Research and Innovative Technology Administration March 2013 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) is providing notice of request for public comment on its draft strategic plan, U.S. Department of Transportation, Research, Development and Technology Strategic Plan FY 2013-2018. The new five-year strategic plan will guide the Department's research, development, and technology activities as required by Section 52013 of Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), Public Law 112-141; July 6, 2012. The new plan places its focus on the U.S. DOT Strategic Goals: Safety; State of Good Repair; Economic Competitiveness; Livable Communities and Environmental Sustainability, along with MAP-21 RD&T critical issues: Promoting safety; reducing congestion and improving mobility; preserving the environment; preserving existing transportation systems; improving the durability and extending the life of transportation infrastructure; and improving goods movement. The Research and Innovative Technology Administration's (RITA's) Office of Research, Development and Technology (RD&T), has coordinated this effort in collaboration with partner modal administrations and offices across the U.S. DOT. As recommended by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the National Research Council (NRC), RITA and its partners are seeking public stakeholder comment to ensure RD&T resources are invested wisely to achieve measurable improvements in our Nation's transportation system.