MBTC invites researchers from academic institutions to submit problem statements as a first step in the approval process for projects to be awarded in FY 2009.  MBTC is an intermodal, interdisciplinary, federally funded research and study center located at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. The focus of MBTC is “improving the quality of rural life in America through transportation,” and as such performs research in transportation engineering, transportation logistics, issues affecting transportation industry and transportation policy.

The MBTC focuses on improving the movement of people, goods, and services into, out of, and through rural areas of the US. The Center funds studies of all modes if transportation (water, highway, rail and air) and the connections among them. Other proposals related to rural transportation may be eligible for funding but will require additional justification. Studies are frequently interdisciplinary and currently involve researchers in colleges of engineering, agriculture, business administration, and arts and sciences.

PROBLEM STATEMENT INFORMATION/INSTRUCTIONS, FY 2009

RFP Information/Instructions in Word

PROBLEM STATEMENT FORM, FY 2009

RFP Form in Word

After downloading the form, please complete and email to:

Ms. Dana L. Ledbetter

Frequently Asked Questions

The deadline for submission of problem statements is February 1, 2008. Notice of authorization to prepare a formal proposal will be made in mid-March 2008. The entire approval process is as follows:

December 11, 2007       Request for problem statements distributed from MBTC

February 1, 2008           Problem statements due at MBTC

February 15, 2008         Problem statements mailed to external evaluators

March 14, 2008             Replies from evaluators to MBTC

March 21, 2008             Results to MBTC Executive Committee

April 4, 2008                 Notice of authorization to submit formal proposals

May 16, 2008                Formal proposals due at MBTC

May 23, 2008                Formal proposals to Executive Committee

Early July, 2008             Final decision by Executive Committee*

*Notice of awards will depend on funding from the USDOT. MBTC has gone from a Tier I to a Tier II University Transportation Center which means our funds are reduced by 50%.  We expect the project selection process to be extremely competitive.  Past performance on MBTC research will be considered.