Guidance From Legislation

The legislation that mandates the metropolitan level planning provides the following guidance in the preparation of transportation plans.

"The process for developing the plans and programs shall provide for consideration of all modes of transportation and shall be continuing, cooperative and comprehensive to the degree appropriate, based on the complexity of the transportation problems to be addressed."

Factors & Issues

The following factors and issues are what the Policy Board needs to be considering in the development of the Long Range Transportation Plan.

• Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area.
• Increase the safety and security of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized users.
• Increase the accessibility and mobility options available to people and for freight.
• Protect and enhance environment, promote energy conservation and improve quality of life.
• Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for people and freight.
• Promote efficient system management and operation.
• Emphasize the preservation of existing transportation system.

Major Components

There are three major components of the planning process. At this point, it is important to note the transportation plans may not be ‘pie in the sky' or ‘wish lists' but must be realistic in nature. The legislation requires plans to be fiscally constrained - that is, it demonstrates the consistency of proposed transportation investments with already available and projected sources of revenue. However, it is permissible to include illustrative projects - such as a new bridge or major new corridor - if appropriate.