As we reach the halfway point of our 35th anniversary year, we’re reflecting on the momentum we’ve built and the exciting road ahead. 

From a successful ITS America Conference & Expo that brought our community together to highlight the latest transportation innovations and partnerships, to the spotlight on intelligent transportation during this captivating FIFA World Cup, this has been a remarkable year for our industry – and we’re only halfway through! 

We are seeing communities invest in safer, smarter, and more connected transportation solutions and creating system-wide innovation.

Transportation technology has never been more essential or more visible, and we’re proud to lead the way with our ITS America members.

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Rewind & Recap: ITS America Conference & Expo 2026

The momentum behind intelligent transportation was on full display at the ITS America Conference & Expo 2026 in Detroit, where thousands of transportation leaders came together to share the technologies transforming how people and goods move. Throughout the week, attendees experienced this progress firsthand in the Exhibit Hall, at live demonstrations, and on immersive Tech Tours.

In panel discussions with transportation leaders from across the nation, we were reminded that the technology we once thought impossible is here, now. To unlock the future of transportation, we must collaboratively create interoperable systems and be bold on innovation.

ITS America President & CEO Laura Chace reflected on just how far the industry has come over the past 35 years. Reflecting on her own experience as a first-time driver, she remembers using paper maps and getting caught up in traffic jams. Now, this experience is worlds away from the reality her own kids are stepping into — a world in which drivers can depend on connected smart tech and digital infrastructure to get them to where they need to be safely.

Progress is not about a single technology, but intelligent systems working together to make transportation safer, more efficient, more reliable, and more accessible. The message for the conference was clear: the future of transportation isn’t coming—it’s already here, and now is the time to build on this momentum.

To continue this conversation and grow impact, join us in 2027 in Salt Lake City where we will once again bring together the leaders, technologies, and ideas shaping transportation to hear about what is working.

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Smart Systems. Seamless Games.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is more than the world’s biggest sporting event, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate intelligent, safe and efficient mobility on the global stage. Across the country, ITS America members are doing just that — using technologies to power their fan experience and take it to the next level.

From connected infrastructure to smarter mobility solutions that move millions of people seamlessly, host cities are relying on innovation to deliver quality service during this mega event.

Just before kick-off, ATL Spoke launched in Atlanta as the city’s first autonomous public transit service. The Atlanta Beltline created ATL Spoke to ensure efficient last-mile mobility, partnered with Beep, the Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority, City of Atlanta, and MARTA.

This upgrade will expand connectivity across the city, providing more frequent service and additional stops for riders. It’s one example of how today’s transportation investments are delivering real-world benefits while helping shape the future of mobility long after the final match is played.

Watch our President & CEO Laura Chace take a ride here to experience this innovation first-hand.

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Thirty-five years ago, ITS America helped launch a movement. Today, we’re helping build the next generation of transportation.

After so many years of advancing intelligent transportation, our industry has never been more dynamic, innovative, or impactful.

From the breakthroughs showcased in Detroit to the technologies helping millions move seamlessly during the World Cup, the progress we’ve seen this year is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation.

But this story is far from over. The opportunities ahead are even greater, and with the leadership, expertise, and vision of our members, we’re excited to continue shaping a safe, smart, and more connected transportation future.

Thank you for being part of this journey—here’s to the rest of this anniversary year and beyond!

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