RAd Readings is a new resource for Research Administration news and updates regarding research projects. Stay up to date with the latest research news and learn more about how MDOT Research impacts the transportation industry.
August 25, 2022
When MDOT wants to better understand driver behavior, test traffic control strategies and explore cutting-edge smart vehicle technology under safe and realistic conditions, it turns to Mcity, a world-class testing and research facility it helped to build right here in Michigan. A new MDOT Research project assessed Mcity’s current capabilities and future potential to support ground-breaking research on connected vehicles, related infrastructure and other transportation topics.
August 02, 2022
The newly constructed Network Arch Bridge for Second Avenue in Detroit made its move to its permanent location over I-94 starting July 22nd and ending on July 29th. Research Administration worked with Western Michigan University to install a monitoring system studying the stresses on this structure during construction, the move, and after construction is complete. Our research project, Operational Baseline and Structural Health Monitoring for the 2nd Avenue Network Arch Bridge, will help answer questions about how this one of a kind structure performs. For an interesting read, check out, Moving a 5 Million-Pound Bridge. To see the bridge move in action, see video link below!
July 28, 2022
As water levels in the Great Lakes rise, coastal roads and other infrastructure in Michigan are at risk of damage from flooding and erosion. MDOT has a range of options at its disposal for mitigating the impacts of these hazards, from temporary strategies such as sandbagging to long-term solutions like redesigning the roadway. New research produced a decision guide and other tools to help the agency identify where intervention is most needed and which investment will produce the greatest benefits.
July 01, 2022
Transportation technology is evolving quickly, leading to safer and more efficient design, construction, maintenance and inspection practices in Michigan. By anticipating the skills workers will need to manage and operate these technologies throughout the next decade, MDOT has developed a strategic plan to prepare its workforce for the challenges of the future. Our new video, available highlights the technologies on the horizon and how the agency is preparing to meet demands.
May 26, 2022
Thoroughly assessing and managing risk is critical for keeping construction projects on time and within budget. To make sure the risk management process goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible, Michigan DOT initiated new MDOT Research to discover the tools and techniques used by risk managers across the country. The insight guided researchers as they developed a new and improved set of customized tools, documents and guidance to ensure MDOT’s construction projects are on track to save time and money.
May 19, 2022
Dynamic message signs can be updated frequently to give drivers real-time updates about crashes, lane closures, inclement weather, and other relevant information. New MDOT research provides insight into the length, display duration and wording of effective messages so that drivers receive the info they need to make safe decisions in real-time. With greater understanding of how dynamic message signs should be used to get drivers’ attention, MDOT can maximize its budget and keep traffic moving safely.
May 05, 2022
Slowing down and adhering to posted speed limits are keys to reducing deadly crashes, especially at freeway exit ramps. New MDOT research shows that targeting custom messages from dynamic speed feedback signs can be a powerful life-saving tool, alerting drivers when they’re going too fast and reminding them to lower their vehicle’s speed around curves.
April 28, 2022
Bicyclists and pedestrians made up about 20% of all traffic fatalities in Michigan in 2020. To make roadways safer for these vulnerable users, Michigan DOT is constantly on the lookout for ways to improve the state’s infrastructure with nonmotorists’ needs in mind. This MDOT Research project identified and documented a variety of design strategies and technologies that have worked well in other communities across the country. That info, combined with input from stakeholder groups across the state, will ensure all road users are considered in decisions involving Michigan’s transportation system.
April 14, 2022
The 9-mile stretch of US-23 north of Ann Arbor is Michigan’s first flex route, but given its success it likely won’t be the last. With nearly 70% of users reporting their satisfaction with the route’s technologically advanced traffic mitigation strategies, MDOT now has a prototype for adding flex routes to other congestion-prone roadways in the state.
April 07, 2022
MDOT’s innovative contracting program provides incentives for contractors to meet certain objectives – from completing projects more quickly to getting jobs done with less travel disruption – and rewards professionals who come up with thoughtful, creative solutions. New MDOT Research shows which strategies work best to achieve the desired results, leading to greater innovation and increasing efficiency on projects across the state.
March 24, 2022
High winds, poor soil, pollution and steep terrain all contribute to a harsh and hard-to-grow environment along Michigan’s urban highways. Turf grass has traditionally been the go-to greenery solution, but its high-maintenance needs and short root system make it less ideal for these sloped areas. Determined to create green spaces that can prevent erosion with less upkeep, MDOT conducted a multi-year study that identified a variety of plants and installation practices that can result in beautiful and beneficial landscapes in even the toughest environments.
March 02, 2022
A recent BBC article, How Driverless Cars Will Change Our World, highlights the research being completed at Mcity to help further develop the Autonomous Vehicles, or driverless cars. Did you know, MDOT has contributed $3 million in research funding to the facility? Learn more about the research project behind the funding by visiting the link below.
February 10, 2022
A new Research Spotlight highlights MDOT’s efforts to determine when intermediate diaphragms should be used for stability in certain precast concrete beam bridges. Modeling data will help MDOT’s bridge designers decide when and what types of beams require extra lateral support.
February 03, 2022
A highly trained and specialized transportation workforce will help MDOT make the most of emerging technologies for years to come. A new MDOT Research report forecasts the skills that will be needed and recommends strategies to retrain current staff and recruit new workers to meet the demands of the future.
January 06, 2022
Grassy slopes along Michigan’s urban freeways once posed safety hazards and logistical challenges for MDOT maintenance crews. But thanks to new MDOT Research that shows just what to plant and how to achieve great results, these areas can become useful green spaces that reduce erosion, keep pollutants out of Michigan’s waterways and practically eliminate the need for maintenance.
