Drs. Liu & Zhu at the Utah Transit Authority (UTA).

Full Steam Ahead

October 26, 2025

$1.5M Odometry Lab Positions Utah as a Leader in Safer, Smarter Rail Systems

The University of Utah is taking a leading role in advancing smart mobility and rail safety with the launch of a new $1.5 million Odometry Lab, funded by the Utah Legislature in 2025. Led by CvEEN faculty Drs. Cathy Liu, Xuan (Peter) Zhu, and Chenxi Liu, the lab is a cross-disciplinary collaboration that unites engineering faculty, students, and industry partners in shaping the future of rail transit.

Developed with the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) and Stadler Signaling North America, the Odometry Lab will serve as a testbed for next-generation Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) systems—state-of-the-art signaling designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability. Proof-of-concept demonstrations will take place on UTA’s light rail network using an S70 vehicle equipped with new onboard and wayside sensors, integrated with UTA’s private 5G network, and tested in real-world conditions.

“The Odometry Lab represents a unique opportunity for Utah to lead in advancing rail safety and smart mobility,” said Dr. Cathy Liu. “By working hand-in-hand with UTA and Stadler, we’re not only developing next-generation transit technologies but also preparing our students to become the future leaders of this rapidly evolving field.”

Beyond research and innovation, the Odometry Lab is poised to become a hub for rail excellence and workforce development. By offering hands-on experience with advanced transit technologies, the lab will prepare Utah’s next generation of engineers to lead in a rapidly growing transportation sector.

 

Fengze Yang at the ITE Conference

Fengze Yang, left, networking at the ITE Conference.

Shouzheng Pan at the ITE Conference

Shouzheng Pan, right, receiving the Best Paper Award.

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