Technology Transfer in Western Rural Areas

Abstract

Although rural cities and counties in the West appear stable with respect to available resources and demands on their transportation systems, changes in demands and available resources are becoming more evident. Available transportation resources in rural areas are limited at the same time that agriculturally based areas are exploring ways to strengthen their economies. A common approach by local officials is to use the same resources as they have in the past and solve problems as they arise rather than conduct systematic planning for the future. Increasing traffic demands on rural transportation systems, environmental pressures, strict standards, and diversified use make solutions harder to find. Today's legal environment forces cities and counties to adhere to minimum standards in construction and maintenance. The current need for technology transfer and providing assistance to local officials to solve transportation problems is focused on. Several factors adversely affect the transfer of needed information. They fit into two basic categories: ineffective communication on the part of the giver and a lack of desire or ability to receive needed information by local officials. Programs at technology transfer centers throughout the West have been developed to improve the quality and availability of training. The programs are designed to reduce travel, time involvement, cost, and effort required by the local transportation officials to participate in training activities. All of these ideas define technology transfer as communication.