Big data generated by field implementations and non-traditional sensing technologies can be used to develop secure and interoperable data sharing platforms and system-oriented solutions. There is a need to better take advantage of these sources to address a wide range of mobility needs involving people and goods to achieve efficiency, resiliency, accessibility, and sustainability.

Connected and autonomous vehicles, rail systems, and other modes will bring revolutionary changes to the way our transportation systems work, but many questions about how these systems will work in a real city remain unanswered. Research is needed to better deploy these systems throughout urban networks and pave the way for widespread real-world implementation.

New modes and services are revolutionizing urban transportation and providing increased mobility options. As these new services are introduced, there is a need to ensure they are meeting city residents’ mobility needs in an efficient, safe, and equitable way.

New modes and services are revolutionizing urban transportation and providing increased mobility options. As these new services are introduced, there is a need to ensure they are meeting city residents’ mobility needs in an efficient, safe, and equitable way.

Currently, most repair, maintenance, and replacement decisions for urban infrastructure are made in the absence of reliable data. There is a need to assess the vulnerabilities of urban infrastructure and work towards resilient systems that function when strained by difficult conditions.

Despite the growing variety of transportation options available in cities, many face limited choices due to physical accessibility limitations, safety concerns, or other impediments to safe and efficient travel. Research is needed to improve accessibility for groups who are often underrepresented or overlooked in transportation policy development and research.

Under this special topic area, C2SMART seeks to fund projects specifically tackling research into the future of transportation systems in cities following the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, research into solutions to the problems created by the changing nature of transportation demand and user preferences following the pandemic to support smarter and healthier cities.