U.S. Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) announced more than $60 million in funding for 32 University Transportation Centers (UTCs) around the country.
UTCs are comprised of groups of universities seeking solutions to national, regional, and local transportation issues. The 32 UTCs were previously selected for grants authorized under the FAST Act.
“The Department continues to invest in the future of American transportation by funding these research efforts at leading institutions of higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao.
One of the Department’s goals under Secretary Chao’s leadership is to develop and deploy innovative practices and technologies to improve the safety and performance of our transportation system. UTCs advance U.S. research, technology, and expertise across modes of transportation, including in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. They also address vital workforce needs by training the next generation of leaders in the transportation field.
The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.
Rolling out in electric yellow and seafoam blue, the first battery-electric buses purchased from GILLIG will begin serving riders in south King County on February 2.
The agreement provides competitive wages and reflects strong labor-management collaboration, positive working relationships, and a shared commitment to building a world-class transit system for the community, said RTA CEO Lona Edwards Hankins.
The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at HDR, MCTS, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
While their comprehensive analysis of bus stops focused on Massachusetts, the researchers are excited about the generalizability of the findings and application to other locations.
CEO Nat Ford’s address offered a look at highlights from 2025, with a focus on the future and the innovative ways the JTA is shaping mobility in Northeast Florida.