The annual Transportation Research Board (TRB) meeting is a cornerstone event for over 13,000 transportation practitioners, researchers, and decision-makers.
Held during the first two weeks of January in Washington, D.C., this year’s meeting showcased the latest in transportation trends, technology, and policy—all despite a surprise storm that didn’t deter attendees including WGI’s VP of New and Connected Communities, Lisa Nisenson.
Key takeaways from this year’s meeting included:
Infrastructure Funding
One of the most significant discussions at TRB revolved around infrastructure funding, especially as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s reauthorization approaches in 2026.
A prominent topic of debate was whether high-profile programs such as the Safe Streets for All and PROTECT would persist under the new administration. However, there was a general consensus that equitable distribution of multimodal projects, safety, and resilient infrastructure will remain top priorities at all levels of government and funding.
Additionally, the potential for an audit to assess the effectiveness of transportation programs and research garnered attention. This initiative could provide valuable insights into how funding supports transportation performance and equity for all system users.
The timing of these discussions aligned with the launch of New York City’s new congestion pricing program, a long-studied concept within TRB circles. Traditional funding sources, particularly the taxes collected at the gasoline pump, are shrinking given increased fuel efficiency and electric cars. As such, sessions featured the topic of effectiveness and buy-in of various alternative funding mechanisms.
Transportation Demand Management (TDM)
With many communities reaching capacity on new roadway expansions, reducing and managing demand has become critical. Todd Litman of the Victoria Transport Policy Institute emphasized the need for holistic TDM programs that include improved travel options, incentives, disincentives, smart land-use policies, and supporting programs.
While much of the existing research has focused on large cities with robust transit systems, WGI is particularly interested in exploring what works for cities without high-capacity transit. This focus aligns with the needs of many of the communities WGI serves, making TDM a key area for further research and application.
The Exhibit Hall: A Data Revolution
A stroll through the TRB exhibit hall highlighted a dramatic evolution over the past two decades.
Once dominated by signals and equipment cabinets, the floor is now a hub for cutting-edge data collection technologies. Several companies showcased cameras, sensors, lidar, and radar with a growing number of outfitting installations including multiple sensors within a single installation.
This surge in sensor technologies is fueled by advancements in autonomous and connected vehicles, as well as artificial intelligence. Researchers are increasingly focused on how communities are adapting to the influx of big and continuous data for planning, monitoring, and operational purposes.
Automated and Connected Vehicles
Automated and connected vehicles remained a focal point at TRB 2025—While technology continues to improve, the consensus opinion recognized the strides made in 2024, though room for continuous improvement remains.
Waymo’s expanded robotaxi services in San Francisco and a handful of other cities also invited lively conversations about whether 2025 will be the year AVs transition from pilots to widespread full service.
However, automated vehicles in transit systems received notably less attention, with only two sessions dedicated to the topic. WGI anticipates a shift in focus by 2025 as U.S.-based manufacturing capacity for automated buses expands, paving the way for more robust discussions and applications in transit.
Celebrating Partnerships and Achievements
WGI is proud to partner with the University of Florida through the Transportation Institute (UFTI)—This collaboration supports mentoring, alumni engagement, and recruitment efforts.
During TRB, UFTI honored Dr. Lily Elefteriadou for her significant contributions to transportation research, a recognition that underscores the value of partnerships in advancing the industry.
Looking Ahead
TRB 2025 reaffirmed the dynamic and evolving nature of the transportation industry.
From funding challenges and TDM strategies to advancements in data collection and autonomous vehicles, WGI remains committed to leveraging these insights to serve our communities effectively. We’re already looking forward to the conversations and innovations that next year’s meeting will bring.
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