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History of TTI

Dedicated to enhancing the economic competitiveness of the state and improving the quality of life for Texans, the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) is the largest university-affiliated transportation research agency in the United States. Created in 1950 in response to the needs of the Texas Highway Department, TTI has since broadened its focus to address all modes of transportation—highway, air, water, rail and pipeline. TTI is a state agency and a member of The Texas A&M University System.

TTI engineers with a test vehicle by a sign with the label 'Texas Tranportation Institute Sign Support Project'

TTI pioneered the "breakaway" and the "crash cushion" concepts.

The cooperative relationship with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), formalized by the Texas legislature in 1949, has been key to the success and real-world applicability of the TTI program. Knowledge and expertise gained through that program have helped TTI effectively develop and implement work for numerous other sponsors.

TTI has a breadth and depth of programs, facilities, and capabilities unsurpassed by any university-affiliated transportation research program in the United States. TTI's urban research and implementation offices foster local agency cooperation and help ensure implementable research results. The institute also partners with other universities through regional divisions, which allows greater focus on region-specific transportation solutions.

Videos from TTI History

Like No Other: TTI's 50th Anniversary

In 1998, TTI Communications produced Like No Other. This video presentation highlighted the Texas Transportation Institute's many contributions to safer, smoother roads and more efficient transportation. Spokesperson Bob Phillips, the Texas Country Reporter, takes viewers on an informative trip through TTI's research. TTI is a multi-faceted organization that is truly Like No Other.

TTI Safety Division Video

The accomplishments of TTI's Safety Division were highlighted in this video, produced in 1996. It features footage of TTI highway safety innovations that were developed through testing at TTI's Research Annex.

The Measure of a Man: Tribute to Charley Wootan

The Measure of a Man was produced in February 1993. It honored the retiring Director of the Texas Transportation Institute, Dr. Charley V. Wootan. The Measure of a Man highlights Dr. Wootan's life with stories and tributes from those who knew him best. Dr. Wootan was Director of TTI from 1976 to 1992. He died on March 24, 2001.

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