Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program—Indirect Benefits (Completed 1996)

Performer(s): Louis Berger and Assoc., Inc.
Sponsor(s): FHWA

To order:

Daniel Wheeler. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-10; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590;
Tel: 202-366-6724; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Daniel.wheeler@fhwa.dot.gov;
Order Nos.: FHWA-PD-97-045; HEP-40/5-97(20M)E.

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to better understand and document the indirect benefits that could be attributed to the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program. An extensive search effort was launched to seek information and evidence of CMAQ ‘s benefits and to detail the indirect benefits that Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and other stakeholders have experienced from the CMAQ program; how CMAQ affected strategic planning processes; examples of specific projects; and quantification of benefits.

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program Review (Completed 1997)

Performer(s): FHWA, Office of Environment and Planning
Sponsor(s): FHWA; Research and Special Programs Admin. (RSPA), U.S. DOT

To order:

Noreen Bowles. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-1, 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590;
Tel: 202-366-9173; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Noreen.bowles@fhwa.dot.gov;
Order Nos.: DOT-T-97-14; NTIS No. PB97165559.

Abstract

Summary of a national review of the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program performed by the FHWA and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) that was begun in May 1994. The findings of the report suggest that metropolitan areas are beginning to realize the full potential of the CMAQ program and are improving obligation rates as a result of increased familiarity with the program. Enhanced coordination mechanisms and technical tools have facilitated the programming of CMAQ funds. State and local officials have found the CMAQ program to be very flexible, with nearly half of the funding made available for transit improvements. The program review also found that State and local planners are attempting to restructure their planning processes to allow for greater decentralization and increased public participation.