Rail

Transportation Research Board seeks innovative ideas for rail safety

train

Photo: iStock/Thinkstock

Washington – A good idea to improve rail safety could be worth up to $100,000, according to the Transportation Research Board.

TRB is seeking proposals as part of its Rail Safety Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) program. The Federal Railroad Administration funds the program, which selects “promising but unproven innovations” to improve safety or performance.

The start-up proposals will be judged on the following categories:

  • Innovation – Specify what problem the innovation addresses and explain why it is a better alternative than the current practice.
  • Benefits – Describe why the project deserves funding. What benefits are expected?
  • Science – Make sure that the research approach is science-based and sensible.

Proposals, which can focus on high-speed rail, intercity passenger rail or freight railroads, are due Sept. 15. Within those categories, proposals can target safety, security and environment; grade crossings; hazardous materials transportation; and other aspects.

For more information, contact Jo Allen Gause at [email protected] or (202) 334-3826.