TRANSPORTATION CENTER OPENS AT TOWN CENTER

The Center for Innovative Transportation Solutions is now open in Virginia Beach's Town Center on the first floor of One Columbus Center.

The new center, made possible through an agreement with Old Dominion University's Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center and the Virginia Beach Development Authority, will use modeling and simulation to research a large variety of transportation issues in the region as well as the commonwealth and the nation, according to information provided by ODU's Office of University Relations.

Under the leadership of Asad Khattak, the Batten Chair in Transportation, six researchers will work at the center. Outside researchers will visit to collaborate on various projects.

Researchers will work to integrate real-time data systems and advanced transportation applications to more effectively manage congestion while minimizing environment impacts, according to Brendan O'Hallarn, a public relations specialist with ODU.

There will be studies on alternative fuels and technologies, fuel conservation, urban studies, land use and public policy to decisions made in transportation at local, regional and national levels, he said.