Automated Driving Systems
Part-time
Transit Lanes
Express Lane Completion
Shared
Mobility Hubs
Mobility as
a service
Automated
Driving Systems
Advanced
Technologies
Overview
The Automated Driving Systems (ADS) project is one of six projects that make up the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s (CCTA’s) INNOVATE 680 program. This comprehensive program is designed to collectively tackle corridor-wide congestion, travel delays, and ongoing operational challenges along Interstate 680 (I-680). The ADS project will specifically deliver greater mobility access and opportunity to underserved communities with limited transportation options, while preparing for the future of mobility for everyone who lives or works along the corridor.
In 2019, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) awarded CCTA a $7.5 million grant to conduct three groundbreaking pilot projects. In addition to addressing current mobility needs, these pilots will advance standards for automated driving systems in the U.S. by collaborating with partners like UC Berkeley and GoMentum Station to gather essential data on performance and safety measures.
Goals
GREATER ACCESS
Increase connectivity and accessibility for transportation-challenged communities
ENHANCED SAFETY
Increase safety on our roads and freeways by deploying new technologies
SUSTAINABILITY
Promote environmental sustainability by utilizing zero-emission vehicles
PUTTING RIDERS FIRST
Promote better health by Improving access to medical & other services
ADS ADVANCEMENT
Advance development of ADS nationwide
Pilots
PILOT 1: PRESTO Rossmoor
Autonomous Shuttles for Senior Community
- Walnut Creek, CA
Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) have the potential to greatly improve the daily lives of seniors, acting as lifelines that keep riders connected and on the move. PRESTO Rossmoor is a Shared Autonomous Vehicle (SAV) program that brings the transportation of the future to residents of an over-55 community in Walnut Creek.
Launched in summer 2024 and operated in partnership with Beep, the pilot features two zero-emission PRESTO shuttles that travel along a one-mile loop, making stops at two key locations. Attendants are on board to accompany riders on every trip.
The pilot aims to increase residents’ comfort with autonomous technology, provide researchers with a senior’s perspective, and gather feedback and data that will help pave the way for the future of transportation throughout Contra Costa County and beyond. For more information, visit the PRESTO Rossmoor webpage.
PILOT 2: PRESTO Martinez
Accessible Health Care Transportation Shuttles
- Martinez, CA
PRESTO Martinez will address challenges related to health care needs by providing free, on-demand shuttle service for patients at the Contra Costa County hospital. Service will also be offered to residents making general trips around Martinez during off-peak hours, complementing the existing County Connection public bus service.
CCTA is partnering with May Mobility, a leader in AV development and deployment, to introduce a fleet of seven self-driving vehicles, three of which will be wheelchair accessible. The AVs operate at a maximum speed of 35 mph and will have a trained County Connection attendant on board to ensure prompt and safe service.
PILOT 3: PERSONAL MOBILITY PILOT
Connected Vehicles on I-680 Corridor
- San Ramon, CA
The Personal Mobility pilot in San Ramon is a pivotal initiative that will prepare Contra Costa County for the future of connected and automated vehicles. It will use Nissan vehicles equipped with self-driving technology to test how connected vehicles can help traffic flow more smoothly and safely. Verizon video systems will be installed along a two-mile stretch of I-680 to monitor the vehicles and collect data.
The pilot also includes the installation of equipment at four intersections that will alert the self-driving vehicles of nearby pedestrians, cyclists, and cars. Expected benefits include fewer accidents, reduced traffic congestion, reduced gas usage,1 and more efficient use of shared transportation.
It is an extension of an experiment in Tennessee in which UC Berkeley researchers tested 100 partially automated vehicles in real traffic. Results showed that AI technology led to smoother and less congested flows than human drivers.2
Part-time
Transit Lanes
Shared
Mobility Hubs
Automated
Driving Systems
Express Lane Completion
Mobility as
a service
Advanced
Technologies
For more info about this project, contact:
