FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, May 1, 2000
Contact: Patricia Klinger
Tel.: (202) 366-4831
RSPA 11-00

U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today announced a $262,200 Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) grant to Purdue University to operate a university-based center of transportation excellence on its campus.

"President Clinton and Vice President Gore are committed to improving transportation safety, expanding education opportunities and protecting the environment," Secretary Slater said. "This grant will help ensure quality education and encourage students to explore technological innovation for the nation’s transportation system in the new century and the new millennium."

The grant supports the Institute for Safe, Quiet, and Durable Highways (SQDH), established in 1998 under a similar grant. SQDH is one of 33 University Transportation Centers (UTCs) funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Collectively, the UTCs include more than 80 schools throughout the United States. All of the centers conduct combined programs of research, education, and technology transfer activities.

"Working with Purdue University will help secure some of the best and brightest minds for transportation in the 21st century and encourage a climate of innovation in transportation research and development," RSPA Administrator Kelley S. Coyner said.

SQDH specializes in the development of quiet, safe, durable, and economical highway systems. Activities of the Institute will integrate education and research activities in noise and vibration control, pavement construction, material design, and traffic management.

The UTC Program already has produced more than 1,200 research reports and involved more than 3,500 university students and faculty in the study of transportation. UTC Program grants must be matched by recipients on a dollar-for-dollar basis, doubling the value of the federal investment.

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Briefing Room