Get Smart About Transportation Vol. These range from simple traffic advisory message signs on roads and automated toll collection to futuristic automated highways where computer-controlled cars might tailgate at 100 miles per hour. Simple additions like safe, clearly-marked bike paths in urban and suburban areas can help to cut down the explosive growth in motor vehicle travel.
Smart transportation is no small business.
But so far, IVHS threatens to repeat past mistakes, adding to suburban sprawl, air pollution, and dependence on cars and imported oil while further reducing our freedom to walk and bike in our communities. Unless IVHS is redirected to help manage the explosive growth in demand for motor vehicle travel, it will face challenges in America's polluted cities under the Clean Air Act. One major area of research is automated highway systems. DOT is now seeking public participation to help define the vision and structure of future smart transportation. Rebating surplus revenues to all residents would boost equity.