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Facilities

Virginia Smart Roads

Live Roadway Connector

This connector allows VTTI to route test vehicles seamlessly between a live traffic environment and closed test tracks, enabling long-duration studies.

Live Roadway Connector Flyover

The live roadway connector links the highway section (Smart Road) directly to U.S. 460 Business in Blacksburg, Virginia. Equipped with traffic control devices and protocols, this connector allows VTTI to seamlessly route test vehicles between a live traffic environment and closed test tracks, enabling studies of long duration.

The live roadway connector:

  • Links public roads directly to the Smart Roads
  • Increases the length of the Smart Road by 1/2 mile
  • Includes a turn-around at the far end
  • Allows researchers to study issues such as driver readiness to assume vehicular control after long periods under automated mode and how drivers may occupy their time in full automation mode (e.g., reading or sleeping)