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Demonstration and Deployment Forum: Lessons Learned from the Aggie Auto Pilot Program

Sarah Searcy | Chris Spencer | Zack Matheny | Capt. John LeGrand

ABSTRACT

This forum discussed the recent public deployment of Aggie Auto shuttles in downtown Greensboro from Sep 18, 2023 until Oct 13, 2023. The forum brought together NCA&T researchers and community partners including NCDOT, City of Greensboro, Downtown Greensboro Inc., and University Police Department to share their perspectives on this deployment.The forum started with general overview of the project about what and how the Aggie Auto Pilot Program came together to connect the N.C A&T main campus to Downtown Greensboro, provided by Dr. Karimoddini, followed by Dr. Maranda McBride's briefing about the results of the human factors aspects and surveys carried out throughout the pilot program. The forum then continued by a panel of community partners including Sarah Searcy, Senior Advisor for Innovation, NCDOT Integrated Mobility Division (IMD), NCDOT, Chris Spencer, Transportation Engineering Manager, Greensboro Department of Transportation, Zack Matheny , Director of Downtown Greensboro Incorporated, and John LeGrand, Captain of Patrol Operations, Police Department, North Carolina A&T. The panelists discussed their perspectives about deployment of AVs and how the Aggie Auto project pilot program helped the community partners to assess their preparations for future adoption of AVs.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Sarah Searcy | CHAIR OF THE ADVISORY BOARD

Senior Advisor for Innovation, NCDOT Integrated Mobility Division (IMD), NCDOT

Sarah Searcy is an applied research professional and program manager with over eleven years of experience serving North Carolina to advance safe, equitable, and innovative multimodal transportation throughout the state. As the Senior Advisor for Innovation in the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)’s Integrated Mobility Division, she directs projects and programs that improve shared mobility options and promote transportation systems that work for everyone. Sarah manages the Connected Autonomous Shuttle Supporting Innovation (CASSI) program for NCDOT to pilot shared autonomous vehicles in partnership with communities across the state.

Before joining NCDOT in 2021, Sarah was with the Institute for Transportation Research and Education (ITRE) at NC State University for over eight years, most recently as the Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Manager. Sarah is a Fulbright award recipient and two-time East Carolina University recognized alumna with a bachelor's degree in Art and Anthropology and a master's degree in Sociology.

Chris Spencer | TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING MANAGER

Transportation Engineering Manager, City of Greensboro

Chris Spencer is a transportation engineering professional with extensive experience overseeing various engineering and operations functions for the City of Greensboro. As the Transportation Engineering Manager, he leads key initiatives related to traffic signs, road markings, traffic signals, project development, and traffic safety for the city’s Transportation Department. Chris is a registered Professional Engineer with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University.

Before joining the City of Greensboro, Chris worked with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). He currently serves on the Greensboro Urban Area MPO Technical Coordinating Committee and chairs the Greensboro Downtown Greenway Technical Committee.

Zack Matheny | PRESIDENT AND CEO

President and CEO, Downtown Greensboro, Inc.

Zack Matheny is the President and CEO of Downtown Greensboro, Inc. (DGI), a non-profit organization focused on driving investment and growth in Greensboro's Central Business District. Since taking the role in 2015, Matheny has overseen significant development, including over $600 million in new projects such as restaurants, shops, residential, and commercial properties. Under his leadership, initiatives like public art, community branding, and innovative programming have increased downtown activity.

Matheny also serves as the President of the North Carolina Downtown Development Association and is a member of the International Downtown Association’s Board of Directors. Previously, he ran White Oak Capital, Inc., and served four terms on the Greensboro City Council.

John LeGrand | CAPTAIN OF PATROL OPERATIONS

University Police Department, North Carolina A&T State University

John O. LeGrand is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over 23 years of experience, currently serving as the Captain of Patrol Operations at North Carolina A&T State University's Police Department. Since joining the department in 2011, Captain LeGrand has been responsible for overseeing patrol operations and ensuring campus safety. He began his career with the Greensboro Police Department, where he worked in various units, including patrol, community policing, and street crimes.

A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, where he served for 8 years, Captain LeGrand holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Arts in Human Service Counseling and Executive Leadership.

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