Research at FLH
What is Research?
Research helps us respond to changes in transportation systems and vehicle technologies, as well as develop new technologies and systems that promote safety, sustainability and resiliency, equitable access and mobility, and organizational excellence. Research plays an important role in managing the roadway network by creating a deeper understanding of best practices, and how or what new technologies should be deployed.
The Office of Federal Lands Highway (FLH) at the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is committed to continuous improvement to meet the unique transportation needs of access across the country to and from Public Lands.
Research is a logical first step in the development and deployment of new and technologies, and FLH is committed to promoting research and technology transfer. Further, FLH is committed to supporting research that includes deployment activities and a communications component, moving beyond the development of static research reports.
Research conducted by FLH is directly connected to research conducted by its Partners through the Innovation and Research Council (IRC). FLH and FLMA staff members serve on the research Heightened Utility and Deployment committee (rHUD) to support strategic investments in research activities. Visit the IRC Research Program Application and Process page for information on how to apply for research support.
FLH Research Projects and Resources
To view a list of currently active and recently completed research projects funded by FLH, visit the Research and Technology (R&T) Portfolio.
For completed research, use the following links to national databases:
- Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC) Research Resources
- TFHRC Office of Research, Development, and Technology
Technology Readiness
The FLH Innovation and Research (I&R) Program uses the Technology Readiness Level for Highway Research (TRL-H) to identify the different stages from Planning activities to Research activities to eventually Practice in the field. It is an industry standard developed by NASA to reference RD&T evolution. The maturity level of technology can be identified on the continuum of its life from Basic Research to institutionalization in practice. The FLH Research Program promotes development from TRL-3 through TRL-6, whereas the FLH Innovation Program promotes development of TRL-7 through TRL-9.
Other Resources
Last updated: Tuesday, June 25, 2024