摘要: |
Metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) have a role in pavement management that supports local, regional, and state agency needs. The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 requires each MPO to address six management systems, one of which is pavement management, in the transportation planning process for the urbanized area. A research study was funded by FHWA to address this role and identify a framework for MPO involvement. This framework identified eight major elements for the MPO. Each element has a variety of activities that can be easily implemented by MPO staff. The level of involvement in each activity ranges from low to high depending on the use of the activity in the planning process. The major conclusions from the study are discussed, and a summary of MPOs involved in pavement management around the country is presented. The role of the MPO in overcoming the barriers to using pavement management by explaining the benefits of a system to support increased highway budgets is discussed. There are several methods of improving communications with local agencies and citizens. Effective public relations techniques to communicate future needs are necessary. The participation of MPOs in local pavement management will result in efficient use of limited local resources for the improvement in regional road networks. The overall goal of better managed and maintained highway facilities in urbanized areas can be achieved with coordinated efforts of state, MPO, and local agencies. |