Data Analytics Strategy for Transportation Equity

The main goal for the project is to develop and implement a “Data Analytics Strategy” to offer support to indigenous and rural communities which do not have equitable access to cellphone and GIS data for transportation planning. This strategy will involve the development of a “Social Media data extraction” to estimate transit and passenger rail ridership, economic development opportunities, and gaps in rural community infrastructure. The data will be leveraged to predict impacts to rural and indigenous communities and shared with community leaders to benefit future planning decisions and local economic development initiatives.

Alberta to Montana Regional Rail Service Development

The main goal of the project is to conduct a Corridor Identification Study for the development of a regional passenger rail service connecting Alberta to Montana. The study will focus on recommending the preferred service level, frequency, performance, technology, and equity for the rail service. The project also aims to estimate the impact of daily passenger rail service on the tourism zone in Alberta and Montana, as well as to determine the sustainability of the international service and its potential to induce increased tourism within the communities it serves.

Community Engagement Enhancement for Research Dissemination

Integrated.Travel Research and Development, a non-profit organization, aims to improve community engagement as it commissions and releases transportation, technical, and socio-economic studies into the public domain. The challenge lies in effectively reaching and involving diverse community members to ensure that the research has a meaningful impact. The goal of this project is to develop a comprehensive strategy that leverages digital platforms, social media, and community events to enhance public awareness and participation. By applying classroom knowledge in marketing, communication, and public relations, learners will create a plan that not only disseminates information but also fosters active community involvement. Key tasks include: - Conducting a needs assessment to understand community engagement gaps. - Developing a multi-channel communication strategy. - Creating content and promotional materials. - Planning and proposing community events or webinars.

Sustainable Financial Model and Procurement Strategy for Passenger Rail Activities

The main goal for the project is to develop a sustainable financial model for passenger rail activities in Alberta, as well as to investigate and recommend procurement and management approaches to plan, budget, deliver, operate, and manage the rail activities. The project also aims to assess the financial impacts and risks to the Province of Alberta related to the implementation of the sustainable financial model and procurement strategy.