Because safety remains the imperative goal behind innovation in transportation, the 2025 Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting is bound to feature many insights into how to make our roads safer for all users. We’re excited to contribute to this conversation with two presentations that focus on enhancing roadway safety through design and analysis. Check them out below:

Intersection with pedestrians in the crosswalk and a scooter in the bike lane

“Life in the Fast Lane” or “Slow Ride”?: Designing Roadways to Target Speed in an Evolving Multimodal Context

Presenter: Zachary Bugg presiding

When: Sunday, January 5, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Where: Convention Center, 202B

Workshop 1014

How can we design roads that encourage safer speeds while meeting the needs of all users? This workshop will explore the concept of target speed, a crucial approach to aligning roadway design with desired operational speeds to enhance safety and comfort for people who drive, bike, and walk.

Through an engaging case study, attendees will learn how to apply target speed principles to reduce speed differentials and create safer, more predictable environments for everyone on the road.

Group of people in business casual walking across crosswalk at dusk.

Roundabouts and Innovative Intersections: Safe Movement within Planned Conflict Points

Presenters: Nagui Rouphail and Bastian Schroeder

When: Monday, January 6, 1:30–3:15 p.m.

Where: Convention Center, 207A

Lectern 2133

Although intersections are conflict points, with carefully considered planning, analysis, and design, they can produce safe and efficient movement for all users. This session discusses how thoughtful design and analysis of roundabouts and intersections can reduce risks while maintaining operational performance.

We’ll present findings on “Planning-Level Screening of Intersection Alternatives for Intersection Control Evaluation,” offering practical tools for identifying and implementing safer intersection designs. With a focus on minimizing conflict points and improving safety for all users, this session will expand your understanding of alternative intersection designs and their transformative impact on mobility and safety.