Transportation Engineering

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) & Traffic Operations

Our research in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Traffic Operations explores emerging technologies to optimize transportation networks. We focus on AI-driven traffic management for real-time optimization, autonomous vehicle integration, and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for traffic monitoring. Additionally, we study technology-driven emergency response coordination to improve incident management. Through these efforts, we aim to enhance mobility, reduce congestion, and improve public safety.

Transportation Planning & Policy

Our research applies data analytics and policy evaluation to develop sustainable and accessible transportation systems. We focus on implementing Complete Streets to create pedestrian-friendly urban environments, analyzing mobility patterns to enhance traffic flow, and conducting economic impact studies on infrastructure projects. Additionally, we assess transportation policies to support informed decision-making, ensuring efficient and equitable mobility solutions. Through these efforts, we aim to create safer, more inclusive, and well-connected transportation networks.

State-of-the-Art Research Facilities

Transportation Safety Research Center (TSRC)

Commission, TSRC is equipped with state-of-the-art tools to enhance transportation analysis and safety initiatives. These include advanced computing and data analysis capabilities, ESRI ArcGIS for geospatial mapping, and Synchro software for traffic signal optimization. Through these resources, TSRC contributes to data-driven solutions for improving roadway safety and efficiency.

LTRC’s Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Lab

The ITS Lab at LTRC plays a vital role in real-time traffic data analysis, monitoring Louisiana’s roadways to optimize traffic flow, enhance safety, and support informed decision-making in transportation systems. Equipped with a six-screen display and a system for monitoring traffic corridors, the lab provides comprehensive insights into roadway conditions. It utilizes CountCAM4 traffic cameras for vehicle volume and speed analysis, VISSIM simulation software for traffic modeling, and the Deepmetrics Vehicle Recognition system for automated traffic analysis. Additionally, the lab leverages the Regional Integrated Transportation Information System (RITIS) to support statewide transportation research, ensuring data-driven improvements in mobility and infrastructure planning.

Ongoing Research Projects

The Transportation Safety Research Center (TSRC) at UL Lafayette is actively conducting research to enhance roadway safety, reduce traffic crashes, and improve transportation policies in Louisiana. Our current projects focus on addressing key safety concerns for vulnerable road users and high-risk driving behaviors.

1. Older Road Users Safety in Louisiana: Understanding the Crash Contributing Factors,Analyzing crash data and contributing factors to develop targeted interventions for improving roadway safety for older drivers.
2. Targeted DUI/DWI Reduction and Mental Health Awareness in Louisiana’s High-Risk and Diverse Parishes,Investigating the impact of mental health awareness and DUI/DWI reduction strategies in high-risk communities to reduce impaired drivingincidents.

Completed Research Projects (Last 10 Years)

Our research has directly influenced transportation policy, infrastructure improvements, and road safety strategies across Louisiana. Below are some of our impactful completed studies:

Recent Studies

• Safety Effectiveness of Cable Median Barriers in Louisiana (2021-2023) Evaluated the impact of cable median barriers in reducing roadway departure crashes.
• Reduce Pedestrian Fatal Crashes in Louisiana by Improving Lighting Conditions (2020-2022) Studied the correlation between street lighting and pedestrian safety, leading to recommendations for improved roadway illumination.
• Young Driver Crashes in Louisiana: Understanding the Contributing Factors to Decrease the Numbers (2019-2020) Analyzed crash data to identify trends and risk factors associated with young drivers.
• Impact of Edge Line, Center Line, and Shoulder Rumble Strips on Roadway Departure Crashes (2019-2020) Examined the effectiveness of rumble strips in preventing lane departure crashes on Louisiana two-lane highways.
• Intersection on Horizontal Curves: Problems and Potential Solutions (2018-2020)
• Identified high-risk intersection designs and developed engineering solutions to reduce crashes.
• Investigating the Problem of Distracted Drivers on Louisiana Roadways (2017-2018) Assessed the prevalence of distracted driving and recommended countermeasures to enhance driver focus.
• Identify High Crash Risk Locations for Rural Roadways (2015-2016) Developed a systemic approach to identify and mitigate severe and fatal crash locations in Louisiana and Mississippi.
• User Sentiment Analysis with Louisiana Social Media Data for Effective Crash Countermeasures (2014-2015) Utilizing social media sentiment analysis to assess public perception and feedback on traffic safety measures our Transportation Research group offers ongoing opportunities for research collaboration
• Investigating Safety Impact of Centerline Rumble Strips, Lane Conversion, Roundabout, and J-Turn Features (2015-2017) Measured the effectiveness of different roadway designs in reducing collisions.