One big thing
Utah State Senator Karen Kwan says lawmakers need to lay the groundwork for technological advancements that will impact transportation infrastructure in the coming years. Kwan emphasized the importance of considering future advancements, such as the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into transportation systems.
Why it matters
The discussion served to underscore the importance of proactive planning and governmental role in shaping the future of transportation infrastructure. Policymakers, Kwan emphasized, need to not only consider present needs, but also anticipate and prepare for future developments.
“We do have to look at some of these sort of Jetson-esque kinds of things,” Kwan stated, referring to the futuristic technology often depicted in the animated television show, “The Jetsons.”
Go deeper
The senator stressed the need for understanding the human aspect of these advances. She says the focus shouldn’t solely be on the movement of vehicles, planes, and trains, but also on the individuals who use these modes of transportation.
“We’re moving individuals, peoples, and people move in different ways,” says Kwan. “So we have to understand the differences in how people move.”
Kwan also highlighted the significance of infrastructure development in relation to the increasing number of EVs on the road. She questioned what the infrastructure would look like and what role the state should play in its establishment.
The potential impact of AI on transportation was another key point of discussion. With the imminent arrival of driverless vehicles and the current use of autonomous delivery systems on roads, sidewalks, and in the air, Kwan underscored the need for government involvement.
“What is the role of government in that and how do we plan for infrastructure?” she asked.