WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff, a global engineering company, has partnered with the University of Melbourne, the Australian government and leading industry partners from around the globe to create the first multimodal connected transport laboratory at Melbourne’s CBD area in Australia.

The new partnership will be engaged in developing of a National Connected Multimodal Transport (NCMT) test bed.

NMCT will focus on multimodal transportation systems consisting of connected vehicles, roadways, city logistics, public transportation and connected pedestrians and cyclists.

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff  Victorian Client director for Transport Tim Gosbell said: “Our Integrated Transport Systems (ITS) team is working closely with our partners to develop the test bed, to integrate emerging technologies that will that will help to reduce congestion, improve livability and deliver more sustainable transport outcomes for the local community".

"The collaboration across the government and a range of private organisations has been a very positive experience."

The test area includes 7km of roadways and is bounded by Alexandra Parade to the north, Victoria Street to the south, Hoddle Street to the east and Lygon Street to the west.

WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff technical executive Scott Benjamin said: "The collaboration across the government and a range of private organisations has been a very positive experience, we look forward to delivering more meaningful user centric outcomes for communities."

The new initiative shows the commitment of Victorian government in bringing about tangible improvements to the quality of life in Melbourne for many decades to come.

Image: A cartoon of National Connected Multimodal Transport in action. Photo: courtesy of WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff.