Our Mission
The Safety and Mobility Advancements Regional Transportation and Economics Research (SMARTER) Center is a USDOT University Transportation Center (UTC) for Region 3—Mid-Atlantic, dedicated to pioneering research-based solutions to transportation challenges across urban and rural communities. Established in 2023, our consortium of eight premier research institutions works collaboratively to address critical issues of mobility and planning throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Meeting Regional Challenges
The Mid-Atlantic faces unique transportation challenges that demand innovative solutions:
- Urban Transit Gaps: Transit deserts affect many urban communities, limiting access to essential services
- Rural Connectivity: Limited transit options isolate rural communities from economic opportunities and healthcare
- Supply Chain Vulnerability: Coastal flooding and severe weather threaten critical infrastructure
- Congestion: Traffic congestion impacts interstate highways, seaports, and urban corridors, hampering economic growth
- Technological Implementation: Connected and Autonomous vehicle systems require rigorous testing, infrastructure deployments, and stakeholder buy-in to be truly transformative.
The SMARTER Center leverages advanced research, multidisciplinary expertise, and emerging technologies to develop implementable solutions for policymakers, industry partners, and communities.
Our Consortium
Led by Morgan State University, the SMARTER consortium unites diverse expertise across the Mid-Atlantic:
- Morgan State University (Lead Institution)
- Howard University
- University of Delaware
- University of Maryland
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Virginia
- Virginia Tech
- West Virginia University
This collaborative structure enables comprehensive approaches to transportation challenges while fostering knowledge exchange across institutions.
Research Excellence
The SMARTER Center conducts high-quality, implementable research in areas including:
- Mobility solutions
- Intelligent transportation systems
- Connected and automated vehicles
- Multimodal transportation networks
- Traffic safety enhancements
- Traveler behavioral analysis
Technology Transfer
The SMARTER Center facilitates knowledge exchange through workshops, networking events, and collaborative partnerships with industry and government agencies. The SMARTER Innovation Lab builds on a successful legacy of patents and private sector partnerships, providing students and researchers with the equipment and support needed to develop new technologies.