Getting There in the Digital Age: How to Craft a 21st Century Surface Transportation Bill

Next-generation information and communications technologies are revolutionizing America’s transportation system. With the emergence of intelligent infrastructure, connected and fully autonomous vehicles, and innovative payment systems, the future of surface transportation lies not just in pouring more asphalt, but in leveraging information technology to improve every aspect of the U.S. transportation network—from roadways and private vehicles to commercial truck fleets and public transit systems. This will create tremendous benefits, including improved safety, greater mobility, lower environmental impact, and increased productivity. But achieving this promise will require a new approach to federal surface transportation policy and funding.