Preparing Transportation Agencies for Connected and Automated Vehicles in Work Zones

More widespread adoption and use of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) and supporting technologies could improve work zone safety. However, the full impacts of CAVs on work zones are not yet known.

NCHRP Research Report 1051: Preparing Transportation Agencies for Connected and Automated Vehicles in Work Zones, from TRB's National Cooperative Highway Research Program, presents guidelines to help state departments of transportation (DOTs) prepare for the impacts that CAV technologies will have on work zone environments. The report identifies four CAV technologies that have the potential to improve work zone safety: lane keeping, queue warning systems for work zones, ATMAs, and work zone traveler information systems for CAVs.

Supplemental to the report are a framework for assessing the benefits and challenges of CAVs in work zones; an overview of CAV technologies, both vehicle- and infrastructure-based, in work zones; a resource guide to expedite implementation of CAVs in work zones; and a plan that identifies mechanisms and channels for communicating and implementing this research.