Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

The Next Leap In Smart City Tech For Better Pedestrian Safety

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published March 26, 2024 at 6:40 PM EDT

Chattanooga is the only city here in Tennessee to earn a specific Federal grant this year designed to pay off in better safety for pedestrians.

Two million dollars for Chattanooga will flow from the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation - or SMART - grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The funding supports demonstration projects around the country in smart community technologies and systems to enhance transportation efficiency and safety.

Leading the project in Chattanooga, alongside the City of Chattanooga and industry partners: the Center for Urban Informatics and Progress here on our campus, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Dr. Mina Sartipi is the Center’s founding director.