Who We Are
The Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America) is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to advancing the research, development and deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to improve the nation’s surface transportation system. Founded in 1991 as a Federal Advisory Committee to the United States Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) and now operating as a 501(c)3 nonprofit association, ITS America’s membership includes more than 450 organizations comprised of public agencies, private sector companies, and research institutions. ITS America's 27 State Chapter’s represent more than 40 states and more than 1200 member organizations.
What is Intelligent Transportation?
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) encompass a broad range of information and communications technologies that improve the safety, efficiency, and performance of the transportation system. When integrated into the nation’s roadways, vehicles and public transportation network, ITS can help reduce congestion, improve mobility, save lives and optimize our existing infrastructure.
What We Do
ITS America strives to provide its member organizations a seat at the table when public policy, regulations, standards and other matters relating to ITS are discussed regional, national and international levels. The Society’s communications program raises awareness among consumers, legislators, and media of the value of ITS and promotes expanded use of technology solutions where people and goods are transported. Government relations efforts are focused on advocating the economic, safety, mobility, security and environmental benefits of ITS to decision makers and the public at the federal and local levels. ITS America activities reflect the global makeup of its membership by increasing efforts to integrate affiliates from other countries and world regions into ITS America and by expanding its working relationship with ERTICO (ITS Europe) and ITS Asia Pacific. ITS America also provides a variety of services and programs to assist its members to achieve their ITS policy and business objectives.
The Importance of ITS
Our nation’s transportation system is facing significant challenges, from traffic-related fatalities and injuries, congested roadways and rising gas prices to deteriorating infrastructure, increasing costs and shrinking state and federal budgets. With a growing population challenging an already strained transportation system, we cannot simply continue to increase the capacity of the current transportation system enough to meet demand. ITS technologies enable us to make better use of the transportation network we already have while building smarter infrastructure to meet future demands. More importantly, when ITS technologies are deployed, it helps to save lives, time, and money and sustain the environment.
ITS America’s Role Now and Beyond
As the chief advocate for Intelligent Transportation Systems, ITS America has developed outreach, advocacy and position statements that promote the societal, technical and political benefits of ITS. ITS America will continue to serve as the independent, primary authority for ITS-related congressional and regulatory affairs, promote wide-spread deployment of ITS to key policy makers and the public at large, and form strategic alliances with other organizations and stakeholders to further promote its message.