FTA encourages 'dialogue' on transportation research plan

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is soliciting opinions through an "online dialogue" on how it should position its research program to improve public transportation access and mobility nationwide.

The FTA's Five-Year Research Strategic Plan Online Dialogue, which runs through Sept. 8, provides a forum for "stakeholders" to discuss ideas on the type of research the administration should consider and which pathways will lead to proven research solutions for improved ways of doing business, FTA officials said in a press release.

The FTA effort is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation's five-year transportation research and development strategic plan to guide future federal activities.

For its part, the FTA is crafting an agency-focused strategic plan to set investment priorities and guide funding decisions associated with advancing public transportation research and development.