Transportation Research Board seeks proposals for IDEA program

The Transportation Research Board (TRB) is accepting proposals for the Rail Safety Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) Program.

Funded by the Federal Railroad Administration, the Safety IDEA Program supports the development and evaluation of innovative concepts and methods for improving rail safety or performance. Proposals, which can be for up to $100,000 in funds, are due by Sept. 15.

Proposals will be considered for "promising but unproven innovations" to advance railroad practice. They may apply to high-speed rail, intercity passenger rail or freight railroads.

Proposals are encouraged for innovations in a variety of areas in railroad systems: safety, security, and environment; human factors; rolling stock and components; track and structures; track/train interaction; grade crossings; hazardous materials transportation; and train occupant protection, according to a TRB notice.

For more information about the program and preparing/submitting IDEA proposals, log onto www.trb.org/idea.