Next-Generation Roads: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality on the Planning, Design and Management of Sustainable Infrastructures

Dear Colleagues,

In the ever-evolving landscape of road safety, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a transformative force that is reshaping the approach to road infrastructure planning and management. This change is being driven by the need to improve road safety in response to changing mobility patterns. The focus is on how AI and VR technologies can redefine road infrastructure, with a particular focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability in both urban and extra-urban contexts.

The discussion is being expanded to the complexity of design and explores how AI and VR contribute to the development of road systems that are not only safer but also adaptable. Key aspects include the use of AI for the real-time management of road networks to optimize safety and the potential of VR simulations for training and making decisions in traffic management. With a focus on sustainability, this project also examines how AI and VR technologies can improve road safety and thus enhance user experience. This includes a closer examination of user-centered design principles that prioritize safety in both virtual and physical road environments within the framework of sustainable practices.

Sustainability and resilience are at the heart of our considerations, leading to an in-depth assessment of the impact of AI and VR on the environmental footprint of road infrastructure. This discussion also includes innovative solutions to minimize environmental impact and resource consumption.

As part of this exploration, it is important to address the challenges of integrating AI and VR into road safety. Ethical considerations, including privacy, safety, and equal access to AI-driven safety features, remain integral to these discussions and are in line with an overarching commitment to sustainable and responsible technological advances.

In summary, our goal is to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of how AI and VR can play a central role in designing transportation systems that are not only safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced but, above all, sustainable.

The topics of interest for this Special Issue include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Innovative AI-Enhanced Roadway Design;
• VR Applications in Simulating AI-Driven Road Designs;
• Virtual Reality Simulations for Intersection Planning;
• Immersive VR Simulations for Intersection Behavior Studies;
• Sustainable Urban Planning: Integrating Virtual Reality in Infrastructure Design;
• AI-Driven Pedestrian-Friendly Road Design Strategies;
• AI Applications in Intelligent Traffic Signal Design;
• Innovative Road Design Solutions for Urban Safety and Sustainable Development;
• AI-Driven Solutions for Intersection Visibility Enhancement;
• Integrating AI into Road Infrastructure Planning for Traffic Calming and Sustainable Practices;
• Smart Infrastructure for Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety;
• AI-Driven Road Infrastructure Maintenance Strategies for Long-Term Environmental Sustainability;
• Smart Street Furniture and Safety Integration;
• AI-Enhanced Lighting Systems for Road Safety;
• Interactive Signage for Enhanced Driver Awareness;
• Interactive VR Environments for Urban Road Safety Education;
• VR-Enhanced Public Engagement for Sustainable Road Infrastructure Projects;
• Virtual Reality-Based Driver Training Programs.

Dr. Salvatore Leonardi
Dr. Natalia Distefano
Guest Editors

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• AI-enhanced road design
• virtual reality simulations
• sustainable urban planning with VR
• smart street furniture
• driver training in VR
• immersive simulations
• sustainable practices in AI-driven road design
• interactive signage systems
• urban safety innovations
• roadside assistance technologies