Organizing for TSMO
Case Study 11: Metropolitan Planning Organization Examples
Executive Summary
Transportation systems management and operations (TSMO) provides tools for transportation managers to address safety, system performance, and reliability. TSMO is "an integrated set of strategies to optimize the performance of existing infrastructure through the implementation of multimodal and intermodal, cross-jurisdictional systems, services, and projects designed to preserve capacity and improve security, safety, and reliability of the transportation system.1" Through participation in the second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP2) workshops, transportation agencies are working to better support TSMO programs. Deploying intelligent transportation systems (ITS), hiring internal information technology staff, and using performance measures for data-driven decisions are just a few examples of the many activities a TSMO program can support.
Given the varying stages of TSMO adoption and advancement, the Federal Highway Administration identified the need for case studies to provide examples of common challenges and best practices for transportation agencies to learn from each other. This is one of 12 case studies developed to support organizing for TSMO. This case study focuses on how metropolitan planning organizations are using and advancing TSMO capabilities in their agencies.
Three agencies that worked to advance TSMO in their regions were interviewed: North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), and Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). Each agency provided information on the processes they developed to advance TSMO capabilities and maturity. Some of the best practices identified include:
- NCTCOG's established TSMO policies to improve regional TSMO culture and project selection criteria.
- NCTCOG's use of before and after studies such as identifying performance values for signalized intersections and pilot mobility projects.
- MAG's dedication to collaboration through stakeholder meetings and frequent internal communications.
- MAG's unique approach to TSMO planning using available funding mechanisms.
- ARC's incorporation of TSMO into thoroughfare planning through the establishment of process-based selection criteria and desired performance measures.
