To identify the current and future research needs of historic preservation in transportation requires first a review of the previous (1996) Environmental Research Needs Conference and an examination of the events and changes that have occurred in the practice since then. This resource paper, after examining the previous issues, identifies the following six research needs statements: Review and improve the existing processes and procedures for evaluating cultural resource significance; Identify techniques to improve public/private dialogue regarding impacts and benefits of transportation projects on cultural resources; Explore how best to successfully incorporate 550 tribal nations in an existing transportation network, which recognizes the vale of culture and respects sovereign authority; Develop effects assessment guidance; Evaluate efficiency of "innovative" versus "standard" cultural resource mitigation; and Identify and recommend roadway design considerations that can be modified and applied in specially designated corridors. It is concluded that the issues, and the range of possible actions that would address them, require a shift in how transportation and historic preservation professionals normally operate. The focus on project-specific issues has to be lessened, and there needs to be more attention given to strategic planning and actions that would streamline future projects and enhance stewardship. Also, specific projects need to be observed in a new light--as opportunities to test, implement, and expand on these issues in creative and innovative ways.