Exhibit D - Research Project Requirement: PDF Link

Project Outcome Brief: TBD

Final Report: TBD

Project Summary: This research project aims to advance rural transportation planning by developing a Digital Twin framework to assess emerging technology readiness. Rural and small-town regions, typically with populations under 50,000, face distinct challenges such as infrastructure limitations, economic constraints, and limited planning capacity. To address these issues, the project will enhance the Tool for Assessing Community Technology Readiness (TACT-R) by integrating advanced data-driven methodologies that support scenario-based planning, disruption analysis, and informed decision-making. The Digital Twin will serve as a dynamic, virtual representation of rural transportation infrastructure. It will enable users to simulate infrastructure improvements, assess the impacts of disruptions, and evaluate the deployment of emerging technologies. Community engagement will be supported through an interactive deliberation dashboard that allows planners, agency staff, and local stakeholders to collaborate on scenario testing and investment planning. Deliverables will include a validated Digital Twin model, simulation scenarios, interactive dashboards, user manuals, and training materials to support future deployment and long-term technology adoption in rural areas.