TREC research takes center stage in Washington, D.C. at this week’s University Transportation Center Spotlight Conference, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The conference spotlight topic changes each year. This, the 10th annual conference, focuses on pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Conference chair Jennifer Dill, director of TREC and its NITC program, opens the program Thursday by defining the safety threats for people walking and bicycling in our communities. She will then task attendees with addressing the problem.

“I’m pleased to have the leading researchers on these issues together,” Dill said. “This conference provides opportunities for collaboration and synergies that advance the state of research.”

TREC’s John MacArthur and Christopher Monsere moderate a breakout session on bicycle infrastructure that includes a presentation from Monsere and NITC researcher David Hurwitz on right-hook crashes. Portland State researchers also present topics including pedestrian crossing enhancements, the psychology of roadway interactions,and developing an online tool for pedestrian and bicycle safety information.

A Portland State team also presents findings on safety and related barriers to bike sharing among low-income and diverse communities.

Portland State has nine researchers on the agenda presenting on seven topics, a testament to the university’s leadership on active transportation research.

Full details and program are at the conference site.

The 10th University Transportation Centers Spotlight Conference: Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety runs Dec. 1-2 at the Keck Center in Washington, D.C. The conference is organized by the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies and sponsored by the University Transportation Centers Program, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, U.S. Department of Transportation.