Researchers at SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly), in collaboration with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), have developed an innovative data-driven framework to help prioritize active transportation investments across New York State. SUNY Poly Assistant Professor of Transportation Engineering Dr. Abolfazl Karimpour was the lead author of the new research published in Travel Behaviour and Society, working with undergraduate researcher Jared Winkens and NYSDOT's Ellwood Hanrahan. 

Using advanced spatial analytics and statewide transportation data, the research identifies communities where investments in walking and bicycling infrastructure can maximize mode shift while improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The study highlights regional differences in transportation needs, showing, for example, that the Southern Tier would benefit most from targeted safety improvements, while the Capital District and Finger Lakes present strong opportunities to expand active transportation infrastructure.

The framework provides transportation agencies with a practical decision-support tool to guide infrastructure investments, helping ensure resources are directed to locations where they can have the greatest impact on mobility, safety, and community well-being. This collaboration reflects SUNY Poly's commitment to advancing innovative transportation research in partnership with NYSDOT.

The research was funded in part by SUNY Poly's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Research Center.

Read the new Transportation Research