Transit automation technologies have the potential to improve safety, reduce operating costs, and increase convenience of the transit service. An increasing number of transit providers nationwide continue testing and demonstrating passenger vehicles with high levels of automation. Yet, these technologies still face challenges with ensuring adequate safety in all operating conditions, achieving public acceptance, overcoming legal and regulatory obstacles, and other issues. Transportation professionals continue debating when transit automation technologies will see widespread market adoption and what impact they will have on transportation costs, workforce development, urban planning, and overall travel behavior. This session will cover the latest developments in automated transit in Florida, including the review of the best practices and lessons learned from recent deployments, as well as the discussion of the existing challenges and obstacles to practical AV implementation in transit service.
