Document Type

Other

Publication Date

6-1-2024

Abstract

The findings of this report are based on a systematic manual web search, consultation with key representatives of statewide associations of metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), and the use of external resources (i.e. academic papers, reports and publications from transportation agencies, legislative documents, and other relevant materials that provide insights or data on the organizational structures and practices of statewide MPO associations). It provides an analysis of statewide associations of MPOs and their significance in promoting collaboration, coordination, and advocacy efforts among MPOs within a state. The report explores the criteria used to define statewide associations of MPOs, the organizational structures, membership compositions, leadership, activities, and formation methods of these associations.

Statewide associations of MPOs serve as crucial platforms for communication and information exchange among MPOs, state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), and other transportation stakeholders. By facilitating collaboration, these associations enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of transportation planning processes at the regional and state levels and support MPOs and DOTs in meeting Federal (and sometimes State) requirements for coordination and cooperation. They provide opportunities for sharing best practices, discussing emerging trends and challenges, and advocating for policy and funding improvements.

The definition for statewide associations of MPOs used for this project was established based on a number of criteria including network relationship type, direction of the relationship, member selection criteria, and network function. The study only included associations that have a formal agreement or formal documents of creation. The study then considered associations with horizontal relationships between MPOs and other similar agencies within its membership. To better distinguish statewide associations of MPOs from other association types, a membership continuum was developed ranging from associations that only include MPOs as members to associations with MPOs and one or more other types of organization. Finally, in those associations with MPOs and one or more other types of agencies, the extent to which the association focuses on MPOs, and MPO-related topics was used to determine if the association falls within the definition of a statewide association of MPOs.

Using these criteria, sixteen statewide MPO associations were identified across various regions of the U.S., each exhibiting diverse organizational structures and membership compositions. These include:

  • Alabama Transportation Planners Association (ATPA)
  • Arizona COG/MPO Directors Association
  • California Association of Councils of Governments (CALCOG)
  • Colorado Statewide Transportation Advisory Committee (STAC)
  • Florida MPO Advisory Council (MPOAC)
  • Georgia Association of MPOs (GAMPO)
  • Indiana MPO Council
  • Michigan Transportation Planning Association (MTPA)
  • New York State Association of MPOs (NYSAMPO)
  • North Carolina Association of MPOs (NCAMPO)
  • Ohio Association of Regional Councils (OARC) Transportation Committee
  • Oregon Metropolitan Planning Organization Consortium (OMPOC)
  • Tennessee MPO Association
  • Texas Association of MPOs (TEMPO)
  • Virginia Association of MPOs (VAMPO)
  • West Virginia Association of MPOs (WVAMPO)

The likelihood of forming a statewide association of MPOs tends to increase with the number of MPOs in a state, with a threshold of around five MPOs. States with fewer MPOs, such as Vermont, Hawaii, South Dakota, and Maine, typically do not form such associations.

This report highlights the diverse formation methods of statewide associations of MPOs, including intergovernmental agreements, state statutes, non-profit designations, and informal arrangements. Each method has its own advantages and challenges, and the choice of method depends on the unique needs and circumstances of the state and its MPOs. Membership compositions of statewide associations of MPOs also vary, with some associations consisting solely of MPOs, while others include Regional Planning Organizations (RPOs) and other agencies. The composition of the associations depends on the state's transportation planning needs and the relationships between MPOs and other planning entities within the state.

Ten of the sixteen associations have bylaws that were available online or sent to the project team by association personnel. The bylaws commonly detail definitions, purposes, membership, governance, meeting rules, committee guidelines, financial considerations, record keeping, and amendment procedures. The stated purposes of these associations generally focus on enhancing transportation planning, facilitating information exchange, providing discussion forums, and advocating for policy and funding improvements.

Leadership structures typically include positions such as Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer/Secretary, with some associations having additional leadership roles. Staffing can involve dedicated professionals for technical assistance, research, inter-agency coordination, and administrative support. However, only a few associations have dedicated or support staff.

The activities of statewide MPO associations include hosting annual conferences, providing professional development workshops, and facilitating best practice exchanges. Meeting frequencies vary, with some associations meeting weekly, monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, or annually. Committees or working groups are established by most associations to address specific issues and facilitate focused collaboration.

Statewide MPO associations are diverse and complex, but can play an essential role in fostering collaboration, enhancing transportation planning, and advocating for policy and funding improvements. The varied organizational structures, formation methods, and activities reflect the adaptability of these associations to meet the unique needs of their member organizations and regions. By providing platforms for information sharing, advocacy, support, education, and professional development, these associations play a pivotal role in advancing transportation planning across the United States. The findings of this report provide valuable insights for policymakers, transportation planners, and other stakeholders involved in the metropolitan transportation planning process and can serve as a guide for the establishment and operation of statewide associations of MPOs.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.5038/YPUE3287

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