USDoT looks to harness AI power with $15m initiative on Complete Streets

Artificial intelligence scheme comes through Small Business Innovation Research Programme
Classification & Data Collection / February 5, 2024
By Adam Hill
Innovation artificial intelligence streets analytics © Maksim Shmeljov | Dreamstime.com
Buttigieg: 'Innovation in the AI and transportation sector is happening at unprecedented speed' (© Maksim Shmeljov | Dreamstime.com)

US Department of Transportation has launched a $15m initiative aimed at small businesses which can use artificial intelligence to improve transportation.

The Complete Streets AI Initiative is being offered through USDoT’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programme.

“Complete streets are easier to plan with more complete data," says principal deputy assistant secretary for research and technology and chief science officer Dr. Robert C. Hampshire. "This is a bold effort to build out that data along with the technology platforms that make it easy to use."

Complete Streets are streets and networks that prioritise safety, comfort and connectivity to destinations for all people who use them. 

Up to 10 phase I contracts will be awarded to small businesses to develop data and analytics capabilities that drive insights for agencies developing such streets.

“Innovation in the AI and transportation sector is happening at unprecedented speed and has the potential to address some of our most pressing transportation challenges," said US transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg. 

“This funding supports our country’s small businesses and startups to harness cutting-edge technologies, deploy them in local communities, and make our streets safer.”  

The Biden-Harris Administration has outlined its commitment to AI in the Executive Order on Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence.  

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