NSF Solicits for Research on Communications Systems for Surface Transportation
IVsource.net
29 May 2001

The NSF/USDOT ICSST program is looking for researchers to address information and communications technologies that can improve safety and reduce congestion, among other goals.  Proposals are due in early June.

The US National Science Foundation, with the US Department of Transportation, has launched a program called Partnership for Exploratory Research on Information and Communications Systems for Surface Transportation (ICSST).

The goal of the joint program is to support basic research aimed at discovering ways that innovative information and communication technologies can be integrated into surface transportation systems.  In the tradition of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), the broader goals are to help meet transportation challenges and constraints related to competitiveness, congestion, safety, land use, energy, and environment.

The program is intended to:

1. foster innovation and innovative uses of technology in all modes of surface transportation;

2. expand the knowledge base needed to manage the complexity and the vulnerability of surface transportation systems, including interactive effects with natural systems; and 

3. offer opportunities to address technical as well as non-technical influences by engaging "supporting" disciplines, such as computer science and engineering, natural and social sciences, operations research, systems engineering, and telecommunications.

Given this description, it seems apparent that development of techniques and technology for roadside-vehicle and vehicle-vehicle communications, for enhancing both safety and traffic flow, would fit within the research scope.

NSF expects to award 8-12 exploratory 12-month awards of up to $100,000 each for this initiative, using FY2001 funding.  A standard grant type of award is anticipated, and no cost sharing is required.  Approximately 50% of the money will come from USDOT.

Full proposals are due on June 8, 2001.

For More Information ...

... and all the details, access
www.nsf.gov/pubs/2001/nsf0187/nsf0187.htm.  You can also contact Miriam Heller at mheller@nsf.gov.   

Remember, proposals are due June 8.

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