Strategy Description:

The strategy focuses on the development of a regional transportation development authority, which develops and recommends action plans for funding transportation improvements in a designated area, if not the county.

Key Elements:

• Explore one of two concepts for the authority: a single purpose transportation authority or a multi-purpose authority for the region which would include all public infrastructure services: sewer, water, and transportation.

• The single-purpose transportation development authority would focus on the funding side of transportation improvements for transit and other transportation infrastructure. The authority would have power equivalent to other authorities in the Commonwealth. It would be comprised of a partnership of municipalities with each paying a share of the costs. The Metropolitan Planning Organization would assist with funding. CATA would also have a place at the table.

• The alternative, a multi-purpose development authority would represent the joining of forces of several existing independent authorities. Drawing the service area line may be an obstacle. The introduction of the transportation would broaden the base of concern and influence. This alternative may not be a short-term solution but may be realistic for the long-term.

• Understand the challenges with either approach:

• Developing the political will to move in either of these directions.

• Expanding the CATA service area.

The Transportation Development Authority would help to coordinate funding of the region’s transportation improvement and enhancement efforts i.e. ridesharing, shuttle service, roadway network expansion and improvement, etc. It would aid in resolving inter-municipal differences regarding transportation management supply and demand elements.

Implementation:

Implementation of the Authority will require a partnership between municipalities, planning organizations, and transportation system providers, with the Authority designated to obtain initial funding and develop an organizational framework

Indicators:

• Creation of a transportation development authority

The creation of the new authority would be an initiative of the county and local governments, transportation providers, and the business community. Funding may come from a variety of sources and grants.