Organizing for TSMO
Case Study 11: Metropolitan Planning Organization Examples

Chapter 3 - Summary

Metropolitan planning organizations (MPO) can help ensure that the objectives of local transportation systems management and operations (TSMO) programs are consistent with existing regional objectives. In many cases, the MPO will lead the effort to develop a TSMO plan for the region. MPOs highlighted in this case study have taken varying approaches to implement TSMO in regional planning initiatives. Lessons learned while developing TSMO plans for their regions include:

• Integration of TSMO into the planning process enables agencies to use resources more efficiently. Through TSMO activities, they can identify if transportation challenges might be mitigated through innovative and less costly mobility improvements.
• Aligning TSMO objectives with regional transportation objectives enhances the overall planning process by looking at transportation challenges holistically.
• Considering funding early in TSMO program planning is critical to ensure that regional TSMO goals can be met. TSMO plans must have financial backing to promote overall program strategies and objectives.
• Collaboration with stakeholders ensures that the needs of all local partners are considered during TSMO program development. Frequent communication and collaboration with stakeholders facilitates improved TSMO culture in the region.

MPOs can play a critical role in developing and implementing TSMO programs across regions through revising existing planning processes and documentation. The lessons learned in this case study can be used by other planning organizations to advance TSMO in other regions.