Ten organizations and universities have been chosen by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to receive funding to advance research on energy-saving technologies for transportation. All of it is essentially designed to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions in New York State.
The NYSDOT has funded $700,000 and NYSERDA has funded $400,000 toward these transportation-related initiatives, which leveraged an additional $1.3 million in recipient cost-sharing. The goal of the program is to reduce energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in all facets of transportation in the state.
New York Transportation Project Funding Targets Greener, Smarter Across NYS
Organizations and universities receiving state funding are leading a wave of innovative, future-ready transportation projects across the state. These efforts aim to reduce emissions, improve mobility, and support healthier communities.
Because of this support, public agencies, nonprofits, and academic institutions can now test real-world solutions. They’re not just developing new ideas—they’re putting them to work in streets, fleets, and neighborhoods.
Even better, each project aligns with statewide sustainability goals. While some focus on reducing single-occupancy vehicles, others reimagine urban freight, expand bike access, or promote mass transit. Together, these strategies shift the focus from cars to people—creating a safer, more efficient transportation system.
At the same time, these projects offer measurable benefits. They cut fuel consumption, lower air pollution, and help residents save money. For example, real-time feedback devices encourage smarter driving. Bike-sharing programs open new mobility options. And freight pilots test cleaner ways to move goods in crowded cities.
So with targeted investments and collaborative partnerships, New York is building the foundation for a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient transportation future.
Project Goals: Cutting Pollution and Expanding Options
- Cut Single-Occupancy Vehicle Use
These projects reduce traffic by promoting mass transit, biking, walking, and ridesharing. Even better, they aim to shift behavior and lower overall vehicle dependence. As a result, they ease congestion and reduce harmful emissions. - Boost Fuel Efficiency
Many initiatives focus on smarter driving. They use real-time driver feedback and live traffic data to guide behavior behind the wheel. Because of this, drivers waste less fuel, spend less time stuck in traffic, and lower their carbon footprint. - Test Bike Sharing Upstate
Some projects introduce or expand bike-sharing systems in upstate New York. These programs show that cycling is not just for cities. In fact, it works as a viable alternative in smaller communities—especially when well planned. - Rethink Urban Freight
Others explore new delivery strategies for crowded city centers. These projects aim to move goods more efficiently. At the same time, they reduce truck traffic and cut tailpipe emissions in high-density areas.
Leaders Speak on Sustainability Goals
“NYSERDA is pleased to join the Department of Transportation in helping to reduce pollution from vehicles traveling New York’s streets and highways,” said Francis J. Murray Jr., President and CEO of NYSERDA. “Transportation accounts for 75 percent of the oil consumed in the United States and 40 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Because of this, the research these organizations conduct will help shrink the environmental impact of this vital sector.”
Joan McDonald, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation, added:
“Congratulations to the recipients of these funds. These teams will develop and test innovative transportation strategies with real potential to cut energy use and reduce emissions. NYSDOT and NYSERDA are proud to partner in this initiative to support livable communities and sustainable growth across the state.”
A Proven Partnership for Progress
This marks the sixth joint research and development solicitation between NYSERDA and NYSDOT. To date, the partnership has funded more than 60 cost-shared projects across New York State.
Because of this collaboration, agencies have accelerated innovation in clean transportation, traffic efficiency, and urban mobility. Even better, many of these projects have led to real-world results—cutting fuel use, lowering emissions, and improving public transit options.
At the same time, the program continues to attract strong proposals from universities, nonprofits, and private sector partners. As a result, New York remains a national leader in advancing sustainable transportation technologies.
Both agencies remain committed to building smarter infrastructure. Together, they’re shaping the future of mobility—one project at a time.
This Year’s Focus: Smarter, Sustainable Mobility
This year, the program targets three critical transportation areas:
- Transportation System Management and Operations
- Transportation Demand Management
- Transportation Sustainability
Together, these focus areas aim to create cleaner, more efficient transit systems. At the same time, they support economic growth and help reduce environmental impacts.
Project Spotlight: Buffalo CarShare Builds Bike Network
Location: Western New York
New York Transportation Projects Lead Project: Buffalo CarShare
Buffalo CarShare Expands Sustainable Transit Options
Buffalo CarShare will launch a stable, self-sustaining bike-sharing network throughout the city. The program also includes a financial analysis to guide future growth and ensure long-term success.
Staff will partner with Green Options Buffalo, drawing on local experience to strengthen implementation. Together, they’ll build a system designed to last.
Funding awarded: $143,000
As the network expands, it will give residents affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to driving. Even better, the project aligns with Buffalo’s broader goals for cleaner, more accessible transportation.
http://www.buffalocarshare.org/
Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Launches Transportation Management Association
The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus will establish a Transportation Management Association (TMA) to reduce traffic demand and promote alternative commuting options. The TMA will serve employees across the campus, encouraging them to shift from driving alone to smarter, greener ways to travel.
Because the campus continues to grow, transportation needs are rising. Even better, this initiative arrives just in time to ease pressure on local roads and parking infrastructure. The TMA will coordinate carpool programs, support public transit use, and explore biking and walking solutions.
Funding awarded: $121,000
At the same time, the TMA will conduct outreach, collect data, and launch pilot programs during its first year. As a result, workers will gain more reliable, cost-effective ways to commute. Long term, this program helps the campus become more accessible, sustainable, and commuter-friendly.
Green Options Buffalo
Complete Streets Campaign and Summit Drive Community Action
The project will launch an outreach campaign promoting a Complete Streets Program. This initiative encourages policies that make roads safer and more accessible—not just for drivers, but also for cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized users.
At the same time, funding will support a Complete Streets Summit. The event will bring together nearly 100 participants to share ideas, highlight solutions, and discuss best practices. As a result, local leaders and planners will gain the tools they need to plan, design, and implement complete streets strategies in their communities.
Funding: $20,000 http://greenoptionsbuffalo.org/
New York Transportation Projects in Central New York
C&S Engineers Inc. of Syracuse: – To partially fund the Transportation Demand Management Program for St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center, an employer-based program to promote carpools, vanpools or other energy-efficient transportation alternatives. Funding: $150,000 www.cscos.com/<http://www.cscos.com/>
New West Technologies Explores Electric Canal Fleet
New West Technologies LLC, based in Utica, will lead a study on electrifying a portion of the New York State Canal Corporation’s boat fleet. The project focuses on evaluating how to convert some of the agency’s 70 operational vessels to electric power.
These boats play a vital role. They maintain the canal system and support energy-efficient waterborne freight, which already consumes less fuel than highway trucking. Because these vessels run consistently, switching to electric propulsion could slash both fuel use and harmful emissions.
Even better, this project aligns with New York State’s broader push toward zero-emission transportation. It supports long-term goals to modernize public assets while reducing the carbon footprint of state-operated fleets.
Funding awarded: $75,000
At the same time, the study will examine technical barriers, cost implications, and environmental benefits. As a result, it could lay the foundation for the first major clean-energy upgrade to one of New York’s oldest transportation systems. By blending innovation with heritage, the project brings 21st-century sustainability to the iconic Erie Canal.
Capital Region
University at Albany Launches Real-Time Bus Tracking
University at Albany—MY alma mater—is rolling out a wireless GPS tracking system for its campus bus fleet. The goal? To make alternative transportation more convenient, visible, and reliable for students and staff alike.
This system will broadcast the real-time locations of all university buses through both a web portal and a smartphone app. As a result, commuters will know exactly when the next bus arrives—no more guessing or long waits.
Currently, only 18% of students and just 2% of employees ride the university buses each day. Because of inconsistent service and limited information, most opt to drive. However, with GPS-enabled tracking, riders gain confidence, save time, and reduce their dependence on personal vehicles.
Funding awarded: $166,000
Even better, this investment supports broader efforts to lower emissions, cut fuel use, and ease campus congestion. At the same time, it sets a strong example of how universities can modernize transportation systems and meet sustainability goals.
With this project, UAlbany continues to lead by example—improving access while building a smarter, greener campus for everyone.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute of Troy: To study the feasibility of installing noise reduction technologies on commercial vehicles to support off-hour deliveries in New York City. Funding: $75,000 http://rpi.edu/
New York City Transportation Projects
The City College of New York: To evaluate and also quantify the benefits of using freight-tricycles compared to motorized vehicles for urban delivery in Manhattan. Funding: $75,000 www1.ccny.cuny.edu/<http://www1.ccny.cuny.edu/>
NY Transportation Project TransCore ITS Boosts White Plains with Smarter Traffic Control
TransCore ITS LLC will deliver 24-hour, off-site operations for White Plains’ advanced traffic light control system. This smart signal technology constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts light changes in real time. As a result, the system keeps traffic moving smoothly—especially during peak hours.
Because it responds to actual traffic volumes, the system reduces unnecessary stops, idling, and delays. Streets with more congestion get longer green lights, while less busy routes wait briefly. This balance helps improve fuel efficiency, lowers emissions, and enhances the overall driving experience.
Even better, the off-site operation allows for continuous monitoring without requiring additional city resources. That means White Plains can expand its smart infrastructure efficiently and cost-effectively.
Funding awarded: $51,000
At the same time, this project aligns with statewide goals to modernize traffic systems and promote cleaner, data-driven mobility. By using intelligent systems like this, cities can cut down on emissions, reduce gridlock, and support more sustainable urban growth.
So with this upgrade, White Plains takes another step toward becoming a smarter, greener city for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
New York Transportation Projects Statewide
TomTom Brings EcoPlus Fleet Tech to New York
TomTom North America is a company based in Concord, Massachusetts. For it will also help New York State create a smart fleet. In addition, the plan equips 1,200 vehicles with real-time driver feedback systems. These systems track fuel use and also display live traffic updates.
Even better, the technology also promotes efficient driving. With TomTom’s HD Traffic and EcoPlus, drivers adjust behavior on the road. As a result, they save fuel and reduce travel times.
EcoPlus, currently only available in Europe. For it delivers detailed performance feedback directly to the driver. This also marks the first major test of the system in the United States. Because of its success abroad, officials expect similar results in New York.
The project received $250,000 in funding. So now, with the launch underway, New York most notably aims to cut fuel costs and emissions. All the while, they are most definitely making trips faster and cleaner.
Source: NYSERDA
