'DriveOhio' launches, will focus on autonomous and connected vehicle initiatives in Ohio

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On Jan. 18, Ohio Governor John Kasich made DriveOhio official with an executive order. DriveOhio is essentially a “one-stop shop for researchers, developers and manufacturers to collaborate on autonomous and connected vehicle initiatives in Ohio.”

The executive order brings together two entities; those that are responsible for building transportation infrastructure, and those that are developing advanced mobility technologies. It provides a “statewide, single point of entry” for companies and innovators to test and build smart mobility technologies together, and, it establishes an “infrastructure for developing and establishing statewide standards and strategic recommendations” in regard to the types and use of technology for deployment, as well as their financing.

The executive order also provides a coordination point with the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, the Department of Higher Education, and the Department of Job and Family Services on industry-related job creation.

“Innovation and advancements in technologies are disrupting every industry and creating opportunities for Ohio that we cannot afford to let pass,” says Ohio Department of Transportation Director Jerry Wray.

“Ohio already is deeply involved in the research and development of automotive technologies and systems, smart mobility, vehicle autonomy and sensors. DriveOhio gives us a structure to move forward with unprecedented intention and speed.”

DriveOhio is a partnership between several entities, including the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Administrative Services, the Ohio Turnpike Infrastructure Commission, the Public Utilities Commissions of Ohio, the Department of Insurance, the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation and the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department. DriveOhio is housed within ODOT.

Jim Barna, the current chief engineer and assistant director of engineer policy for ODOT, will leave that position to lead DriveOhio as its executive director. Barna has worked at ODOT for more than 22 years, and as a civil engineer for more than 28 years.