WASHINGTON – Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH) introduced the Strengthening Methods to Advance Research and Technology (SMART) in Transportation Act, which would spur innovation, improve efficiency, and promote advanced technology in America’s transportation systems. The legislation would foster a safer, more efficient transportation system by authorizing key U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) programs – including the Advanced Transportation Technologies program, the Connected Vehicle Deployment Pilot program, the Automated Driving System Demonstration program, and the Accelerated Implementation and Deployment of Advanced Digital Construction Management Systems program – and requiring no less than 20 percent of grant funds be reserved for projects serving rural areas, ensuring our rural communities have a seat at the table.

“In Central Ohio, we’re proud of our history as a national leader in smart mobility and advanced transportation research,” said Balderson, a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “I’ve seen firsthand the state-of-the-art research and work being done in this community that will improve road safety and create more efficient transit options throughout Ohio. I’m excited to continue working with our local transportation thought leaders like DriveOhio and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) to continue these efforts.”

“Congressman Balderson’s bill will accelerate the development of smart mobility in Ohio,” said Howard Wood, DriveOhio Executive Director. “The bill reflects a deep appreciation of our world-class automotive research and development ecosystem, with the Transportation Research Center, US 33 Smart Mobility Corridor, and OSU Center for Automotive Research. As we develop the transportation system of the 21st century, communities and institutions from across the State of Ohio will benefit from this legislation.”

“Smart technology is quickly emerging, and Central Ohio is at the center of the action,” said William Murdock, MORPC Executive Director. “MORPC works with our partners to ensure our region continues to lead on mobility. Central Ohio communities of all shapes and sizes can benefit from new transportation technologies to create better safety, smoother transportation, and economic growth. This is why we support Congressman Balderson’s bill to provide needed grants and deploy emerging transportation technologies in our growing region.”

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