Pumas make roads safer for drivers
A study found that pumas change deer behavior, reducing the likelihood of deer-vehicle collisions by 67%. Deer alter their use of space and time where pumas are present, overlapping less with roads.
Highways
Articles tagged with Highways
Paper: Self-driving trucks will redraw US economic map
The widespread implementation of driverless truck technology in the US could reduce transportation costs by 35%, resulting in significant increases in total interstate trade value. The impact would vary across states, with specific regions exhibiting higher percentage increases in exports.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Regional Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 16, 2026
Transportation noise: An overlooked risk to heart health
Research suggests living in areas with high levels of transportation noise is associated with a significantly higher risk of major adverse cardiac events. Loud road, aviation, and rail noises were linked to increased risks of heart attack, stroke, or coronary revascularization. Different types of noise may come with unique health risks...
AI tech from startup PaveX improves consistency, speed and cost of road condition assessments
The startup has assessed over 3,400 miles of Indiana roads using advanced computer vision algorithms to quickly and objectively assess pavement conditions. This platform provides actionable insights without requiring in-house data analysis expertise or costly hardware.
Rice sociologist’s journey from simple curiosity to NSF-backed research reveals how physical infrastructure shapes inequality
Elizabeth Roberto's research uses satellite imagery, historical archives, and AI to map how infrastructure decisions reinforce racial and economic divides. Her study spans 50 US cities and introduces new ways to measure spatial features of neighborhoods affecting access to schools and public resources.
Aston University researchers to take the first steps to find out if AI can help policymakers make urban mobility more sustainable
Aston University researchers are investigating the use of AI in creating greener cities, exploring policy tools to reduce emissions and optimize transportation. The project aims to develop decision-support tools for policymakers to improve urban infrastructure management and reduce environmental hazards.
UCF’s ‘bridge doctor’ combines imaging, neural network to efficiently evaluate concrete bridges’ safety
Researchers at UCF used a combination of emerging technologies to evaluate the safety of concrete bridges. By combining infrared thermography, high-definition imaging and neural network analysis, they can quickly identify defects and prioritize repairs.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMay 16, 2025
Supporting the roads that support us
Texas A&M researchers conducted a forensic investigation of a collapsed embankment slope in Houston, revealing that clayey soils are highly problematic after 10-15 years of use. They recommend using stabilizing agents and perforated pipes to drain water quickly to prevent similar failures.
Urban highways cut opportunities for social relationships, says study
A recent study found that urban highways in US cities reduce social ties within cities, particularly over short distances. The research, led by the Complexity Science Hub, used online social network data to quantify the barrier effect of highways on social connections.
SourceComplexity Science Hub·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2025
Rethinking equity in electric vehicle infrastructure
A recent study led by Qian found that income, rather than proximity, is the dominant factor in determining who benefits most from public EV infrastructure. Wealthier individuals have more flexibility to spend time at charging stations while charging their vehicles, whereas lower-income communities struggle to integrate public charging ...
Researchers are driving the charge of zero emissions
A study by Virginia Tech researchers found that electric vehicles generally produce less non-exhaust emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles when driving in city conditions. The research also highlights the environmental benefits of regenerative braking, which reduces brake abrasion emissions.
Sometimes you're the windshield: Utah State University researcher says vehicles cause significant bee deaths
A new study by Utah State University researchers suggests tens of millions of bees may perish every day as motorists zoom down busy highways. The team used sticky traps attached to car bumpers and extrapolated the data based on Department of Transportation statistics.
College of Science researchers studying safety risk of occupant compartment damage during crashes
Researchers are evaluating criteria for occupant compartment deformations and penetrations, updating them as needed. They plan to use data from real-world crash tests, simulations, and full-scale impact testing to establish improved testing standards.
Reinforcement learning paves the way for safer and smarter highway autonomous vehicles
A recent study reviews advancements in reinforcement learning for autonomous vehicle control, highlighting similarities and differences in DRL formulations and training algorithms. The research aims to enhance RL applications, making autonomous vehicles more capable of handling complex traffic situations under uncertain conditions.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2024
Impact of 2020 Labor Day wildfires on highway infrastructure: a historical perspective on megafires and roadway damage in Washington, Oregon, and California
This study assesses roadway damage from the 2020 wildfires in comparison to historical megafire data, highlighting the need for proactive measures to reduce future repair costs. The 2020 Labor Day wildfires caused unprecedented damage, with an estimated average repair cost of $127,783 per kilometer of impacted route.
SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalEmergency Management Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2024
Impact of 2020 Labor Day wildfires on highway infrastructure: a historical perspective on megafires and roadway damage in Washington, Oregon, and California
The study assesses roadway damage from the 2020 wildfires in comparison to historical megafires in the region, finding significant increases in damage since the 2000s. The research emphasizes the critical need for targeted preventive measures and improved fire management strategies.
SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalEmergency Management Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2024
Roofing highways with solar panels could cut carbon emissions and improve road safety
Researchers estimate that installing solar panels on highways could generate 17,578 terawatt-hours of electricity per year, equivalent to more than 60% of the world's total energy consumption. This could reduce carbon emissions by up to 28% and improve road safety through shielding cars from inclement weather.
States consider new science-backed solution to save time and money on concrete infrastructure repair
A new national standard approved by AASHTO COMP uses Purdue-developed sensor technology to provide real-time data on concrete strength, potentially saving states and contractors time and money. The method aims to reduce uncertainty in determining when concrete pavement is strong enough to handle heavy truck traffic.
Retention ponds can deliver a substantial reduction in tire particle pollution, study suggests
A new study reveals that retention ponds and wetlands can significantly reduce the amount of tyre particles entering aquatic environments, with an average reduction of 75%. The research found that tyre wear particles outweigh other forms of microplastics, but are also removed in greater quantities.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2024
Has remote work changed how people travel in the U.S?
A new study finds that remote work has changed urban transportation patterns in the U.S., with significant variation across regions. The research reveals that remote work has reduced vehicle miles driven by about 1% per 1% decrease in onsite workers, but had a more substantial impact on mass-transit ridership.
Highways through historically redlined areas likely cause air pollution disparities today
Research suggests that highways through historically redlined areas contribute to higher levels of air pollution, including nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter. These pollutants disproportionately affect communities of color, highlighting the need for remediation programs and clean technology incentives.
Communities of color breathe Denver’s worst air
A new study found that communities of color in Denver are exposed to higher levels of air pollution due to historical redlining practices. The study used satellite images and historical data to measure pollution throughout the city, revealing a correlation between pollution and race.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 21, 2024
Road features that predict crash sites identified in new machine-learning model
Researchers used data from 9,300 miles of Greek roads to develop a machine-learning model predicting crash sites. The model identified key features such as abrupt speed limit changes and incomplete lane markings as predictors of crashes. The study's findings have implications for improving road safety globally.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2024
Marzougui & Kan developing crashworthy tangent end treatment for low-speed & curbed roadways
George Mason University researchers Dhafer Marzougui and Cing-Dao Kan have received a $749,954 grant to develop a crashworthy tangent end treatment for low-speed and curbed roadways. The project aims to improve safety on these types of roadways, which are prone to accidents.
City and highway lights threaten mountain lion habitats
A new study found that mountain lions avoid areas with artificial light, even during the day, which can impact their habitat selection and distribution. The research adds to concerns about the species' extinction within decades due to human activities.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 6, 2023
UBC Okanagan researchers work to be guardians of the city
Researchers at UBC Okanagan have developed a gaming strategy to strengthen vital infrastructure against malevolent attacks, aiming to ensure safety, health, and lives during emergencies. By identifying critical roads and intersections, they can reinforce them to minimize disruption.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalAnnals of Operations Research·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 30, 2023
Caution, ocelot crossing: special wildlife exits on busy roads help protect endangered cat
A study found that wildlife exits designed for ocelots in Texas were used by 10 mammal species, including bobcats and coyotes, to exit highways. The exits function as designed, but ongoing research aims to improve their effectiveness.
University of Missouri establishes Missouri Work Zone Safety Center of Excellence
The University of Missouri's Missouri Work Zone Safety Center of Excellence aims to reduce fatalities and serious injuries in highway work zones through research and outreach. The center will focus on integrating emerging technologies, data analysis, and countermeasures to address distracted driving and other safety concerns.
Peru’s Operation Mercury stopped most illegal gold mining in one biodiversity hotspot in the Amazon. Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
Operation Mercury successfully halted most illegal gold mining activity in La Pampa, Peru, reducing deforestation and water quality issues. However, spillover effects led to increased mining in legal areas, highlighting the need for stronger regulations to mitigate environmental harm.
Transforming highways for high-speed travel and energy transport
Researchers have developed a proof of concept for a superconducting highway that can transport vehicles and electricity, leveraging liquid hydrogen cooling to address the challenge of low-temperature superconductor operation. The system enables speeds of at least 400 miles per hour and integrates multiple uses, making it more affordable.
Using superconductors to move people, cargo and energy through one combined system
A new concept uses superconductors to levitate vehicles and transport liquified hydrogen, reducing energy loss and environmental impact. The system could enable high-speed travel of up to 400 miles per hour, making it a game-changer for transportation and energy transmission.
Cracking the concrete code
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new type of metamaterial concrete that can be designed to have specific attributes like brittleness, flexibility, and shapeability. This material can generate electricity and can also be used to monitor damage inside concrete structures or earthquakes, reducing their impact o...
‘Talking’ concrete could help prevent traffic jams and cut carbon emissions
A sensor embedded in concrete allows for more precise data on pavement strength, reducing the need for repairs and improving road sustainability. This technology has been implemented in several states, including Indiana and Texas, to reduce traffic delays and save taxpayer dollars.
Researchers propose a fourth light on traffic signals – for self-driving cars
A new approach, called the white phase concept, uses autonomous vehicles to control traffic flow at intersections, reducing fuel consumption and travel time. The system informs human drivers through a clearly identifiable signal, improving safety and efficiency.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 7, 2023
Corridors between Western U.S. national parks would greatly increase the persistence time of mammals
Establishing ecological corridors among western US national parks can enlarge mammal populations and allow species to shift geographic ranges in response to climate change. This could increase the long-term persistence time of mammal species by a factor of 4.3, compared to fragmented individual parks.
Post-lockdown auto emissions can’t hide in the grass
A new study published in AGU Advances found that post-lockdown auto emissions rebounded in some California areas, with affluent neighborhoods experiencing less pollution drop. The researchers used mobile laboratory data and analyzed grass samples to track CO2 levels and found significant differences between regions.
Washington D.C. data dashboard comes to BikePed Portal
The Washington D.C. metro area's dashboard is being developed at PSU, allowing users to see all the data together in one place. The project aims to improve nonmotorized planning by providing clean, quality-checked biking and walking count data.
Traffic congestion may contribute to lower birthweight
A new study found that stop-and-go traffic may be linked to reduced birthweight, with a nine-gram decrease in weight among infants born to parents who reside in areas with heavy traffic. This association was seen even after controlling for background air pollution levels and other environmental co-exposures.
SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2022
Climate change creates complications for concrete
New research by University of Pittsburgh scientists finds that concrete pavements are sensitive to sharp air temperature variations during the day, even in mild climates. This can lead to devastating consequences for infrastructure, such as potholes and cracks, with thicker pavements being more vulnerable.
UBC Okanagan researchers determine tire particles can impact fresh water
A study by UBC Okanagan researchers suggests that tire particles can contaminate freshwater sources, including lakes like Okanagan and Kalamalka. The researchers estimated that over 50 tonnes of tire and road wear particles are released into waterways annually.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 21, 2022
Keeping electricity affordable on wireless charging highways
A new study from Cornell University proposes an efficient bidding strategy for wireless charging roads to minimize energy costs. By predicting real-time electricity loads, the algorithm can forecast prices and availability, reducing the energy cost for operators while alleviating pressure on power grids.
Bad roads reduce trade volumes by 18%
A study published in Journal of Urban Economics found that bad roads in border regions increase travel time and cost, reducing international trade volumes by 18%. Underinvestment in transport infrastructure also leads to a 'border effect', where trade between regions in different countries is lower than within the same country.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalJournal of Urban Economics·DateOct 4, 2022
Wildlife crossings potentially save millions annually in Washington state
A study published in the Transportation Research Record found that wildlife crossings in Washington state can reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, saving lives and money. The research analyzed collision data from 2011 to 2020 and found a significant reduction in deer-related crashes near bridges.
SourceWashington State University·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateAug 30, 2022
Helping autonomous vehicles navigate tricky highway merges
Researchers at NC State University have developed a cooperative distributed algorithm that allows autonomous vehicle software to make calculations more quickly, enabling real-time navigation of complex merging scenarios. The approach improves both traffic flow and safety, with zero incidents in simulations.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalTransportation Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 24, 2022
Legalization of marijuana linked to increased traffic crashes, fatalities: Study
Research found a 5.8% increase in traffic crash injuries and a 4.1% increase in fatal crash rates after legalization. States with retail sales saw an initial jump in injury crash rate before it decreased.
SourceJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeObservational study·DateJul 19, 2022
The deadly impact of urban streets that look like highways
Researchers analyzed over 240,000 Google Street View images to find that streets with more visible sky, roadway, and signs have 48% more crashes than residential areas. The study highlights the dangers of 'open road' segments in urban areas, which drivers often perceive as highways, despite being near pedestrians and human activity.
SourceOhio State University·JournalEnvironment and Planning B Urban Analytics and City Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 12, 2022
Researchers find way to make traffic models more efficient
A new method reduces computational complexity of traffic models, making them operate more efficiently. The modified algorithm breaks down complex forecasting questions into smaller problems that can be solved in parallel, significantly reducing run time. This approach also allows for a good enough solution within an error bar, rather t...
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 5, 2022
Research Brief: Highway death toll messages cause more crashes
Researchers found that larger numbers in fatality messages increase additional crashes, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or complex highways. However, low-toll messaging had a reduction in crashes when displayed on less complex highways.
How eye imaging technology could help robots and cars see better
Developers are integrating optical coherence tomography (OCT) machines into sensor packages to create fast and accurate LiDAR systems. These advancements enable robots and cars to see the world in a more natural and safe manner, improving interaction with humans.
Using overpasses as shelter from tornado?
Researchers from the University of Rhode Island studied the interaction between tornado-strength winds and highway overpasses, finding no evidence of wind acceleration under an overpass. The study, published in Physics of Fluids, suggests that using an overpass as a shelter during a tornado may not be safer than other options.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021
Elucidating the brain's white matter
Researchers at Hebrew University developed a novel approach to mapping brain white matter fiber architecture using Nissl staining. The technique, called Nissl-ST, reveals the hidden patterns and organization of glial cells in white matter, opening new avenues for studying brain development, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases.
The paths through which COVID-19 spread across Brazil
A Brazilian study found that three factors - super-spreader cities, highways, and ICU availability - contributed to the country's high COVID-19 death toll. The 'boomerang effect' of patients traveling to larger cities for treatment exacerbated the distribution of deaths.
SourceAssociação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 21, 2021
'Transportation is a form of freedom': How to make it more equitable
A new study by University of Michigan researchers highlights common barriers to improving equitable access to transportation, including data collection and information on needs. Practitioners cited need for better communication between disciplines and structures in place to advocate for equity-minded funding allocations.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateJun 9, 2021
Study: Drivers with shift work sleep disorder 3x more likely to be in crash
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that drivers with shift work sleep disorder are three times more likely to be involved in a vehicle accident than those without the condition. The study analyzed real-world driving data and found that shift work sleep disorder increased the risk of traffic crashes by nearly 300%.
Congestion pricing could shrink car size
Researchers studied a Seattle-area sample over six years, finding that more congested commutes led to bigger car purchases perceived as safer. Congestion pricing could reduce mid- to full-size SUVs' market share by 8% and save lives and billions in fuel efficiency costs.
Pepper the robot talks to itself to improve its interactions with people
Researchers equipped a Pepper robot with self-directed dialogue to facilitate better human-robot communication. The AI model improved the robot's ability to solve dilemmas and outperformed international standards for collaborative robots. By
Quantum insulators create multilane highways for electrons
Researchers at Penn State have created multilayered quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) insulators, enabling the realization of the QAH effect over a broader range of conditions. This allows for the construction of high-speed electronic highways with minimal energy loss, which could significantly improve information transfer speed.
The role of drones in 5G network security
Researchers propose using drones to detect and prevent attacks on 5G networks, mitigating eavesdropping, interference and identity theft. The study explores the potential of UAVs to improve network security through jamming, spoofing detection and mitigation.
New tool shows main highways of disease development
Researchers developed a comprehensive tool to explore disease development patterns, identifying main highways of disease progression. The Danish Disease Trajectory Browser analyzes 25 years of public health data to discover frequent disease trajectories.
SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 2, 2020
Innovative approaches to stabilizing bridges, highway slopes
Researchers are exploring the use of recycled plastic pins to repair deep-seated failures on embankments and areas around highway bridges. The pins provide stabilization and reduce costs by more than 50%, while also testing the feasibility of using just a moisture barrier for slope stabilization.