Bill > S1706

This bill proposes to amend state law to improve transportation planning by establishing mechanisms for sub-regional and joint planning among metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), which are regional bodies responsible for transportation planning. Recognizing that some areas with significant populations and economic activity are split across multiple MPOs, or have unique needs within a single MPO's jurisdiction, the bill directs the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, to identify distinct geographic areas for focused transportation planning. These identified areas, or "sub-regions," will be formed based on factors like proximity to MPO boundaries, major roadways, commuting patterns, economic characteristics, land use plans, and input from local officials and businesses. If a sub-region falls within a single MPO, that MPO will designate it for planning; if it spans multiple MPOs, those MPOs must agree to jointly plan. A planning committee, co-chaired by the Secretaries of Transportation and Housing and Economic Development, will oversee this sub-regional planning, including a portion of federal transportation funds allocated to the relevant MPOs, with a formula for distribution considering economic activity, commuting, land development, and existing infrastructure. The MPOs will then contract with regional planning agencies to carry out the planning and administrative duties for these sub-regions.