Innovative Coordination between States, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, and Tribes in Transportation Planning

Abstract

Innovative consultation practices between tribes, states, and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) within the transportation planning process are highlighted. The FHWA Office of Planning sponsored the development of six case studies that highlight a range of practices implemented by tribal and nontribal governments to advance tribal consultation in statewide and metropolitan transportation planning. These case studies demonstrate that effective tribal consultation results from the identification of common goals and the establishment of ongoing coordination procedures. Researchers obtained input from tribal, federal, state, and local representatives in the six cases; examined current practices and the outcomes of these approaches; and developed lessons learned. Three overarching themes emerged from the case studies: participation and support from tribes, FHWA, FTA, states, and MPOs; funding and resources; and safety issues. As the foundation for effective transportation planning, participation must involve all parties. This process requires commitment and involvement by leadership, communication, and personal meetings and interviews; networking and consortia development, involvement, and representation on appropriate boards and committees; and the critical role that individuals often play in building relationships. Funding and resources also are highlighted. Innovative funding and partnership practices are crucial, as are the resources and technical assistance that states and MPOs provide. Finally, the case studies illustrate the ability to address safety issues through transportation, corridor, and crash-reporting studies and the completion of highway improvements.