Congressman Thompson Announces National Science Foundation Award to Jackson State University

BOLTON, MS – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced that Jackson State University has been awarded a $199,755 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support cutting-edge research in traffic signal control systems. The project, entitled “ERI: Advancement of Max Pressure Traffic Signal Control in Partially Connected and Automated Transportation Systems,” is under the direction of Dr. Hao Liu and will begin on August 1, 2025.

This award, made through NSF’s Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) program, supports research that aims to enhance traffic network efficiency during the transition from human-driven vehicles (HDVs) to connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs). Research will focus on redefining Max Pressure (MP)-based traffic control systems to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this evolving transportation environment.

The project will support the formation of a sustainable research group at JSU and provide valuable training for students pursuing careers in transportation engineering. Findings from this study are expected to contribute to national progress in transportation science and operational efficiency.