Research, Development and Technology Strategic Plan 2022\u20132026

Abstract

This U.S. DOT Research, Development, and Technology Strategic Plan for FY2022 \u2013 2026 establishes the Department\u2019s leadership role in supporting, fostering, and safeguarding transportation innovation so that it meets our goals and reflects our values. The RD&T Strategic Plan describes the Department\u2019s research priorities, objectives, and strategies in support of the Department\u2019s strategic goals.This U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT, or the Department) Research, Development, and Technology (RD&T) Strategic Plan (RD&T Strategic Plan) presents U.S. DOT\u2019s transportation research priorities and strategies for the next five years and beyond. The purpose of this RD&T Strategic Plan is to outline a national transportation research vision to guide America\u2019s research priorities while improving coordination of transportation research. It defines the role of U.S. DOT\u2019s RD&T programs to lead the transformation of our Nation\u2019s transportation system in partnership with stakeholders.This RD&T Strategic Plan will guide Federal transportation research, development, and technology deployment activities as mandated by 49 U.S.C. \ua76503. This includes more than $5 billion in research activities funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), also known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) (Pub. L. No. 117-58). The BIL establishes policies, investments, and partnerships that together will provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our Nation\u2019s transportation system. This RD&T Strategic Plan reflects input from a wide range of stakeholders and integrates the research and development (R&D) programs of all U.S. DOT Operating Administrations (OAs) and the Office of the Secretary (OST). The transformation envisioned in this document relies on the strength and creativity of stakeholders across the entire transportation ecosystem, including State, local, Tribal and territorial governments; universities, community colleges, and research labs; organized labor; small businesses and entrepreneurs; the non-profit and philanthropic sectors; and other industry partners.We envision a people-centered transportation system that provides safe, accessible, reliable, equitable, and sustainable transportation for all through purpose-driven research and innovation for this and future generations