In metropolitan areas, the MTP identifies how the region intends to invest in the transportation system. Federal law requires the plan, “include both long-range and short-range program strategies/actions that lead to the development of an integrated inter-modal transportation system that facilitates the efficient movement of people and goods.”

Preparation Involvement

The MTP is prepared through active engagement with the public and stakeholders using an approach that considers how roadways, transit, non-motorized transportation, and intermodal connections are able to improve the operational performance of the multi-modal transportation system. Accordingly, the MTP must cover performance measures and targets and include a report evaluating whether the condition and performance of the transportation system is meeting those targets.

The MTP may also describe the results of scenario analyses on transportation system conditions and performance. Other information contained in the MTP could include:

• Regional land use, development, housing, and employment goals and plans.
• Projected demand for transportation services over 20 years.
• Policies, strategies, and projects that the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) recommends for the future.
• Cost estimates and reasonably available financial sources for operation, maintenance, and capital investments (see Financial Planning and Programming).
• Ways to preserve facilities and efficiently use the existing system.

In preparing the MTP, the MPO coordinates with the State and public transit operators and makes a particular effort to engage all communities and stakeholders.

Update Frequency

MTPs are updated every five years in air quality attainment areas, every four years in non-attainment or maintenance areas, or more frequently in all areas as State and local officials deem necessary.

View JATSO's 2045 MTP - approved by the JATSO Policy Board on February 18, 2021.