TRB solicits IDEA proposals for railroad safety innovations

The Transportation Research Board (TRB) is accepting proposals for the Rail Safety Innovations Deserving Exploratory Analysis (IDEA) program, which supports the testing of ideas aimed at improving railroad safety and performance.

Due Sept. 15, the proposals will be considered for "promising but unproven innovations to advance railroad practice," according to a TRB press release.

The Safety IDEA program funds proposals at an early stage of the innovations' development process. Funding is provided by the Federal Railroad Administration; proposals can be funded up to $100,000.

The innovations can apply to a variety of railroad system areas: safety, security and environment; human factors; rolling stock and components; track and structures; track/train interaction; grade crossings; hazardous materials transportation; train occupant protection; trespass prevention; signaling and train control systems; and employee safety.

The proposals may apply to any type of railroad, including high-speed rail, intercity passenger rail or freight.