Research, Development, and Technology FY 2002/2003 Performance Plan

NHTSA · 2001 · ROSA P / United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Highway Administration. Office of Research, Development, and Technology

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Summary

This document is the Fiscal Year 2002/2003 Performance Plan for the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Office of Research, Development, and Technology (RD&T). It outlines the strategic vision, mission, and specific operational goals for advancing highway technology and safety. The plan is motivated by the need to ensure a fast, safe, efficient, and accessible transportation system that meets national interests and enhances the quality of life. The RD&T organization positions itself as essential and indispensable, aiming to lead the development of a nationally coordinated research program that supports FHWA’s strategic goals through research, development, testing, and evaluation services. The plan is structured around five primary strategic goals: Safety, Mobility, Productivity, Human and Natural Environment, and Security. It details a comprehensive catalog of products and services intended to address these goals. For Safety, the plan includes the development of the Interactive Highway Safety Design Model (IHSDM), crash simulation models, and guidelines for traffic sign retroreflectivity and pedestrian safety. Mobility and Productivity initiatives involve the creation of traffic simulation software (such as TRANSIMS and TRIPS), pavement performance prediction models (VEPES and VSTM), and tools for bridge management and nondestructive evaluation. The document also lists specific services, such as forensic evaluations of bridge failures, laboratory testing of new pavement materials, and support for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and the Intelligent Vehicle Initiative. The organizational framework emphasizes leadership, strategic planning, and process management. The RD&T Leadership Council is tasked with implementing an action agenda that includes developing a legislative agenda, establishing student volunteer programs, and improving laboratory assessment processes. The plan highlights a commitment to organizational excellence through quality journey principles, benchmarking, and continuous improvement. It also outlines specific metrics for measuring performance, distinguishing between outputs, outcomes, and results, and utilizing peer reviews and independent assessments to validate progress. The significance of this plan lies in its systematic approach to integrating research and technology into highway infrastructure management. By aligning specific technical products—such as seismic retrofitting manuals, corrosion protection guidelines, and variable speed limit demonstrations—with broader strategic goals, the document demonstrates how RD&T drives innovation and efficiency. It serves as a roadmap for delivering technology that enhances safety, reduces congestion, and protects the environment, while also fostering collaboration with external partners, universities, and state agencies to build a common advocacy for an enhanced national research program.

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