FRA’s RD&T mission is to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of people and goods by rail through basic and applied research and the development of innovative solutions. Safety is DOT’s primary strategic goal and the principal driver of FRA’s RD&T program. RD&T also contributes to other DOT strategic goals because safety-focused projects typically yield solutions toward state of good repair, economic competitiveness, and environmental sustainability goals. The RD&T program also has an important role to play in workforce development.

FRA’s RD&T program is founded on an understanding of safety risks in the industry. Hazard identification and risk analysis allows us to identify opportunities to reduce the likelihood of accidents and incidents and limit the consequences of hazardous events should they occur. Key strategies to these ends include stakeholder engagement, project prioritization, cost-effective research procurement, and partnerships with other researchers such as the Association of American Railroads (AAR), the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA), industry, labor, and academia.