Making CAV Deployments Compatible with Complete Streets Objectives for Safe and Efficient Operation — Phase III

Principal Investigator(s):

Yu (Marco) Nie, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering – Northwestern University

Project Abstract:
This proposal is for the continuation of a multi-year effort initiated in the first year of the current CCAT program, Making CAV Deployments Compatible with Complete Streets Objectives for Safe and Efficient Operation. Phase I was initiated in 2023 and Phase II in 2024. The primary motivation is the safety, mobility, and accessibility implications of potentially conflicting forces in the progressive deployment of CAV capabilities and intelligent mobility in urban city streets. As planners and engineers focus on the next generation of disruptive technologies through connectivity and automation, a counter movement is seeking accessible, walkable, sustainable neighborhoods with easier bike and micromobility access for all residents. Overlayed on the urban fabric is increasing reliance on delivery vehicles of all sizes associated with on-demand eCommerce. The primary question motivating this research is how to design and operate complete streets that accommodate both the requirement of flow efficiency achievable through connectivity, automation and shared autonomous mobility services with the aspirations for access to micromobility and human-scale urban spaces. For the coming year, the main objectives include (1) Complete data analysis for the interactions especially for the under- represented user categories, especially bicycling and micromobility; (2) Extend the simulation framework to consider various arrangements and hierarchies of shared road space; and (3) Develop design framework for allocating roadway space to the various user classes that recognizes the dual needs of safe and efficient flow on one hand, and access to micromobility in urban spaces on the other.

Institution(s): Northwestern University

Award Year: 2025

Research Focus: Safety, Mobility

Project Form(s):