TRB Policy Studies

TRB Special Reports and Letter Reports contain the findings of specially appointed independent committees. Committee members are selected to represent appropriate areas of expertise and a balance of perspectives on the issues involved; members serve without compensation. The committee process is open to public scrutiny and comment, in accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act Amendments of 1997. Every final report undergoes a rigorous institutional review, in which outside experts examine the report in accordance with guidelines developed by the National Academies to ensure that the committee has provided a balanced and fair assessment of the topic addressed.

	Special Reports: Present the results of policy studies, including studies mandated by Congress or requested by executive-branch federal agencies.
	Letter Reports: Present the results of periodic or continuing reviews of specific transportation research and technology programs.
	Informing Transportation Policy Choices: In 2007, in celebration of its 25th anniversary of conducting policy studies, TRB released an electronic document that highlights and summarizes major reports on issues of national importance in transportation, developed by specially appointed independent committees convened by TRB's Studies and Special Programs division. Included are policy-relevant findings for intercity passenger travel; freight efficiency; finance; security; safety; environmental protection; energy conservation; human resources; and research, development, and data gathering.