The Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida has launched the Applied Infrastructure Program, a new research initiative focused on developing practical solutions to improve the performance, durability, and resilience of transportation infrastructure. Led by Zachary Haber, PhD, PE, Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the program expands CUTR’s infrastructure research portfolio by emphasizing hands-on, application-driven work that directly supports transportation agencies and infrastructure owners.
The Applied Infrastructure Program centers on the physical assets that keep people and goods moving, including bridges, construction materials, and structural systems. Its multidisciplinary approach combines expertise in bridge engineering, corrosion science, geotechnical engineering, construction, and forensic engineering to address real-world infrastructure challenges. Program activities will include field inspections, material testing, workforce training, technical assistance, and applied research focused on improving infrastructure reliability and extending asset life cycles.
While AIP and CUTR’s Resilient Transportation Infrastructure Systems (R-TIS) program share a commitment to strengthening transportation infrastructure, their focus areas are distinct. R-TIS emphasizes developing innovative materials, structures, and management strategies that enhance transportation system resilience, sustainability, and recovery from disruptions such as natural disasters and climate-related impacts. The program takes a broad, interdisciplinary approach that integrates engineering, environmental science, management, and social science perspectives to advance resilient transportation systems.
In contrast, the new Applied Infrastructure Program is specifically focused on delivering practical, implementable solutions for infrastructure assets through applied engineering research and direct industry engagement. Its work is grounded in addressing immediate infrastructure needs through testing, inspection, evaluation, and technology transfer, helping agencies make informed maintenance, investment, and asset management decisions.
Together, AIP and R-TIS strengthen CUTR’s ability to support transportation infrastructure across the full spectrum of research and practice, from long-term resilience and sustainability strategies to real-world engineering solutions that improve the safety, reliability, and longevity of critical infrastructure assets.