BACKGROUND

The New Paradigms research projects have been distinct from other TCRP projects in that most TCRP projects are applied research that develop near-term solutions to various problems involving facilities, service concepts, operations, policy, planning, human resources, maintenance, and administrative practices. While most TCRP research projects are undertaken to address existing problems and identify opportunities for near-term improvements for transit operators and the communities they serve, the New Paradigms research projects have a longer-term time-horizon and may be characterized as higher risk.

TCRP's New Paradigms initiative has funded 23 research projects at a cost of $4,654,000. This research has represented a significant proportion of TCRP's research budget between 1996 and 2001. While most TCRP problem statements are submitted in response to an annual solicitation for research topics, many of the New Paradigms problem statements were developed through special initiatives. These special initiatives have included workshops, targeted consultant efforts, and the efforts of a TCRP New Paradigms working group.

OBJECTIVE
The greatest challenge for TCRP's New Paradigms research initiative has been to continue to develop relevant research problem statements. The purpose of this solicitation is to select a firm or individual to assist the TCRP in accomplishing the following objectives: (1) Develop a systematic, rational, ongoing process for the development of cutting-edge research problem statements for research that is likely to affect public transportation significantly in the next 15 years and (2) Develop several problem statements for consideration by the TOPS Committee.

The problem statements will address both near- and longer-term opportunities for innovation and change.

Status: In January 2006 a Workshop was held at the TRB Annual Meeting with a facilitator to generate New Paradigm research ideas for consideration by TOPS.  Building on the concepts from this workshop, the Working Group convened several times during the spring and summer to prepare and discuss several research problem statements.  The problem statement titled, "New Paradigm for Multimodal Transportation Facilities," was approved by TOPS at its October 2006 meeting.