Recognizing the importance of integrating technology into transportation operations, HDR is establishing a new initiative: Mobility & Operational Technology Services. Led by transportation technology leader Ben Pierce, the program brings together a wide range of experts with a broad understanding of the rapidly changing environment and experience in the application and implementation of technology-focused mobility solutions.

The team will help clients understand the benefit of new technologies and develop adoption and operational plans for connected and automated vehicles, transportation system management and operations, tolling, zero emissions/electrified mobility, and more.

Pierce will serve as director of the initiative and will be responsible for expanding HDR’s technical application and deployment capabilities, working in partnership with Joey Yang, technical director of HDR’s Advanced Technology for Surface Transportation practice. Pierce has supported innovative projects across transportation markets, including work for airports, transit agencies, DOTs, and local communities. He has contributed his expertise to Florida’s connected and automated vehicle initiatives, ITS general engineering consulting contracts with NYCDOT, the Denver Mobility Choice Blueprint, and the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority Strategic Plan.

Emerging technologies each create their own specific challenges, whether related to connected and automated vehicles, electric vehicles, or technology centric traffic strategies. HDR’s professionals are well-versed in the adoption, planning, and delivery of these technologies and can assist agencies with developing holistic solutions tailored to a community’s needs.

The Mobility & Operational Technology Services program will address every form of mobility as well as the repercussions of new technology such as upgrades and changes to related infrastructure and architecture like power delivery, vehicle facilities, and system integration.