AGENDA DATE: 3/6/2019
TITLE:
Title
Resolution of Support for U.S. Department of Transportation Grant
BODY
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Resolution of support for U.S. Department of Transportation grant to expand autonomous vehicle testing associated with Project Knight Rider
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Walker, Kamptner, DeLoria, Johnson, Newberry
PRESENTER (S): Roger Johnson, Albemarle County Economic Development Director; Brad Sheffield, CEO, JAUNT
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: In December 2018, the County entered into a partnership with Perrone Robotics and JAUNT to pilot test an autonomous neighborhood electric vehicle (NEV) in the Crozet area. The County contributed $238,000 for this economic and community development project via the County's Economic Development Authority. This partnership was code-named Project Knight Rider.
Shortly after the announcement of the partnership, the project garnered interest from both the private and public sectors. The University of Virginia (UVa.) expressed an interest in conducting research on aspects of the pilot and subsequently joined the project. The project team, consisting of representatives from the County, Perrone Robotics, JAUNT, and UVa., has been meeting regularly in preparation for a March launch date. Recently, the team met with Cathy McGhee of the VDOT Office of Innovation and VDOT's Research Council to determine their interest in the project.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Grant awards provide funding to projects supporting the County's Strategic Plan, the County's Mission to enhance the well-being and quality of life for all citizens for the highest level of public service, and the County's Vision of fostering a thriving economy.
DISCUSSION: Following the meeting with Cathy McGhee, the project team determined this project may qualify for a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Automated Driving System (ADS) Demonstration Grant. Up...
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