This project will conduct a review of the highway research, development, technology, and deployment (RD&T) efforts of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The review will include the whole process of research agenda setting, stakeholder involvement, conduct of research, peer review, deployment, and program and project evaluation.
The study committee will provide strategic, research-policy level advice on topical priorities, processes, and strategies to accelerate the adoption of innovation. The committee will monitor and review FHWA's research and technology programs and activities and advise FHWA on (a) research agenda setting and coordination of highway research with states, universities, and other partners, (b) strategies to accelerate research and the deployment and adoption of innovation, and (c) potential areas where research is needed. The committee will hold at least two meetings per year, issue a letter report at least annually, or periodically issue more in-depth consensus reports as requested by FHWA. These reports will be subject to the report review procedures of the RRC.
In addition to providing advice to FHWA, the committee will act as the advisory committee for the Federal Highway Administration Research Support Program. This advisory activity will entail vetting of the program’s project selections and monitoring the progress of those projects.