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38 POSTSCRIPT Looking to the Future The 2009 International Conference on Womenâs Issues in Transportation confirmed the continuing importance of this research. Conference partici- pants identified a host of topics for further research with an agenda revolving around four themes: demographics and travel behavior, safety and personal security, trans- portation planning, and extreme events. Also noted was the desirability of broadening the topic to that of a âgen- der-neutral transportation systemâ rather than focusing solely on womenâs issues. To accomplish this goal, the first step is to define a gender-neutral system. What are the characteristics of a gender-neutral system with respect to values, needs, choice, constraints, and impacts? Inter- national research on gender-neutral transport also offers opportunities for exploration and led to the notion of holding the next conference beyond u.S. borders. Womenâs travel issues are recognized to greater or lesser extent around the world but have limited policy traction. Researchers understand the gendered nature of travel, but gender-specific policies, programs, and man- dates require greater attention. Further research could explore methods for translating the findings of gender research into policy. Analysis of transportation policies and expenditures could be examined to determine how they address impacts on women. TRBâs Standing Committee on Womenâs Issues in Transportation will use the discussion and recommen- dations from the 2009 International Conference on Womenâs Issues in Transportation to frame a strategic, international, and multidisciplinary research agenda and develop research needs statements based on the agenda. The agenda will address the most salient research ques- tions from the conference and will expand on the body of knowledge and research conducted as a result of the Womenâs Issues in Transportation Conference.