Innovation program and strategy
What is innovation?
Innovation is the process of using critical and creative thinking to implement ideas that create valued outcomes. Innovation leads to piloting and implementing ideas that create value for MnDOT and the public we serve.
Why innovate?
In a world of rapidly changing needs, government must operate effectively and efficiently to deliver today’s services and plan for tomorrow.
Government agencies are facing multiple challenges from dwindling budgets, increased citizen expectations, and morphing societal needs. In response, leaders increasingly see innovation as a mindset and process to help solve problems and improve the lives of the people they serve.
MnDOT is not immune from these challenges. In 2020 we began developing an innovation strategy to help the agency deliver transportation services more effectively and efficiently.
What does innovation look like?
Innovations come in all different shapes and sizes—from free quick-wins to larger scale initiatives. Here are just a few examples from across the agency.
D1 and Metro District’s homegrown tunnel washers saves the agency hundreds of thousands of dollars |
CAV's self-driving vehicle pilot increases transportation options for residents in Grand Rapids, MN |
A new public space, North Loop Green, is joining Minneapolis through a MnDOT airspace agreement |
Ultrasonic acoustic devices deter endangered bats from roosting in bridges during construction |
MnDOT's snowplow driver-assist system provides drivers with navigation and alerts them to potential hazards |
MnDOT is pilot testing snow fences that capture solar energy |
Contact
Katie Walker
MnDOT Office of Research & Innovation
651-366-3765
Kerrie Workman
MnDOT Office of Research & Innovation
612-616-2074