PAVE: What is the most important thing you’ve learned from your work with AVs?
As the program lead for the Coalition’s Connected and Automated Vehicle program, I work with our 23 member state agencies to support their work in planning and preparing for AVs. I have learned through this work that there are as many approaches to an AV-future as there are transportation agencies. However the challenges, needs and opportunities are common. In this complicated and exciting environment the best approach is to continue to share success stories and lessons learned and to work together. Among other keys to success, a consistent regional approach is paramount.
PAVE: How is your region preparing for AVs? What steps have you already taken?
The Coalition’s region includes public transportation agencies along the East Coast. Among our member agencies we have a spectrum of approaches, maturity with AVs and levels of preparation. As a multi-state Coalition, our role is to support these agencies in sharing and learning from each other. Among other efforts, we are engaged in work related to AV infrastructure readiness and regulatory and legislative assessments to help our region prepare.
PAVE: How have you been involved with AV deployments in the region?
AV deployments have taken place in many states within our region. Though the Coalition has not been directly involved in any of them, we have used our networks and forums to help those agencies that have conducted them to share with others that are interested.
-Virginia Smith Reeder
Program Associate, Innovations in Transportation
