1. Continuing the Discussion: How Should MPO’s Set Freight Priorities?
Presented to
MPOAC Freight Subcommittee
Presented by
Michael Williamson, Cambridge Systematics, Inc.
Gary Huttmann, MetroPlan Orlando
July 18, 2016

2. Purpose of Discussion Freight is magnified in the Fast Act
State freight plan (and other key plans) define state freight priorities
MPOs deal with freight at varying levels of effort
What is the best way for MPOAC to influence/support:
Greater emphasis by MPOs on establishing freight priorities?
Unified input by MPOs/MPOAC to FDOT on freight priorities? 2

3. How do MPOs identify and prioritize freight projects today?
Not all MPOs identify and prioritize freight projects
Needs are often identified through a variety of activities
Non-roadway improvements are often included in LRTPs through reference (e.g., port master plans)
Projects are prioritized based on freight volumes, freight intensity, mode, economic impact, system efficiencies, and more 3

4. What programs do these priorities feed?
Long Range Transportation Plans (LRTP)
Regional Transportation Plans (RTP)
Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP)
Capital Improvement Plans (CIP) (airports, seaports, railroads)
FMTP Freight Needs Database
FDOT Work Program (SIS, Multimodal)
Federal Grants (e.g., FastLane, TIGER) 4

5. Is there consistency among MPOs? Should there be?
Each MPO has developed its own project prioritization methodology
Regional planning efforts have helped introduce consistency among MPOs
MPO-specific freight priorities should feed into FDOT’s process, where applicable
Should we strive for minimum standards?
If so, how should this be accomplished? 5

6. What role should MPOs take in state freight priorities?
State freight priorities should address the most strategic freight needs (major freight hubs, corridors, connectors)
MPOs drive project development and priorities within urban settings
How should MPOs provide input to statewide issues like truck parking?
How can MPOs communicate critical priorities to the state?
Ensure completion of all fields in FMTP database?
Communicate key priorities through District Freight Coordinators?
Formal submission of MPO priorities to FDOT?
Other ideas? 6

7. We Need Your Guidance Today…
Should MPOAC encourage all MPOs to establish freight priorities?
Should minimum standards be established to ensure freight priorities are identified?
Should MPOs communicate critical freight priorities to the state?
Should MPOAC serve as clearinghouse for MPO freight priorities to FDOT?
Should statewide MPO priorities be determined?
Are we comfortable having the process evolve over time?
What will be most helpful to MPOs regarding the establishment of freight priorities? 7