Pedestrian fatalities are a growing problem for Nevada – so much so the state is seeking help from the technology community.
There were 92 pedestrian fatalities in the state between Jan. 1, 2015 and Feb. 26, 2016, according to the Nevada Department of Transportation.
Pedestrian deaths are particularly becoming a problem in Southern Nevada, where the population is burgeoning, the Nevada Center for Advanced Mobility said.
The center and its partners, including the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, are asking technology solutions providers to submit creative approaches, technologies and products to improve safety conditions for walkers in that region.
Proposals should be submitted through a Request for Information.
The RFI is looking for technologies that are at or beyond the prototype-development stage and are ready for development. The technologies should take advantage of existing and future connected infrastructure and new vehicle technologies.
“Because of our unprecedented partnership, cooperation, and location, we are fertile ground for entrepreneurs and researchers to respond to this critically important RFI,” said Steve Hill, executive director for the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.
“For example, the RTC’s Freeway and Arterial System of Transportation already has the technology to communicate with computer and Internet-connected vehicles at traffic signals to provide helpful feedback not only to motorists but to pedestrians’ smartphones. I look forward to seeing what leading technology providers can offer as solutions to further these efforts and ultimately keep our pedestrians safer.”
Southern Nevada poses several safety challenges, including wide streets, flat roadways, speed limits of 45 mph or more and fewer marked crosswalks due to those long stretches of road between traffic signals.
Responses for the RFI must be in by 4 p.m. Sept. 28 via email at [email protected]. Submission should use the subject line “Technology Solutions for Enhanced Pedestrian Safety RFI Response.”
