Automated vehicle (AV) features such as adaptive cruise control could significantly increase driver safety and mobility. But in some circumstances, these features can alter vehicle movement and spacing, and interfere with traffic flow. This project analyzed the integration of varying levels of AVs with human-driven vehicles (HVs) and the impact on ramp meter operations to measure the effects and identify potential solutions and modifications.
Continue reading Impacts of Automated Vehicle Feature Integration
Incorporating Sustainability into the Procurement Process
The production and use of construction materials for transportation projects have varying impacts on the environment based on factors such as production process, transportation and material inputs. To mitigate negative outcomes, MnDOT sought to incorporate environmental impacts into the procurement process for concrete mixtures and concrete pavement. This project provided a framework for considering environmental impacts and standardizing a reporting system to encourage the use of low-carbon construction materials in infrastructure projects.
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Utilizing Recycled Tires to Treat Stormwater
Repurposing old tires as tire-derived aggregate (TDA) is a stormwater management practice that could retain phosphate in underground treatment systems and prevent it from reaching the soil, surface waters and groundwater. However, chemicals from the TDA may leach into the soil and water sources. This project identifies the environmental impacts and cost-effectiveness of deploying TDA to manage stormwater in Minnesota cities and counties.
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Enhancing Safety for Pedestrians and Bicyclists at Roundabouts
Compared to traditional intersections, roundabouts have been proven to decrease serious crashes. However, because drivers yield rather than stop upon entering roundabouts and at crosswalks, public concerns about pedestrian and bicyclist safety remain. Research and field evaluations into driver yielding and speed behaviors generated insights to guide local transportation agencies and MnDOT to further enhance pedestrian safety at roundabouts.
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TZD Traffic Safety Hotdish: Research in Action—Perspectives from Minnesota’s Traffic Safety Research Ecosystem
July 16, 2025
1:00–2:15 p.m. Central
Virtual via Zoom
Join us as our very own “Roads” Scholars share more about their recent traffic safety research. Presenters from the University of Minnesota and Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) will share findings from recent projects and talk about the collaborations that drive traffic safety research throughout Minnesota.
Speakers
- Jackie Jiran, PE—MnDOT
- Max Moreland, PE, PTOE—MnDOT
- Nichole Morris, PhD—University of Minnesota
- Mark Wagner, PE—MnDOT
- Kyle Shelton, PhD—University of Minnesota; Moderator
Registration
The webinar is free to attend, but registration is required. Once you have registered, you will receive an email confirmation with a Zoom link. The link should not be shared with others; it is unique to you.
Credit
Attendees are eligible for 1.25 Professional Development Hours (PDHs). Download the PDH credit form (PDF) for your records.
For complete information, go to TZD Traffic Safety Hotdish.
Solar Snow Fence Controls Drifting Snow While Generating Power
Solar snow fences not only retain the benefits of a traditional snow fence by controlling blowing and drifting snow in winter, they create green energy throughout the year. However, to be effective, the fence must withstand harsh weather elements and produce enough energy to justify the use and cost of solar panels. This project evaluated the installation and performance of a 100-foot solar snow fence for 18 months to determine its functionality and economic feasibility.
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Establishing Post-Construction Roadside Vegetation Growth
Roadside vegetation is essential for managing stormwater and mitigating soil erosion. Using organic and proprietary amendments to improve the topsoil after road construction projects are completed may help reestablish vegetation more quickly and provide better outcomes.
Continue reading Establishing Post-Construction Roadside Vegetation Growth
Impact of Start Time on Students Walking and Biking to School
To increase the number of students who walk or bike to school, policymakers first need to understand the primary factors that prevent students, parents and caregivers from choosing these travel modes. A look at the factors that influence this decision provided information to address barriers to walking and biking for children and families in Minnesota communities.
Continue reading Impact of Start Time on Students Walking and Biking to School
Increasing Service Reliability by Adding a Dedicated Right of Way for Buses
In dense urban areas, public transit is a primary mode of transportation for people to commute to work, complete errands and connect with their community. If transit is not reliable, riders may choose other forms of transportation that could negatively affect riders, transportation agencies and communities. To improve service reliability, MnDOT investigated the use of dedicated rights of way (ROWs) for transit service across route segments within the system.
Continue reading Increasing Service Reliability by Adding a Dedicated Right of Way for Buses
Modeling and Predicting the Deterioration of Pedestrian Assets
Transportation agencies closely monitor and evaluate roads for needed repairs, but pedestrian infrastructure such as sidewalks receive less attention. When left in disrepair, this infrastructure is susceptible to deterioration and can have significant negative impacts on communities. This project collected and integrated pertinent data and developed a model that measured the deterioration of pedestrian assets to predict the effects of aging. With this additional information, agencies can better prioritize areas of need and allocate resources more effectively to maintain and repair pedestrian assets.
Continue reading Modeling and Predicting the Deterioration of Pedestrian Assets
Crossroads 