Yi-Chang James TsaiView profile
Professor
- Smart Cities Infrastructure
- Transportation Systems Engineering
- Pavement Preservation and Management
- +5 more
Dr. Yi-Chang James Tsai is a Professor and CISE Group Leader at Georgia Institute of Technology's School of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He specializes in smart cities infrastructure, transportation systems engineering, and pavement preservation using advanced sensing technologies. His work has significantly impacted Georgia’s pavement management systems, including the development of a GIS-based pavement preservation system for GDOT. He holds the prestigious Chinese Chang Jiang Scholar title (2009) and received an innovation award for GIS-enabled ship recognition (2007). His research integrates emerging technologies like 3D laser, LiDAR, and AI to enhance infrastructure resiliency, roadway safety, and asset management. Key projects include predictive safety modeling, autonomous vehicle integration, and sustainability of transportation networks. Dr. Tsai leads the Smart City Infrastructure (SCI) Lab, focusing on infrastructure condition assessment, deterioration analysis, and optimization strategies. Education: Doctorate in Civil Engineering (prior to Georgia Tech faculty role) Grants: Multiple GDOT-funded projects on pavement preservation, HFST implementation, and sensor-based safety systems Dr. Tsai’s work emphasizes data-driven decision-making, cost-effective maintenance, and innovation in transportation infrastructure. His lab has pioneered technologies for automated sign detection, pavement crack analysis, and real-time safety scoring. Key Achievements: Developed GDOT’s pavement preservation system managing 18,000 miles of highways Advanced AI-based crack detection and 3D imaging techniques Leader in roadway safety audits and curve sign optimization The Smart City Infrastructure Lab collaborates with industry partners to address challenges in infrastructure sustainability, resiliency, and smart mobility solutions for aging populations and energy efficiency.











