DeWine Names DriveOhio State Leader for Automated Vehicles

COLUMBUS – Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order Tuesday re-authorizing DriveOhio as the statewide center for advancement of smart mobility.

Safety, mobility, access, reliability and talent are the five pillars that guide DriveOhio, DeWine said in a statement, as it works to maintain its role as a national leader in the testing and deployment of automated and connected vehicle technology.

Working with industry, academic and local government partners, DriveOhio tests and deploys technology-based transportation solutions to solve real-world problems with a focus on safety. 

“Reauthorizing DriveOhio is another step for Ohio to continue to be a leader for implementing transportation technology,” DeWine said. “We are excited to see DriveOhio work with various community partners to begin implementing new technologies that will benefit all Ohioans.” 

The executive order outlines an advisory board and working groups comprised of industry, regulatory and research organizations that will provide information, recommendations and best practices to DriveOhio.

The order also highlights the work the Unmanned Aerial Systems Center has done with the Air Force Research Laboratories to deploy SkyVision, a radar system that allows drones to fly beyond visual line of sight. 

“The state of Ohio is positioned to develop and deploy a transportation system that is safer, smarter and more accessible for all Ohioans,” said Jack Marchbanks, director of the Ohio Department of Transportation. “The smart mobility solutions that DriveOhio are developing and deploying will make Ohio’s roadways safer.” 

The state recently received a $7.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, along with $10.3 million in matching funds from other sources, to study the use of automated vehicles on the state’s rural roads.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.