The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recently opened the application period for the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program.
The program will provide up to $500 million in grants over five years to projects focused on advanced smart community technologies and systems that improve transportation efficiency and safety.
It also recognizes that many public sector transportation agencies face challenges finding the resources and personnel to leverage new technologies.
“The department is investing in new technology solutions that make our transportation systems safer and more efficient,” Dr. Robert C. Hampshire, USDOT deputy assistant secretary for research and technology and chief scientist, said. “Last year’s inaugural SMART grants reflected this dynamic, centering on solutions in areas like safety, transit innovation, and managing public space, addressing pressing challenges in communities with right-sized innovations.”
Applications will be accepted for Stage 1 Planning and Prototyping grants and are open to public sector entities in at least one of the following technology areas: coordinated automation, connected vehicles, delivery/logistics, innovative aviation, sensors, smart grid, systems integration, and traffic signals.
During stage one, the SMART program will fund innovation that solves transportation problems and builds data and technology capacity and experience for state, local, and tribal governments.
The application deadline is Oct. 10.