AI-Powered Autonomy-Aware Neighborhood Mobility Zones

This project aims to revolutionize public transportation in mid-sized cities, such as Chattanooga, TN, by creating a seamlessly integrated, multi-modal transportation network that is both attractive to passengers and financially viable. To bridge the gap between potential and reality, our approach centers on the development of “neighborhood mobility zones.” These zones are strategically designed operational areas that facilitate access to diverse transportation options, including fixed-line transit, on-demand microtransit, electric car shares, and bike shares. Through the creation of these zones, we aim to optimize resource allocation, enhance energy efficiency, ensure equity, and reduce operational complexity.

A significant driver of our strategy is the integration of autonomous vehicles (AVs) into public transit systems. We recognize the potential of AVs to alleviate labor shortages and reduce operational costs. However, their successful integration into a broader portfolio of services requires careful planning and innovative solutions. Our team will develop cutting-edge algorithmic approaches that leverage operational data from prior AV deployments. These data-driven models will forecast AV performance and safety in diverse settings, enabling us to strategically deploy AVs where they are most suitable, thereby ensuring efficient operations and scalability.

Ensuring the financial viability of this reimagined transportation ecosystem is pivotal. Our project introduces novel business models that create value for both transit operators and passengers. By bundling transportation resources under comprehensive subscriptions and exploring the unbundling of car ownership and parking, we aim to capture externalities and incentivize long-term commitments. Moreover, by utilizing existing infrastructure assets, such as parking spaces and EV chargers, we intend to infuse additional funds into the public transit ecosystem.

The success of our vision hinges on comprehensive community engagement. We intend to conduct community surveys, collaborate with local organizations, and involve advocacy groups to ensure that our transformational framework aligns with the needs and preferences of the community. Through these efforts, we seek to broaden the accessibility of public transportation while simultaneously reducing energy usage per passenger mile traveled.

Our team, which includes Nissan as a project partner, will pilot our innovative concepts in a selected area of Chattanooga, TN. By redesigning fixed-line services, extending microtransit operations, and deploying autonomous vehicles and shared mobility options, we aim to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach. The success of this pilot will show the potential to achieve a significant mode shift, making public transit an appealing alternative to private vehicle use.