Importance of the Research Program

The program is important to
Federal Agencies
 because:
  • the development and application of advanced technology, new knowledge and improved methods and procedures are critical to future FHWA service quality and operational cost-effectiveness,
  • top-quality university researchers are available to help solve important transportation problems, and
  • it assists the Federal Government in meeting needs created by growth and changing technologies,
The program is important to
TxDOT
 because:
  • the development and application of advanced technology, new knowledge and improved methods and procedures are critical to future TxDOT service quality and operational cost-effectiveness,
  • top quality university researchers are available to help solve important transportation problems, and
  • University students working on TxDOT research projects may be attracted to TxDOT careers upon graduation.
The program is important to
Universities
 because:
  • a continuing and adequately funded Research Program allows them to build and maintain a high- quality faculty and staff of researchers, and
  • offers graduate students the opportunity to work on and learn from research projects.
The program is important to the
State of Texas
 for the following reasons:
  • contributes to the high quality of Texas transportation facilities and services,
  • assists the state in meeting needs created by growth and changing technologies,
  • ensures that transportation research funds are available to Texas universities to maintain the high quality of education at those institutions, and
  • ensures that high quality transportation talent is available in Texas.