STATE OF TRANSPORTATION

Transcription

1 STATE OF TRANSPORTATION IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT NASHVILLE AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Letter from the Chairman 3 Mission 4 Guiding Principles Highlights MPO Leadership Awards 9 State of the Region Trends and Emerging Issues Current State of Transportation Growth Projections Traffic Forecasts 15 An Update to the Regional Transportation Plan Middle Tennessee Connected Plan Recommendations Advancing the Vision for Transit 21 Planning Program 23 Construction Program Funding Obligations 25 MPO Agency Structure MPO Leadership Organizational Chart Agency Budget Summary BCycle Station in Downtown Nashville

3 Annual Report LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN As 2016 comes to a close, I am proud to reflect on a successful year not only for the Nashville Area MPO, but for communities across our entire region. After multiple years of planning, research and stakeholder engagement, area mayors and transportation officials adopted a major update to the Regional Transportation Plan. In addition to establishing a fresh framework to guide billions of anticipated federal, state, and local dollars into transportation investments over the coming years, the plan commits the MPO to expanding its policy and research work in the areas of public health, environmental sustainability, and creative placemaking in support of Middle Tennessee communities. A summary of the plan can be found on page 15 of this annual report. I encourage you to learn more about the short- and long-term investments strategies of the Regional Transportation Plan. A key component of the plan is the region s vision for expanding and modernizing our regional transit system. Building on that vision, the adoption MTA and RTA strategic plan nmotion has the region positioned to move towards funding and implementations. Moving into the new year the MPO will work with MTA/RTA to begin the necessary studies to develop the specific actions and implementation strategies for projects called for in the nmotion plan. As we move through the project development process for each corridor, the issues related to the lack of funding will continue to present a challenge to the speed at which projects can be implemented. To overcome this challenge, the MPO has collaborated with the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus and business and community leaders as part of initiatives such as Moving Forward and through the work of the Transit Alliance to champion legislation that will identify a path to increased revenue for all modes of transportation was also a significant year in terms of the staffing at the MPO. During his tenure, not only did Michael build an award-winning staff and develop national best-practice planning tools, he worked with area mayors to champion transportation issues and expanded the MPO s relevance in ongoing conversations about growth and development, public health, and environmental quality. Michael s new role at the GNRC, coupled with the recent naming of Michelle Lacewell as the acting director of the MPO, has created a unique opportunity for the board leadership of the MPO and GNRC to evaluate strategies for improving regional coordination across Middle Tennessee. During the first part of 2017, a joint MPO/GNRC committee of mayors and county executives will finalize recommendations to help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of regional planning and decision-making, better align transportation planning with broader economic and community development initiatives, and increase membership services for local communities. As I close out my first year as chairman of the MPO executive board, I want to thank Mayor Wilber for his leadership as chair over the last two years. I would also like to recognize the MPO membership that has contributed to the planning process, the elected officials and business leaders who have supported our policy initiatives and helped move us forward as a region. This work has positioned us well for fast-approaching challenges. I hope you will read more about 2016 s many accomplishments, as well as what is to come in After nine years as executive director, Michael Skipper was hired by area mayors and county executives to lead the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC) a 13-county regional agency focused on economic and community development, local and regional planning, and aging and disability services. Mayor Randall Hutto, Wilson County MPO Executive Board Chairman

4 3 Annual Report 2016 MISSION The Nashville Area MPO coordinates strategic planning for the region s multi-modal transportation system by serving as a forum for collaboration among local communities and state leaders. The MPO s vision is to develop policies and programs that direct public funds toward transportation projects that increase access to opportunity, while promoting the health and wellness of Middle Tennesseans and their environment. A FORUM FOR COLLABORATIVE DECISION-MAKING The MPO is a regional coalition comprised of TDOT, area transit agencies, county highway departments, and city and county governments across Davidson, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties. The coalition is formal partnership that brings together state and federal agencies, local elected leadership, and planning and public works officials to develop a unified transportation plan for the region. Together, these partners work with the business community and interested citizens to identify the transportation priorities for Middle Tennessee. As the federally designated transportation planning agency for the seven-county area, the MPO has the authority to plan, prioritize and select transportation projects for federal funding appropriated by the U.S. Congress through the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration. The MPO is also responsible for ensuring the region is in compliance with federal planning requirements and national ambient air quality standards. WHAT DOES MPO STAND FOR? MPO stands for Metropolitan Planning Organization. Not to be confused with the Metropolitan Government of Nashville-Davidson County, MPO is a term used in federal law to refer to regional organizations established to carry out transportation planning requirements. An MPO exists for every metro area in the nation with a population over 50,000. Plans developed by an MPO serve as the gateway to federal grants for improving roadways and transit systems within its planning area.

5 Annual Report GUIDING PRINCIPLES Livability Enhance quality of life by prioritizing initiatives that increase opportunities for housing, learning, employment, recreation and civic involvement while maintaining affordability. Sustainability Encourage growth and prosperity without sacrificing the health, natural environment, historical and cultural assets, or financial stability of this or future generations. Prosperity Contribute to the region s economic well-being by targeting solutions that attract talent, connect workforce with jobs, reduce the cost of doing business and leverage additional investment. Diversity Respect the multitude of backgrounds and the variety of perspectives of Middle Tennesseans by pursuing an array of strategies that are customized to local community needs and character. Census urban areas, as represented in this map, play a key role in how federal funds are distributed to the MPO area. Urbanized areas, or UZAs, are urban areas of 50,000 or more in population. Urban clusters contain at least 2,500 but less than 50,000 people. Places not defined as either are considered by the Census as rural in nature.

6 5 Annual Report HIGHLIGHTS JAN MPO staff completed a series of community workshops and stakeholder meetings across each member county in order to compile feedback on the final draft of the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), also known as Middle Tennessee Connected. The Plan was developed through a series of studies, staff analysis and public involvement conducted over the last two years. APR Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam signed into law the state s first major legislation authorizing Public Private Partnerships (P3) for transportation projects. The bill was championed by State Sen. Bill Ketron of Murfreesboro and had strong support from area chambers of commerce and local business leaders. FEB The MPO s Executive Board of mayors, county executives, and other transportation officials unanimously adopted Middle Tennessee Connected, an update to the region s transportation plan. The plan identifies state and local transportation needs and priorities and allocates more than $8.5 billion in anticipated federal funding for projects between 2016 and 2040, including $1.2 billion towards transit recommendations in the nmotion strategic plan. MAY Michael Skipper, MPO executive director, departed for a six week tour of Europe as one of two Americans awarded an Urban and Regional Policy Fellowship through the German Marshall Fund of the U.S. The study mission focused on how metropolitan regions within the U.K., Belgium and Italy organize leaders to address issues related to infrastructure, technology integration, pubic financing, and economic development. MAR The MPO partnered with Conexion Americas, the Nashville Civic Design Center, and Transportation for America to support creative placemaking along Nolensville Pike in south Nashville. The effort, named Envision Nolensville Pike, engaged members of the community to identify strategies that balance infrastructure improvements with enhancments to the rich cultural diversity of the corridor. JUN After serving as MPO executive director for nine years, Michel Skipper was tapped to lead the Greater Nashville Regional Council a 13-county agency focused on economic development, infrastructure planning and livability issues. Michelle Lacewell, who served two and half years as deputy director, was named interim director.

7 Annual Report JUL AUG SEP In partnership with Metro Planning, members of the MPO staff participated in the U.S. Department of Transportation s Every Place Counts Challenge along Jefferson Street in North Nashville. The initiative s purpose is to raise awareness and identify innovative community design solutions that bridge the infrastructure divide and reconnect people to opportunity. OCT Members of the MPO staff joined peers from across the country for the annual Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) conference in Ft. Worth, TX. Rochelle Carpenter, MPO senior policy analyst, presented to confrence attendees on the MPO s project evaluation process and creative placemaking initiatives. The governing bodies of the MPO and the Greater Nashville Regional Council entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to jointly evaluate strategies to improve regional coordination across Middle Tennessee. The study will make recommendations to improve the efficiency of regional decision-making and planning programs, and to better align economic and community development decisions with infrastructure planning. NOV The MPO Executive Board adopted a new Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) which allocates more than $1 billion in federal, state, and local funds to roadway, transit, and active transportation projects across Middle Tennessee for the years 2017 to Transportation for America highlighted the MPO s RTP project evaluation and prioritization methodology in a national report. This recognition as a best practice spotlighted the MPO s emphasis on improving public health outcomes and expanding transportation options for under-served communities. DEC The MPO hosted its fourth Annual Partnership Luncheon, keynoted by David Warm of the Mid-American Regional Council (MARC). Mr. Warm shared lessons learned from the Kansas City region and made the case for why the integration of the MPO and regional council functions in his area has helped improve the alignment between economic and community development decisions and infrastructure planning. 1: P3 legislation bill signing ceremony with Gov. Bill Haslam. L-R: Ralph Schulz, Mayor Ken Moore, Lee Harell, Rep. Charles Sargent, Jason Spain, Steve Bland, bill sponsor Sen. Bill Ketron, Sen. Jeff Yarbo, and Sen. Jim Tracy. 2: Michael Skipper meets with City of Ivrea Mayor Carlo Della Pepa and Simone Mangili of Torino Strategica to discuss regional collaboration in the Piedmont Region of Italy. 3: Rochelle Carpenter presenting on the MPO s creative placemaking initiatives and RTP project evaluation.

8 7 Annual Report 2016 MPO LEADERSHIP AWARDS SPIRIT OF TRANSPORTATION LEADERSHIP The Spirit of Transportation Leadership award was presented to Karl Dean for his vision and leadership on transportation issues during his tenure as Mayor of Metropolitan Nashville-Davidson County. As chair of the MPO, he oversaw the adoption of the 2035 Regional Transportation Plan, which put forth a bold new vision for public transit and dedicated funding to active transportation projects across the region. In addition, his call for the creation of the Middle Tennessee Mayors Caucus has led to improved regional collaboration on transit funding issues. As mayor, Dean championed unprecedented levels of investment in sidewalks, bicycle lanes and public transit. EXCELLENCE IN LADDERS OF OPPORTUNITY The Excellence in Ladders of Opportunity award was presented to Metro Council Member and J.U.M.P. President Sharon Hurt. As a business owner, Sharon has championed economic growth in the North Nashville community with an emphasis on transit programs to improve access to opportunity for youth and senior citizens. EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION The Excellence in Innovation award was presented to Andy Barlow, assistant public works director for the City of Mt. Juliet, for his imaginative approach to a range of projects including the region s first adaptive traffic signal control system along Mt. Juliet Rd and the evaluation of transit oriented development options at the Mt. Juliet commuter rail station. EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC HEALTH The Excellence in Public Health award was presented to Leslie Meehan with the Tennessee Department of Health (and former Director of Healthly Communities for the MPO) for her dedication to health in all policies initiatives and the development of practical tools to integrate public health into transportation planning programs. EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT The Excellence in Community Development award was presented to real estate developer Patrick Emery, President of Spectrum Emery, for championing improvements to transportation policies that have positively impacted local planning in the Franklin-Cool Springs area and regional transit initiatives across Middle Tennessee.

9 2015 MPO LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS Former Metro Nashville Mayor Karl Dean addresses Annual Partnership Meeting attendees after being presented with the Spirit of Transportation Leadership Award. Pictured behind Mayor Dean (L-R): Michael Skipper (MPO), Mayor Philip Craighead (Lebanon), Mayor Ken Wilbur (Portland), Leslie Meehan (Tennessee Department of Health), Andy Barlow (Mt. Juliet), Mayor Ken Moore (Franklin) accepting on behalf of Patrick Emery, and Metro Council Member Sharon Hurt (J.U.M.P.). Annual Report

10 9 Annual Report 2016 STATE OF THE REGION TRENDS AND EMERGING ISSUES Middle Tennessee continues to receive national recognition for its strong economy and attractive quality of life. However, this success has given rise to significant challenges. Access to transportation and housing affordability emerge as serious threats to the region s continued prosperity. While the area continues on a prosperous track in many regards, it ranks poorly or near the bottom nationally for key indicators related to mobility and public health. Swelling Population Growth in the seven-county area has averaged approximately 30,000 people per year since 2010 and is poised to continue over the next two decades. By 2040, the region will welcome nearly one million additional people. While every MPO county is among the fastest growing in the state, Rutherford and Williamson counties are each on pace to leapfrog Chattanooga-Hamilton in size to become nearly as large as present-day Nashville-Davidson County. Growing Diversity As Nashville-Davidson County tracks toward becoming a majority-minority community by 2040, it is expected that a combined 40 percent of the population in the MPO s planning area will be a racial or ethnic minority. While cultural diversity of a region is a hallmark of economic competitiveness and promotes talent attraction and retention, this shift in demographics must be considered when planning for the region s future. Increasing Density National trends show both Millennials and Baby Boomers have a growing preference for smaller living quarters in walkable communities with access to transit. This aspiration has caused many, especially younger people, to leave traditional suburban neighborhoods for environments that offer proximity to amenities such as shopping, entertainment, and transportation options. These attitudes toward driving and housing options have led planners to develop strategies for neighborhood infill and explore retrofitting suburban areas to become more walkable and transit-friendly. Worsening Congestion Over the last year, there has been a two percent increase in the time spent in cars commuting in Middle Tennessee. While the increase may seem small, it significantly impacts mobility and travel times. Additionally, freight traffic is expected to compound the problem as the tonnage of freight on our roadways expected to grow by 96 percent by Without improvement to the operational performance of our roadways and coordinated efforts to improve access to rail and other modal options, truck-related congestion will increase significantly. Housing Affordability and Access to Employment The cost of housing in urban centers has risen in recent years, pushing many lower income families to seek housing farther from places of employment. As a whole, this segment of the population is often transit dependent and is disproportionately affected by this trend. For Middle Tennesseans struggling with poor transportation access, decreasing the proximity to their source of income can limit the ability to keep a job. This affects both those attempting to climb out of poverty and businesses needing access to workforce. Dangerous by Design According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Transportation for America, the Nashville region is the 14th most dangerous metropolitan area for pedestrians in the nation, with 1.4 pedestrians killed each year per 100,000 people. To address this issue, improved design and investment in roadway safety features and active transportation facilities is necessary.

11 Annual Report Advancing Technology It is hard to address the challenges facing the region without considering how technology will impact our transportation system. As advancements in technology continue to redefine the way people connect, these changes will have an enormous impact on the development of transportation systems. Recent innovations have improved fuel efficiency, led to the creation of connected vehicles, spurred widespread use of real time traffic data, and deployment of intelligent traffic signals. Heavy Cross-County Commuting Patterns According to recent American Community Survey data, one out of every three Middle Tennessee commuters works outside of their home county. The number grows to nearly 1 in 2 when looking at residents outside of Nashville- Davidson County. These strong cross-county commuting patterns are a defining characteristic of our area and clearly demonstrate why regional coordination on issues like transportation, housing, and economic development is crucial to the long-term success of individual communities. Physical Inactivity and Declining Health According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Tennessee is among the top 10 most obese states in the nation, with approximately twothirds of adults and one-third of adolescents considered overweight or obese. Additionally, one-third of Americans do not drive and/or own cars, relying on walking, bicycling, and transit for transportation. Yet of the 30 percent of trips in urban areas that are one mile or less, 65 percent depend on an automobile due to inadequate facilities. Connectivity and Mobility Redefined According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than seven percent of all retail sales are now made through the internet, and that share is increasing by more than 16 percent per year. E-commerce, coupled with increased teleworking options, is changing the notion of mobility. Smartphones, and the emergence of the sharing economy, are only early precursors to a more significant evolution in transportation technology that will pave the way towards the autonomous and connected vehicles of the future. Few Options for Seniors A recent report regarding public transit for seniors shows Nashville as the fourth-worst city for senior transit access in the nation among metropolitan areas with a population of one million or more. Commissioned by Transportation for America, Aging in Place, Stuck without Options shows that 85 percent of Nashville s citizens aged 65 to 79 will have poor transit access in Only Atlanta, Kansas City and Oklahoma City are worse off.

12 11 Annual Report 2016 CURRENT STATE OF TRANSPORTATION The following statistics present information from the seven-county planning area. The Nashville Area MPO uses these and other indicators to benchmark future performance of the transportation system. 1.7 MILLION 972,000 Residents Occupied jobs 48 MIN 47 MPH 33.2 Spent traveling per capita each day Average travel speed along major roadways Total vehicle miles traveled per person, per day 3,270 13,000 26,000 Miles of major roadways (collectors, arterials, freeways) Total miles of roadway Miles of vehicle travel lanes 49 MILLION Miles traveled on major roadways each day 54,500 Roadway 145 crashes in 2015 Crashes with fatalities in , Total bridges in the region Percent of bridges are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete

13 Annual Report , PERCENT Heavy trucks on area roadways each day Of total miles traveled by freight trucks are along congested roadways 36,000+ Trips taken on public transit each day 3,270. Miles of major roadways (collectors, arterials, freeways) 505 Miles of major roadways have sidewalks 13 PERCENT Of major roadways have bicycle facilities For more regional trends and data visit NashvilleMPO.org.

14 13 Annual Report 2016 GROWTH PROJECTIONS AND TRAFFIC FORECASTS More than half of the state s population growth between 2010 and 2040 is expected to occur in 10 Middle Tennessee counties. Rutherford and Williamson counties are each on pace to leapfrog Chattanooga-Hamilton County on the list of most populous counties by ,000+ new people 100,000 to 250,000 50,000 to 100,000 25,000 to 50,000 < 25,000 new people 2.5 million additional people statewide 1.3 million (52%) in Middle Tennessee REGIONAL LAND DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS Along with population forecasts, the MPO s land use model is able to predict future land development patterns based on economic and market forces as well as land use policies and topography, among other factors These images show land use in the region observed in 2010 and the location of expected development over the coming 25 years. From a transportation perspective, this information helps decision makers to understand where the greatest growth and development is likely and identify where people will live and work in years to come these forecasts informed the development of the regional transportation planning and policy work.

15 Annual Report VEHICLES PER DAY Due to the growth in population and associated development across the region, increasing commuting times will continue to impact travel. The MPO traffic forecasting tools indicate that levels of congestion and the associated costs will continue to rise, even as projects identified in the regional transportation plan are implemented These images show both an increase in vehicles and the resulting congestion in the region at peak times in 2015 and projected for Even with dedication to improving development patterns and implementing transportation projects from the plan, the region s quality of life is at risk without well planned investments across all modes of travel to increase efficiency of the system. TRAFFIC CONGESTION 5,000 50,

16 15 Annual Report 2016 AN UPDATE TO THE REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN MIDDLE TENNESSEE CONNECTED Over the past few years, the MPO has worked with TDOT, transit agencies and local governments to update the regional transportation plan to account for shifts in market preferences, public policies and funding levels. Adopted in February of 2016, Middle Tennessee Connected is the updated regional transportation plan that outlines investments through The development of Middle Tennessee Connected provided an opportunity to identify and document community and regional transportation needs for the next 25 years. Through a collaborative effort which included its member governments, area non-profit organizations, the business community and local residents, the MPO identified a long-term vision for transportation, along with a set of goals and objectives to frame the planning process. The full plan docuement is available online at Connected2040.org.

17 Annual Report The Regional Transportation Plan is Middle Tennessee s Gateway to Federally Funded Transportation Projects and Services Projects Represent the Region s Collective Priorities for State and Federal Funds The RTP represents the collective transportation goals of city and county governments, transit agencies, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). Its purpose is to identify how those partners intend to invest federal grants to improve mobility across Davidson, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties. The plan also represents the region s top priorities for state funding as the Tennessee Governor and TDOT prepare the annual three-year work program for the Tennessee General Assembly. A Fiscally-Constrained Plan The RTP includes a balanced budget. It presents a list of transportation improvements that can be constructed or implemented over the next 25 years with anticipated federal funding, based on current annual appropriations. The plan schedules projects over three planning horizons including a short-term ( ), mid-term ( ) and long-term ( ). Projects included in the short-term horizon also comprise the MPO s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Keeps TDOT and Local Agencies Eligible for Federal Funding Since the 1962 Federal-aid Highway Act, federal legislation has required metropolitan area transportation plans to be developed through a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive planning process. This plan serves to satisfy federal regulations outlined in 23 CFR 450 and ensures that TDOT, transit agencies and local governments are eligible to use federal transportation funds to construct or implement improvements to roadways and transit routes. Supersedes the 2035 Regional Transportation Plan The MPO is required by federal law to update its regional transportation plan every five years to account for changes in transportation needs that result from shifts in regional economic conditions, real estate development trends, funding availability and public policy.

18 17 Annual Report 2016 PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS Based on current funding levels authorized by U.S. Congress, the Nashville area is expected to receive approximately $8.5 billion between now and 2040 from federal transportation grants that are distributed by formula to states and MPOs. Through a collaborative effort that included its member governments, area non-profit organizations, the business community and local residents, the MPO identified a long-term vision for transportation investments. Expanded and Modernized Transit Options The plan places significant emphasis on improving public transit in the years to come. This will provide alternatives to congested roadways and ensure Middle Tennessee remains livable, while competing economically on a national and global scale. More Active and Walkable Communities As Middle Tennesseans are demanding safer and more walkable streets, the plan identifies investments in infrastructure for pedestrians and bicyclists that will enhance local commerce, foster healthier lifestyles, and serve as the backbone for transit expansion. Reimagined Corridors with Integrated Technology The plan focuses on reinvestment in existing roadways,while maximizing limited transportation dollars and ensuring that infrastructure is not overextended beyond the region s ability to maintain a state of good repair. Priorities identified emphasize projects that bring roadways to design standards and integrating technologies to improve traffic operations and real-time travel information.

19 ~ Top Priorities for Funding ~ Cost-Feasible Improvements ~ Illustrative Needs ~ Exising Route New Alignment High Capacity Transit Corridors Conceptual alignments are subject to change through additional study and public input. For more details on projects contained in the RTP visit Connected2040.org.

20 19 Annual Report 2016 ADVANCING THE VISION FOR TRANSIT The Regional Transportation Plan sets forth the overarching polices and investment decisions for a multi-modal transportation network, however the implementation of the region s transit vision is truly a public-private partnership that involves multiple initiatives. Over the last year, great progess has been made to support the implementation of the region s vision for transit. Building off the vision developed in 2010, Nashville MTA and RTA completed its strategic plan update, nmotion. nmotion included a massive community engagement process to identify actionable steps to improve area transit. Adopted by the MTA and RTA boards in late 2016, the findings provide additional specificity to the transit element of the Regional Transportation Plan. To learn more visit nmotion2016.com. Launched in the summer of 2015, Moving Forward is a private-sector initiative designed to engage business and community leaders in a review of the region s progress toward implementing the vision for transit. Through three taskforces Revenue and Finance, Public Engagement and Routes and Modes community and business leaders are diving into the complexities of transportation planning to better understand the challenges facing the region. In June of 2016, the group released its first report, which offered recommendations to cities, counties, transit agencies and the state legislature to support implementing the vision. To learn more visit MovingForwardMidTN.com. Created in 2009, the Transit Alliance is focused on building widespread support for funding needed to implement the region s transit vision. The Transit Alliance runs a regional educational program, Transit Citizen Leadership Academy, that equips private and public-sector leaders across Middle Tennessee with the ability to lead conversations about the value of public transit within their own networks. In 2016, the Transit Alliance expanded its role in education and advocacy by creating leadership academies focused specifically on elected officials in each county in Middle Tennessee. To learn more visit TheTransitAlliance.org. Mobility Week, hosted by Williamson, Inc., is an annual week-long, countywide initiative held in the fall focused on exploring practical ways that individuals, commuters, corporations, schools, and small businesses in Williamson County can work collaboratively as a community to reduce traffic on roadways. In addition to a week of activities focused on education and action, Mobility Week included a half-day Transportation Summit for business and community leaders. To learn more about Mobility Week visit WilliamsonChamber.com/MobilityWeek.

21 This graphic shows the nmotion recommendations to improve transit service in the region. For more detailed information on the plan and next steps visit nmotion2016.com.

22 21 Annual Report 2016 PLANNING PROGRAM PLANNING PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Each August the MPO adopts its Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) that identifies all federally funded transportation planning activities and studies to be carried out by MPO staff, consultants or partner agencies during the upcoming federal fiscal year. The UPWP also serves as the MPO s annual operating budget and provides the schedule for dues paid by its city and county government members. The UPWP provides the public with information about opportunities for early engagement. The following are brief descriptions of this year s most significant activities, many of which provide direct support to local and statewide planning efforts. Nashville Region s Vital Signs Each October the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and MPO publish a report to the region that tracks key data points related to important issues affecting Middle Tennessee s economic well-being and quality of life. The report serves to facilitate conversation about community-driven solutions to reinforce our strengths and address our weaknesses. Support of Regional Planning Activities Throughout the year the MPO provided assistance to numerous local transportation or comprehensive planning efforts across seven counties in order to ensure consistency with the regional transportation plan. In addition, staff provided support to the RTA/MTA during the nmotion strategic planning process, the Northwest Corridor Transit Study, and Metro Nashville s WalkNBike and Connected Nashville initiatives aimed at updating the city s bicycle and pedestrian plan and accelerating the deployment of intelligent technology, respectively. State Route 109 Access Management Study In partnership with TDOT and a consulting team led by Gresham, Smith and Partners, the MPO finalized recommendations aimed at improving traffic flow and roadway safety along State Route 109 between I-40 in Wilson County and I-65 near the Sumner/Robertson county line. The study was commissioned to develop new guidelines for intersection spacing, driveway access, and land development standards. Southeast Area Land Use Study The MPO completed its work with RTA, TDOT, Metro Nashville and local governments throughout Rutherford County to develop recommendations for improving local and regional plans focused on the I-24 corridor. The study evaluated major transportation investments, including rapid transit options and strategies to promote more effective land use in the fast-growing area. Findings were integrated in the Regional Transportation Plan and incorporated into NashvilleNext, RTA/MTA s nmotion and local comprehensive plans across Rutherford County. Enhancing Parking in Nashville and Across Middle Tennessee The MPO conducted an analysis of the existing publicly-accessible parking inventory across the area and evaluated emerging technologies and policies that could be deployed across Nashville and Middle Tennessee to improve access to commerce, reduce traffic congestion and to better align parking policies with transit and smart city initiatives. Regional Freight and Goods Movement Study (Phase III) In partnership with Cambridge Systematics, Volkert, and RPM Transportation, the MPO released a set of recommendations for improving freight movement within and through the Middle Tennessee region. The study presents a regional freight vision which builds on major initiatives such as the potential relocation of CSX s Radnor Yard intermodal facility, the designation and development of a regional truck network and improved coordination between economic development and transportation investments. NashvilleMPO.org/Freight.

23 Annual Report PLANNING ACTIVITIES ON THE HORIZON During the 2017 fiscal year the MPO will be begin multiple planning activities. This includes a Regional Smart City Assessment to evaluate intelligent transportation systems and a South Corridor Transit Feasibility Study, as a next step in the nmotion planning process to evaluate alternative modes and alignments for transit from downtown Nashville south along I-65. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON UPCOMING STUDIES AND PLANNING EFFORTS VISIT NASHVILLEMPO.ORG/UPWP. Regional Climate Adaptation Planning During FY 2016, the MPO partnered with Cumberland River Compact and the Model Forest Policy Program to create the region s first climate adaptation plan. The plan identifies risks to area communities and resources resulting from climate change and extreme weather events and offers guidance to ensure the continued operation and long-term resiliency of area transportation infrastructure. Activity Based Modeling The MPO worked with Resource Systems Group, Inc. to develop Tennessee s first activity-based travel demand model (ABM). The ABM builds on the traditional travel demand modeling tools to improve the MPO s ability to forecast future traffic conditions and transit ridership and to analyze those predicted travel behaviors by geographic or socioeconomic factors. Web-Based Transportation Improvement Program Map and Database Over the last year the MPO unveiled major enhancements to the web-based application that provides real-time programming information about active transportation projects via a searchable database and map. Members of the public and interested stakeholders are encouraged to use the application to view detailed project information, run custom queries and reports, track amendments, and submit comments. TIP.NashvilleMPO.org. Envision Nolensville Pike As part of the MPO s creative placemaking work, staff partnered with Conexión Américas and the Nashville Civic Design Center to conduct outreach along Nashville s international corridor, Nolensville Pike. Through culturally diverse creative labs residents and business owners participated in charrettes to share concerns and ideas related to safety, sense of place and transportation access along the pike. A final report, Envision Nolensville Pike, describes feedback from the creative labs along with renderings of desired transportation projects. Regional Social Equity Atlas The MPO has launched a brand-new initiative aimed at improving the area s knowledge and understanding of Middle Tennessee s vulnerable populations and its growing racial and ethnic diversity. Traditional planning methods which rely significantly on Census data to paint a picture of cultural diversity are insufficient in providing meaningful information to local and regional planners and policy makers. The equity atlas work will expand upon Census data sets by incorporating insight from local leaders and community-based mapping in order to develop guidance for building an authentic relationship with the people behind the numbers.

24 23 Annual Report 2016 CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a four or five-year work program that lists all regionally significant and federally funded transportation projects and services in the MPO planning area. The program includes projects for all modes of surface transportation including highways and streets, public transportation and walking and bicycling. Projects adopted into the MPO s TIP become part of Tennessee s statewide transportation improvement program following concurrence from the Governor and are implemented by TDOT, local governments or transit agencies. The development of the MPO s TIP provides an opportunity to fund and implement the projects from the adopted Regional Transportation Plan that are determined to be the most suitable to the region s current needs. In preparing the work program, significant consideration is given to determine the most appropriate set of short-term projects that advance the long-term goals of the region as embodied by a set of guiding principles, regional goals and major objectives developed through extensive public and stakeholder involvement. The FYs TIP was adopted by the MPO in November of 2016 and currently includes more than $1 billion in federal, state and local funding distributed over 165 projects across the seven-county area. To search projects in the TIP visit TIP.NashvilleMPO.org.

25 Annual Report FUNDING OBLIGATIONS Projects programmed in the MPO s TIP are authorized for grant funding, but those dollars are not available to pay for project expenses until the federal government completes the grant obligation process. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) defines obligation as the federal government s legal commitment to pay or reimburse states or other entities for the federal share of a project s eligible costs. While the MPO takes the lead in programming all federal dollars for the region, TDOT and the MPO share responsibility for awarding grants to projects. A complete list of projects receiving federal funding obligations for FY 2016 is available at NashvilleMPO.org/plans_programs/tip. MORE THAN $144 MILLION IN GRANTS WERE OBLIGATED IN FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR 2016 GRANT SOURCE National Highway and Interstate Progams (63%) Surface Transportation Programs (15%) Safety Programs (10%) Transit Programs (8%) Other (4%) OBLIGATION PROCESS Regional Transportation Plan Transportation Improvement Program LOCATION OF INVESTMENT Federal Obligation Contractor Bids State Route System (62%) Interstate System (15%) Local Routes and Other Systems (15%) Transit (8%) Construction Contract Expenditure Reimbursement

26 25 Annual Report 2016 MPO AGENCY STRUCTURE EXECUTIVE BOARD FINANCE AND AUDIT COMMITTEE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MPO POLICY AND TECHNICAL STAFF TECHNICAL COORDINATING COMMITTEE CONSULTANTS BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE FREIGHT ADVISORY COMMITTEE OPERATIONS COMMITTEE PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKING GROUP AD HOC STUDY COMMITTEES

27 Annual Report The Nashville Area MPO is comprised of an executive board, a technical coordinating committee, and professional staff. The Executive Board consists of mayors and county executives from each of the seven counties in the MPO planning area and their cities with a population of 5,000 or more people. Additional board members include the Governor of Tennessee, a representative from the Greater Nashville Regional Council, a representative of public transit operators, a representative of county highway officials and staff from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration. The board provides a forum for collaboration on growth and development issues and decision-making around transportation policies, plans, and investment programs. The Executive Board is staffed by professional planners, engineers, demographers, policy analysts, and communications experts and is advised by a Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) consisting of administrators and senior staff from local governments and transportation related agencies across the region. Additional committees are convened as necessary to advise on issues related to freight and logistics, bicycle and pedestrian safety, and other subjects related to the MPO s work program. Photos: Top: Community leaders on a transportation scavenger hunt while attending the 2016 Leadership Study Mission in Minneapolis MN. L-R: Deb Varallo, Michael Skipper, Kristine LaLonde, Zac Dufour, Mayor Ken Wilber, Kolin Holladay, and Ed Mahoney. Middle: MPO Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC) leadership. L-R: TCC Chairman Mike Harris, Immediate Past Chairman Doug Demosi, and Vice Chairman Michael Briggs. Bottom: L-R: Michelle Lacewell, Reggie Mudd and Mayor Paige Brown at the Power of Ten Summit.

28 27 Annual Report 2016 MPO LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS* Chairman - The Honorable Randall Hutto, Wilson County Vice Chair -The Honorable Mary Ester Reed Town of Smynra The Honorable Regina Smithson The Honorable Dean Dickey The Honorable Patti Carroll The Honorable Ken Moore The Honorable Paige Brown The Honorable John Coombs The Honorable Bonnette Dawson The Honorable Scott Foster The Honorable Dennis Waldron The Honorable Philip Craighead The Honorable Charlie Norman The Honorable Megan Barry The Honorable David Briley The Honorable Timothy Lassiter The Honorable Ed Hagerty The Honorable Shane McFarland The Honorable Jimmy Alexander The Honorable Howard Bradley The Honorable Ernest Burgess The Honorable Ken Wilber The Honorable Rick Graham The Honorable Billy Paul Carneal The Honorable Anthony Holt Mr. Gerald Herman The Honorable Rogers Anderson The Honorable Bill Haslam Mr. Steve Bland Mr. Eddie Hood Mr. Michael Skipper City of Brentwood City of Columbia City of Fairview City of Franklin City of Gallatin City of Goodlettsville City of Greenbrier City of Hendersonville City of La Vergne City of Lebanon Maury County Metro Nashville-Davidson County Metro Nashville-Davidson County City of Millersville City of Mt. Juliet City of Murfreesboro Town of Nolensville Robertson County Rutherford County City of Portland City of Spring Hill City of Springfield Sumner County City of White House Williamson County Tennessee Governor Rep. of Transit Operators Rep. of County Highway Dept. Greater Nashville Regional Council *Representatives from the FHWA and FTA serve as non-voting advisory members. TCC MEMBERS Chairman - Mike Harris, City of Brentwood Vice Chair - Michael Briggs, Metro Nashville Planning Dept. Glenn Harper, City of Columbia Wayne Hall, City of Fairview Jonathon Marston City of Franklin Bill McCord, City of Gallatin Addam McCormick, City of Goodlettsville Phil Klober, City of Greenbrier Fred Rogers, City of Hendersonville Kristin Costanzo, City of La Vergne Paul Corder, City of Lebanon Caryn Miller, City of Millersville Andy Barlow, City of Mt. Juliet Dana Richardson, City of Murfreesboro Nellie Patton, City of Murfreesboro Denise Geminden, City of Portland Dan Allen, City of Spring Hill Grant Green, City of Springfield Reed Hillen, City of White House Matt Von Lunen, Greater Nashville Regional Council Talia Lomax-O dneal Metro Dept. of Finance Billy Davis, Metro Dept. of Public Works John Finke, Metro Health Dept/Air Pollution Christine Vitt, Metro Nashville Airport Authority Jonathan Cleghon, Metro Traffic and Parking Felix Castrodad, Metro Transit Authority Billy Higgins, RTA Margot Fosnes, Robertson County Rodney Joyner, Sumner County Marc Corrigan, TDEC Larry McGoogin, TDOT Long-Range Planning Liza Joffrion, TDOT Multimodal Transportation Debbie Henry, Franklin Transit Authority Henry Laird, Town of Nolensville Kevin Rigsby, Town of Smyrna Joe Horne, Williamson County Tom Brashear, Wilson County Theresa Claxton, FHWA, Tennessee Division Elizabeth Martin, FTA, Region IV The Executive Board provides a forum for collaboration and decision-making related to regional transportation policy, planning, and funding; the basic responsibilities of the TCC include collaborating with staff to provide recommendations to the Executive Board in the development of regional transportation plans and programs. Board and TCC members as of Oct.1, 2016.

29 POWER OF TEN SUMMIT In September elected officials and community leaders from around Middle Tennessee came together for the annual Power of Ten Summit hosted by Cumberland Region Tomorrow. MPO members participated in a panel disucssion about the importance of regional collaboration across county lines. L-R: County Executive Anthony Holt (Sumner), Mayor Randall Hutto (Wilson), Mayor Megan Barry (Metro Nashville), Mayor Ken Moore (Franklin).

30 29 Annual Report 2016 ORGANIZATIONAL CHART Technical Staff Mary Connelly Senior Planner Nicholas Lindeman Economic & Systems Data Analyst Michelle Lacewell, APR Interim Director Lou Edwards Administrative Assistant Hary Prawiranata Senior Modeler Samuel Williams GIS Analyst Jeffrey Leach Finance Officer Rochelle Carpenter Senior Policy Analyst Anna Emerson, AICP Senior Planner Policy Staff Peter Westerholm Senior Policy Analyst Policy Interns and Fellows Jonathan Wellemeyer Shelly Hazle Organizational chart as of Oct. 1, Staff members not pictured who departed the organization during FY16 include: Michael Skipper, Peter Bang, Wesley Rhodes and Hannah Plummer

31 Annual Report AGENCY BUDGET SUMMARY MPO planning activities are funded by grants from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration and by contributions from the Tennessee Department of Transportation, local government members, and community partners. The MPO s fiscal year 2017 budget includes more than $4 million for the administration of agency programs, research and data collection, and planning studies. Of that amount, about $1 million dollars are committed to projects continuing from the previous year. More information about the MPO s budget is available in the adopted Unified Planning Work Program at NashvilleMPO.org/UPWP. FHWA: $2,351,000 (60%) FTA: $762,000 (19%) TDOT: $95,000 (2%) Member dues: $234,000 (6%) In-kind: $ 352,000 (9%) Local partners: $149,000 (4%) Funding for this report was provided by grants from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and contributions from the Tennessee Department of Transportation and local government members. The Nashville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, creed or disability in admission to, access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. Discrimination against any person in recruitment, examination, appointment, training, promotion, retention, discipline or any other employment practices because of non-merit factors shall be prohibited. For ADA or Title VI inquiries, contact Michelle Lacewell, ADA Compliance Coordinator, at or lacewell@nashvillempo.org.

32 IN MIDDLE TENNESSEE 800 Second Avenue South P.O. Box Nashville TN NashvilleMPO.org