Economics and Infrastructure

UT’s Approach

Safe, well-designed transportation infrastructure is key to connecting people with resources and enabling commerce. Many of the nation’s roadways and bridges need repair, however. In addition, the shift to electric, connected and autonomous vehicles will be most beneficial when new types of infrastructure are added, including charging stations and connected traffic signals.

Our researchers think about connected vehicles and the physical infrastructure as a unified system, with data flowing in multiple directions to optimize traffic flow and keep drivers and pedestrians safe. While the most obvious infrastructure components are aboveground, we are also investigating how subsurface infrastructure like pipes can play a role. 

We see the potential for data from vehicles and infrastructure, in turn, to inform positive changes in city planning and maintenance. UT researchers are asking questions like, “How can digitization and data help cities keep their infrastructure in good repair?” For example, smart roads or specialized, connected robots could make inspecting structures for safety concerns more cost-efficient and effective. Some UT researchers are also using smart bridges to investigate how next-generation materials perform compared to traditional pavement.

Other UT experts focus on the less tangible economic structures that enable or impede future mobility. Using economic modeling and analysis, they study topics ranging from infrastructure financing models, to costs and benefits of policy changes (like updates to the federal fuel economy standards), to EV adoption incentives, to the economic value created by EV manufacturing in Tennessee.  

UT economists and engineers have frequently advised national and state government entities in planning new transportation policies, infrastructure, and funding. Our research will continue to shape the future trajectory of mobility for the greatest economic, social and environmental benefits.