A hub for transportation research, innovation, and applied solutions
Led by Leslie Richards, former CEO of both PennDOT and SEPTA, TRIP brings together scholars, students, public agencies, and private partners to address today's most complex mobility challenges — in Philadelphia, across Pennsylvania, and nationwide.
Connecting Penn's expertise to the practical needs of transportation systems
TRIP turns academic research into actionable transportation solutions that improve transit efficiency, mobility access, and sustainability. Our work spans five focus areas:
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Applied research projects
Translating academic insights into real-world solutions for transit and infrastructure.
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2
Pilot programs
Testing innovations in public transit, roadway efficiency, and emerging mobility technologies.
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Cross-sector collaboration
Partnerships across academia, government agencies, and private industry.
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Mobility initiatives
Expanding access to transportation for underserved communities.
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Data-driven approaches
Using mobility data to improve transit operations and the passenger experience.
Research priorities with measurable, real-world impact
TRIP engages students, faculty, state and local transportation agencies, and private partners in research and pilot programs across critical priorities:
Safety & crash prevention
Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics for crash reduction, preventative maintenance, and congestion management.
Access to opportunity
Improving access to jobs, education, and essential services through better mobility.
Technology & data innovation
Mobility data platforms that support smarter decision-making across public and private systems.
Smart & resilient infrastructure
Infrastructure that adapts to user behavior in real time.
System-level performance
Sensor technologies that enhance roadway safety and transit reliability.
Applied impact
Hands-on student engagement, pilot programs, and partnerships that ensure every project delivers measurable results.
Guidance from leaders in transportation
TRIP's Advisory Board ensures our research remains practical, scalable, and implementation-ready — drawing on senior leaders across academia, public agencies, and the private sector.
Made possible through generous support
TRIP is supported by public agencies, private partners, and philanthropic organizations — including Google Public Sector, Alstom, INRIX, Bentley, HNTB, and others.