20-68A)
Total Annual Funding: $500,000
Range of Project Costs: $80,000–150,000
NCHRP funds may be supplemented by other sponsors for specific cans Research Statements Due – Late November
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General Description
The domestic scan program seeks to accelerate innovation by encouraging dissemination of practice advances of high-performing transportation agencies that could be beneficially adopted by other interested agencies. A scan entails four key steps. First, knowledgeable people identify novel practices in their field of interest. Second, these people assess the likelihood that these new ideas might beneficially be applied in other settings. Third, new practices that offer the most promise are selected and field visits are made to observe the practices, identify pertinent development and application issues, and assess appropriate technology transfer opportunities and methods. Finally, the results of the initial steps are documented for use by those who participated and for others to apply. The program includes annual cycles of topic selection, scans, and documentation.
A scan focuses on face-to-face discussion of current experience, providing opportunities for a uniquely rich exchange of information that is difficult or impossible to replicate through written materials, telephone conversations, and email correspondence. The informal discussions among the scan team and other scan participants contribute to the extraction of useful information from the individual scan-team members’ observations. Effective scans both supplement and make use of other mechanisms for disseminating advances in practice, including publication in trade and professional journals, conferences, and peer-to-peer forums.
Executing an effective scan program depends on sound understanding of the topic areas to be considered, insightful selection of topics and new ideas to be observed, careful selection of participants who can provide useful insights from their observations, and thoughtful documentation and dissemination of each scan’s results. Managing the domestic scan program additionally requires that resources be conserved by not duplicating the information exchange activities of others.
Type of Research Funded
The objective of NCHRP Project 20-68A is to plan and manage the execution of domestic technology scans, each addressing a single technical topic. Each scan is planned and conducted with a scan team chair (or co-chairs) and 8 to 10 scan-team members. A subject-matter expert, working with the scan-team chair and members, is responsible for (a) conducting a desk scan; (b) defining the appropriate duration of the scan, its technical structure, and other factors likely to influence planning of the scan; (c) preparing scan technical materials; and (d) preparing a report of the scan. NCHRP selects topics from among proposals submitted to AASHTO. AASHTO and NCHRP identify scan team chars and members. NCHRP’s management contractor is responsible for receiving scan-topic descriptions from NCHRP; planning, executing and documenting scans, preparing scan reports; and maintaining status reports of the domestic scan program’s activities. The management team works with scan-team chairs to select subject-matter experts.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
The project receives NCHRP funding annually ($600,000 in FY2014), with additional funding from FHWA or others for selected specific scans. The number of scans conducted each year depends on the estimated costs of specific scans and the availability of funds from NCHRP and other sponsorship. NCHRP staff estimates that funds allocated to the program will typically be adequate to support planning and execution of three to five scans each year.
Schedule
- November – Scan topic submission deadline
- December – Scan topics selected by project panel.
Project Solicitation and Submission
In the early fall a call for scan topics goes out to the state DOTs and FHWA staff. AASHTO committees, state DOTS, and FHWA may submit scan research statements for consideration.
Selection Process
The research statements are reviewed by the NCHRP Project Panel; the panel has sometimes combined multiple proposals into a single scan.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
There is no formal selection criteria established. However the focus of the program is sharing of information critical to the state departments of transportation.
For more information contact:
Andrew C. Lemer, Ph.D.
Cooperative Research Programs
Transportation Research Board
The National Academies
500 Fifth Street, N. W.
Washington, DC 20001
General Description
This is a quick-response research program for states to address near-term improvements in statewide and metropolitan transportation planning and project development processes.
Type of Research Funded
NCHRP 8-36 funds research related to statewide or metropolitan planning organization (MPO) transportation planning, economic planning, financing issues, or intermodal issues. Proposed problem statements should discuss the need and application potential for state and MPO practitioners.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This project is currently funding $600,000 per year. Approximately 10 projects are funded each year, each costing $100,000 to $125,000. The projects are typically one year to 18 months in duration.
Schedule
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April – Call for topics issued
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July – Proposed topics due
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August – Projects selected
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September – RFPs sent to task order contractors
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December – Selection of task order contractors for each project
Project Solicitation and Submission
Projects may be submitted by any individual or committee. They should be submitted through the AASHTO Standing Committee on Planning website at:http://web.transportation.org/planning/Writing.aspx. A template and instructions are provided on the website.
Selection Process
A project panel of state DOT and MPO staff and members from academia review research statements and select winning proposals. The panel roster may be found on the TRB Web site. The selected projects are reviewed and approved by the AASHTO Standing Committee on Planning.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
There are no formally stated selection criteria, but the panel looks for:
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Projects of national interest,
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Research of immediate concern to the transportation planning community,
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Research projects that can be achieved with the smaller funding and shorter time Frame associated with this project, and
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Topics that are not currently covered by other ongoing research projects.
Further Information:
Recent reports. For more information contact:
Larry Goldstein
Senior Program Officer
Transportation Research Board
202-334-1866
General Description
The objective of Project 25-25 is to provide flexible, ongoing, quick-response research on environmental issues in transportation. This research will be designed to develop improvements to analytical methods, decision support tools, procedures, and techniques employed by practitioners to support statewide and metropolitan transportation planning, programming, and development.
Type of Research Funded
NCHRP 25-25 funds research project to develop improvements to the analytical methods, decision-support tools, procedures, and techniques employed by practitioners in environmental streamlining, environmental stewardship, statewide and metropolitan environmental transportation planning, program delivery, and project development.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This project is currently funding $600,000 per year. Approximately 10 projects are funded each year, each costing $100,000 to $125,000. The projects are typically one year to 18 months in duration.
Schedule
- April – Call for topics issued
- July – Proposed topics due
- September – Projects selected
- January the next year – Proposal requests sent to Task Order Contractors
- April the next year – selection of Task Order Contractors for each project
Project Solicitation and Submission
Projects may be submitted by any individual or committee. They should be submitted directly to the TERI database. Please prepare a short (preferably one page) proposal using the following format:
- Title
- Focus Area
- Research Objectives
- Specific Tasks (if known)
- Cost
- Time Required
Selection Process
A project panel of state DOT draft drawn from AASHTO SCOE review research statements and select winning proposals. The panel roster may be found on the TRB Web site. The selected projects are reviewed and approved by the AASHTO Standing Committee on the Environment.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
There are no formally stated selection criteria, but the panel looks for:
- Projects of national interest,
- Research of immediate concern to the transportation planning community,
- Research projects that can be achieved with the smaller funding and shorter time frame associated with this project, and
- Topics that are not currently covered by other ongoing research projects.
For more information contact:
Lori Sundstrom
Senior Program Officer
202-334-3034
General Description
NCHRP Project 20-24 is responsible for conducting research intended to address the specific needs of chief executive officers (CEOs) and other top managers of state departments of transportation (DOTs). The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Standing Committee on Research (SCOR) each year allocates funds to the overall project.
As the program is currently administered, NCHRP 20-24 panel members are appointed from the ranks of senior officials in the state DOTs. Senior members of AASHTO and Transportation Research Board staff serve as liaison members of the panel.
Type of Research Funded
Program research is intended to address the specific needs of chief executive officers (CEOs) and other top managers of state departments of transportation (DOTs).
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Project 20-24 provides flexible, ongoing, quick-response research. The panel typically meets twice yearly, during AASHTO’s annual fall and spring meetings. The group may hold interim meetings or conference calls, or otherwise communicate to consider the Project 20-24 research program or specific projects within that program, review research results, and advise NCHRP staff on the program’s administration.
Typically, 4 to 6 topics are selected each year, with study budgets allocated as appropriate to the topic and the constraints of overall program funding ($1 million annually in each of the past several years).
Schedule
Spring – Panel members allocate funds for research on proposed topics
NCHRP staff notify task order contractors when proposals are to be solicited.
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research topics are proposed by panel members, AASHTO staff, and others. Proposals may include continuation or extension of work on topics previously researched. Each year at the NCHRP 20-24 panel’s spring meeting, the panel’s members allocate funds authorized by SCOR to undertake research on some of the proposed topics. Funds that are not immediately allocated are carried over for future allocation.
Selection Process
Once a specific topic is selected by the NCHRP 20-24 panel and designated for procurement under the task-order system, the overall principal investigators in these firms are invited to submit specific proposals to undertake research on that topic. Each topic is designated as a distinct NCHRP research activity; a project-specific panel may be designated to oversee the work or the NCHRP 20-24 panel may retain responsibility for some or all of the functions of NCHRP's usual research process. The NCHRP 20-24 panel may determine that research services for particular projects should be procured outside of the NCHRP 20-24A task-order process.
Consultant services for research on designated topics have typically been solicited and procured under NCHRP’s usual procedures for issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) and selecting a contractor from among those submitting proposals in response to each specific RFP. Task-order contractors may, at their own discretion, assemble teams or join together in their responses to NCHRP's invitation to submit specific proposals. Descriptions of the background and specific scope envisioned for newly selected projects as well as the selected contractors are posted under each project's number as the responsible NCHRP panel completes its tasks.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
For more information contact:
Andrew C. Lemer
Senior Program Analyst
Transportation Research Board
202-334-3972
General Description
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Standing Committee on Highways (SCOH) is called upon continually to rule on engineering and operations policies as a guide for State highway transportation departments to follow. The Committee desires to obtain guidance on a reasonably prompt schedule through a continuing research program geared to the needs and wishes of the Committee in the development of guides, standards, policies, and other AASHTO activities.
Type of Research Funded
Develop methods, design criteria, decision support tools, and techniques for all aspects of construction, design, maintenance, materials, operations, traffic engineering, bridges and structures, engineering, and traffic safety.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This project is currently funding $1,200,000 per year.
Schedule
Two times each year, topics are submitted via AASHTO
Two Cycles Each Year
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CYCLE 1
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CYCLE 2
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May – Topics Selected
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October – Topics selected
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August – Panel formed & contracts identified
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January – Panel formed & contracts identified
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December – Selection of contractors
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March - Selection of contractors
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January to January – Research
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May to May - Research
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Project Solicitation and Submission
Two times each year, topics are submitted via AASHTO
Two Cycles Each Year
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CYCLE 1
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CYCLE 2
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May – Topics Selected
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October – Topics selected
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August – Panel formed & contracts identified
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January – Panel formed & contracts identified
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December – Selection of contractors
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March - Selection of contractors
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January to January – Research
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May to May - Research
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Selection Process
NCHRP 20-7 panel is a special committee under SCOH.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
There are no formally stated selection criteria, but the panel looks for:
- projects of national interest,
- research of immediate concern to the transportation planning community,
- research projects that can be achieved with the smaller funding and shorter time frame associated with this project, and
- topics that are not currently covered by other ongoing research projects.
Cost sharing can leverage investments in research as well as spread the risk inherent in early-stage concept development. For those reasons, all other things being equal, proposals that include cost sharing from other sources may be given some preferences in the evaluations. Several research projects have been jointly funded with FHWA.
For more information contact:
Christopher Hedges
Manager, NCHRP
202-334-1472
General Description
The AASHTO Standing Committee on Public Transportation (SCOPT) is called upon to provide information for the establishment of policies and positions of the state transportation departments on issues associated with the nation's transportation system. The Committee needs information on a reasonably prompt basis, through a continuing research project geared to its responsibilities. AASHTO member departments require timely information regarding transit planning, operations, transit delivery, and related matters as state involvement in public transportation continues to grow.
Type of Research Funded
This project comprises a program of quick-response research tasks to assist in the fulfillment of SCOPT and AASHTO responsibilities. Research conducted responds to public transportation issues of importance to SCOPT, AASHTO, and state departments of transportation. For example, when any new or revised federal transportation regulations related to transit are proposed or finalized, research is typically needed to develop new methods, processes, and procedures to ensure their effective and timely implementation.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This project is currently funded at $450,000 per year.
Schedule
- April - Solicitation for problem statements issued
- July - Topic submission deadline
- August - Projects selected
Project Solicitation and Submission
In April of each year a solicitation for research ideas is sent to members of NCHRP Project 20-65, SCOPT, MTAP, APTA State Affairs Committee, and staff of AASHTO, APTA, FTA, and CTAA. As a result of that solicitation, potential research topics are identified for consideration by the project panel.
Selection Process
Eight to 10 members (current and former) from the public transportation section of state DOTS, plus AASHTO, APTA, TRB, FHWA and FTA liaisons selects study topics for the next program year. Panel responsibilities include provision of general oversight of the project and its procedures; selection of research topics; review and approval of research topic scopes and deliverables; and provision of publication recommendations to TRB.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
Research conducted responds to urgent issues relating to public transportation. This research is designed to develop improvements to analytical methods, decision-support tools, procedures, and techniques employed by practitioners addressing public transportation issues.
Tasks conducted under NCHRP Project 20-65 must be:
- Directed at a research need
- Usually involving policy-related and technical issues
- Not purely editorial
- Usually developing a new product or substantially upgrading an existing item;
- Expected to produce results predominantly for use by SCOPT, AASHTO, and/or state DOTs (Research topics oriented more towards transit operators should be directed to the TCRP rather than to NCHRP Project 20-65);
- Small or moderate in scale
- Less than $100,000
- Usually $25,000 to $50,000;
- Short in duration
- Usually able to be completed in less than 12 months
- Not a continuing operational activity; and
- Urgent
- Ready to begin now
- Not able to wait for regular NCHRP or TCRP research.
For more information contact:
Gwen Chisholm-Smith
Cooperative Research Programs
Transportation Research Board
Cooperative Research Programs
202-334-3246
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Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA)
Total Annual Funding – Information in development
Range of Project Costs – $25,000–100,000; $25,000–150,000 for highways research
Statements Due – March 1 and September 1;September 16 only for Safety Program
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General Description
The IDEA program funds research in promising but unproven innovations for highways, transportation safety, and transit. Investigators may submit research statements in March or September of each year to be considered for funding. AASHTO and the following agencies of the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) invest in the potential of innovative concepts by funding the Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) programs.
- Highway IDEA – Through the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), AASHTO funds the NCHRP Highway IDEA program to foster innovative concepts and search for advances in design, construction, safety, maintenance, operations, and management of highway systems;
- Safety IDEA – The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) jointly fund the Safety IDEA program to promote innovative approaches to reducing fatalities and injuries by improving truck safety and railroad safety; and
- Transit IDEA – Through the Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP), the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds the Transit IDEA program to support innovations to improve the efficiency, safety, security, and ridership of transit systems.
The Transportation Research Board (TRB) administers the IDEA programs on behalf of their sponsoring agencies. A senior staff officer supports the work of committees and panels of unpaid experts who volunteer their time to review proposals, select projects for funding, and offer guidance on the conduct of investigations.
Type of Research Funded
There are two project types: Type 1 projects are concept explorations that demonstrate the validity of unproven concepts, and Type 2 projects develop and test prototypes of proven concepts.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Funding for Type 1 projects typically ranges from $25,000 to $100,000, and contracts may cover 3 to 18 months. Type 2 projects more often range from $50,000 to $100,000 and contracts may range from 6 to 24 months. The NCHRP Highway IDEA program has an upper limit of $150,000 for both project types. The other IDEA programs cannot consider proposals for above $100,000. Within these funding constraints, award amounts are based on the extent of the investigation required for the project.
Schedule
- NCHRP-IDEA Program:
- Transit IDEA Program:
- Safety IDEA Program:
Project Solicitation and Submission
The annual Program Announcement provides information about the programs and includes instructions and forms for submitting proposals. Annual progress reports that describe current and completed projects are published for each program. Detailed directions for preparing research statements, contracts and budgets may be found in the IDEA program announcement
Selection Process
Proposals are reviewed by technical experts in the program area who are selected from industry, academia, and state and federal transportation agencies to serve on IDEA committees.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
In evaluating proposals, committee members require clear, concise answers in three areas:
- Quality of Innovation – Is this a credible technical concept, and would it produce a significant advance for the state of the art or the practice?
- Potential Payoff – Is this an important problem that the IDEA program should investigate, and would the product have potential for application?
- Research Approach – Would the proposed investigative approach rigorously assess the concept and the application?
Complete proposals that follow the Guidelines for Preparing IDEA Proposals will be further evaluated according to their strength in those and the following areas:
- What are the expected benefits to transportation agencies? Is there potential to produce a breakthrough or a major advance in some portion of transportation practice?
- Does the concept have scientific and technical merit?
- Is the research plan sound, and does it have a realistic scope?
- What are the qualifications of the investigating team, and what facilities are available to them?
- How practical are the plans for product implementation or commercialization?
- Have potential users of the ultimate product agreed to participate in the project
Cost sharing can leverage an agency’s investment in research as well as spread the risk inherent in early-stage concept development. For those reasons, all other things being equal, proposals that include cost sharing from other sources may be given some preference in the evaluations. TRB may recommend technical or budget modifications to the project after a proposal has been selected for funding but before a contract is awarded. For example, investigators may be asked to clarify project details, revise the work plan, or reestimate the cost to perform the project.
Winning proposals emphasize innovation. Effective proposals clearly identify what is being done differently. A proposal that shows an awareness of what has been done in the past makes a positive impression on reviewers. Similarity to existing or past work is one of the reasons proposals are not selected. Potential innovators can also improve their chances of selection by talking with to potential users of the concept. Asking users for help to develop or test the concept as part of the work plan. Sometimes a letter of commitment from a potential user to participate in the project can add strength to the proposal. Also, follow the guidelines for preparing a proposal. Reviewers do not want to miss a good idea because they couldn’t understand it in a poorly prepared proposal.
Further Information
Contact the IDEA office by telephone at 202-334-3310 or by fax at 202-334-3471. The IDEA program staff includes:
Jo Allen Gause, Senior Program Officer for Transit IDEA and Safety IDEA
Inam Jawed, Senior Program Officer for NCHRP Highway IDEA
Jon Williams, Program Director for IDEA and Synthesis Studies
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ACRP Regular Projects
Total Annual Funding: $15 million
Range of Project Costs: $300,000–500,000
Statements Due: March 20th of each year
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General Description
The Vision 100—Century of Aviation Reauthorization Act established the Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) and the ACRP was reauthorized in the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. The ACRP undertakes research and other technical activities in response to the needs of airport operators on various airport issues involving administration, environment, legal, policy, planning, safety, human resources, design, construction, maintenance, and operations at airports.
The ACRP is sponsored by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and managed by the National Academies, through the Transportation Research Board (TRB), in coordination with Airports Council International-North America, Airport Consultants Council, American Association of Airport Executives, National Association of State Aviation Officials, and Airlines for America. The program is governed by the ACRP Oversight Committee (AOC).
Type of Research Funded
The ACRP is an industry-driven, applied research program that develops near-term, practical solutions to problems faced by airport operators. Nearly all of the research projects ACRP undertakes start as problem statements submitted from one or more airport industry practitioners. A problem statement is essentially a justification for funding a research idea. Because the program has limited funding, it is essential that funds go to research projects that the industry believes will give the greatest benefit to airports; therefore a well-thought-out and a well-written problem statement is important. While anyone can submit a problem statement to ACRP, authors will find it helpful to have both a good understanding of the airport industry and of how ACRP conducts research.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
The ACRP is authorized at $15 million per year. Annual ACRP funding is determined by the annual federal appropriation process. ACRP projects typically take one to two years to complete.
Schedule
- Mid-December – Problem statements for the next fiscal year are requested
- March 20th – Next fiscal year’s problem statement submission deadline
- August 1st – Projects announced for next program year and panel nominations requested
- October – Panels selected
- November/December – First panel meetings and RFPs begin to appear online
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research problem statements for ACRP are solicited periodically but may be submitted to TRB by anyone at any time. It is the responsibility of the ACRP governing board to formulate the research program by identifying the highest priority projects and defining funding levels and expected products.
Selection Process
The primary participants of the ACRP are (a) the ACRP Oversight Committee (AOC) an independent governing board established by the Secretary of U.S. Department Transportation with representation from airport operating agencies, other stakeholders, and relevant industry organizations such as the Airports Council International–North America (ACI-NA), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), Airport Consultants Council (ACC), and the Airlines for America (A4A) as vital links to the airport community.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
This document provides guidance to help you turn a research idea into a good problem statement. This guidance first describes how problem statements are reviewed and selected and then helps you determine whether or not your research idea is appropriate for ACRP. Finally, the guidance provides an outline to help you prepare a problem statement that effectively communicates your research idea to maximize its chance of receiving funding.
How Problem Statements are Selected for Funding
There are many research needs in the aviation industry. Some of these address long-range and/or theoretical needs; others address significant, near-term challenges directly affecting day-to-day airport operations. If you believe your research idea falls into this latter category, there is a strong possibility that it could be undertaken by ACRP.
The first step in developing good problem statements is to gain a good understanding of how they are used to select research projects for funding. The ACRP conducts a thorough, comprehensive review process to ensure funding is directed toward the most promising and worthwhile research ideas. To maximize the chance of a problem statement being selected, use the guidance provided in Guidance for Preparing Problem Statements. Aspiring Problem Statement authors are also encouraged to contact ACRP if they have any questions or need assistance in developing your problem statement.
If a problem statement is well-written and addresses a significant near-term challenge affecting airports, there is a high possibility that it will be undertaken by ACRP.
For more information contact:
Marci A. Greenberger
Acting Manager, ACRP
Transportation Research Board
202-334-1371
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ACRP Graduate Research Award Program
Total Annual Funding: $100,000
Range of Project Costs: $10,000 per Student up to 10 Students
Application Due: May 15th
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General Description
The purpose of the Graduate Research Award Program is to encourage applied research on airport and related aviation system issues and to foster the next generation of aviation community leaders. The program is intended to stimulate thought, discussion, and research by those who may become the future airport managers, operators, designers, and policy makers in aviation. The focus of this research program is on applied research to help the public sector continue to improve the quality, reliability, safety, and security of the U.S. civil aviation system well into the foreseeable future.
Under the program, the applicant selects the topic to be researched with supervision by a faculty member at his or her institution. Appropriate topics may be drawn from a wide range of subjects of interest to the U.S. public sector aviation community.
Type of Research Funded
The Graduate Research Award Program on Public-Sector Aviation Issues offers awards to research papers on subjects chosen by the applicants within the framework of the program’s purpose.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This award program is funded for $100,000 for each academic year and up to ten students receive a $10,000 stipend for completion of the research paper during the academic year. Payments are divided into four installments during the research, with the final payment contingent on completion and acceptance of the paper by the panel.
Schedule
- Late May – Applications due
- early September – Contracts awarded to recipients
- early October – First scoping discussion/meeting and review of draft work plan with mentor, advisor, and research grant recipient
- late August – Research papers due
- following January – Papers presented at TRB’s annual meeting, published as part of the Compendium of Papers for the meeting, and considered for publication in Transportation Research Record
Project Solicitation and Submission
Notification of the solicitation is sent to a large number of universities and other organizations interested in aviation research. The project is also announced in the TRB e-newsletter. Application forms.
Selection Process
Applicants for awards will be judged on a number of factors, including academic qualifications (academic accomplishments, references, and experience), career goals, and proposed research (quality of concept, approach, and potential value to the public sector aviation community). Final selection of candidates for awards will be made by a panel of experts from aviation and the academic community appointed by the ACRP. The roster for this committee is available on the TRB Web site.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
Applications will be judged on the following criteria:
- Quality and completeness of the application and the research proposal,
- Relevance to the purpose of the research program,
- Résumé, including academic and work experience,
- References (including at least one academic reference) available to contact in support of the application,
- Commitment of a faculty advisor, and
- Writing sample submitted with the application.
The selection committee looks for creative research ideas that have a high potential for success. Research should also be of interest to the practitioner community.
For more information contact:
Lawrence D. Goldstein
Senior Program Officer
Airport Cooperative Research Program
Transportation Research Board
500 Fifth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
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Airport Cooperative Research Program University Design Competition for Addressing Airport Needs
2014 – 2015 Academic Year
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Introduction
The Airport Cooperative Research Program (ARCP) is sponsoring a national competition for universities that engages students in addressing issues relating to airports and the National Airspace System. This Competition challenges individuals and teams of undergraduate and/or graduate students working with faculty advisors to consider innovative approaches related to these challenges. Submitters should design solutions that focus on addressing airport issues and constraints involving the following issues: administration, environment, legal, airport-established policy, planning, safety, human resources, design, construction, maintenance, and operations at airports, and develop innovative approaches to improve the management, safety, capacity and efficiency of the nation’s airports.
This Competition focuses on design solutions addressing the above issues in the following broad areas: Airport Operation and Maintenance, Runway Safety/Runway Incursions/ Runway Excursions, Airport Environmental Interactions, and Airport Management and Planning. Background and some specific challenge areas are defined in the Technical Design Challenges section below. Students are not limited to the suggested topical areas listed. They are free to propose design solutions based on other topics that fit the four broad challenge areas. As part of the required literature review, participants are encouraged to explore past ACRP research reports to see what ideas have already been presented and studied.
Competition Goals
1. Raise awareness of the benefits of the Airport Cooperative Research Program and the importance of airports to the National Airspace System infrastructure.
2. Increase the involvement of the academic community in ACRP and addressing airport operations and infrastructure issues and needs.
3. Engage students at U.S. colleges and universities in the conceptualization of applications, systems and equipment capable of addressing related challenges in a robust, reliable and comprehensive manner.
4. Encourage undergraduate and graduate students at U.S. colleges and universities to contribute innovative ideas and solutions to issues facing airports and the National Airspace System.
5. Provide a framework and incentives for quality educational experiences for university students.
6. Develop an awareness of and an interest in airports as vital and interesting areas for engineering and technology careers.
The Competition website is the participant’s source for complete and up-to-date information:
http://vsgc.odu.edu/ACRPDesignCompetition
Overall Requirements
The ACRP University Design Competition for Addressing Airport Needs is open to teams or individuals from accredited U.S. colleges and universities who are working with a faculty advisor. The Competition will be open for student participation from August 15, 2014 through April 30, 2015, allowing participation during fall semester 2014 and/or spring semester 2015. Final due date for all submittals is April 30, 2015. All submissions will be judged after the due date. Challenges might typically be addressed as part of a senior design class or independent study option or through other academic venues, including faculty-mentored, college-based student chapters of professional societies.
The Competition requires evidence of interaction with airport operators and industry experts for feedback on the practicality of the proposed design/approach. Links to expert advisors are provided on the Competition website. The American Association of Airport Executives is offering assistance in linking students to airport operators. Participants should contact the Virginia Space Grant Consortium at acrp@odu.edu to request assistance.
A key criterion for submittal evaluation is innovation. Participants need to carefully review and consider previous research and solutions relating to the challenge they choose as part of the required literature review. ACRP offers a wealth of research papers and other documents that the students should careful consider in planning their submittal and approach. Links to previous and current ACRP research are available on the ACRP web site: http://www.trb.org/ACRP/ACRP.aspx. Students should also review previous winning submissions to the FAA Design Competition for universities as well. Links to these resources are provided on the Competition website.
Participants are encouraged to take an interdisciplinary approach to the selected topic and a cross-departmental approach where appropriate. Submissions must be student written and demonstrate a thorough understanding of current conditions/state-of-the-art approaches relevant to the chosen topic. Guidelines for elements of the submittal package are provided below.
Note that additional information, resources, and responses to queries will be posted on the Competition website at ACRPDesignCompetition.odu.edu. Scoring criteria for submittal review will also be posted on the Competition website. The submittal packages will be delivered both electronically and in hard copy with instructions and necessary forms provided on the website.
Awards
A cash award will be given to the student or shared equally among the student team members in each of the four technical design challenge areas as follows:
First Place - $2,500; Second Place - $1,500; Third Place - $1,000.
First place award-winning team representatives will be invited to accept their award and present their design at a ceremony at the National Academies in summer 2015, date to be determined. A travel allowance of up to $2,000 per award will be provided for at least two individuals (two students or one faculty advisor and one student) from each first place winning team. First place award winning teams may also be given the opportunity to present their work in another professional venue.
Key Dates
Competition Announcement August 2014
- Notice of Intent (NOI) is strongly encouraged but not required. The NOI allows Competition staff to facilitate connections airport operators and industry experts. Fall semester NOI deadline is September 30, 2014. Spring semester NOI deadline is January 30, 2015.
- Design submissions accepted from November 1, 2014 through April 30, 2015.
- Note: Students may work on their designs at any time throughout the Competition period.
- Winners will be announced in June 2015.
- Award Ceremony and presentations by First Place winners – Summer 2015 and is anticipated to be in Washington, DC. Questions on the Competition should be sent to: acrp@odu.edu
For additional information contact:
Lawrence D. Goldstein
Senior Program Officer
Airport Cooperative Research Program
Transportation Research Board
500 Fifth Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP)
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TCRP Regular Projects
Total Annual Funding – $3 million
Typical Project Budget: $300,000–500,000
Research Problem Statements Due: Accepted anytime; annual solicitation issued in January and problem statements are due June15
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General Description
The Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) was established under Federal Transit Administration (FTA) sponsorship in July 1992. TCRP was authorized as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) and reauthorized by the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA 21), the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) and the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act(MAP-21). On May 13, 1992, a memorandum agreement outlining TCRP operating procedures was executed by the three cooperating organizations: FTA; the National Academy of Sciences, acting through the Transportation Research Board (TRB); and the Transit Development Corporation, Inc. (TDC), a nonprofit educational and research organization established by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). An updated memorandum agreement was executed on January 12, 1999.
Type of Research Funded
TCRP focuses on issues significant to the transit industry, with emphasis on developing near-term research solutions to a variety of transit problems involving facilities, vehicles, equipment, service concepts, operations, policy, planning, human resources, maintenance, and administrative practices
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Annual TCRP program funding is determined by the surface transportation authorization legislation and the annual federal appropriation process.
Individual research project typically are in the $300,000 - $500,000 range and can be higher or lower depending on the subject area. Research contracts for projects average approximately 18 months and, again, can be higher or lower depending on the subject area.
Schedule
- January: Solicitation for problem statements issued
- June 15: Problem statements due
- October: Problem statements (projects) selected by TCRP oversight and project selection committee
- November: Announcement of NPO projects and solicitation for project panel nomination issured
- January: Panel nominations due
- February: Panel members selected
- March: Panels meet to develop final project scopes and research project statements (RFPs)
- March/April: Research project statements (RFPs) issued
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research problem statements for TCRP are solicited annually but may be submitted to TRB by anyone at anytime. Approximately 2,600 research problem statements have been submitted since program inception. Research problem statements are typically submitted by individuals representing the following: transit agencies, APTA committees, TRB committees, FTA, universities, consultants, and industry.
Project Selection Process
The project selection process begins with the formation of a problem statement screening panel(s) consisting of individuals from the transit industry knowledgable in various disciplines.
Next screening panel(s) then meets to evaluate candidate problem statements and to recommend those that should go forward for consideration by the TCRP Oversight and Project Selection (TOPS) Committee. The screening panel considers FTA strategic research goals as well as the five strategic priorities adopted in the TCRP strategic plan:
- Place the customer first,
- Enable transit to operate in a technologically advanced society,
- Continuously improve public transportation,
- Flourish in the multimodal system, and
- Revitalize transit organizations.
The short list of problem statements selected by the screening panel(s) is then presented to the TOPS Committee for consideration in formulating each year’s program.
Finally the technical merits of the problem statements that are recommended for consideration are further evaluated by the TOPS Committee at an annual meeting held for this purpose. Based on the comments and discussions, the TOPS Committee selects projects for the next program year.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
The primary criteria for problem statement selection include the following:
- Does the problem statement support the TCRP strategic priorities and/or FTA strategic research goals?
- Is the problem important to transit operations?
- Is the problem researchable?
- Is the contemplated research timely?
- Will successful research produce significant benefits?
- Is the probability of success of the proposed research sufficiently high?
- Can the proposed research be designed to avoid undesirable duplication of other completed or ongoing research?
- Is the research appropriate for the TCRP or should it be performed elsewhere?
Selected problem statements are typically those that resonate with transit industry practitioners, particularly transit operations. Problem statements need not be lengthy. When the annual problem-statement solicitation is issued each January, it includes an outline for use in problem-statement development. The key is to develop problem statements that address areas of interest to transit industry practitioners, as the TCRP is an applied, problem solution, research program.
For more information contact:
Christopher W. Jenks, Director
Cooperative Research Programs
Transportation Research Board
(202)334-3089
TRB Cooperative Research Program Special Projects: TCRP
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Synthesis Study Programs
Total Annual Funding/Range of Project Costs: 6 projects at $35,000
Statements Due: March 31st
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General Description
The Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Synthesis Study Program funds state-of-the-practice reports prepared under contract by outside individuals or firms. Syntheses are oriented toward practical solutions of specific transit problems. The specific objectives of a synthesis are 1) to locate and assemble information; 2) to learn what practice has been used; 3) to identify ongoing and recently completed research; 4) to learn what problems remain largely unsolved; and 5) to organize, evaluate, and document the useful information acquired.
Type of Research Funded
The aim of a synthesis, first and foremost, is to document the state of the practice. In addition to documenting facts, the synthesis provides a basis for making conclusions or assessments about:
- Performance resulting from current practices, including new and unusual practices,
- Current practices that are at odds with research findings,
- Current practices that appear to be working well and those that are not working well, and
- Critical knowledge gaps that could be filled by additional research.
The reports, however, stay clear of policy recommendations or statements on sensitive issues that would go beyond the purpose of the synthesis series and compromise the fact-finding/technical assessment mission of these reports.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
In 2014, the TCRP synthesis study’s consultant work will be funded at a level of $35,000 for each study, with an additional bonus of $5,000 for timely delivery of acceptable products. Public agencies have chosen to augment the consultant funding for specific studies.
Schedule
- March 31 – New topic statement submission deadline
- May – Projects selected
- August – First panel meetings begin
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research statements may be submitted by anyone. An on-line form is available to submit statements
Selection Process
TCRP Project Committee J-7 meets each year to select topics for study using funds from the upcoming fiscal year. Current funding allows for initiation of five syntheses per year.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
The following factors are considered in the selection process for synthesis topics:
- The topic should address a problem that is widespread enough to generate broad interest.
- The topic should be timely and critical with respect to the needs of the industry or society.
- The topic may be appropriate if current practice is not uniform or is inconsistent from agency to agency, or if the validity of some practices appears to be questionable.
- There is a sufficient amount of useful, available information to gather and synthesize into a meaningful report.
- There is no ongoing or completed research or other that will render the synthesis obsolete after completion.
- The work proposed does not require research or cost substantially more than the available resources.
- The proposal is a concise, well-written statement of the need, and work to be performed to meet that need.
Endorsements from a TRB committee, APTA committee, state DOT, or transit agency help make the case for selecting a particular topic.Further Information
For more information contact:
Donna L. Vlasak
Senior Program Officer
Transportation Research Board
Studies and Special Programs (Division B)
202-334-2974
TRB Cooperative Research Program Special Projects: NCHRP
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Synthesis Study Programs
Total Annual Funding/Range of Project Costs – 15 projects at $40,000
Statements Due: Mid February 8
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General Description
The National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Synthesis Study Program funds state-of-the-practice reports prepared under contract by outside individuals or firms. Syntheses are oriented toward practical solutions of specific transit problems. The specific objectives of a synthesis are 1) to locate and assemble information; 2) to learn what practice has been used; 3) to identify ongoing and recently completed research; 4) to learn what problems remain largely unsolved; and 5) to organize, evaluate, and document the useful information acquired.
Type of Research Funded
The aim of a synthesis, first and foremost, is to document the state of the practice. In addition to documenting facts, the synthesis provides a basis for making conclusions or assessments about:
- Performance resulting from current practices, including new and unusual practices,
- Current practices that are at odds with research findings,
- Current practices that appear to be working well and those that are not working well, and
- Critical knowledge gaps that could be filled by additional research.
The reports, however, stay clear of policy recommendations or statements on sensitive issues that would go beyond the purpose of the synthesis series and compromise the fact-finding/technical assessment mission of these reports.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
In 2014, the NCHRP synthesis study’s consultant work will be funded at a level of $35,000 for each study, with an additional bonus of $5,000 for timely delivery of acceptable products. Public agencies have chosen to augment the consultant funding for specific studies.
Schedule
- Mid-February – New topic statement submission deadline
- May – Projects selected
- August – First panel meetings begin
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research statements may be submitted by anyone. An on-line form is available to submit
Selection Process
NCHRP Project Committee SP20-05 meets each year to select topics for study using funds from the upcoming fiscal year. Current funding allows for initiation of about 15 syntheses per year. This number, plus some alternate topics, is selected by the committee at its annual project meeting.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
The following factors are considered in the selection process for synthesis topics:
- The topic should address a problem that is widespread enough to generate broad interest.
- The topic should be timely and critical with respect to the needs of the industry or society.
- The topic may be appropriate if current practice is not uniform or is inconsistent from agency to agency, or if the validity of some practices appears to be questionable.
- There is a sufficient amount of useful, available information to gather and synthesize into a meaningful report.
- There is no ongoing or completed research or other that will render the synthesis obsolete after completion.
- The work proposed does not require research or cost substantially more than the available resources.
- The proposal is a concise, well-written statement of the need, and work to be performed to meet that need.
Endorsements from a TRB committee, AASHTO committee, or state DOT help make the case for selecting a particular topic.Further Information
For more information contact:
Jon M. Williams
Program Director for IDEA and Synthesis Studies
Transportation Research Board
Studies and Special Programs (Division B)
202-334-3245
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TRB Cooperative Research Program Special Projects: ACRP Synthesis Study Programs
Total Annual Funding/Range of Project Costs: 5 projects at $40,000
Statements Due: October
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General Description
The Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) Synthesis Study Program funds state-of-the-practice reports prepared under contract by outside individuals or firms. Syntheses are oriented toward practical solutions of specific transit problems. The specific objectives of a synthesis are 1) to locate and assemble information; 2) to learn what practice has been used; 3) to identify ongoing and recently completed research; 4) to learn what problems remain largely unsolved; and 5) to organize, evaluate, and document the useful information acquired.
Type of Research Funded
The aim of a synthesis, first and foremost, is to document the state of the practice. In addition to documenting facts, the synthesis provides a basis for making conclusions or assessments about:
- Performance resulting from current practices, including new and unusual practices,
- Current practices that are at odds with research findings,
- Current practices that appear to be working well and those that are not working well, and
- Critical knowledge gaps that could be filled by additional research.
The reports, however, stay clear of policy recommendations or statements on sensitive issues that would go beyond the purpose of the synthesis series and compromise the fact-finding/technical assessment mission of these reports.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
In 2014, the ACRP synthesis study’s consultant work will be funded at a level of $35,000 for each study, with an additional bonus of $5,000 for timely delivery of acceptable products. Public agencies have chosen to augment the consultant funding for specific studies.
Schedule
Typically 9 projects are programmed each year, according to the following:
- October – New topic statement submission deadline
- December – Projects selected
- March – First panel meetings begin
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research statements may be submitted by anyone. An on-line form is available to submit statements
Selection Process
ACRP Project Committee 11-03 meets each year to select topics for study using funds from the upcoming fiscal year. Current funding allows for initiation of about nine syntheses per year. This number, plus some alternate topics, is selected by the committee at its annual project meeting.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
The following factors are considered in the selection process for synthesis topics:
- The topic should address a problem that is widespread enough to generate broad interest.
- The topic should be timely and critical with respect to the needs of the industry or society.
- The topic may be appropriate if current practice is not uniform or is inconsistent from agency to agency, or if the validity of some practices appears to be questionable.
- There is a sufficient amount of useful, available information to gather and synthesize into a meaningful report.
- There is no ongoing or completed research or other that will render the synthesis obsolete after completion.
- The work proposed does not require research or cost substantially more than the available resources.
- The proposal is a concise, well-written statement of the need, and work to be performed to meet that need.
Endorsements from a TRB committee, state DOT, or airport authority help make the case for selecting a particular topic.
For more information contact:
Gail R. Staba
Synthesis Program Consultant
Transportation Research Board
Studies and Special Programs (Division B)
202-536-5856
TRB Legal Resources Program
The TRB Legal Research Program is comprise d of three continuing legal research programs under the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP), and Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP).
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TCRP J-05: Legal Aspects of Transit and Intermodal Transportation
Total Annual Funding: $250,000
Range of Project Costs: $40,000 – 100,000
Statements Due: September
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General Description
The Transit Cooperative Research Program (TCRP) Legal Research Digest series reports on legal issues associated with transit and intermodal law. Each document is intended to provide transit attorneys with authoritative, well-researched, specific information that is limited in scope. The studies focus on legal issues and problems having national significance to the transit industry.
Type of Research Funded
The Legal Research Digest provides transit-related legal research on a wide variety of legal topics including:
- Environmental standards and requirements;
- Construction and procurement contract procedures and administration;
- Civil rights and labor standards;
- Tort liability, risk management, and system safety.
In other areas of the law, transit programs may involve legal problems and issues that are not shared with other modes; as, for example, compliance with transit-equipment and operations guidelines, FTA financing initiatives, private sector programs, and labor or environmental standards relating to transit operations. Emphasis would be on research of current importance and applicability to transit and intermodal operations and programs.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
This project is currently funded at $250,000 per year. Approximately 4 projects are funded each year, each costing $50,000 to $ 100,000. The projects are typically one year to 18 months in duration.
Schedule
- June – Call for suggestions for study topics issued
- September – Proposed topics due
- October – Study topic selected
- January – RFPs advertised
- March – Consultant selection for each study topic.
Project Solicitation and Submission
Research problem statements for the TCRP Legal Program are solicited annually, but may be submitted by anyone at any time. Suggestions for legal study topics may be submitted directly to Gwen Chisholm Smith at: gsmith@nas.edu.
Selection Process
Eight to 10 members transportation attorneys (current and former) select study topics for the next program year. Panel responsibilities include provision of general oversight of the project and its procedures; selection of research topics; review and approval of research topic scopes and deliverables; and provision of publication recommendations to TRB.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
The factors considered in the selection process for study topics are (1) broad interest in the topic; (2) timely and critical to the transit community at large; (3) quality and quantity of information already learned on the subject and; (4) ongoing research or other forthcoming potential release of significant information is expected that would render the Legal Research Digest obsolete.
Further Information
For more information contact:
Gwen Chisholm Smith
Senior Program Officer
Transportation Research Board
Cooperative Research Programs
202-334-3246
General Description
The objective of this project is to provide legal research on topics of interest to the airport legal community based on periodic solicitations of potential topics. The project would produce an Airport Cooperative Research Program (ACRP) Legal Research Digest series of reports on legal issues associated with airport-related law. Each document would be intended to provide airport attorneys with authoritative, well-researched, specific information that is limited in scope. The studies would focus on legal issues and problems having national significance to the airport industry. Each year, numerous attorneys nationwide are involved in airport-related work; yet, there is no centralized collection of information on which they can depend. The ACRP Legal Research Digest series will provide airport-related legal research on a wide variety of legal topics.
Type of Research Funded
Information in development.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Information in development.
Schedule
Information in development.
Project Solicitation and Submission
Information in development.
Selection Process
Information in development.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
Information in development.
Further Information
For more information contact:
Marci A. Greenberger
Senior Program Officer
Transportation Research Board
Cooperative Research Programs
202-334-1371
General Description
A major and continuing need of state highway and transportation departments involves assembling, analyzing, and evaluating operating practices, administrative procedures, and legal issues associated with highway and transportation projects. Individual state legal experiences need to be compared and made available for possible wider application. Research to identify and evaluate legal options facilitates the handling of both immediate and long-range needs of engineering, planning, and administrative aspects of transportation programs.
National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Project 20-6 was established in 1968 to meet these needs. It is a continuing project under the direction of the TRB staff Counsel for Legal Research.
Type of Research Funded
Information in development.
Funding Levels and Project Time Frame
Information in development.
Schedule
Information in development.
Project Solicitation and Submission
Information in development.
Selection Process
Information in development.
Project Selection Criteria and Tips for Writing Winning Research Statements
Information in development.
For more information contact:
Gwen Chisholm Smith
Senior Program Officer
Transportation Research Board
Cooperative Research Programs
202-334-3246
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