Photo: Velodyne Lidar
New Jersey DOT partners with Rutgers University on mobility testbed
17 May 2021
by Christopher Carey
New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has partnered with Rutgers University to develop a testbed for mobility data-gathering, analysis and sharing technologies.
The university’s Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation (CAIT) will install the solutions at multiple intersections in New Brunswick, New Jersey as part of the Middlesex County (MC-SMTG) project in collaboration with NJDOT and tech firm Velodyne Lidar.
The project will use Velodyne’s latest lidar sensors to monitor traffic networks and public spaces, generating real-time data analytics and predictions to help improve traffic and crowd flow efficiency, advance sustainability and protect vulnerable road users.
“The acquisition and analysis of mobility data is crucial to integrating autonomous vehicles, and creating a safer pedestrian and cycling environment,” said Dr Ali Maher, Professor and Director, Rutgers Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation.
“Velodyne’s intelligent infrastructure solution captures data on various traffic activity including vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists in all types of environmental conditions. We envision the solution as playing a critical role in helping us create a safer environment for all road users.”
3D map
The technology used creates a real-time 3D map of roads and intersections, providing precise traffic monitoring and analytics. It also helps predict, diagnose and address road safety challenges, allowing municipalities to better adapt their strategies.
Velodyne says it has already deployed in multiple North America cities, including in Quebec and British Columbia, with more deployments expected across the United States.
“There is a growing commitment by governments worldwide to rebuild outdated transportation infrastructure systems,” said Anand Gopalan, Chief Executive Officer, Velodyne Lidar.
“Leading the way is the US$2.25 trillion proposal by the Biden Administration to invest in the modernisation of vehicles, roads and transit systems.
“As Velodyne looks at a world with connected and autonomous vehicles, we know that infrastructure will play a critical role in moving this industry forward. Our solution, powered by Bluecity’s AI-powered traffic monitoring software platform, will be key in the efforts to transform our roads and transportation infrastructure into smart cities, paving the way for a more sustainable, safer future.”
Image: Velodyne Lidar
