[LOCAL FUNDING 2003] COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT : THOSE AT THE LOCAL LEVEL WANT MORE OF A SAY IN THE FUNDING PROCESS

Even though most transportation funds increased in the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), the level of funding directed to local governments declined as a share of total federal highway funding. This article looks at a number of issues where local governments feel they need to have a stronger voice and a larger funding commitment. The Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) should have more flexibility and authority. By promoting innovative concepts such as bus rapid transit (BRT), local governments can help to ease traffic congestion. Rural safety programs, an increase in federal bridge money to off-system bridges, and increasing funds to Local Transportation Assistance Programs (LTAP) are some additional areas where increased funds can allow local governments to more effective.