SMART Transportation Act

Strengthening Methods to Advance Research and Technology in Transportation Act or the SMART Transportation Act

This bill establishes programs in the Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop advanced transportation technologies.

Among other requirements, DOT must

• establish a grant program to deploy, install, and operate advanced transportation technologies to improve safety, efficiency, system performance, mobility, intermodal connectivity, and infrastructure return on investment;
• establish a connected vehicle deployment pilot program to provide competitive grants to spur operational deployments to meet the transportation needs of certain entities through the use of the best available and emerging intelligent transportation systems;
• create an automated driving system demonstration program to provide competitive grants to test the safe integration of automated driving system technologies into the on-road transportation system, ensure significant data gathering and sharing of project data, and encourage collaboration and partnerships of multiple stakeholders; and
• implement and deploy an advanced digital construction management system program under its technology and innovation deployment program, including by deploying advanced digital construction management systems that enable the use of digital technologies on construction sites by contractors and leverage the use of such technologies.

DOT must also ensure that grant recipients represent diverse geographical areas of the United States, including urban and rural areas.

The SMART Transportation Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 1089, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to improve transportation infrastructure and services across the country.

One key aspect of the SMART Transportation Act is its focus on modernizing and expanding public transportation systems. This includes funding for new buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation, as well as improvements to existing infrastructure. The bill also aims to increase access to public transportation for underserved communities, such as rural areas and low-income neighborhoods.

In addition to public transportation, the SMART Transportation Act also addresses issues related to highways and roads. The bill includes funding for road maintenance and repair, as well as investments in new infrastructure projects. This is intended to improve safety and efficiency on the nation's roadways. Another important component of the SMART Transportation Act is its emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection. The bill includes provisions for reducing carbon emissions from transportation sources, as well as promoting the use of alternative fuels and energy-efficient vehicles. Overall, the SMART Transportation Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to address a wide range of issues related to transportation in the United States. If passed, this bill has the potential to improve the quality of transportation services, reduce environmental impact, and create jobs in the transportation sector.