Research Grants and Activities
Research Grants & Activities
The Southern Colorado Institute of Transportation Technology (SCITT) leads a variety of research initiatives — from hydrogen- and natural-gas-powered rail-vehicle safety testing to infrastructure resilience, workforce development, and intermodal transportation innovation. Below are key ongoing and past grants that reflect our commitment to advancing safe, efficient, and sustainable surface transportation in Colorado and beyond.
$11.7 M Rail-Vehicle Alternative-Fuel Safety & Workforce Project
A substantial grant from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) to conduct safety assessment, testing, and workforce development for hydrogen and natural-gas powered rail vehicles. This effort — led by SCITT’s director — is positioned to help integrate environmentally friendly rail technology while ensuring safety and industry readiness. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Coalition: Freight / Rail Infrastructure Testing & Research (C-STTAR / FRA Contract)
As part of the team led by the contractor organization, SCITT contributes to a multi-state effort awarded a large contract by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to perform testing, engineering, and training at the Transportation Technology Center (TTC). This collaboration supports advanced research and practical infrastructure evaluation. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Climate Resilience & Extreme Events Research (CCEETR Consortium)
SCITT is part of a climate-focused research consortium funded by the FRA to identify risk mitigation strategies and resilience measures for the U.S. rail network in the face of climate change and extreme weather events. The goal is improving safety and long-term reliability of rail infrastructure under changing environmental conditions. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Rail Workforce & Safety Improvement — FRA Grant Program
As part of a broader program to support workforce growth and safety in rail transportation, SCITT contributes toward a multi-year grant awarded by the FRA aiming to strengthen workforce capabilities, support training, and respond to evolving industry needs. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Sustainability & Infrastructure Grants: DOT/State & Local Projects
SCITT also participates in other important research and infrastructure studies — including work on refueling infrastructure along major corridors, wildlife-collision mitigation research, safety enforcement studies, and regional mobility studies — often in cooperation with state and local agencies. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
