How Technology Will Shape 2026 for Roads, Bridges and Public Transit
Key Takeaways
Predictions for 2026: Brandon, Gavin and Jessica kick off Season 3 with their technology predictions for their brands in 2026, ranging from improvements in artificial intelligence (AI) to school-zone safety.
Federal funding uncertainty looms large over future infrastructure projects: A major discussion point centers on the anticipated expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in September 2026. The hosts predict significant political challenges to reauthorization, which could disrupt long-term planning, slow project pipelines and exacerbate cost pressures across transit and infrastructure sectors.
Transit agencies are reframing technology around the customer experience: Brandon interviews HNTB’s Joanna Pinkerton and former Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Chief Development Officer Dee Leggett, who emphasize how agencies are using data, AI analytics and customer journey mapping to better understand rider behavior, improve safety, enhance communication and deliver more seamless, reliable experiences—regardless of which agency operates a given mode.
Accessibility in the nation’s capitol: The episode concludes with Brandon Lewis discussing his trip to Washington, D.C., over the holidays and what he called an "eye-opening experience."
Summary
The Season 3 premiere of the ITP kicks off with a forward-looking conversation on where transportation and infrastructure technology are headed next. Gavin, Brandon and Jessica share predictions on AI adoption, smart roads, real-time traffic management and the uncertain future of federal infrastructure funding. The episode also features an interview with leaders from HNTB and DART, exploring how transit agencies are leveraging data and AI to improve safety, operations and the rider experience.
Episode length:
1:01:53
Joanna M. Pinkerton’s bio
Joanna M. Pinkerton is HNTB’s national practice leader for digital infrastructure solutions, where she is advancing programs focused on digital transformation of public infrastructure, including infrastructure, integration of AI, the use of advanced analytics and how technology can be deployed to serve communities more efficiently. She has previously served as president and CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority.
Dee Leggett’s bio
Dee Leggett is the former executive vice president and chief development officer at DART. She is a nationally recognized transit leader with over 20 years of experience in the planning, development and operation of public transportation projects across the country. At DART, Dee directed and oversaw the development department of DART, which includes Capital Planning, Service Planning & Scheduling, Engineering & Technical Services, Real Estate & Economic Development, Capital Design & Construction and Development Program Support.