MnDOT Research Services recently released its 2013 request for proposals. If you have any kind of direct interest in transportation research in Minnesota, chances are you might have known that already. But those with more of a general curiosity might be interested to see the list of research need statements from the RFP, as they provide a nice preview of the next round of potential MnDOT research projects.

As you can see, some are of a highly technical nature. (It’s safe to say that a study on “PCC Pavement Thickness Variation Versus Observed Pavement Distress” would be of interest mainly to engineers.) Others, however, like “The Economic Impact of Bicycling in Minnesota,” might have a broader appeal. In any case, it’s a fascinating glimpse at the myriad of issues that MnDOT is attempting to address through research and innovation.

Here’s the list of research need statements from the 2013 RFP, broken down by category:

Environment

• Weights and Measurements for Verification of High Organic Soils
• Automated flocculation dosing rates based on real-time turbidity and flow monitoring

Maintenance

• Work Zone safety system for workers
• Examining the Impact of ASE in Work Zones on Driver Attention

Materials and Construction

• PCC Pavement Thickness Variation Versus Observed Pavement Distress
• Evaluation of Recycled Aggregates Test Section Performance
• Design Guideline for Stabilization of Unpaved Shoulder—Phase I (Synthesis study)
• Optimal RAP Content for Minnesota Gravel Roads
• Modernizing Road Construction Plans and Documentation
• Alternate Design Methods to Renew Lightly Traveled Paved Roads
• Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) for Urban and Suburban Street Application
• Prevention of Stripping Under Chip Seals
• Bio-Fog Seal Evaluation

Multimodal

• Understanding and Communicating the Tradeoffs Associated with Urban Roadway Design
• Traffic Impacts of Bike Lanes
• The Economic Impact of Bicycling in Minnesota
• Coordination of Inter-City Multimodal Investments

Policy and Planning

• Methods for Evaluating the Economic Development Potential of Transportation Projects
• Barriers to Right-of-Way Acquisition and Recommendations for Change

Traffic and Safety

• Evaluation of Intersection Conflict Warning Systems
• Dynamic Traffic Assignment (DTA) Mesoscopic Travel Model
• Driver Performance with Future Warning Sign Delivery
• Evaluation of Safety and Mobility of Two-Lane Roundabouts
• Safety study of 35W improvements done under UPA project
• Development of a Queue Warning System Utilizing ATM Infrastructure