The Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) announced approximately $63 million in grants to 33 University Transportation Centers (UTCs) to advance research and education programs that address critical transportation challenges facing the U.S.

The UTCs conduct research that directly supports the priorities of the U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) to promote the safe, efficient and environmentally sound movement of goods and people. Authorized by Congress under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), the UTC Program provides approximately $72.5 million for each of fiscal years 2013 and 2014 for up to 35 competitive grants. UTCs may be a single institution or a consortium of two or more non-profit institutions of higher education led by one lead institution.

Reflecting the popularity of the program, more than 142 applications were submitted to RITA. The grants announced include five National UTCs, which address national transportation issues in line with U.S. DOT’s key strategic goals, with awards of $2.8 million each. Eight Regional UTCs, which focus on regional transportation needs, received awards of $2.59 million each. Twenty additional UTCs received awards of $1.4 million each.

For a full list of recipients, click here.