HomeMy WebLinkAbout7.10.24 UAPB Agenda PacketMEETING NOTICE
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Wednesday July 10, 2024 – 4:30 PM
City of Coralville – Council Chambers
1512 7th Street, Coralville, Iowa
AGENDA
1.Call to Order
a.Recognize alternates
b.Consider approval of meeting minutes
c.Set next Board meeting date, time and location (tentatively September 18th)
2.Public Discussion of any item not on the agenda*
3.Administration
a.Consider a Resolution approving adjustments to the MPOJC Planning Area Boundary as a result
of the 2020 Census.
4.Transportation Planning
a.Public Hearing and consideration of resolutions of adoption and certification for the FY2025-
2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program
i. Staff presentation of the FY2025-2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program
ii.Public Hearing
iii. Consider a resolution adopting the FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program for
the Iowa City Urbanized Area and authorizing the MPO Chairperson to sign associated
documents contained therein
iv. Consider a resolution certifying compliance with federal requirements for conducting the
urban transportation planning process in the Iowa City Urbanized Area
b.Update on the CRANDIC Bus Rapid Transit Study from MPO staff
c.Update on the Safe Streets & Roads for All (SS4A) grant from MPO staff
5.Other Business
6.Adjournment
*Public input is permitted on any agenda item. Please indicate to the Chair if you wish to comment on an agenda item.
To request any disability-related accommodations or language interpretation, please contact MPOJC staff at 319-356-5230
or Kent-Ralston@Iowa-City.org 48 hours prior to the meeting.
MINUTES DRAFT
MPOJC URBANIZED AREA POLICY BOARD
MAY 29, 2024 – 4:30 PM
NORTH LIBERTY CITY HALL – COUNCIL CHAMBERS
360 N MAIN ST, NORTH LIBERTY, IA
MEMBERS PRESENT: Iowa City: Laura Bergus, Megan Alter, Josh Moe, Shawn
Harmsen,
Johnson County: Jon Green, Lisa Green-Douglass
North Liberty: Brian Wayson, Erek Sittig
University Heights: Louise From
University of Iowa: Greg Schmitt
ICCSD: Molly Abraham
STAFF PRESENT: Kent Ralston, Emily Bothell, Hannah Neel, Sarah Walz, Madelyn Stoen
OTHER: Cathy Cutler, Mackenzie DeRoo
1. CALL TO ORDER
From called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The meeting was held in the North Liberty
Council Chambers at the North Liberty City Hall.
a. Recognize alternates
Ralston recognized Erek Sittig as an alternate for Chris Hoffman of North Liberty
and Lisa Green-Douglass as an alternate for Rod Sullivan of Johnson County.
b. Consider approval of meeting minutes
Moe moved to approve; Green seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
c. Set next Board meeting date, time, and location
Tentatively scheduled for July 10, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. (location to be determined).
2. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
3. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
a. Public Hearing and consideration of an amendment to the FY2024-2027 MPOJC
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) - adjusting the project termini for the
Iowa DOT I-380 Improvement Project
i. Staff Presentation
Neel explained that the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the
programming document for all surface transportation projects that receive state
or federal funds. This includes: streets, highways, transit, rail, bicycle and
pedestrian projects in the Iowa City urbanized area. Neel noted that MPOJC
submits the TIP annually to the Iowa Department of Transportation to
document the status of local transportation projects, and projects must be
included with accurate scope and funding. Neel shared that the purpose of this
amendment is to change the terminus for the New Bridge, Grade and Pave,
Traffic Signs for the I-380 Improvement Project in Johnson County, Iowa. The
new project location would read ‘north of I-80 to north of Swan Lake Road’;
updated from ‘1.0 miles north of Forevergreen Road to north of Swan Lake
Road’. Neel asked the Urbanized Area Policy Board for approval of the
amended project termini for the Iowa DOT I-380 Improvement Project.
ii. Public Hearing
From opened the public hearing and there were no members of the public
present for the public hearing. She then closed the public hearing.
iii. Consider an amendment to the FY24-27 MPOJC Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP)
Green moved to approve; Alter seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
b. Update on the MPOJC FY2025 Transit Program of Projects
Neel shared that Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and University of Iowa
CAMBUS are programming projects for Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
funding in FY2025. This funding will be primarily directed towards buses,
equipment replacement, and new transit facilities. Neel stated that to be eligible
for funding, projects must be included in the Program of Projects. All three transit
agencies will hold public hearings and have their Program of Projects approved as
part of their Consolidated Funding Application process. Coralville Transit will hold
their public hearing on June 11th, 2024, Iowa City Transit will hold their public
hearing on June 4th, 2024, and CAMBUS will hold their public hearing on June 21st,
2024.
c. Consider approval of Draft FY2025-2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) projects
Neel reiterated that the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the local
programming document for all federal and state surface transportation and transit
projects, and that the FY2025-2028 TIP project list is attached for the Board’s
review. Neel highlighted two pending updates to the draft FY2025-2028 TIP
document. First, the project termini for the I-380 Improvement Project will be
updated, as discussed and approved in the previous agenda item, and second, the
Johnson County entry for the Johnson County Dubuque Street Roundabout project
on Dubuque Street NE at the intersection of Forevergreen Road and Rustic Ridge
will be removed from the MPOJC TIP. This portion is the County’s funding (funding
not allocated by MPOJC) and thus belongs in the ECIGOC TIP.
Neel stated that at their March 2023 meeting, the Policy Board awarded $9.3
million in STBG funds to four projects. The projects programmed in 2027 include
Coralville’s Dubuque Street NE and Forevergreen Road Roundabout project,
North Liberty’s South Dubuque Street Reconstruction (Phase 2) project, and
University Heights’ Sunset Street and Melrose Avenue project. The fourth project,
Iowa City’s Burlington Street/Highway 1 Bridge Improvements project, was
programmed in 2028.
Neel noted that upon approval, MPOJC will submit the draft FY2025-2028 TIP to
the Iowa DOT for review and begin the 30-day public input process to be completed
ahead of the Policy Board’s approval of the final TIP document at their July 10th
meeting. The final TIP document is due July 15th.
Harmsen moved to approve; Wayson seconded. The motion carried
unanimously.
d. Consider a Resolution approving the MPOJC FY2025 Transportation Planning
Work Program
Ralston explained that the Transportation Planning Work Program includes locally
requested projects that were received from each member entity and general
projects and procedures as required by the Iowa Department of Transportation,
Federal Highway Administration, and Federal Transit Administration. Additionally,
Ralston explained that the projects requested represent a small portion of the work
that is being completed. Other items in the work program include routine business,
carryover projects, and daily requests from each community. Ralston asked for
approval of the MPOJC FY2025 Transportation Planning Work Program.
Bergus moved to approve; Wayson seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
e. Update from the MPO Director on the CRANDIC Bus Rapid Transit Feasibility
Study
Ralston explained that in the fall of 2023, the Urbanized Area Policy Board
authorized a Bus Rapid Transit feasibility study on the CRANDIC rail corridor
between Penn Street (in North Liberty) and Burlington Street (in Iowa City). Ralston
noted that this study is being conducted by Felsburg Holt & Ullevig and Nelson
Nygaard. The study aims to look at the feasibility of converting the CRANDIC
railroad line between Penn Street (in North Liberty) and Burlington Street (in Iowa
City). Ralston noted that the consultants requested an extension, and they are now
expected to complete the study by September 1st, 2024.
Green-Douglass asked whether there will be an entity that will provide a park-and-
ride option and if CRANDIC would be willing to allow bus rapid transit on their
property.
Ralston noted that the consultants are examining feasibility and they will provide a
cost estimate. Additionally, before the study, CRANDIC representatives stated
they would seriously consider the metro’s request if that occurred.
Moe asked whether the Bus Rapid Transit would follow Iowa City’s Fare Free
program.
Ralston stated that the consultants will provide an estimate of what a ticket should
cost, in accordance with national trends. Also, in order to follow the Fare Free
program, communities would need to know operation costs. This information will
be provided upon the completion of the Feasibility Study.
f. Update from Iowa Department of Transportation District 6 staff on major projects
in the urbanized area
Cutler stated that the I-80 interchange at First Avenue, in Coralville, is 75%
complete and is scheduled to be finished by the fall of 2024. Cutler also noted that
the I-80 eastbound on-ramp will be closed until August 2024, but will re-open
before the fall 2024 academic school year. Cutler also shared that the First Avenue
and I-80 interchange will be the fourth diverging diamond configuration that has
been built in Eastern Iowa. Cutler stated that the shoulders on Interstate I-380, in
North Liberty, have been temporarily barricaded to facilitate the removal of the
existing shoulders and the construction of a new lane with new shoulders.
4. OTHER BUSINESS
Bergus shared that there is a company called ‘Pop-Up Metro’ that takes lightweight,
passenger train cars, outfits them with high-capacity batteries, and runs them on existing
freight lines. The entity that runs Pop-Up Metro has been presenting information to local
groups to build interest in their service. Bergus stated that a route that is being considered
would be from Penn Street in North Liberty to Burlington Street in Iowa City. Bergus and
Ralston noted that there would be more information forthcoming.
5. ADJOURNMENT
Green-Douglass moved to adjourn the meeting; Moe seconded. The motion carried
unanimously. From adjourned the meeting at 5:34 PM.
Date: June 28, 2024
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Madelyn Stoen, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda item #3(a): Consider a Resolution approving adjustments to the MPOJC Planning
Area Boundary as a result of the 2020 Census
MPOs are required to review their Metropolitan Planning Area (MPA) boundaries after each
decennial Census. The planning boundary must encompass the entire existing census defined
urbanized area plus the contiguous area expected to become urbanized within a 20-year period.
MPOJC has proposed an adjusted planning area boundary, which has been reviewed and
approved by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). The attached map shows the 2020
Census Urbanized Area, the 2010 MPA boundary, and the proposed 2020 MPA boundary.
The MPA boundary adjustment will change the allocation of Surface Transportation Block Grant
Program, Transportation Alternatives Program, and Carbon Reduction Program funding based
on the delineating boundary and resulting population adjustment described below:
Delineating boundary (map attached): MPO Planning Area Boundary
Resulting population adjustment: 3,603 from the RPA to the MPO
Resulting total population for the MPO: 130,408
Resulting total Johnson County population for the RPA: 22,446
MPOJC and the East Central Iowa Council of Governments have agreed that the Iowa
Department of Transportation shall proceed with the aforementioned MPA boundary adjustment
and resulting population adjustment.
The MPA boundary will remain in effect until the next decennial Census unless a special Census,
approved boundary change, or decision to utilize a different boundary is agreed upon.
Staff is requesting approval of the proposed boundary adjustment, resulting population
adjustment, and for the Board Chair to sign the attached joint resolution.
I will be at your July 10th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
Proposed MPA Boundary
Map
JOINT AGREEMENT RESOLUTION
FOR METROPOLITAN AND REGIONAL POPULATIONS
WHEREAS, federal transportation planning regulations provide for the establishment of a metropolitan planning
organization within each metropolitan area to serve as a forum for local officials to carry out certain multimodal
transportation planning and programming responsibilities within each metropolitan area; and
WHEREAS, the Iowa Department of Transportation (hereinafter Iowa DOT) has elected to share certain multimodal
transportation planning and programming responsibilities with local officials acting through regional planning
affiliations; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (hereinafter MPO) has been designated by
the cities and counties within its boundaries, with the concurrence of the Governor(s) to serve as the metropolit an
planning organization for the Iowa City metropolitan area; and
WHEREAS, the East Central Iowa Council of Governments (hereinafter RPA) has been designated by the general-
purpose units of local government to serve as the regional planning affiliation for Region 10; and
WHEREAS, Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon
Reduction Program (CRP) funding is apportioned to the States for projects to preserve and improve the conditions
and performance on Federal-aid highways, bridges, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and transit capital
projects; and
WHEREAS, the Iowa DOT allocates STBG, TAP, and CRP funding to metropolitan planning organizations based on
population and to regional planning affiliations based partially on population that is initially delineated by the
Census-defined urbanized area boundary; and
WHEREAS, the MPO has established an adjusted Federal Highway Administration (hereinafter FHWA) Urban Area
Boundary and an MPO Planning Area Boundary, which have been reviewed and approved by the Iowa DOT and
FHWA.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE MPO AND RPA HAVE AGREED THAT the Iowa DOT shall proceed with allocating STBG, TAP,
and CRP (MPO only) funding, subject to all terms, conditions, and obligations conne cted with the federal programs,
based on the delineating boundary and resulting population adjustment described below:
Delineating boundary (map attached): MPO Planning Area Boundary
Resulting population adjustment: 3,603 from the RPA to the MPO
Resulting total population for the MPO: 130,408
Resulting total Johnson County population for the RPA: 22,446
THIS AGREEMENT TO BE IN EFFECT until the next decennial Census unless a special Census, approved boundary
change, or decision to utilize a different boundary, requiring an updated agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereunto have caused this AGREEMENT to be executed by their proper officials
thereunto duly authorized as of the dates below indicated, in consideration of the mut ual covenants, promises, and
representations contained herein.
________________________ __________________________
Louise From Jon Zirkelbach
Chairperson Chairperson
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County East Central Iowa Council of Governments
Date:____________________ Date:______________________
Date: June 28, 2024
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #4(a): Public Hearing and consideration of resolutions of adoption and
certification for the FY2025-2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program
The annual Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is our local programming document for
federal and state surface transportation projects. The TIP has been updated to reflect the recent
programming of projects through federal FY2028. Since the document was published for public
comment, the Iowa DOT has submitted a few non-substantive changes that have been
incorporated. To date, we have received no public comment on the projects in the FY2025-2028
TIP.
i. Staff presentation of the FY2025-2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program
ii. Public Hearing
iii. Consider a resolution adopting the FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program for
the Iowa City Urbanized Area, and authorizing the MPOJC Chairperson to sign associated
documents contained therein
Please be prepared to consider approval of the TIP, including the resolution of adoption
(attached).
iv. Consider a resolution certifying compliance with federal requirements for conducting the
urban transportation planning process in the Iowa City Urbanized Area
Please be prepared to consider the resolution of compliance (attached).
I will be at your July 10th meeting to present this item and answer any questions you may have.
Attached: The FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (includes resolutions and
certifications)
Prepared by: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner, 410 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 356-5235
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-__________
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE FY2025-2028 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
FOR THE IOWA CITY URBANIZED AREA AND AUTHORIZING THE MPO CHAIRPERSON TO
SIGN ASSOCIATED DOCUMENTATION CONTAINED THEREIN
WHEREAS, governmental bodies in the Iowa City Urbanized Area have established the
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County; and
WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of Iowa has designated the Metropolitan Planning
Organization of Johnson County as the metropolitan planning organization for the Iowa City
Urbanized Area; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County Transportation Planning
Division has developed the FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) in
conjunction with the 3-C transportation planning process; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration make grant
funds available for the purposes of carrying out projects contained in the TIP.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE URBANIZED AREA POLICY BOARD OF THE
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION OF JOHNSON COUNTY:
1. To adopt the FY2025-2028 MPO Transportation Improvement Program for the Iowa City
Urbanized Area subject to review comments from the United States Department of
Transportation (FHWA and FTA) and Iowa Department of Transportation.
2. To authorize the MPO Chairperson to sign all related documents contained within the TIP.
It was moved by __________ and seconded by __________ the Resolution be adopted. The motion
passed on a vote of ____ affirmative and ____ negative.
Considered on this 10th day of July 2024.
Chairperson
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Prepared by: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner, 410 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 356-5235
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-__________
RESOLUTION CERTIFYING COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR
CONDUCTING THE URBAN TRANSPORTATION PLANNING PROCESS IN THE IOWA CITY
URBANIZED AREA
WHEREAS, regulations published jointly by the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal
Transit Administration allow states and metropolitan planning organizations to certify that the urban
transportation planning process complies with federal laws and regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Iowa City Urbanized Area has been established by the United States Department
of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, to have a population in excess of 50,000; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County has been officially
designated as the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Iowa City Urbanized Area by the
Governor of the State of Iowa.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE METROPOLITAN PLANNING
ORGANIZATION OF JOHNSON COUNTY URBANIZED AREA POLICY BOARD CERTIFIES
THAT:
In compliance with 23-CFR 450.336(a), this resolution certifies that the planning process addressed
the major issues facing the area and was conducted in accordance with all applicable requirements
of: (1) 23 U.S.C. 134, 49 U.S.C. 5303, and this subpart; (2) In nonattainment and maintenance
areas, sections 174 and 176(c) and (d) of the Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 7504, 7506(c)
and (d)) and 40 CFR part 93; (3) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C.
2000d-1) and 49 CFR part 21; (4) 49 U.S.C. 5332, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race,
color, creed, national origin, sex, or age in employment or business opportunity; (5) Section 1101(b)
of the FAST Act (Pub. L. 114-357) and 49 CFR part 26 regarding the involvement of disadvantaged
business enterprises in DOT funded projects; (6) 23 CFR part 230, regarding the implementation of
an equal employment opportunity program on Federal and Federal-aid highway construction
contracts; (7) The provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et
seq.) and 49 CFR parts 27, 37, and 38; (8) The Older Americans Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6101),
prohibiting discrimination on the basis of age in programs or activities receiving Federal financial
assistance; (9) Section 324 of title 23 U.S.C. regarding the prohibition of discrimination based on
gender; and (10) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794) and 49 CFR part 27
regarding discrimination against individuals with disabilities
It was moved by __________ and seconded by __________ the resolution be adopted. The
motion passed on a vote of ____ affirmative and ____ negative.
Considered on this 10th day of July 2024.
Chairperson
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
FTA Financial Capacity Analysis Statement
In accordance with the requirements of FTA Circular 7008.1, an assessment has been made of
the financial capacity of Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus to
undertake the projects programmed in the FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP) for the Iowa City Urbanized Area. The above-mentioned transit systems share the financial
capacity to undertake the projects listed in the TIP. The following summary establishes the
financial capacity for these systems.
Chairperson
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Date
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE WITH PRIVATE ENTERPRISE REQUIREMENTS
1. The preparation of the FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for the
Iowa City Urbanized Area has been completed in compliance with the MPO Public
Participation Policy for the Iowa City Urbanized Area.
2. No proposals were received from private business enterprises.
3. Private business enterprises have indicated no impediments to competitive bidding of any
services contained in the FY2025-2028 TIP for the Iowa City Urbanized Area.
4. No complaints have been received from private business enterprises.
Chairperson
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Date
Transportation Improvement Program
Iowa City Urbanized Area
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
Fiscal Year 2025-2028
Adopted by the Urbanized Area Policy Board July 10, 2024
DRAFT
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
Fiscal Years 2025-2028
TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM - DRAFT
For the Iowa City Urbanized Area
Adopted by the MPO Urbanized Area Policy Board
July 10, 2024
MPOJC Staff
Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Emily Bothell, Senior Associate Transportation Planner
Sarah Walz, Associate Transportation Planner
Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner
Madelyn Stoen, Associate Transportation Planner
Disclaimer: The MPO prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal
Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching funds of the
MPO member entities. These contents are the responsibility of the MPOJC. The US Government and its
agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. Please call (319) 356-
5230 to obtain permission of use.
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Meghann Foster Mayor, Coralville
Royce Peterson Coralville City Council
Megan Alter Iowa City City Council
Laura Bergus Iowa City City Council
Andrew Dunn Iowa City City Council
Shawn Harmsen Iowa City City Council
Josh Moe Iowa City City Council
Mazahir Salih Iowa City City Council
Jon Green Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Rod Sullivan, Vice-Chair Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Chris Hoffman Mayor, North Liberty
Brian Wayson North Liberty City Council
Tim Kasparek Mayor, Tiffin
Louise From, Chair Mayor, University Heights
Greg Schmitt University of Iowa
Molly Abraham (non-voting) Iowa City School Board
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
Kelly Hayworth City Administrator, Coralville
Scott Larson City Engineer, Coralville
Vicky Robrock Manager, Coralville Transit
Darian Nagle-Gamm Director, Trans. Services, Iowa City
Mark Rummel Asst. Director, Trans. Services, Iowa City
Ron Knoche Director, Public Works, Iowa City
Jason Havel City Engineer, Iowa City
Scott Sovers Asst. City Engineer, Iowa City
Ryan Rusnak Planning Director, North Liberty
Josiah Bilskemper City Engineer, North Liberty
Louise From Mayor, University Heights
Doug Boldt City Administrator, Tiffin
Greg Parker Johnson County Engineer
Dawn Alam Director, Johnson County SEATS
Brian McClatchey Manager, University of Iowa Cambus
David Kieft Business Manager, University of Iowa
Vacant MPOJC Regional Trails & Bicycling Comm.
Cathy Cutler (ex-officio) Transportation Planner, Iowa DOT
Darla Hugaboom (ex-officio) Federal Highway Administration, Ames
Brock Grenis (ex-officio) East Central Iowa Council of Governments
Daniel Nguyen (ex-officio) Federal Transit Administration, Kansas City
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents 1
Resolution of adoption 2
Resolution certifying performance with federal transportation 3
planning process requirements
Certification of FTA financial capacity analysis statement 4
Certification of compliance with private enterprise requirements 5
Introduction 6
Project status reports 7
Regionally Significant Projects 12
Transportation Improvement Program projects 13
TIP project locations 26
Revising the Approved TIP 27
MPO Public Input Process 29
MPO project selection procedures 37
Fiscal constraint of the TIP 41
Federal Transit Administration financial analysis 47
Performance Based Planning 52
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Introduction
The MPO of Johnson County Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the programming
document for federally funded surface transportation improvements within the Iowa City Urbanized
Area. This document includes transportation projects for all modes of surface transportation,
including street and highway, transit, bicycle, and pedestrian projects. Transportation projects
receiving federal funds are programmed in the Transportation Improvement Program.
The following organizations have contributed to the preparation of this planning document:
• City of Coralville
• City of Iowa City
• City of North Liberty
• City of Tiffin
• City of University Heights
• Iowa Department of Transportation
• Johnson County
• University of Iowa
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Project Status Reports
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Each of the three fixed route transit providers in the metropolitan area use different mechanisms to
produce the local funding to match FTA/STA funds for local projects. Coralville Transit uses general
fund, transit levy dollars, and income from their intermodal facility to cover the local match for
projects, Iowa City Transit uses transit levy funds and intermodal facility income, and University of
Iowa Cambus uses student and parking fees. All transit projects listed in the TIP include local funding.
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Regionally Significant Projects
Regionally Significant Projects are submitted in the TIP to ensure environmental review throughout
the project development process. The inclusion of a project in the TIP does not guarantee federal aid
eligibility or funding. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis when project authorization is
requested from the FHWA and the FTA. The following projects and cost estimates represent
regionally significant projects:
Coralville
• I-80/1st Avenue Interchange: $32.2 million
• Forevergreen Road extension from 12th Avenue to Naples Avenue: $3 million
• Kansas Avenue from Forevergreen Road to Highway 6: $7.5 million
Iowa City
• Dodge Street from Governor Street to Burlington Street: $14.2 million
• Taft Avenue from Lower West Branch Road to American Legion Road: $11 million
Tiffin
• Park Road from Hwy 6 to Forevergreen Road: $7.8 million (one phase remaining)
North Liberty
• Ranshaw Way (Highway 965) Corridor Forevergreen Road to Hawkeye Drive: $5.8 million
(one phase remaining)
• Forevergreen Road extension from Naples Avenue to North Liberty Road: $3 million
Iowa DOT
• I-80 widening approximately from Highway 1 to County Road X 30: $53 million
• I-380 widening from Forevergreen Road to Swan Lake Road: $63 million
University Heights
• Melrose Avenue improvements from Sunset Street to east city limits: $1.5 million
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*MPOJC tracks projects using the cost estimate at the time of funding allocation. The project costs are not inflated.
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TIP Project Locations
The following map shows the general project locations for all Iowa DOT projects and projects funded
with regional STBG, and TAP funds in the Iowa City Urbanized Area.
(Map produced by Iowa Department of Transportation/TPMS)
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Revising the Approved TIP
Revisions are defined as any changes to the TIP that occur outside of the annual updating process.
There are two types of changes that occur under the umbrella of revision. The first is a major revision
or “Amendment.” The second is a minor revision or “Administrative Modification.” The MPO uses the
following definitions and thresholds when determining an amendment vs. an administrative
modification.
Amendments: An amendment is a revision to the TIP that involves a major change to a project
included in the TIP, the creation of a new project, a major change in design concept, or a c hange in
scope or project cost.
The following criteria define the need for an amendment:
• Project Cost: Projects in which the recalculated project costs increase federal aid by more
than 30% or increase total federal aid by more than $2 million from the original amount.
• Schedule Changes: Projects added or deleted from the TIP.
• Funding Sources: Adding an additional federal funding source.
• Scope Changes: Changing the project termini, project alignment, the number of through
lanes, type of work from an overlay to reconstruction, or a change to include widening of the
roadway.
Procedural Requirements for an Amendment: Amendments are considered major revisions and
therefore have additional procedural requirements. When the TIP is amended, MPOJC is required to
conduct our adopted amendment process, including public review and comment, re-demonstration
of fiscal constraint or a conformity determination (non-exempt projects in nonattainment and
maintenance areas), review by the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC), and Policy
Board approval. Notices announcing TIP amendments are published in the Iowa City Press-Citizen a
minimum of 15 days prior to an Urbanized Area Policy Board meeting.
Iowa DOT sponsored projects located within the MPO planning boundary must also use the MPO’s
public participation process. Illustrative projects that are found to be regionally significant must also
be revised using the MPOJC adopted amendment process.
Administrative Modifications: A minor revision to a TIP is known as an administrative modification.
Administrative modifications include minor changes to project costs, minor changes to funding
sources, and minor changes to project phase initiation dates. Administrative modifications are subject
to re-demonstration of fiscal constraint of the TIP.
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The following criteria define the need for an administrative modification:
• Project Costs: Projects in which the recalculated project costs do not increase federal aid by
more than 30% or do not increase total federal aid by more than $2 million from the original
amount.
• Schedule Changes: Changes in schedules to projects included in the first four years of the
TIP.
• Funding Sources: Changing funding from one source to another.
• Scope changes: All changes to a project’s scope will require an amendment.
Procedural Requirements for an Administrative Modification: Administrative modifications have
simplified procedures which allow more flexibility when processing changes. Public participation
procedures are not required for administrative modifications (both local and DOT projects).
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MPO Public Input Process
Providing opportunities for public input during planning processes ensures that future development
is informed by the interests of the community. As a result, residents of MPOJC entities are routinely
encouraged to participate in local planning processes. The following MPOJC Public Participation
Plan, in accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations section §450.316 “Interested parties,
participation, and consultation”, documents a process for providing citizens and stakeholders with
reasonable opportunities to be involved in the planning process.
The core public involvement opportunities for MPOJC work products include the development and
adoption of the Long Range Multi-modal Transportation Plan, the Transportation Improvement
Program, the Passenger Transportation Plan, the Transportation Planning Work Program, and
apportionment of Surface Transportation Block Grant Program and Transportation Alternatives
Program funds. Similarly, the entities of Coralville, Iowa City, North Liberty, Tiffin, University Heights,
Johnson County, and the University of Iowa each follow their own public involvement processes when
developing or updating local plans. The University of Iowa uses the MPO’s Public Participation Plan
process to satisfy the public participation requirements for its annual Program of Projects for transit.
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) public notice of public involvement activities and time
established for public review and comment on the TIP will satisfy the Transit Program of Projects
requirements of the FTA Section 5307 Program.
Core Public Involvement Opportunities
MPOJC gathers public comment on each key work product and forwards the comments to the
Urbanized Area Policy Board and sub-committees for consideration during the decision-making
process. The following three methods form the foundation for public involvement during development
of key MPOJC products.
Public Comment Period
MPOJC staff initiates a formal public comment period lasting 30 days prior to the adoption
and/or amendment of the Long-Range Transportation Plan, the Transportation Improvement
Program (15 days minimum prior for TIP amendments), and the Passenger Transportation
Plan. During public comment periods, residents are encouraged to submit written comments
on the given topic. MPOJC staff then forwards these comments to the MPOJC Urbanized
Area Policy Board for consideration during the decision-making process. Written public input
may be submitted to:
Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
410 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52245
kent-ralston@iowa-city.org
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Urbanized Area Policy Board Public Meetings
In addition to written input, residents are encouraged to attend and provide comments at
regularly scheduled Urbanized Area Policy Board meetings where MPOJC work products are
adopted or amended.
Staff typically provides a brief presentation followed by a period for formal public comment.
Anyone wishing to provide input is given an opportunity. All comments become part of the
public record and are provided to the Urbanized Area Policy Board in full prior to action by
the Urbanized Area Policy Board. Public meetings of the Urbanized Area Policy Board are
open to the public and are subject to the Iowa’s Open Meetings Law.
MPO member entities may request a special meeting of the Urbanized Area Policy Board to
consider time sensitive amendments to the adopted Transportation Improvement Program.
This capability is intended to prevent costly delays in the project letting process.
Public Workshops/Open Houses
Public workshops are informal and open to all residents. The purpose of the workshop is to
provide information to the public and to solicit public comment. An attendance record is kept
and attendees are given the opportunity to sign up for the MPOJC mailing list. MPOJC staff
typically provides a brief presentation, share information using displays and handouts, and
interact with the public to answer questions. Public workshops are frequently used for key
MPOJC work products.
Accommodations for Special Populations
All meeting rooms are accessible by ADA standards. Additionally, any MPO documents can
be made available in alternative formats upon request. Individuals with disabilities may
request special accommodations by contacting MPOJC staff at (319) 356-5230.
Getting the Word Out About Upcoming Public Involvement Events
MPOJC uses five outlets to notify residents about upcoming public comment periods and public
workshops:
• Residents may sign-up to receive email notices of public input opportunities by visiting
www.icgov.org/e-subscriptions and completing the subscription form.
• Notices of public input opportunities are published in the Iowa City Press Citizen and the
Gazette.
• The MPOJC website (www.MPOJC.org) lists upcoming meeting information.
• Posters are displayed Iowa City, Coralville, and University of Iowa Cambus buses regarding
TIP approval translated into Spanish and Chinese (simplified).
• Notices are sent to the following MPOJC Public Input Organizations:
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❖ Access 2 Independence
❖ Allen Lund Company
❖ Bicyclists of Iowa City
❖ Citizens for Sensible Development
❖ Clear Creek Amana School District
❖ Iowa City Area Assoc. of Realtors
❖ Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
❖ Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center
❖ Iowa City Neighborhood Services Office
❖ Iowa City Sierra Club
❖ Iowa City School Board
❖ Iowa Interstate Railroad
❖ MPOJC Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee
❖ Johnson County Historic Preservation Commission
❖ Johnson Co. Historical Society
❖ Coralville Parks & Recreation Commission
❖ CRANDIC Railroad
❖ Environmental Advocates
❖ FAIR!
❖ Friends of the Iowa River Scenic Trail
❖ Friends of Historic Preservation
❖ Greater Iowa City, Inc.
❖ Goodwill of the Heartland
❖ Iowa Bicycle Coalition
❖ Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission
❖ Johnson County SEATS
❖ League of Women Voters of Johnson County
❖ North Liberty Parks & Recreation Commission
❖ North Liberty Community Center
❖ Project GREEN
❖ Soil & Water Conservation Service
❖ Systems Unlimited
❖ Tiffin Planning and Zoning Commission
To request being added to the MPOJC Public Input Organization list, please contact MPOJC staff
at (319) 356-5230.
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Summary of Public Participation Procedures
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Official Publication
Iowa City Press-Citizen, June 11, 2024
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County will be holding a public hearing on
the “FY2025-2028 Transportation Improvement Program” (TIP) for the Iowa City Urbanized Area.
The TIP is the programming document for all surface transportation and transit projects that
receive state or federal funds, including street & highway, transit, rail, bicycle, and pedestrian
projects in the Iowa City urbanized area. The notice of public participation activities and time
established for public review of and comments on the TIP will satisfy the transit Section 5307
Program of Projects requirements.
The public hearing will be held on July 10th, 2024 at 4:30 pm at the City of Coralville City Council
Chambers, 1512 7th Street, Coralville, IA 52241.
Information about the proposed TIP can be found at www.MPOJC.org. Interested persons are
encouraged to attend the public hearing or forward written comments by 5:00 pm, July 9th, 2024
to Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner, MPOJC, 410 E. Washington St., Iowa City IA
52240; or by email at hneel@iowa-city.org. For more information on the meeting, or if you require
disability related accommodations, please contact staff at least 48 hours prior to the event.
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MPO Project Selection Procedures
Funding Allocation Process for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program,
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) funds
1. Application forms for the MPO Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program,
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) funds are
distributed to members of the MPO Transportation Technical Advisory Committee. Project
sponsors must describe the project, the modes of transportation affected, and terrai n and right-
of-way needs and the funding request.
2. Summaries of projects and funding requests are distributed to the MPO transportation planning
public input process organizations, and posted on the MPO website.
3. MPO staff evaluates and assigns scores and rankings to the projects, according to the MPO-
adopted scoring criteria.
4. MPO staff evaluates the applications to ensure the proposed projects conform with the MPO
Long Range Multi-modal Transportation Plan and that the projects are federal-aid eligible.
5. Project applications and rankings are forwarded to the MPO Transportation Tech nical Advisory
Committee (TTAC) that considers the applications at a public meeting. In considering a
recommendation on project funding, the TTAC consider project scores and rankings, public input,
application materials and discussion from applicants. The TTAC makes a recommendation to the
MPO Urbanized Area Policy Board on project funding.
6. A summary of the applications, project scores and rankings, public input and the TTAC funding
recommendation are forwarded to the MPO Urbanized Area Policy Board for review and
ultimately a vote on project funding. The Board will also hold a public hearing to provide additional
opportunity for public input.
7. The last step is revising the MPO Transportation Improvement Program to add projects and
funding levels consistent with the MPO Board’s decision. The Transportation Improvement
Program is approved by the Board each July.
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Surface Transportation Block Grant , Transportation Alternative Program , and
Carbon Reduction Program – Scoring Criteria
MPOJC Policy Board Approved November 16, 2022
1: Economic Opportunity – Supports metro area growth, innovation, job creation, and productivity
A. Project improves/provides direct access to planned growth area, existing jobs, or retail +5
B. Project involves more than one MPO jurisdiction +1 each (Points Possible: 7)
Total Points Possible: 12 (13%)
Score:
2: Environment1 – Preserves and protects our natural resources, including land, water and air quality
A. Project promotes air quality improvements via congestion reduction through one or more of the
following: Geometric improvements (physical improvements that improve motorist operations),
ITS/signalization improvements, Reduction of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), Improvement to
turning movements +1 each (Points Possible: 4)
B. Project preserves the natural environment through Stormwater Management practices such as:
Incorporating permeable pavements, bioretention, soil restoration, etc. +1 each (Points
Possible: 3)
Total Points Possible: 7 (8%)
Score:
3: Quality of Life – Enhances livability and creates vibrant and appealing places that serve residents throughout
their lives
A. Project directly enhances safe route(s) to school, or improves transportation choices for locations
specifically serving multi-family developments or elderly populations +5
Total Points Possible: 5 (5%)
Score:
4: System Preservation – Maintained in good and reliable condition
A. Maintenance or improvement to existing facility/infrastructure +5
Total Points Possible: 5 (5%)
Score:
5: Efficiency – Builds a well-connected transportation network and coordinating land use patterns to reduce travel
demand, miles travelled, and fossil fuel consumption
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A. Project in a corridor with existing congestion (defined as having LOS E or F during peak hours
according to the adopted MPO Travel Demand Model) +7
B. Project in a corridor with forecasted future congestion (defined as having LOS E or F during peak
hours according to adopted MPO Travel Demand Model, LOS map is attached) +7
Total Points Possible: 14 (15%)
Score:
6: Choice – Offers multi-modal transportation options that are affordable and accessible
A. Project is on existing bus route (bus route map is attached) +3
B. Separated trail or wide sidewalk (8’ or wider) +3
C. Project reduces modal conflict (pedestrian hybrid beacons, grade separation, dedicated bicycle
lanes or sharrows, bus pull-off, etc.) +3
Total Points Possible: 9 (10%)
Score:
7: Safety – Designed and maintained to enhance the safety and security of all users
A. History involving two or more documented bicycle or pedestrian collisions in the last five years
(collision maps are attached) +7
B. Top 25 highest MPO accident locations or top 10 highest accident mid -blocks in last three years
(accident tables are attached) +7
OR
C. Sight distance or related safety issue documented by an expert (planner/engineer) +7
Total Points Possible for A&B: 14 (15%)
OR
Total Points Possible for C: 7
Score:
8: Health – Invites and enhances healthy and active lifestyles
A. Project extends regional trail network (map is attached) +3
B. Project addresses critical gap in the regional trail network +5
Total Points Possible: 8 (9%)
Score:
9: Equity2 – Provides access and opportunity for all people and neighborhoods
A. Project improves transportation network in lower-income neighborhoods +5
B. Focus of the project is to correct ADA non-compliance +3
Total Points Possible: 8 (9%)
Score:
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10: Local Commitment – Gauges local commitment to the project including local and/or state funds pledged
A. Local match 20.1% - 30% +1
B. Local match 30.1% - 40% +3
C. Local match 40.1% - 50% +5
D. Local match 50.1% - 60% +7
E. Local match 60.1% - or more +9
Total Points Possible: 9 (10%)
Score:
Total Score:
1Not used to score Transportation Alternatives Program or Carbon Reduction Program projects
2Lower-income neighborhoods are defined as being at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) by block group.
Source: American Community Survey (2019)
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Fiscal constraint of the TIP
Operations and Maintenance
To ensure the entities that comprise the MPO are capable of maintaining and operating their
transportation system, the following spreadsheets show that annual operations and maintenance
costs are less than forecasted revenues from non-federal-aid sources.
STBG, TAP, and CRP Funds Allocated
The following spreadsheets summarize the allocations of regional Surface Transportation Block Grant
Program, Transportation Alternatives Program, and Carbon Reduction Program funds allocated to
MPO communities by the MPO Urbanized Area Policy Board. The MPO Policy Board uses future
funding targets provided by the Iowa DOT to apportion regional STBG, TAP, and CRP funds.
Once the ‘final allocation’ of regional STBG, TAP, and CRP funds for current funding years are issued
by Iowa DOT, the total funds granted to the MPO are adjusted. For example, if the final allocation of
STBG funds issued by Iowa DOT was larger than the total amount of funding allocated using funding
targets, a surplus of funds is carried forward.
While the final allocation of Regional STBG, TAP, and CRP typically differs from initial finding targets
vs. funding targets, funds allocated by the MPO Policy Board are always less than the initial funding
targets issued by Iowa DOT. In this way, the MPO TIP remains fiscally constrained.
For Iowa DOT and earmark projects, the MPO TIP includes only those projects that have been
allocated federal funds. In this way, the MPO TIP is fiscally constrained for other federal aid projects
that occur within the MPO transportation planning boundary.
Forecasts of Available Revenue
Each year prior to development of the Iowa DOT’s Five‐Year Program and the Statewide
Transportation Improvement Program both state and federal revenue forecasts are completed to
determine the amount of funding available for programming. These forecasts are a critical component
in the development of the Five‐Year Program and as such are reviewed with the Iowa Transportation
Commission. The primary sources of state funding to the DOT are the Primary Road Fund and TIME-
21 Fund. These state funds are used for the operation, maintenance and construction of the Primary
Road System. The amount of funding available for operations and maintenance are determined by
legislative appropriations. Additional funding is set aside for statewide activities including engineering
costs. The remaining funding is available for right of way and construction activities associated with
the highway program.
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Along with the state funds, the highway program utilizes a portion of the f ederal funds that are
allocated to the state. A federal funding forecast is prepared each year based on the latest
apportionment information available. This forecast includes the various federal programs and
identifies which funds are allocated to the Iowa DOT for programming and which funds are directed
to locals through the MPO/RPA planning process, Highway Bridge Program and various grant
programs. Implementation of a federal aid swap will increase the amount of federal funds that are
utilized by the Iowa DOT.
For more information regarding Iowa DOT projects programmed in the MPOJC FY2025-2028 TIP,
please refer to the Iowa DOT’s Office of Program Management’s Five -Year Program webpage:
https://iowadot.gov/program_management/Five-Year-Program
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Federal Fiscal Year FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
STBG Funding Target $3,932,000 $4,006,000 $4,006,000 $3,854,709
Carry-Over from prior year $9,812,218 $3,584,218 $4,690,218 $6,696,218
Projects Sub-total $13,744,218 $7,590,218 $8,696,218 $10,550,927
Project total $1,549,936
Regional STBG Aid ($730,000)
Project total $7,836,000
Regional STBG Aid ($1,200,000)
Project total $14,181,200
Regional STBG Aid ($3,750,000)
Project total $3,105,000
Regional STBG Aid ($864,560)
Project total $11,000,000
Regional STBG Aid ($3,500,000)
Project total $481,000
Regional STBG Aid ($115,440)
Project total $5,800,000
Regional STBG Aid ($2,900,000)
#53520, Coralville, Construct a roundabout at Dubuque Project total $2,645,000
Street NE, Rustic Ridge Rd NE, and Forevergreen Rd Regional STBG Aid ($675,000)
#54730, North Liberty, Reconstruct/rehab S Dubuque St Project total $4,480,000
from S of E Zeller St to roundabout at North Liberty Rd Regional STBG Aid ($1,100,000)
#54738, University Heights, Continuing preventative Project total $470,000
maintenance on Melrose Ave and Sunset St Regional STBG Aid ($225,000)
#55805 Iowa City, Burlington Street/Highway 1 Bridge Project total $30,000,000
Improvements Project Regional STBG Aid ($7,300,000)
$3,584,218 $4,690,218 $6,696,218 $3,250,927Running total per year regional STBG
#39152, Tiffin, North Park Road: Hwy 6 north to Aster
Drive
#45232, Iowa City, Dodge Street: Burlington Street
north to Governor Street
#48400, Coralville, US 6 E: Over from just west of
Lowes W to I-80 bridge
#48401, Iowa City, Taft Avenue: Lower West Branch
Road S to American Legion Road
#48399, University Heights, Sunset Street: Melrose
Avenue S to Benton Street
#52475, North Liberty, Ranshaw Way: Hawkeye Drive
south to Forevergreen Road
#38309, University Heights, Melrose Avenue: Sunset
Street east to east city limits
Surface Transportation Block Grant Program
Summary of costs and federal aid
Federal Fiscal Year FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
Iowa TAP Funding Target $389,000 $401,000 $401,000 $378,517
Carry-Over from prior year $1,060,514 $801,396 $682,396 $1,083,396
Projects Sub-total $1,449,514 $1,202,396 $1,083,396 $1,461,913
Project total $1,252,000
Regional TAP ($648,118)
Project total $1,040,000
Regional TAP ($520,000)
$801,396 $682,396 $1,083,396 $1,461,913
Transportation Alternatives Program
Summary of costs and federal aid
Running total per year regional TAP
#45234, North Liberty, North Liberty Rd Trail: from east
of Hodge St to north of Osage Ln
#52476, Iowa City, Hwy 6 Trail: from Broadway Street
to Fairmeadows Boulevard
Federal Fiscal Year FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
Iowa CRP Funding Target $373,000 $381,000 $381,000 364,210$
Carry-Over from prior year $1,013,317 $1,386,317 $1,767,317 $2,148,317
Projects*Sub-total $1,386,317 $1,767,317 $2,148,317 2,512,527$
Project total
Regional CRP Aid
$1,386,317 $1,767,317 $2,148,317 2,512,527$
*Carbon Reduction Program funding has not been allocated.
Carbon Reduction Program
Summary of costs and federal aid
-
Running total per year regional CRP
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Federal Funding By Program and Yea
**Program numbers are in 1,000s
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FTA Financial Analysis
FTA Circular 7008.1, Federal Transit Administration Financial Capacity Policy, requires that all
recipients of FTA funding prepare an annual assessment of their financial condition and financial
capability. FTA has developed a set of guidelines that are used to assess the financial condition and
capability of the three fixed route transit systems in the Iowa City Urbanized Area. The main factors
covered in the assessment are trends in ridership, fare levels and revenues, non-fare revenues, and
unit costs. The analysis is a two-step process with the first step examining the current financial
condition of the transit system using historical data. The second step looks at the likelihood that trends
will continue to meet future operating and capital needs.
Indicators of current financial condition
1. Farebox revenue trends
Coralville Transit:
• The average passenger fare increased by 12.7% between FY2022 and FY2023 to
$0.92. The average fare is expected to increase during the period of FY2025-2028
as Coralville Transit recovers from the effects of COVID-19.
• Ridership increased by 18.2% between FY2022 and FY2023. Ridership had been
declining steadily since peaking in FY2013 due to low fuel prices, area road
construction detours, and alternative transportation options. Due to COVID-19,
transit service was reduced in FY2021, but service has been restored, contributing to
the drastic increase in ridership. Quarterly numbers in FY2024 indicate that ridership
is stabilizing from the effects of COVID-19.
Iowa City Transit:
• The average passenger fare decreased by 7.1% between FY2022 to FY2023 to
$1.00. This decrease is due to Iowa City Transit implementing a fare-free system
starting August 1, 2023. The average fare is expected to decrease during the period
of FY2025-2028 as the Iowa City Transit fare-free system is fully realized.
• Ridership increased by 23.3% between FY2022 and FY2023. As with Coralville
Transit; low fuel prices, area road construction detours, and alternative
transportation options contributed to a steady decrease in ridership since FY2013.
However, Iowa City Transit’s ridership is expected to continue to increase, due to
Iowa City Transit launching as a fare-free system on August 1, 2023. Quarterly
numbers in FY2024 indicate that ridership is increasing.
University of Iowa Cambus:
• University of Iowa Cambus operates a no-fare system so revenue from the farebox is
not a factor.
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• Ridership increased by 7.0% between FY2022 and FY2023. As with Coralville and
Iowa City Transit; low fuel prices, area road construction detours, and alternative
transportation options contributed to a steady decrease in ridership since FY2013.
However, Cambus ridership is also expected to stabilize. Much of the ridership
recovery depends on what the University does with online class and work options.
Quarterly numbers in FY2024 indicate that ridership is increasing.
2. Non-farebox revenue trends
Coralville Transit:
• Coralville Transit saw an increase of 5.2% in FTA operating funding in FY2024. The
apportionment of 5307 FTA funding is based on an approved MPOJC formula. The
formula is a fixed-percentage-based allocation based on a historic average that
considers operating/maintenance costs, locally-determined income, revenue miles,
and fare revenue.
• State Transit Assistance increased by 2.9% from FY2024 to FY2025. Due to the
reduced effect of COVID-19 on State revenues, funding levels are expected to
increase for the period FY2025-2028. Local tax/transit levy revenue will continue to
provide approximately 16.6% of Coralville Transit’s operating funding during the
period FY2025-2028, same as the period FY2024-2027.
Iowa City Transit:
• Iowa City Transit saw a 2.1% increase in FTA operating funding in FY2024. The
apportionment of 5307 FTA funding is based on an approved MPOJC formula. The
formula is a fixed-percentage-based allocation based on a historic average that
considers operating/maintenance costs, locally-determined income, revenue miles,
and fare revenue.
• State Transit Assistance saw the same 2.9% increase in funding from FY2024 to
FY2025. Due to the reduced effect of COVID-19 on State revenues, funding levels
are expected to increase for the period FY2025-2028. The local transit levy revenue
will provide about 49.7% of Iowa City Transit’s operating funding during the period
FY2025-2028, same as the period FY2024-2027.
University of Iowa Cambus:
• University of Iowa Cambus experienced a 8.2% increase in FTA operating funding in
FY2024. The apportionment of 5307 FTA funding is based on an approved MPOJC
formula. The formula is a fixed-percentage-based allocation based on a historic
average that considers operating/maintenance costs, locally-determined income,
revenue miles, and fare revenue.
• State Transit Assistance increased by 2.9%, like Coralville and Iowa City from
FY2024 to FY2025. Due to the reduced effect of COVID-19 on State revenues,
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funding levels are expected to increase for the period FY2025-2028. For period
FY2025-2028, 57.6% of Cambus funding comes from student fees that are paid each
semester by University of Iowa students and from transfers from the university
parking fund and other university departments.
3. Cost trends
When looking at operating costs from FY2022 to FY2023, Coralville Transit experienced a
9.3% increase, Iowa City Transit experienced a 0.5% decrease, and University of Iowa
Cambus experienced a 10.7% increase. The increases are attributed to rising wages and
benefits during pre-COVID-19 operations. With the extreme reduction in transit service in
FY21 and the subsequent recovery from COVID-19, operating costs will be difficult to predict
for all three systems during the FY2025-2028 period.
4. Cost effectiveness trends
Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, University of Iowa Cambus: Between FY2022 and
FY2023 as measured by cost per mile, Coralville Transit increased 9.6% from $8.05 to $8.82;
Iowa City Transit cost per mile decreased by 3.6% from $9.78 to $9.43; and University of
Iowa Cambus increased by 20.8% from $6.41 to $7.74.
The cost per hour for Coralville Transit increased from $96.27 to $105.38; Iowa City Transit’s
cost per hour decreased from $130.36 to $124.27; and University of Iowa Cambus cost per
hour increased from $61.73 to $75.20.
The cost per ride on Coralville Transit decreased from $5.92 in FY2022 to $5.47 in FY2023.
Iowa City Transit decreased from $7.80 to $6.29, and University of Iowa Cambus increased
slightly from $1.71 to $1.77.
All of the above trends normally vary from year to year depending on fluctuations in ridership
and operating costs. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed how transit operates
and creates uncertainty for the FY2025-2028 TIP period. That said, Coralville Transit, Iowa
City Transit, and UI Cambus remain three of the most efficient transit systems in the state.
5. Likelihood of trends continuing
Based on the examination of each system’s revenue forecast and projected operating
expenses, Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus will have the
financial capacity to maintain adequate levels of funding for the period covered by the
FY2025-2028 MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program. In addition to local, state, and
federal funding support, Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and Cambus will have recieved
federal support through three additional sources of enhancement funding.
CARES Act funding
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on
March 27, 2020. As part of the CARES Act, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) allocated
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$25 billion to recipients of urbanized area (Section 5307 funding) and rural area formula
funds, with $22.7 billion for large and small urban areas. The State of Iowa received
$35,898,003 in CARES Act funding which included $8,331,763 for the Iowa City Urbanized
Area to be apportioned to Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus
for operating expenses incurred beginning on January 20, 2020.
The CARES Act apportionment was approved by the MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
on May 27, 2020.
Iowa City Transit: $5,109,870
Coralville Transit: $1,318,918
University of Iowa Cambus: $1,902,975
Eligible expenses will be used to maintain current transit services as well as pay for
administrative leave for transit personnel due to reduced operations.
Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) funding
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 (CRRSAA)
was signed into law on December 27, 2020 and included $1,532,506 for the Iowa City
Urbanized Area to be apportioned to Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of
Iowa Cambus. CRRSAA was part of the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) $14 billion
funding allocation to support the Nation's public transportation systems during the COVID-19
public health emergency.
The CRRSAA apportionment was approved by the MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board on
January 27, 2021.
Iowa City Transit: $939,886
Coralville Transit: $242,596
University of Iowa Cambus: $350,024
Eligible expenses will be used to maintain current transit services by prioritizing payroll and
operational needs.
American Rescue Plan Act funding
The American Rescue Plan Act was signed into law on March 11, 2021 as part of a $30.5
billion Federal funding allocation to continue support of public transit during COVID -19. The
funding included an additional $7,496,845 for the Iowa City Urbanized Area to be apportioned
to Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus.
The American Rescue Plan Act apportionment was approved by the MPOJC Urbanized Area
Policy Board on May 26, 2021.
Iowa City Transit: $4,597,815
Coralville Transit: $1,186,751
University of Iowa Cambus: $1,712,279
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Eligible expenses will be used to maintain current transit services as well as pay for
administrative leave for transit personnel due to reduced operations.
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Performance Based Planning
Highway Safety Improvement Program (PM I)
Rather than setting its own safety targets, MPOJC has chosen to support the Iowa DOT’s safety
targets as published in the most recent Iowa Highway Safety Improvement Program Annual Report.
The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and programming all Highway Safety Improvement
Program (HSIP) projects within the MPO boundary that are included in the DOT’s Transportation
Improvement Program.
Any Iowa DOT sponsored HSIP projects within the MPO area were selected based on the strategies
included in the Strategic Highway Safety Plan and safety performance measures and were approved
by the Iowa Transportation Commission. The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder
groups, including MPOJC, as part of its target setting process. Working in partnership with local
agencies, Iowa DOT safety investments were identified and programmed which will construct
effective countermeasures to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The Iowa DOT projects
chosen for HSIP investment are based on crash history, roadway characteristics, and the existence
of infrastructure countermeasure that can address the types of crashes present. The Iowa DOT
continues to utilize a systemic safety improvement process rather than relying on “hot spot” safety
improvements.
Pavement and Bridge (PM II)
Rather than setting its own pavement and bridge targets, MPOJC has chosen to support the Iowa
DOT’s pavement and bridge targets as submitted in the most recent baseline period performance
report. The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and programming all Interstate and Nat ional
Highway System projects within the MPO boundary that are included in the DOT’s Transportation
Improvement Program.
Any Iowa DOT sponsored pavement and bridge projects within the MPO area were determined in
alignment with the Iowa Transportation Asset Management Plan (TAMP) and the pavement and
bridge performance measures. The TAMP connects Iowa in Motion 2050 and system/modal plans to
Iowa DOT’s Five‐Year Program and the STIP. Iowa in Motion 2050 defines a vision for the
transportation system over the next 20 years, while the Five‐Year Program and STIP identify specific
investments over the next four to five years. The TAMP has a 10‐year planning horizon and helps
ensure that investments in the Five‐Year Program and STIP are consistent with Iowa DOT’s longer‐
term vision. Starting in 2019, the TAMP also integrated the pavement and bridge performance
targets.
The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder groups, including MPOJC and local owners of
NHS assets, as part of its target setting process. The methodology used to set targets used current
and historical data on condition and funding to forecast future condition. Asset management focuses
on performing the right treatment at the right time to optimize investments and outcomes.
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Management systems are utilized to predict bridge and pavement needs and help determine the
amount of funding needed for stewardship of the system. The TAMP discusses the major investment
categories that the Iowa DOT Commission allocates funding through. Once the Iowa DOT
Commission approves the funding for these categories, Iowa DOT recommends the allocation of the
funds to specific projects using the processes described in the TAMP. Pavement and bridge projects
are programmed to help meet the desired program outcomes documented in the TAMP.
System and Freight Reliability (PM III)
Rather than setting its own system and freight reliability targets, MPOJC has chosen to support the
Iowa DOT’s system and freight reliability targets as submitted in the most recent baseline period
performance report. The MPO supports those targets by reviewing and programming all Interstate
and National Highway System projects within the MPO boundary that are included in the DOT’s
Transportation Improvement Program.
The Iowa DOT conferred with numerous stakeholder groups, including MPOJC, as part of its target
setting process. Variability within the existing travel time dataset was used to forecast future
condition. Projects focused on improving pavement and bridge condition also often help improve
system reliability and freight movement. Additional projects focused specifically on improving these
areas of system performance are developed in alignment with the target‐setting process for related
performance measures, and the freight improvement strategies and freight investment plan included
in the State Freight Plan. This plan includes a detailed analysis and prioritization of freight bottlenecks,
which are locations that should be considered for further study and possibly for future improvements.
The process also involved extensive input from State, MPO, RPA, and industry representatives. State
projects identified in the freight investment plan and programmed in the STIP were highly‐ranked
freight bottlenecks.
Transit Asset Management Performance Based Planning
Public transit capital projects included in the STIP align with the transit asset management (TAM)
planning and target setting processes undertaken by the Iowa DOT, transit agencies, and MPOs.
The Iowa DOT establishes a group TAM plan and group targets for all small urban and rural providers
while large urban providers establish their own TAM plans and targets. Investments are made in
alignment with TAM plans with the intent of keeping the state’s public transit vehicles and facilities in
a state of good repair and meeting transit asset management targets. The Iowa DOT allocates
funding for transit rollingstock in accordance with the Public Transit Management System process.
In addition, the Iowa DOT awards public transit infrastructure grants in accordance with the project
priorities established in Iowa Code chapter 924. Additional state and federal funding sources that can
be used by transit agencies for vehicle and facility improvements are outlined in the funding chapter
of the Transit Manager’s Handbook. Individual transit agencies determine the use of these sources
for capital and operating expenses based on their local needs.
As part of the development of the TAM Plan, Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of
Iowa Cambus established performance measure targets for rolling stock, equipment, and facilities.
The targets used “useful life” and “condition” benchmarks to measure performance annually. The
performance targets included:
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• Equipment (non-revenue service vehicles over $50,000 in acquisition value) State of Good
Repair Target - Percentage of Vehicles (maintenance trucks/maintenance equipment) that
have met or exceeded their Useful Life Benchmark.
• Facilities State of Good Repair Target with an asset class rated below 3.0 (5 being excellent)
on the TERM (Transit Economic Requirements Model) Scale.
• Rolling Stock State of Good Repair Target - Percentage of Revenue Vehicles within a
particular asset class that have met or exceeded their Useful Life Benchmark.
• Infrastructure Is not applicable.
MPOJC adopted the local transit agency performance targets at the September 2017 Urba nized
Area Policy Board meeting. MPOJC will be required to reflect the adopted performance measures
and targets in all Long-Range Transportation Plans and Transportation Improvement Programs and
report on progress toward those targets. The Urbanized Area Policy Board assures that the MPO will
work cooperatively with the State of Iowa and the respective targets for regional transit asset
management and will work cooperatively with Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of
Iowa Cambus to support the local fixed route systems’ respective targets through the comprehensive,
continuing and cooperative metropolitan transportation planning process, including activities related
to collection of data, tracking, and reporting toward attainment of critical outcomes in the Iowa City
Metropolitan Planning Area.
Transit Safety Performance Based Planning
Public transit capital projects included in the STIP align with the transit safety planning and target
setting processes undertaken by the transit agencies and MPOs. While the Iowa DOT provided
assistance with the development of initial Public Transportation Agency Safety Plans (PTASPs), each
large urban transit provider is responsible for implementing its PTASP, which includes transit safety
targets. Investments are made in alignment with PTASPs with the intent of keeping the state’s public
transit operations, vehicles, and facilities safe and meeting transit safety targets. State and federal
funding sources that can be used by transit agencies for operations, vehicles, and facility
improvements are outlined in the funding chapter of the Transit Manager’s Handbook. Individual
transit agencies determine the use of these sources for capital and operating expenses based on
their local needs.
MPOJC Performance Measures
The MPOJC’s investment priorities (projects) included in the TIP were evaluated for eligibility and
ranked by MPO staff using scoring criteria approved by the Urbanized Area Policy Board. The scoring
criteria are based on the MPO’s 9 Guiding Principles and corresponding performance measures
outlined in the Long-Range Transportation Plan. Furthermore, MPOJC has aligned the Long -Range
Transportation Plan with the State of Iowa’s targets and performance measures, ensuring that the
plans and projects in the TIP contribute to achieving the State’s targets for each performance
measure.