Keyword List

Agencies: MTA, NYCT, NYCDOT, NYSDOT, FTA

Terms: ITS, smart vehicles, trip chaining, multimodal

Problem Statement

A means of determining wait times for buses is not available, leading to a severe economic and customer-based inefficiency. On a grander scale, the problems lay in the funding and politics of coordinating such a massive project.

Mission Statement

With this project, I intend to find a way to provide the system in a manner that is effective physically, politically and economically; falling short, I hope to determine the barriers to accomplishment and determine their points of resolution. I also intend to help policymakers and the public better understand the steps involved in taking initiatives for public good.

Method Statement

I will explore the technology by experimenting with GPS units and building a physical model (with the help of various mentors), while also becoming involved with ongoing MTA research. Politics will be discovered by a series of interviews with MTA, NYCT, DOT, EDC and other city agencies, plus extensive historical data research. Economics will be determined through academic research and interviews and discussions with officials in other municipalities.

Criteria Statement

The project will be considered complete when the technology has been planned to the best of my ability and to the most efficient method possible, after exploring several options. More importantly, I hope to make several high-quality recommendations toward sorting through the quagmire of politics surrounding local transportation management and technological initiatives.