Mobile Metropolitan Planning Organization Federal Certification Process “Public Involvement Component” April 13, 2011 Federal Highway Administration Federal Transit Administration

Federal Review Team Shaun Capps, FHWA-Alabama Division Holly Peterson, FTA Region 4

Federal Certification Review Mandate FHWA and FTA jointly review and evaluate MPO planning processes for each Transportation Management Area (TMA) at least every four years. (23 U.S.C. 134, and 49 U.S.C 1607) TEA-21 added a requirement for public involvement that is appropriate to the metropolitan area under review. (23 U.S.C. 134 (I) (5))

Review Topics Organizational Structure of the Study Area Metropolitan Planning Area Boundaries Agreements & Contracts Unified Planning Work Program Long Range Transportation Plan Financial Planning Air Quality TIP Development & Project Selection Public Outreach Self-Certifications Title VI & Related Requirements Congestion Management Process List of Obligated Projects

Overview of the Certification Process In general, the review consists of three primary activities: 1. A site visit including discussions with the following: - Staff representing the MPO, ALDOT and the local transit agency; - Local elected officials; and - The general public. 2.A report prepared by FHWA/FTA, which summarizes the review’s findings, and issues the certification action. 3.A closeout presentation of the review’s findings at a future MPO Policy Board Meeting.

Opportunity for Public Comment Are you provided with the opportunity to participate in the transportation planning and programming process? Do you receive information about transportation issues early enough in the process so staff and the MPO can utilize your suggestions/recommendations? Do you have reasonable access to the technical and policy information that is used to develop the Long Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan? Do you receive adequate notice of transportation planning and programming activities?

Do you have adequate time to comment on key decision points in the process? Do you feel your comments are being taken into consideration by staff and the MPO? What are the positive aspects of the transportation planning process? What suggestions do you have for improving the process? Thank you for your time Opportunity for Public Comment (continued)

Contact Information Shaun Capps (334) Holly Peterson (404)