LiDAR in Transportation: National Academies Publish New Report
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have released a significant new resource for the transportation and geospatial communities: NCHRP Synthesis 642 – Practices for Collecting, Managing, and Using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Data. Published through the Transportation Research Board’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), this 210-page synthesis offers a timely overview of how state departments of transportation (DOTs) are integrating LiDAR into their planning, design, construction, and maintenance workflows.
LiDAR has become a cornerstone technology for transportation agencies seeking to improve efficiency, safety, and decision-making. From topographic mapping and infrastructure monitoring to asset management and traffic safety studies, the applications continue to expand. Yet along with these benefits, agencies are also navigating challenges such as data management, cost, quality assurance protocols, and the need for staff training. The new report provides a balanced picture of both the opportunities and hurdles, giving readers an honest view of where the technology stands today.
Drawing on a wide survey of state DOTs as well as detailed case studies, the synthesis captures current practices across the country. It highlights how agencies are structuring their LiDAR programs, the types of tools and workflows being adopted, and the policies shaping data governance and accessibility. Equally important, it explores the organizational considerations, such as how agencies manage staff expertise, address funding constraints, and share knowledge across departments.
While LiDAR technology itself is advancing rapidly, many DOTs are still in the early stages of building consistent frameworks for data use. This report serves as a reference point for those looking to benchmark their practices, learn from peers, or establish new strategies for implementation. Consultants, solution providers, and policymakers will also find valuable insights into the needs and expectations of the public sector.
The full report is available now as a free PDF download or for purchase in paperback from the National Academies Press: Read the report here.
