HomeMy WebLinkAbout4.2.25 UAPB Agenda Packet
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Wednesday April 2, 2025 – 4:30 PM
City of North Liberty – City Hall
360 N. Main Street
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
a. Recognize alternates
b. Consider approval of meeting minutes
c. Set next Board meeting date, time and location (May 21, location to be determined)
2. Public Discussion of any item not on the agenda*
3. Transportation Planning
a. Consider approval of Locally Determined Projects for the MPOJC FY2026 Transportation
Planning Work Program
b. Consider approval of MPOJC Surface Transportation Block Grant, Transportation Alternatives
Program, and Carbon Reduction Program funding allocations
c. Consider approval of the MPOJC Title VI Program
d. Update regarding the MPOJC FY2026 Transit Program of Projects
e. Update on the MPOJC Long Range Transportation Plan revision process
f. Update on metro area bicycle and pedestrian collision data
4. Other Business
a. Iowa Bicycle Coalition study on ‘Economic and Health Impacts of Bicycling and Trails in Iowa’
available here: https://iowabicyclecoalition.org/economic-impact-study-of-cycling-and-trails/
5. 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
JANUARY 29, 2025 – 4:30 PM
CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
410 E WASHINGTON STREET, IOWA CITY, IA
MEMBERS PRESENT: Iowa City: Laura Bergus, Megan Alter, Shawn Harmsen,
Mazahir Salih, Josh Moe
Johnson County: V Fixmer-Oraiz, Rod Sullivan
North Liberty: Brian Wayson, Erek Sittig
University Heights: Louise From
University of Iowa: Greg Schmitt
Coralville: Meghann Foster, Royce Peterson
Tiffin: Tim Kasparek
ICCSD: Molly Abraham
STAFF PRESENT: Kent Ralston, Emily Bothell, Hannah Neel, Sarah Walz, Madelyn Stoen
OTHER: Kelly Schneider, Karen Kurt
1. CALL TO ORDER
From called the meeting to order at 4:30 PM. The meeting was held in the City of Iowa
City Council Chambers.
a. Recognize alternates and welcome new board members
V Fixmer-Oraiz (Johnson County) and Tim Kasparek (Tiffin) were recognized as
new members of the Board.
b. Consider approval of meeting minutes
Sullivan moved to approve; Moe seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
c. Set next Board meeting date (March 26, location TBD)
Tentatively scheduled for March 26, 2025, at 4:30 pm. The location is to be
determined.
2. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
3. ADMINISTRATION
a. Report from nominating committee for 2025 MPOJC Board officers
Ralston reminded the Board that at their last meeting in November, a three-person
nominating committee was appointed to nominate the Chair and Vice-Chair for the
2025 Urbanized Area Policy Board. The three members of this committee were
Jon Green (Johnson County), Megan Alter (Iowa City), and Brian Wayson (North
Liberty).
The committee nominated Louise From to remain in the position of Chair and Rod
Sullivan to remain in the position of Vice-Chair.
i. Consider action
Wayson moved to approve the nominations; Moe seconded. The motion
carried unanimously.
b. Consider approval of the FY26 MPOJC Budget and financial forecast
Ralston explained that the primary focus of MPOJC is to continue to fulfill federal
and state requirements necessary for MPOJC entities to receive state and federal
formula and discretionary funds and to produce locally-generated traffic studies,
grant applications, and mapping services for MPOJC members. Ralston reminded
the Board that MPOJC is organized as a division of the City of Iowa City
Neighborhood and Development Services (NDS) Department and that MPOJC
staff also serve as NDS staff.
Ralston stated that the overall budget reflects an approximate 2.38% increase from
FY25, primarily due to increases in costs for staff benefits and wages. Ralston
explained that MPOJC assessments are based on the 2020 decennial census
population of MPOJC entities, as required per MPO bylaws. The budget also
continues to reflect the use of internal carryover funds and Iowa DOT funding.
Ralston expressed concern regarding long-term federal support for MPOJC and
its member entities, as MPOJC is partially federally funded. Ralston will continue
to update the Board on this issue.
Ralston asked the Board for approval of the FY26 MPOJC budget.
Sullivan moved to approve, Alter seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
c. Consider approval of the FY26 Johnson County Assessments for the East Central
Iowa Council of Governments
Ralston stated that MPOJC collects East Central Iowa Council of Governments
(ECICOG) dues for Johnson County entities and forwards those funds to ECICOG.
Ralston explained that these assessments are calculated on a per-capita basis for
the counties served by ECICOG, and that per-capita assessments are then
calculated for each governmental entity in Johnson County. Ralston explained that
for FY26, ECICOG proposed a 2% increase for all the counties it serves.
Sullivan asked Karen Kurt, director of ECICOG, if they had any insight into how
the current state of federal funding will impact ECICOG.
Kurt stated that ECICOG works with funds from federal, state, and local
governments and that a small part of their budget is funded by the federal
government.
Moe moved to approve the FY26 ECICOG budget, Wayson seconded. The
motion carried unanimously.
d. Consider appointments to the East Central Iowa Council of Governments Board of
Directors
Ralston reminded the Board of the entities responsible for appointing members to
the East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) Board of Directors for
2025. Per the MPO bylaws, the entities responsible to appoint elected officials for
2025 included Johnson County, Tiffin, and Hills. The City of Hills indicated that they
would be unable to fill this position, and the opportunity was extended to
Shueyville. Shueyville also indicated that they would be unable to fill this position,
so the opportunity was extended to University Heights, who accepted. Ralston also
noted that the City of Tiffin agreed to allow the City of North Liberty to fill their
appointment. The appointments from each entity are as follows:
• Johnson County: Jon Green (County Supervisor)
• City of North Liberty: Chris Hoffman (Mayor)
• City of University Heights: Nick Herbold (City Council)
• Citizen Appointment: Allison Wells
Sullivan moved to approve the appointments to the ECICOG Board of Directors,
Bergus seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
e. Discuss MPOJC Orientation opportunity for Board members
Ralston offered an orientation for Board members who wish to learn more about
the functions and operations of MPOJC.
V Fixmer-Oraiz and Molly Abraham expressed interest in participating.
Ralston indicated he would communicate with those interested via email to
establish a date and time.
4. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
a. Consider approval of Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Transit
Operating Formula funding apportionment for FY2024
Neel stated that the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) has indicated that
MPOJC has a total of $4,954,667 available in FY2024 FTA Section 5307 operating
assistance, which can be used for transit operating and capital expenses. This
amount includes Small Intensive Transit Communities (STIC) funding.
Neel explained that for more than 10 years, MPOJC used the same local formula
to distribute these funds based on prior year transit statistics from each of the three
systems; 25% operating/maintenance costs, 25% locally determined income (LDI),
25% revenue miles, and 25% fare revenue. Prior to going fare-free on August 1st,
2023, Iowa City Transit requested a review of the formula.
Neel stated that after discussions with transit managers, the consensus was to
adopt a fixed percentage-based allocation, based on historic averages. Neel
reminded the Board that they approved the following fixed percentages to
apportion FTA 5307 funds at their July 2023 meeting: Coralville 16.10%, Iowa City
60.50%, and University of Iowa Cambus 23.40%. These percentages can be
reviewed if or when there are major changes to any of the three local transit
systems.
Neel then noted the proposed apportionments for each agency for FY24:
• Coralville Transit: $797,701
• Iowa City Transit: $2,997,574
• University of Iowa Cambus: $1,159,392
Neel asked for approval of the FY24 FTA 5037 apportionments and noted that the
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee voted unanimously to recommend
approval of the apportionments.
Schmitt asked for clarification on what constitutes a major change that would
necessitate a review of the formula.
Neel responded that the formula can be reviewed whenever requested by a transit
agency.
Ralston stated that the purpose of the formula is to enable transit agencies to plan
their budgets with relatively stable funding amounts over the long term, rather than
having the formula reviewed and revised each year.
Schmitt asked if there was an ideal time of year to review and revise the formula.
Ralston indicated that if there is interest in changing the formula, this process could
begin as early as this summer.
Schmitt explained that between 2022 and 2024, the University of Iowa Cambus
has undergone significant staffing changes, adding eight full-time positions. Of
these positions, three are dedicated to training staff in order to comply with federal
regulations for CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training and testing.
Additionally, Cambus provides testing services for both the Iowa City and Coralville
transit staff. Cambus also incurred costs to transition to online scheduling software
for its paratransit services. Schmitt mentioned that Cambus will be expanding its
route coverage later this spring to include service to the new medical center in
North Liberty.
Schmitt acknowledged Iowa City Transit's request to review the formula before
implementing a fare-free policy. He pointed out that Cambus has always been a
fare-free system but has historically been at a disadvantage because this aspect
is included in the formula. Schmitt mentioned that there are better indicators that
could more accurately reflect what the fare is intended to demonstrate—
specifically, ridership. Additionally, for FY2024, Iowa City Transit will receive credit
for a fare it does not actually collect. Schmitt anticipates requesting a review of the
formula in the future to ensure it is more equitable among the three transit
agencies.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked Schmitt about the percentage of student fees that are
allocated for transportation.
Schmitt responded that there are student fees allocated to transportation, but
Cambus is open to the general public fare-free, not only students.
Fixmer-Oraiz stated that having information about the amount of student fees
allocated to transportation would be helpful for future conversations.
Ralston stated that while student fees have not been included in the past, that is
another change that could be considered if the formula were to be reevaluated.
Alter asked how many transit staff have completed the CDL training and testing
offered by Cambus and how long Cambus has offered this service.
Schmitt mentioned that Cambus has introduced this service in response to the
ongoing challenge of training drivers. While he didn't have exact figures, he
indicated that this situation occurs quite regularly. He would gather and share more
specific information with Alter.
From asked for a motion to approve the Federal Transit Administration Section
5307 Transit Operating Formula funding apportionment for FY2024.
Moe moved to approve, Harmsen seconded. The motion carried with Schmitt
opposed.
b. Consider approval of MPOJC Surface Transportation Block Grant, Transportation
Alternatives Program, and Carbon Reduction Program grant funding process
Bothell explained that MPOJC typically conducts the competitive grant process
biennially, with 2025 marking the next grant cycle year. Bothell stated that MPOJC
staff anticipates approximately $10 million in Surface Transportation Block Grant
(STBG) funding will be available for programming in FY2029-2030, approximately
$2 million in Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding will be available
for programming in FY2027-FY2030, and approximately $3 million in Carbon
Reduction Program (CRP) funding will be available for programming in FY2026-
2030. Bothell noted that the grant funding process is expected to follow the
tentative grant funding timeline:
• February 3, 2025 – Notice of funding opportunity emailed to all jurisdictions.
• February 24, 2025 – STBG, TAP, and CRP applications due by 5:00 pm.
• March 5, 2025 – Regional Trails and Bicycle Committee (RTBC) meeting to
review and discuss projects.
• March 18, 2025 – Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC)
meeting to review projects and provide a recommendation on funding
allocations to the Urbanized Area Policy Board (UAPB).
• May 2025 – UAPB meeting to review projects and approve funding allocations.
• July 2025 – Final FY2026-2029 Transportation Improvement Program
presented to the UAPB for adoption.
Bothell stated that this timeline was unanimously approved by the Transportation
Technical Advisory Committee at their last meeting. Bothell asked the Board for a
motion to approve the grant funding process timeline.
Fixmer-Oraiz moved to approve, Alter seconded. The motion carried
unanimously.
c. Consider a Resolution approving participation in the Iowa DOT pavement data
collection program
Bothell explained that the Institute for Transportation at Iowa State University
developed the Iowa Pavement Management Program (IPMP) to establish a
comprehensive system for managing pavement conditions across all roads in the
state. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) funds the collection of
pavement condition data every four years for local routes. Bothell noted that local
agencies, such as Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), have the option
to purchase pavement condition data for local routes every four years, allowing for
a two-year data collection cycle. Pavement condition data was last collected in the
metro area in 2023, funded through the Surface Transportation Block Grant
(STBG). The next scheduled data collection, funded by the Iowa Department of
Transportation (DOT), is set for 2025.
Bothell requested the Board to consider a resolution to participate in the pavement
data collection program in 2027 as a Metropolitan Planning Organization, which
will have an estimated cost of $45,000 to $60,000. Surface Transportation Block
Grant (STBG) funding would be utilized to cover this expense. Bothell noted that
the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee unanimously recommended
participation in the program at their January 21st meeting.
Salih moved to approve the resolution, Fixmer-Oraiz seconded. The motion
carried unanimously.
d. Update on the MPOJC FY26 Transportation Planning Work Program and FY26-29
Transportation Improvement Program
Ralston explained that the Transportation Planning Work program is a document
developed each year to identify projects that will be addressed by MPOJC in the
following fiscal year. The Work Plan is developed in coordination with the
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee, the Iowa Department of
Transportation, and the Urbanized Area Policy Board. Ralston stated that the Work
Program includes all state- and federally required planning processes and
documentation, ongoing and routine projects, and special projects requested by
member entities. Ralston noted that the solicitation for Work Program projects
begins in a few days and that communities should reach out to MPO staff with
projects that they would like to be included. The Work Program must be submitted
to the Iowa Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration,
and the Federal Transit Administration by April 1st. The Board will approve the final
Work Program in May.
Ralston explained that the MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is
the programming document for federally funded transportation improvements
within the Iowa City Urbanized Area, including streets, highways, transit, and
bicycle and pedestrian projects. Ralston stated that this spring, the Board will
allocate approximately $10 million in Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG)
funds, $2 million in Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds, and $3
million in Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funds which will be reflected in the
FY26-FY29 TIP.
Ralston noted that the Urbanized Area Policy Board will consider the FY2026-29
Transportation Improvement Program for adoption in July.
e. Update on the ‘Trip Connect’ transportation pilot from the Johnson County Mobility
Coordinator
Schneider explained that Trip Connect provides services similar to micro transit,
allowing individuals to schedule shared rides to take them to their jobs, school, or
childcare. Schneider stated that the goal of the service is to fill gaps in existing
transit service in the county. The service runs Sunday-Friday from 5pm-12am, with
riders paying $2 per ride. While not available in the whole county, riders in the Iowa
City Urbanized area, or those living in the county north of I-80, are eligible to
request rides.
The Board expressed interest in an update of the program after it has been in
operation for longer. This update will tentatively be given at the July Board meeting.
5. OTHER BUSINESS
Ralston stated that after some conversations with Greater Iowa City Inc., it seems as
though the CRANDIC railroad may not be as willing to host pop-up metro as previously
thought. While no further information was available at this time, Ralston noted it may
impact the feasibility of bringing pop-up metro to the region.
6. ADJOURNMENT
Salih moved to adjourn, Moe seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
From adjourned the meeting at 5:35 pm.
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston; Executive Director
Re: Agenda Item #3(a): Consider approval of Locally Determined Projects for the MPOJC
FY2026 Transportation Planning Work Program
Each spring we compile a list of Transportation Planning Work Program projects for the upcoming
fiscal year. While this exercise is required by the Federal Highway Administration and Iowa
Department of Transportation, we also utilize it to schedule and plan ahead for the data collection
and research necessary to complete requested projects. The attachment lists the requested work
program projects we have received to-date from your staffs.
We are aware that additional projects and data collection needs will come up during the
year. While we are usually able to fit smaller unscheduled projects into our work – more significant
projects proposed during the year may not be able to be completed. If major projects are proposed
that would disrupt the Work Program, we typically discuss them with the Policy Board before
committing significant staff time to them.
Please review the list of attached projects and be prepared to consider approval of the locally
determined projects for the FY26 Transportation Planning Work Program. The Transportation
Technical Advisory Committee unanimously recommended approval of the list of projects at their
March 25th meeting. We will augment this list with regularly-occurring projects and state and
federally-required transportation planning work, and bring the full Work Program to you at your
next meeting for consideration.
I will be available at your April 2nd meeting to answer any questions you have.
Requested FY26 Work Program Projects
# Project Request Entity
1 Assist with two-way conversion of Jefferson and Market Streets Havel Iowa City
2 Perform traffic signal timing review and adjustment as needed Havel Iowa City
3 Complete signal warrants and intersection analyses as needed Havel Iowa City
4 Assist with application(s) for signal funding for the Dodge Street Reconstruction
Project
Havel Iowa City
5 Evaluation of snow emergency policies as they apply to on-street parking, towing, etc. Havel Iowa City
6 Review of traffic studies for developments and University projects Havel Iowa City
7 Contribute to the study and design phases of the Burlington Street Bridge project Havel Iowa City
8 Review signage and pavement marking plans for public improvement projects Havel Iowa City
9 Continue Bike Master Plan implementation Ralston Iowa City
10 Assist with GIS mapping Ralston Iowa City
11 Assist with grant writing for Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill funding Ralston MPOJC
12 Review of development proposals as needed Ralston MPOJC
13 Perform onboard transit survey Robrock Coralville
14 Assist with Federal Transit Administration triennial review Robrock Coralville
15 Assist with setting a Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE) program goal Robrock Coralville
16 Perform traffic studies as requested Larson Coralville
17 Evaluate school-related traffic concerns as needed Larson Coralville
18 Assist with evaluating pavement management systems and data Larson Coralville
19 Perform traffic signal timing review and adjustment as needed Larson Coralville
20 Collect a trail count at the 1st Avenue / I-80 interchange Larson Coralville
21 Assist with transportation funding grant applications as needed Larson Coralville
22 Perform traffic studies as requested Rusnak North Liberty
23 Collect traffic data at: Hwy 382 at city limits and High Ridge Trail, Racine at 180th and
at Hwy 382, Cedar Street south of Main Street, and Stinocher at Hwy 1 and 5th Street
Rasmussen Solon
24 Assist with a traffic evaluation on Ireland Avenue south of railroad tracks Boldt Tiffin
25 Assist with an intersection analysis at S. Park Road / Village Drive Boldt Tiffin
26 Review of Hwy 6 from two-lanes to three-lanes from Main Street to Roundabout Boldt Tiffin
27 Perform traffic studies as requested From University Heights
28 Evaluate school-related traffic concerns as needed From University Heights
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Emily Bothell; Senior Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #3(b): Consider approval of MPOJC Surface Transportation Block Grant,
Transportation Alternatives Program, and Carbon Reduction Program Funding
Allocations
MPOJC manages a biennial grant process to distribute funding from the Surface Transportation
Block Grant (STBG), the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and the Carbon Reduction
Program (CRP). For this funding cycle, the available funding amounts for each program, along
with application summaries, final project scores, and scoring criteria, are attached.
During their meeting on March 25th, the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
recommended funding for the projects and amounts specified in the attached tables, with a vote
of 9-4 in favor.
Due to the size of the applications, they are not included in this packet but can be reviewed using
the following link: https://www.icgov.org/government/departments-and-divisions/metropolitan-
planning-organization-of-johnson-county/what-we-do/state-and-federal-funds
At your meeting on April 2nd, I will provide a brief presentation on each application. Please be
prepared to consider the approval of the funding allocations.
Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Applications
$10,412,327 Available for programming FY29-FY30
1. Iowa City and the University of Iowa
Burlington Street Bridge – Building Better Connections Project
Description: Replacement of two Burlington Street/Highway 1 bridges over the Iowa River,
reconstruction of portions of Grand Avenue, Byington Road, and Melrose Avenue to allow for
two-way traffic, bicycle facilities and pedestrian accommodations, and rehabilitation/
replacement of the pedestrian overpasses that cross Riverside Drive and Grand Avenue.
Total Project Cost: $70,000,000
Requesting: $10,000,000 in STBG funding
2. North Liberty and Coralville
Forevergreen Road Extension – Phase 2
Description: The joint project between the Cities of North Liberty and Coralville would
construct Forevergreen Road Extension – Phase 2 from the western limits of the eastern
section of future Forevergreen Road extension – Phase 1 to Naples Avenue. The intersection
of Forevergreen Road/Naples Avenue is planned as a roundabout. The newly constructed
urban section would include two vehicle travels lanes, a 10-foot-wide off-street multi-use trail
on the north side, and a storm system.
Total Project Cost: $6,795,000
Requesting: $2,264,000 in STBG funding
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Applications
$2,107,999 Available for programming FY27-FY30
1. Iowa City and the Iowa Department of Transportation
North Dodge Street Improvements Project (Pedestrian Facilities)
Description: This project will include sidewalk, curb ramp, and crosswalk improvements within
the Dodge Street corridor from Burlington Street to Governor Street.
Total Project Cost: $707,600
Requesting: $565,372 in TAP funding
2. North Liberty
West Forevergreen Road Trail (Covered Bridge Road to South Jasper Avenue)
Description: The project proposes constructing 4,680 linear feet of 8-foot-wide, multi-use trail
along the south side of West Forevergreen Road, which is classified as a major arterial
roadway. The trail would be constructed out of portland cement concrete (PCC) and would
extend from the western edge of the Fox Valley Subdivision to the east terminus of the west
Forevergreen Road/South Jasper Avenue roundabout.
Total Project Cost: $832,000
Requesting: $465,500 in TAP funding
3. Coralville
Iowa River Trail Connection
Description: This project will construct a 0.45-mile long section of 12-foot wide concrete trail
from the 1st Avenue trail, stretching along the north side of the Iowa River Landing, and
connecting to the Iowa River Trail by the Iowa River.
Total Project Cost: $575,000
Requesting: $347,750 in TAP funding
4. Coralville
North Ridge Trail Reconstruction
Description: This project will replace a 0.24-mile long section of the existing deteriorated
asphalt trail with a 10 foot wide concrete trail. It will also include the addition of a 105’ long
section of new 8’ wide sidewalk crossing CRANDIC railroad along the south side of
Forevergreen Road.
Total Project Cost: $385,000
Requesting: $303,620 in TAP funding
Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) Applications
$3,077,209 Available for programming FY26-FY-30
1. University Heights
Melrose Avenue Complete Streets Project
Description: Modify the existing Melrose Avenue corridor from Sunset Street to the east city
limit to create a complete street facility that extends on-street bike lanes from Iowa City, re-
aligns the north and south legs of the intersection with Koser/Golfview Avenue to improve
safety in the area, improves crosswalks, adds additional roadway/pedestrian lighting, install
new traffic signals and pedestrian buttons to current design standards.
Total Project Cost: $3,345,000
Requesting: $1,175,000 CRP funding
2. North Liberty
Dubuque Street Improvements – Phase 3
Description: The project would reconstruct Dubuque Street within the City of North Liberty
from just south of the East Cherry Street intersection (Dubuque Street Phase 1 limits) to just
south of the East Zeller Street intersection (future Dubuque Street Phase 2 limits). Existing
conditions include a two-lane asphalt roadway in varying condition, with minimal gravel
shoulders and open ditches. The reconstructed urban section would include two vehicle travel
lanes, a new roundabout at a busy intersection, a storm sewer system, and relocating
overhead utilities underground. The project will also reconstruct the existing 4-foot-wide
sidewalks to 5-feet-wide within the project area, which will include ADA-compliant curb ramps.
The existing 10-foot wide multi-use trail on the east side would remain.
Total Project Cost: $4,495,000
Requesting: $1,765,000 in CRP funding
3. Iowa City
Iowa River Trail – West Bank
Description: Construction of a 10-foot-wide trail/wide sidewalk along the west bank of the Iowa
River and Riverside Drive/Old Highway 218.
Total Project Cost: $4,250,000
Requesting: $2,876,400 in CRP funding
4. North Liberty
Ranshaw Way Phase 6 Pedestrian Tunnel Improvements
Description: The project would fund the construction of the proposed pedestrian tunnel in
conjunction with the Ranshaw Way (Hwy 965) Phase 6 project, which is planned for City Fiscal
Year 2027. The City was awarded Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG)
funding in 2021 in the amount of 3.9 million dollars of the estimated 11.3 million dollar cost for
the project, which will reconstruct Ranshaw Way from Hawkeye Drive south to Forevergreen
Road, a section of roadway approximately 4,000 feet (.76 mile) in length. Existing conditions
include a mostly two vehicle lane roadway in varying condition, with gravel shoulders and
open ditches. Notably, there are no pedestrian or bicycle accommodations along this roadway
section.
Total Project Cost: $2,470,000
Requesting: $877,000 in CRP funding
5. Coralville and Johnson County
Dubuque Street NE & Forevergreen Road Roundabout
Description: Construct a four-legged, single-lane roundabout to create a new intersection of
Dubuque Street NE, Rustic Ridge NE, and Forevergreen Road. Includes a 10’ shared-use
path along the north side of Forevergreen Road that will connect to the Dubuque Street Trail.
Total Project Cost: $2,829,000
Requesting: $1,585,371 in CRP funding
Summary of Applications for MPOJC
Approximate Funds Available: $10,412,327
Funds requested: $12,264,000
2029 2030
1 Iowa City & the
University of Iowa
Burlington Street Bridge – Building
Better Connections Project 70,000,000$ 42,000,000$ 7,300,000$ 10,000,000$ -$ 9,574,243$
2 North Liberty &
Coralville
Forevergreen Road Extension – Phase
2 6,795,000$ 3,411,000$ -$ 2,264,000$ 838,084$ -$
Total 12,264,000$ 838,084$ 9,574,243$
Summary of Applications for MPOJC
Approximate Funds Available: $2,107,999
Funds requested: $1,682,242
2027 2028 2029 2030
1 Iowa City North Dodge Street Improvements
Project (Pedestrian Facilities)707,600$ 142,228$ -$ 565,372$ 565,372$ -$ -$ -$
2 North Liberty West Forevergreen Road Trail (Covered
Bridge Road to South Jasper Avenue)832,000$ 200,500$ -$ 465,500$ 465,500$ -$ -$ -$
3 Coralville Iowa River Trail Connection 575,000$ 187,250$ -$ 347,750$ $ - $ - $ 347,750 $ -
4 Coralville North Ridge Trail Reconstruction 385,000$ 76,380$ -$ 303,620$ $ - $ 303,620 $ - $ -
5 Iowa City *Burlington Street Bridge – Building
Better Connections Project 70,000,000$ 42,000,000$ 7,300,000$ -$ $ - $ - $ - $ 425,757
Total 1,682,242$ 1,030,872$ 303,620$ 347,750$ 425,757$
TTAC Funding
Recommendation
TTAC Funding Recommendation
TAP Funds
Requested
Projects Funding Requested
Applicant Project Description
STBG Funds
Requested
Projects Funding Requested
Applicant Project Description
FY29-FY30 Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Funding
FY27-30 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Funding
* The TTAC recommended funding a portion of the Burlington
Street Bridge project with TAP dollars. The original application was
submitted under STBG
Total Project
Cost
Local Match
Pledge
Previous MPOJC
Funding
Total Project
Cost
Local Match
Pledge
Previous MPOJC
Funding
Summary of Applications for MPOJC
Approximate Funds Available: $3,077,209
Funds requested: $8,278,771
2026 2027 2028 2029 2030
1 University Heights Melrose Avenue Complete Streets
Project 3,345,000$ 815,000$ 730,000$ 1,175,000$ 750,000$ -$ -$ -$ -$
2 North Liberty Dubuque Street Improvements – Phase
3 4,495,000$ 1,775,000$ -$ 1,765,000$ $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1,715,000
3 Iowa City Iowa River Trail – West Bank 4,250,000$ 723,600$ -$ 2,876,400$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$
4 North Liberty Ranshaw Way Phase 6 Pedestrian
Tunnel Improvements 2,470,000$ 881,000$ -$ 877,000$ $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
5 Coralville and
Johnson County
Dubuque Street NE & Forevergreen
Road Roundabout 2,829,000$ 568,629$ 675,000$ 1,585,371$ 612,209$ -$ -$ -$ -$
Total 8,278,771$ 1,362,209$ -$ -$ -$ 1,715,000$
TTAC Funding Recommendation
Applicant Project Description
Projects Funding Requested
Total Project
Cost
Local Match
Pledge
Previous MPOJC
Funding
CRP Funds
Requested
FY26-30 Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) Funding
Surface Transportation Block Grant , Transportation Alternatives
Program , and Carbon Reduction Program Scoring Criteria
MPOJC Policy Board Approved November 20, 2024
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
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:
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 and Carbon Reduction Program projects.
2Lower-income neighborhoods are defined as being at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI) by block group.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2020).
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #3(c): Consider approval of the MPOJC Title VI Program
As required by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), MPOJC has prepared a Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) Title VI Program for approval by the Urbanized Area Policy Board.
Since MPOJC receives federal funding, we are required to submit a Title VI Program every three
years. The FTA also requires Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus
to submit a Title VI Program. MPOJC prepares and submits these Title VI programs separately
on behalf of the transit agencies.
The Title VI Program assures nondiscrimination as outlined in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which
prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in any program or activity
receiving Federal financial assistance. The broader application of the Title VI nondiscrimination
law can be found in other statutes, regulations, and Executive Orders including the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
The attached document provides guidelines for MPOJC to follow in order to comply with all Title
VI requirements for nondiscrimination. The plan addresses MPOJC programs such as access,
benefits, participation, treatment, services, training, contracting opportunities, allocation of funds,
language assistance, and the investigation of complaints. This Title VI Program also names
Hannah Neel as the MPOJC Title VI Coordinator.
As part of Attachment F in the Title VI Program document, the updated Special Needs
Housing/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and CRP project locations (2025) map will be available at
the April 2nd meeting.
Staff is requesting Board approval for the proposed MPOJC Title VI Program. Once approved,
the document will be submitted to the Iowa DOT.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this information, please contact me at 319-356-
5235 or hneel@iowa-city.org.
1
FTA TITLE VI PROGRAM
THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964
Compliance Plan
April 2025
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
2
Recipient Profile
Recipient: _Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
Administrative Head: _Kent Ralston_______Executive Director_______________
Name Title
Recipient Title VI Coordinator: Hannah Neel_ _Associate Transportation Planner_
Name Title
Address: 410 East Washington Street
City/State: Iowa City, Iowa Zip Code/County: 52240/Johnson
Phone: 319-356-5253 Fax: 319-356-5217
Email: kralston@iowa-city.org
Website: MPOJC.org
Has the recipient signed and submitted its Title VI Assurances? Yes _X_ No ____
Has the recipient submitted its Title VI Program Plan? Yes _X_ No ____
Purpose of Title VI Program
The purpose of this document is to ensure that the Metropolitan Planning Organization of
Johnson County (MPOJC) is in compliance with the FTA Circular 4702.1B and Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964, which states:
“No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national
origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that receives
Federal financial assistance.”
With specific regard to planning services, this document ensures that:
1. FTA assisted benefits and related services are made available and are equitably
distributed without regard to race, color, or national origin;
2. That the level and quality of FTA assisted transit services are sufficient to provide equal
access and mobility for any person without regard to race, color, or national origin;
3. That opportunities to participate in the transit planning and decision-making processes
are provided to persons without regard to race, color, or national origin;
4. That decisions on the location of transit services and facilities are made without regard
to race, color, or national origin; and
3
That corrective and remedial action will be taken if necessary, to prevent discriminatory
treatment based on race, color, or national origin.
Strategies
MPOJC’s planning process ensures compliance with Title VI through the many transportation
related plans it develops and posts on the MPOJC website. The planning process includes the
scoring of projects, use of demographics in project location, Limited English Proficiency Plan,
and requires adherence to a complete streets policy for all funded projects.
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COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITES
The MPOJC Executive Director and the Human Rights Coordinator / Equity Director are
responsible for ensuring the implementation and the day to day administration of the MPOJC
Title VI Plan. The Executive Director is also responsible for implementing, monitoring, and
ensuring the MPO's compliance with the Title VI regulations.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Public Dissemination
The MPOJC will disseminate Title VI Program information to MPO employees, sub-recipients,
and contractors, as well as the general public. Public dissemination may include posting of
public statements, inclusion of Title VI language in contracts, and announcements of hearings,
and meetings in minority newspapers when determined necessary and funding is available.
B. Prevention of Discrimination
Procedures will be implemented to detect and eliminate discrimination when found to exist,
including, but not limited to, issues of accessibility of training to all MPOJC employees,
utilization of Minority/Women/Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) contractors, public
involvement and material acquisition.
C. Remedial Action
The MPOJC will actively pursue the prevention of any Title VI deficiencies or violations and will
take the necessary steps to ensure compliance through a program review with the program
administrative requirements. If irregularities occur in the administration of the programs operation,
procedures will be promptly implemented to resolve Title VI issues and reduce to writing remedial
action agreed to be necessary, all within a period not to exceed 90 days.
Iowa DOT will be notified of any complaint filed at the City of Iowa City, regarding MPOJC
involving Title VI issues, and any resolution.
FILING A COMPLAINT
Applicability
The complaint procedures apply to the beneficiaries of the MPOJC programs, activities,
including but not limited to: the public, contractors, sub-contractors, consultants, employees
and other sub-recipients of federal and state funds.
Eligibility
If any individual, group or individuals, or entity believes that they or any other program
beneficiaries have been subjected to discrimination prohibited by Title VI nondiscrimination
provision as a recipient of benefits and/or services, or on the grounds of race, color, national
origin, or sex, they may exercise the right to file a complaint with MPOJC (as part of the City
of Iowa City). Every effort will be made to resolve complaints informally at the agency,
recipient and/or contractor level.
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Time Limitation on Filing Complaints
Title VI complaints may be filed with:
• City of Iowa City/MPOJC
• Iowa Department of Transportation
• Federal Highway Administration
• U.S. Department of Transportation
In all situations, MPOJC employees must contact the Executive Director and/or the Human
Rights Coordinator / Equity Director immediately upon receipt of Title VI or related statutes
complaints.
Complaints must be filed not later than 180 days after:
• The date of the alleged act of discrimination; or
• The date the person became aware of the alleged discrimination; or
• Where there has been a continuing course of discriminatory conduct, the date on which
the conduct was discontinued.
Complaints must be in writing and must be signed by the complainant and/or the complainant's
representative. The complaint must set forth as fully as possible the facts and circumstances
surrounding the claimed discrimination.
A Title VI complaint form (Attachment B) is available at the MPOJC office and the Human Rights
Coordinator / Equity Director's office during normal business hours.
INTERNAL COMPLAINT PROCESSING
1. The Human Rights Coordinator / Equity Director, acting as the Title VI Coordinator, along
with the MPOJC Executive Director, will review the complaint upon receipt to ensure that
all information is provided, the complaint meets the 180-day filing deadline and falls within
the jurisdiction of the City and follow the procedures as outlined in Title Two of the Iowa
City City Code.
2. Human Rights Coordinator / Equity Director will then investigate the complaint. If the
complaint is against the Civil Rights Coordinator or the MPOJC Executive Director,
then the Chair of the MPOJC Urbanized Area Board and/or the MPOJC Urbanized
Area Policy Board or its designee will investigate the complaint. Additionally, a copy
of the complaint will be forwarded to the Iowa City City Attorney.
3. If the complaint warrants a full investigation, the complainant will be notified in writing
by certified mail. This notice will name the investigator and/or investigating agency.
The MPOJC will also notify the Iowa Department of Transportation Office of Employee
Services/Civil Rights.
4. The party alleged to have acted in a discriminatory manner will also be notified by
certified mail as to the complaint. This letter will also include the investigator's name
and will request that this party be available for an interview.
5. Any comments or recommendations from legal counsel will be reviewed by the Title VI
Coordinator.
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6. Once the Iowa Department of Transportation Office of Employee Services/Civil Rights is
notified of MPOJC/City of Iowa City finding concerning the complaint, the MPOJC will
adopt a final resolution.
7. All parties will be properly notified of the outcome of the Iowa Department of
Transportation Office of Employee Services/Civil Rights Opportunity report.
8. If the complainant is not satisfied with the results of the investigation of the alleged
discriminatory practices, she/he shall be advised of their right to appeal the MPOJC/City
of Iowa City's decision. Appeals must be filed within 180 days after the MPOJC final
resolution. Unless new facts not previously considered come to light, reconsideration of
the MPOJC’s determination will not be available.
The foregoing complaint resolution procedure will be implemented in accordance with the
Department of Justice guidance manual entitled "Investigation Procedures Manual for the
Investigation and Resolution of Complaints Alleging Violations of Title VI and Other
Nondiscrimination Statutes," available online at:
https://www.justice.gov/crt/tab-4-investigations-procedures-manual
TRANSIT RELATED TITLE VI INVESTIGATIONS, COMPLAINTS, AND LAWSUITS
There are no active lawsuits or complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of race, color, or
national origin with respect to services provided by MPOJC. MPOJC has not been asked to take
part in any local, state, or federal civil rights compliance reviews in the past three years. MPOJC
has not undertaken any federally funded construction projects in the past three years.
Identification of Stakeholders
Stakeholders are those who are either directly or indirectly affected by a plan, or the
recommendations of that plan. Those who may be adversely affected, or may be denied benefits
of a plan’s recommendations, are of particular interest in the identification of specific stakeholders.
While stakeholders may vary based on the plan or program being considered, MPOJC will
assemble a listing of stakeholders with whom we may regularly communicate by email or direct
mail.
Meeting locations
When determining locations and schedules for public meetings, MPOJC will:
• Schedule meetings at times and locations that are convenient and accessible for
minority and LEP communities
• Coordinate with community organizations to implement public engagement
strategies that reach out to members of affected minority and/or LEP communities
• Consider media outlets that serve LEP populations
• Provide opportunities for public participation through written communications,
group discussions, and one-on-one interviews
PROVIDE MEANINGFUL ACCESS TO LEP PERSONS
MPOJC uses Iowa City Transit’s Four Factor LEP analysis to meet requirements under Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This Act seeks to improve access to services for persons with Limited
English Proficiency (LEP). The following analysis uses the Four Factor Analysis identified in the
LEP Guidance.
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A. Four Factor Analysis
Factor 1: Assessing the number and proportion of LEP persons served or encountered in the
eligible service population
Task 1, Step 1; Examine prior experiences with LEP individuals
MPOJC serves a diverse community. The University of Iowa brings people from all over the world
to the Iowa City urbanized area which includes the communities of Iowa City, University Heights,
Coralville, North Liberty, and Tiffin. Most foreign-speaking residents residing in Iowa City are
affiliated with the University of Iowa, either as an international student or visiting scholar. The
University has, on average, an international student population of 2,000-3,000 persons on an
annual basis as well as approximately 400 visiting scholars.
Task 1, Step 2; Become familiar with data from the U.S. Census
The Iowa City Urbanized Area includes the municipalities of Coralville, Iowa City, North Liberty,
Tiffin, and University Heights. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population for the
urbanized area was 84,672 in 2000, 91,881 in 2005, 103,152 in 2010,107,912 in 2014, 118,506
in 2019, and 125,395 in 2023. These numbers represent an average annual population growth of
1.7%.
Iowa City Urbanized Area’s current demographics:
Iowa City Urbanized Area Statistics and Demographics Number Percent
Iowa City Urbanized Area Population 125,395 100.0
SEX AND AGE
Male 62,638 50.0
Female 62,757 50.0
Under 5 years 7,063 5.6
5 to 9 years 6,931 5.6
10 to 14 years 5,768 4.6
15 to 19 years 11,452 9.1
20 to 24 years 22,439 17.9
25 to 34 years 20,507 16.4
35 to 44 years 15,596 12.4
45 to 54 years 11,616 8.3
55 to 59 years 4,771 3.8
60 to 64 years 5,099 4.1
65 to 74 years 8,293 6.6
75 to 84 years 3,970 3.2
85 years and over 1,890 1.5
Median age (years) 30.4 ( X )
16 years and over 104,521 83.4
18 years and over 102,187 81.5
Male 50,466 40.2
Female 51,721 41.2
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21 years and over 89,320 71.2
62 years and over 16,965 13.5
65 years and over 14,153 11.3
Male 6,219 43.9
Female 7,934 56.1
RACE
One Race 116,576 93.0
White 93,973 74.9
Black or African American 11,063 8.8
American Indian and Alaska Native 235 0.2
Asian 8,734 7.0
Asian Indian 2,068 1.6
Chinese 3,075 2.5
Filipino 140 0.1
Japanese 203 0.2
Korean 1,056 0.8
Vietnamese 938 0.7
Other Asian 1,254 1.0
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 49 0.0
Some Other Race 2,702 2.2
Two or More Races 8,819 7.0
HISPANIC OR LATINO
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 9,001 7.2
Mexican 4,689 3.7
Puerto Rican 959 0.8
Cuban 241 0.2
Other Hispanic or Latino 3,112 2.5
Not Hispanic or Latino 116,394 92.8
White alone 90,857 72.5
RELATIONSHIP
Total population 125,395 100.0
In households 117,741
Householder 50,976 100.0
Male 24,978 49.0
Female 25,998 51.0
Spouse or unmarried partner 24,193 X
Child 26,586 X
In group quarters 7,654 X
HOUSEHOLDS BY TYPE
Total households 50,976
Total families 24,303 100
With own children under 18 years 11,426 47.0
Married couple family 19,042 79.8
With own children under 18 years 8,749 36.0
Male householder, no spouse present 1,286 5.2
With own children under 18 years 641 2.6
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There were 2,084 international students according to the University of Iowa’s fall 2024 enrollment
statistics, which represents 6.5% of the University of Iowa student enrollment. The largest national
representations of international students and scholars at the University of Iowa are from Asia, as
shown below:
UI International Students and Scholars by World Region
Student Population Scholar Population
China 484 134
India 387 115
South Korea 139 38
Nigeria 111 5
Iran 75 9
Source: The University of Iowa, International Programs Annual Report 2024
Task 1, Step 2A; Identify the geographic boundaries of the area that your agency serves
The Iowa City urbanized area includes the communities of Iowa City, University Heights,
Coralville, North Liberty, and Tiffin.
Female householder, no spouse present 3,633 14.9
With own children under 18 years 2,036 8.4
Nonfamily households 26,673 52.3
65 years and over 4,102 8.0
Households with individuals under 18 years 11,714 23.0
Households with individuals 65 years and over 3,712 19.4
Average household size 2.41
Average family size 3.06
HOUSING OCCUPANCY
Total housing units 55,347
Occupied housing units 50,784 91.8
Vacant housing units 4,563 8.2
Homeowner vacancy rate (percent) 2.4
Rental vacancy rate (percent) 7.3
HOUSING TENURE
Occupied housing units 50,784 100
Owner-occupied housing units 25,929 51.1
Average household size of owner-occupied units 2.65
Renter-occupied housing units 22,949 48.9
Average household size of renter-occupied units 2.08
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2023 5-year Estimates
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Task 1, Step 2B; Obtain Census data on LEP population in your service area
In determining the number or proportion of LEP persons in Johnson County, including the City of
Iowa City, 2023 U.S. Census American Community Survey (ACS) data was evaluated. According
to ACS data, 22,686 persons in Johnson County (15.5% of the population) spoke a language
other than English at home. Of the 22,686 persons residing in Johnson County who spoke a
language other than English at home, 7,714 (5.3% of the population) reported speaking English
less than “very well”, or in other words, would be considered to have limited English proficiency.
The table below shows the language subgroups as follows:
Persons in Johnson County Who Reported Speaking English Less Than “Very Well”
Language Spoken Number of Persons Percent of Total
Population
Spanish 1,734 1.2%
Other Indo-European language 1,903 1.3%
Asian & Pacific Island language 2,067 1.4%
Other languages 2,010 1.4%
Source: American Community Survey, 2023 ACS 5 Year Estimates
Task 1, Step 2C; Analyze the data collected
According to The University of Iowa’s Fall 2024: A Profile of Students Enrolled, China, India, South
Korea, Nigeria, and Iran remain the top represented countries in the international student
population. The number of students from Iran (75 students) increased from the fall of 2017 (63
students), but fell to fifth place behind Nigeria (111 students) in 2024. Malaysia (57 students from
the fall 2017) is no longer one of the top 5 countries in the largest international student enrollment
representations. While the same data is not available for the international scholar population, it
can be assumed that past national representation trends found among the student population can
be applied to the international scholar population, as three of the top five represented countries
are the same for both international students and scholars in 2024.
The University of Iowa offers skills courses, such as oral, writing, and listening, to students who
do not speak English as their first language. These students are placed in specific courses based
on ESL (English as a Second Language) testing results. The University does not offer intensive
English courses.
Task 1, Step 2D; Identify any concentrations of persons within service area
No large concentrations of LEP persons exist in the Iowa City urbanized area.
Task 1, Step 3; Consult state and local sources of data
The Iowa City Community School District (ICCSD) and the Iowa Department of Education compile
information regarding the number of students receiving English Language Learning (ELL)
services. The ICCSD ELL services predominantly serve Spanish, Arabic, French, and Swahili
speakers, similar to many of Iowa’s schools. For the 2023-2024 school year, there were 14,378
students (IA Dept. of Education Certified Enrollment) in the ICCSD. Of those, 15.3% (2,200
students) receive English Language Learning services. This is up from the 12.6% (1,836 students)
receiving ELL services in the 2019-2020 school year.
Task 1, Step 4; Community organizations that serve LEP persons
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MPOJC have current associations with local business, the Iowa City Community School District,
and the University of Iowa and their International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) center. All
of these organizations provide service for persons speaking limited English.
Task 1, Step 4A; Identify community organizations
LEP persons are served mainly by the University of Iowa’s ISSS center.
Task 1, Step 4B; Contact relevant community organizations
MPOJC, in collaboration with Iowa City Transit, has developed a working relationship with the
University of Iowa’s OISS center for language assistance services.
Task 1, Step 4C; Obtain information
MPOJC will continue to reach out to LEP persons and organizations in order to gather relevant
information and provide information.
Factor 2: Frequency with which LEP individuals come into contact with MPOJC programs,
activities, and services.
Task 2, Step 1; Review the relevant programs, activities, and services you provide
MPOJC provides primarily planning services to member agencies. MPOJC does not operate any
transit services and has limited contact with the LEP population. MPOJC’s language assistance
program includes:
• Printed outreach materials
• Web-based outreach materials
• Public meetings
• Local news media
• Planning activities such as the Long-Range Transportation Plan, Passenger
Transportation Plan, Transportation Improvement Plan, and Work Program
MPOJC has identified City of Iowa City employees that have language skills to assist with the
LEP population where language is a barrier. Most employees indicated that encounters with
customers who were unable to communicate in English were rare.
The MPOJC website has the ability to translate up to 80 different languages and also has access
to Iowa City’s Language Line program.
Task 2, Step 2; Review information obtained from community organizations
Through interviews and planning sessions, Iowa City Transit/MPOJC has discovered that most
community organizations want more service related to jobs, education, day care, and health care
and have identified very few LEP issues. Community organizations include:
o The Arc of Southeast Iowa
o Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County
o Systems Unlimited
o Chatham Oaks Care Facility
o Home Ties Childcare
o Reach for Your Potential
o United Action for Youth
o Big Brothers/Big Sisters
o Four Oaks
o Youth Homes
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o Goodwill Industries
o Shelter House
o Iowa City Community School District
o Access 2 Independence
o Elder Services
Task 2, Step 3; Consult directly with LEP persons
LEP persons were consulted through the Title VI planning process through interviews with
agencies (and clients) listed above.
Factor 3: Assess the nature and importance of the program, activity, or service provided by the
program
Task 3, Step 1; Identify your agencies most critical services
MPOJC provides primarily planning services to member agencies. MPOJC does not operate any
transit services.
Task 3, Step 2; Review input from community organizations and LEP persons
MPOJC has received very little input from the community regarding problems with language
barriers.
Factor 4: Assessing the resources available to the recipient and costs
Task 4, Step 1; Inventory language assistance measures currently being provided, along with
associated costs
MPOJC provides the following language assistance measures to date:
• Language assistance service on website for over 80 languages
• Language Line available
• Identified employees that speak a language other than English
• Information translated into 3 different languages on website
Task 4, Step 2; Determine what, if any additional services are needed to provide meaningful
access
Iowa City Transit/MPOJC will focus on the following service improvements:
• Translation of critical printed information
• Improve website information regarding LEP
• Translation of paratransit information
• Provide additional signage in buses in multiple languages
• Include LEP in driver training
Task 4, Step 3; Analyze your budget
Like most public agencies, MPOJC budgets are constrained by several factors and staff resources
are also limited. Devoting more resources to printing, webpage design, signage, and additional
administrative costs may be included in future budgets.
Task 4, Step 4; Consider cost effective practices for providing language services
MPOJC will continue to work with the community and the university to provide cost effective
practices including researching and pursuing language assistance products and translation
services developed and paid by local, regional, and state government agencies.
10 | P a g e
B. Developing a Language Assistance Plan
a. Results of Four Factor Analysis:
MPOJC is part of the Iowa City Urbanized Area that includes a large university with
over 32,000 students. Because of the University, many foreign students and faculty
live in the Iowa City urbanized area creating the potential for language issues. As
identified in the four-factor analysis, both the Hispanic/Latino and the Asian/Pacific
Island populations were identified as needing language assistance since their
populations were each over 5% of the total population in the metro area. Because of
the diversity of the Asian/Pacific Island population, Iowa City Transit/MPOJC
approached the University of Iowa’s Office of International Students and Scholars to
assist in identifying the top Asian/Pacific Island languages within the University system
that may require language assistance. Chinese and Korean were identified as the top
two Asian/Pacific Island languages. As a result, Iowa City Transit/MPOJC offers
information in Chinese and Spanish.
b. Language Assistance Services by Language:
The following measures have or will be implemented to ensure LEP persons have
adequate access to transit information:
• Iowa City Transit, in collaboration with Coralville Transit, Johnson County
SEATS, University of Iowa Cambus, and MPOJC have developed a
working relationship with the University of Iowa’s Office of International
Students and Scholars (OISS) for language assistance services. OISS has
agreed to assist the transit agencies in Johnson County by distributing
transit program information to international students and scholars.
• MPOJC will identify any employees who speak a language other than
English. For those employees who are able and willing to provide
translation services, their services will be called upon as needed during
fixed route service hours to interpret and assist LEP individuals.
• The City of Iowa City (MPOJC) has a multilingual 24-hour telephone
service, the Language Line. The Language Line is a three-way call
translation service that can translate numerous languages. Language Line
Services provides a sheet which lists the languages available for translation
assistance. The language sheet can be used by transit agency staff to
determine the language spoken by an LEP individual.
• MPOJC will develop additional language services on their websites. A link
will be added to the websites that will have general information translated
in the most common spoken languages in Johnson County.
c. Notice to LEP Persons:
MPOJC will provide general information to the public in the most common spoken
languages in Johnson County on the transit websites.
d. Monitor, Evaluate and Update Language Access Plan:
All language assistance programs and procedures will be evaluated on an annual
basis. The following will be monitored and reviewed annually:
• The number of documented LEP persons encountered
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• How the needs of the LEP persons were addressed
• Determine whether local language assistance programs have been
effective
Each encounter with an LEP person will be recorded and reported directly to the
MPOJC Executive Director.
Dissemination of the Title VI/LEP Plan includes a link to the Title VI/LEP Plan on the
MPOJC websites.
Any person or agency with internet access will be able to access and download the
plan from the above-referenced website. Alternatively, any person or agency may
request a copy of the plan via telephone, fax, mail, or in person, and shall be provided
a copy of the plan at no cost. LEP individuals may request copies of the plan in
translation which will provided if feasible.
e. Employee Training:
Current and incoming employees will be trained on the policies and procedures of the
language assistance program. Staff would have the necessary information provided to
them to assist LEP individuals. The following information will be available to assure
staff can adequately assist LEP persons:
• Information on Title VI Policy and LEP responsibilities
• Description of language assistance services offered to the public
• Contact information of chosen bilingual staff who have agreed to assist in
translation services
• Documentation of language assistance requests
• Use of the Language Line Services
• How to handle a potential Title VI/LEP complaint
Safe Harbor Provision
As identified in the four- factor analysis, MPOJC identified Spanish speakers (2,618 limited
English-speaking households) and Asian (Pacific Island) language speakers (2,557 limited
English-speaking households) as requiring language/written materials assistance. The Asian
(Pacific Island) language speakers were also identified in the analysis of the University population.
Translation of written materials for these populations are included on the MPOJC website and on
posted information.
MINORITY REPRESTATION ON PLANNING AND ADVISORY BODIES
The MPOJC Board is made up of elected officials. The Transportation Technical Advisory
Committee and the Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee consist mainly of municipal or county
staff appointed by the elected officials. MPOJC does encourage participation by minorities in
Board created ad-hoc committees through their postings.
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
The MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board includes representatives from all governmental units
included in the Iowa City Urbanized Area as defined by the U.S. Census. The number of
representatives is roughly proportional to population, although Iowa City is limited to six members,
so they do not have a majority of the Board. All representatives are elected officials (the University
of Iowa's representative is appointed by the president of the University). Federal transportation
regulations mandate the Iowa Department of Transportation be included as a non-voting member.
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Current Members:
Tim Kasparek: Mayor, City of Tiffin
Meghann Foster: Mayor, City of Coralville
Royce Peterson: Coralville City Council
Megan Alter: Iowa City City Council
Laura Bergus: Iowa City City Council
Shawn Harmsen: Iowa City City Council
Josh Moe: Iowa City City Council
Mazahir Salih: Iowa City City Council
Vacant: Iowa City City Council
V Fixmer-Oraiz: Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Rod Sullivan (Vice-Chair): Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Chris Hoffman: Mayor, City of North Liberty
Brian Wayson: North Liberty City Council
Louise From (Chair): Mayor, City of University Heights
Greg Schmitt: University of Iowa, Parking and Transportation
Molly Abraham: ICCSD (non-voting)
Group Number
Male 9
Female 6
White 13
Black or African American 1
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0
Asian 0
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific
Islander
0
Other 1
MPOJC Transportation Technical Advisory Committee
The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) advises the Urbanized Area Policy
Board on policy matters. This committee is composed of transportation staff members from
appointed by MPOJC member agencies. Representatives of the Iowa and U.S. Departments of
Transportation are also represented on the Transportation TAC. This committee meets on an as-
needed basis.
Current Members:
Kelly Hayworth: City Administrator, City of Coralville
Vicky Robrock: Manager, Coralville Transit
Scott Larson: City Engineer, City of Coralville
Darian Nagle-Gamm: Director, Transportation Services, City of Iowa City
Mark Rummel: Assoc. Director, Transportation Services, City of Iowa City
Ron Knoche: Director of Public Works, City of Iowa City
Jason Havel: City Engineer, City of Iowa City
Greg Parker: Johnson County Engineer
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Dawn Alam: Fleet Director, Johnson County SEATS Transportation
Mia Brunelli: Manager, University of Iowa Cambus
David Kieft: Business Manager, University of Iowa
Vacant: Regional Trails & Bicycling Committee
Ryan Rusnak: Planning Director, City of North Liberty
Troy Kelsay: City Administrator, City of University Heights
Doug Boldt: City Administrator, City of Tiffin
Brock Grenis: East Central Iowa Council of Governments
Sam Shea: Transportation Planner, Iowa DOT
Vacant: Federal Highway Administration Iowa Division
Group Number
Male 13
Female 4
White 17
Black or African American 0
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0
Asian 0
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific
Islander
0
Other 0
MPOJC Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee
The MPOJC Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee (RTBC) is an ad hoc subcommittee of the
MPOJC Transportation Technical Advisory Committee. The RTBC includes representatives
appointed by each MPOJC entity and several bicycle interest groups. The RTBC is a valuable
information sharing and planning group for our cities as we work toward regional trail connections
and connections with multi-county trails such as the American Discovery Trial, the Hoover Nature
Trail, and the Ioway Trail. As a subcommittee of MPOJC, the RTBC is able to discuss and make
recommendations on trails, bicycling and pedestrian issues as requested by MPOJC entities.
Current Members:
Sherri Proud: Director, Parks and Recreation, City of Coralville
Juli Seydell Johnson: Director, Parks and Recreation, City of Iowa City
Doug Boldt: City Administrator, City of Tiffin
Troy Kelsay: City Administrator, City of University Heights
Ryan Russnak: Planning Director, City of North Liberty
Jay Geisen: Architect, GIS Enterprise Systems, University of Iowa
Becky Soglin: Sustainability Coordinator, Johnson County
Elizabeth Hubing: Bike Iowa City
Vacant: Bicyclists of Iowa City
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Group Number
Male 4
Female 4
White 8
Black or African American 0
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0
Asian 0
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific
Islander
0
Other 0
ASSISTANCE TO SUBRECIPIENTS/MONITORING SUBRECIPIENTS
MPOJC does not currently have any subrecipients. MPOJC does ensure compliance with Title VI
requirements by a subrecipient by undertaking the following activities:
• Document its process for ensuring that all subrecipients are complying with the
general reporting requirements, as well as other requirements that apply to the
subrecipient.
• Collect Title VI Programs from subrecipients and review programs for compliance.
• In response to a complaint of discrimination, or as otherwise deemed necessary
by the primary recipient, the primary recipient shall request that subrecipients who
provide transportation services verify that their level and quality of service is
provided on an equitable basis.
DETERMINATION OF SITE OR LOCATION OF FACILITIES
MPOJC is part of the City of Iowa City and is not responsible for facility development.
DEMOGRAPHICS/MAPPING
As part of the MPOJC Long Range Transportation Plan process, demographic profiles have been
developed. Attached are three maps that were produced identifying locations of socioeconomic
groups, including low-income and minority populations as well as special needs housing. Also,
included in each map is the location of current STBG, TAP, and CRP projects as well as each
bus route in the metropolitan area.
Mobility needs of minority populations are considered in the MPOJC Long-Range Transportation
Plan planning process and in the scoring criteria for STBG, TAP, and CRP projects in the
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Many of the scoring criteria (Attachment F) take into
consideration the “Guiding Principles” developed in both documents and the scoring for these
criteria are weighted to consider the needs of minority populations. The strategies for criteria that
pertain to minority populations include:
Strategies to Enhance Economic Opportunity:
• Focus transportation dollars to areas of greatest need.
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• Direct investments towards areas that encounter significant congestion
• Encourage use of intelligent transportation technologies and efficient intersection design
to improve corridor efficiency
• Employ strategies that improve multi-modal access to employment centers
• Perform transportation engineering evaluations upon request to aid in maximizing
efficiency at spot locations
• Facilitate the annual Traffic Signal Timing program and provide updated signal timing
recommendations at least once every five years
Strategies to Safeguard the Environment:
• Avoid impacts to environmentally sensitive features, such as woodlands and wetlands,
early in the planning process when planning for and designing and building new
infrastructure.
• Expand context sensitive and sustainable solutions in the planning and design of
transportation infrastructure.
• Continue to monitor National Ambient Air Quality Standards thresholds for fine particulate
mater (PM 2.5) and improve air quality when possible.
• Reduce pollution emissions, including CO2
• Integrate land use and economic development goals with transportation planning.
Encourage and support land use plans and policies to enhance overall transportation
efficiency, including compact and mixed use development.
• Follow adopted MPO “Complete Streets” Policy.
Strategies to Enhance Quality of Life:
• Promote projects that enhance connections between existing neighborhoods, jobs, and
local services.
• Provide accessible, safe, and low-stress solutions in all transportation modes.
• Promote more transportation choices to enhance each person’s quality of life.
• Reduce combined housing and transportation costs by encouraging coordinated land use
and transportation planning.
• Provide more transit training for transit users to increase ridership and access.
• Promote mobility technology.
• Implement supportive services that encourage personal responsibility.
• Continue to incorporate safety issues in transportation planning for all modes.
• Continue to support Complete Streets designs and recommendations.
• Provide pedestrian-friendly streets and recreational trails.
• Built with seniors and children in mind.
• Support efforts in areas with high growth/high density development potential that justify
transportation infrastructure investments.
Strategies to Ensure Transportation Choice:
• Ensure compliance with the MPO Complete Streets Policy and Americans with Disabilities
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Act (ADA) requirements.
• Coordinate land use with planning to optimize multi-modal transportation, focusing
investment in areas adjacent to compact and mixed-use development.
• Enhance access to activity centers (e.g. commercial areas, schools, parks and recreation,
and employment centers) by ensuring transit service and safe, low-stress pedestrian
routes and bike facilities are available.
• Assist communities with achieving Bike Friendly and Walk Friendly status as well as
implementation of Safe Routes to School projects.
• Follow FHWA, National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), and
AASHTO best practices when planning and developing.
Strategies to Foster Health:
• Promote active transportation through the creation of a safe and convenient transportation
network throughout the region.
• Prioritize infrastructure improvements near transit stops and public transportation facilities.
• Encourage active lifestyles through way-finding signs, maps, and other educational
materials.
• Improve elements of the transportation network that are seen as unsafe such as the
scarcity of sidewalks, crosswalks and bicycle facilities, in order to encourage active
transportation and increase safety.
• Reduce injuries associated with motor vehicle crashes through the improvement of
roadway facilities and availability of transportation options.
• Encourage active transportation to minimize air pollution from motor vehicles, and the
fuels used to operate them.
• Address transportation needs and prioritize critical gaps to ensure equity and
comprehensiveness in efforts to enhance active living.
• Ensure all people have access to safe, healthy, convenient, and affordable transportation
options regardless of age, income, and other socioeconomic factors.
Strategies to Ensure Equity:
• Ensure a range of affordable transportation options for all people and neighborhoods
Policy.
• Maximize the safety, convenience, and reliability of the public transit system.
• Prioritize the expansion and improvement of the sidewalk and multi-use trail network,
especially for direct access from multi-family or mixed-use development.
• Support land use and development policies that support safe and convenient access
between housing and employment areas, schools, recreation, and commercial areas.
• Provide targeted LOS evaluation for non-motorized travel to evaluate transportation
services and infrastructure serving low-income and disadvantaged neighborhoods.
• Prioritize projects that create or enhance multi-modal access to employment, education,
or recreational facilities.
Since Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus receive federal
operating formula funding through the MPO, each agency provides Certifications and Assurances
annually that all minority locations are considered regarding bus routes and service (see attached
maps). Through the development of required planning documents, Board discussions, public
input, input from the MPO’s Transportation Technical Advisory Committee, modeling of future
projects, evaluation of performance measures, and MPOJC community involvement no disparate
impacts have been identified in any transportation investment program.
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Attached maps:
• Median Household Income/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and CRP project locations
• Special-Needs Housing/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and CRP project locations
• Non-White Population Density/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and CRP project locations
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Attachment A: MPOJC Title VI Resolution
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Attachment B: MPOJC Title VI Complaint Form
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION of JOHNSON COUNTY
TITLE VI NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
The Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (MPOJC) hereby gives public notice
that it is the policy of MPOJC to assure full compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,
related statutes and regulation provide that no person shall on the ground of race, color, or
national origin be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to
discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The Civil
Rights Restoration Act of 1987 amended Title VI to specify that entire institutions receiving federal
funds, whether schools, colleges, government entities, or private employers, must comply with
Federal civil rights laws, rather than just the particular programs or activities that receive federal
funds.
MPOJC is concerned with the impacts of our programs, projects, and activities on low-income
and minority populations (“Environmental Justice”) under the Title VI. Any person who believes
that they are being denied participation in a project, denied benefits of a program, or otherwise
being discriminated against because they identify with one of the listed characteristics or
protected classes, please contact:
Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner & Title VI Coordinator
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
319-356-5235 or hneel@iowa-city.org
OR, you may also contact:
Iowa Department of Transportation’s Civil Rights Coordinator
Office of Employee Services - Civil Rights
800-262-0003 or 515-262-1921
PLAESE CONTACT THE TITLE VI COORDINATOR ABOVE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE,
BUT NO LATER THAN 180 DAYS AFTER THE ALLEGED DISCRIMINATION
OCCURRED, OR IF THERE HAS BEEN A CONTINUING COURSE OF CONDUCT, NO
LATER THAN 180 DAYS AFTER THE ALLEGED DISCRIMINATION WAS
DISCONTINUED.
For more information about Title VI, visit the Iowa DOT’s Civil Rights website at:
http://www.iowadot.gov/civilrights/ or contact the MPOJC Title VI Coordinator.
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Attachment C: MPOJC Title VI Complaint Form
METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION of JOHNSON COUNTY
TITLE VI COMPLAINT FORM
This form may be used to file a complaint with the Metropolitan Planning Organization of
Johnson County (as part of the City of Iowa City) based on violations of Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964. You are not required to use this form, a letter that provides the
same information may be submitted to file your complaint. Complaints must be submitted
within 180 calendar days.
Name: Date:
Street Address:
City: State: Zip:
Telephone: (home) (work)
Individual(s) discriminated against, if different that above (use additional pages if
needed).
Name: Date:
Street Address:
City: State: Zip:
Telephone: (home) (work)
Please explain your relationship with the individual(s) indicated above:
Name of agency and department or program that discriminated:
Agency or department
name:
Name of Individual (if known):
Address:
City: State: Zip:
Date(s) of alleged discrimination:
Date Discrimination began
Last or most recent date
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ALLEGED DISCRIMINATION:
If your complaint is in regard to discrimination in the delivery of services or
discrimination that involved the treatment of you by others by the agency or
department indicated above, please indicate below the basin on which you believe
these discriminatory actions were taken.
Race
Color
National Origin
Explain:
Please explain as clearly as possible what happened. Provide the name(s) of
witness(es) and others involved in the alleged discrimination. (attach additional sheets
if necessary and provide a copy of written materials pertaining to your case).
Signature: __________________________________ Date: __________________
Note: MPOJC (as part of the City of Iowa City) prohibits retaliation or intimidation
against anyone because that individual has either taken action or participated in action
to secure rights protected by policies of the City. Please inform the Iowa City Human
Rights Commission if you feel you were intimidated or experienced perceived
retaliation in relation to filing this complaint.
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Attachment D: MPOJC Public Input Process
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County
Adopted by the Urbanized Area Policy Board July 13, 2022
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Acknowledgements
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Laurie Goodrich Coralville City Council
Meghann Foster Mayor, Coralville
Janice Weiner Iowa City City Council
Shawn Harmsen Iowa City City Council
John Thomas (Chair) Iowa City City Council
Megan Alter Iowa City City Council
Pauline Taylor Iowa City City Council
Laura Bergus Iowa City City Council
Jon Green Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Rod Sullivan Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Chris Hoffman Mayor, North Liberty
Brian Wayson North Liberty City Council
Steve Berner Mayor, Tiffin
Erin Shane University of Iowa
Louise From (Vice-Chair) Mayor, University Heights
Ruthina Malone (non -voting) Iowa City School Board
Rural Policy Board
Tim Kemp, Chairperson Mayor, Hills
Christopher Taylor, Vice Chairperson Mayor, Swisher
Mickey Coonfare Mayor, Shueyville
Steve Stange Mayor, Solon
Heather Johnson Mayor, Oxford
Jon Green Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Rod Sullivan Johnson County Board of Supervisors
Matt Zadow Lone Tree City Council
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC)
Vicky Robrock Manager, Coralville Transit
Scott Larson City Engineer, City of Coralville
Kelly Hayworth City Administrator, City of Coralville
Darian Nagle-Gamm Director, Trans. Services, City of Iowa City
Ron Knoche Director, Public Works, City of Iowa City
Jason Havel City Engineer, City of Iowa City
Mark Rummel Asst. Director, Trans. Services, Iowa City
Scott Sovers Asst. City Manager, City of Iowa City
Ryan Rusnak Planning Director, City of North Liberty
Louise From Mayor, City of University Heights
Doug Boldt City Administrator, City of Tiffin
Greg Parker Johnson County Engineer
Tom Brase Director, Johnson County SEATS
Brian McClatchey Manager, University of Iowa Cambus
David Kieft Business Manager, University of Iowa
Bob Oppliger MPO Regional Trails & Bicycling Committee
Cathy Cutler (ex-officio) Planner, Iowa DOT
Darla Hugaboom (ex-officio) Federal Highway Administration, Ames
Brock Grenis (ex-officio) East Central Iowa Council of Governments
Jeremiah Shuler (ex -officio) Federal Transit Administration, Kansas City
*The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee is chaired by MPOJC staff.
(TTAC is charged with making technical recommendations to the Urbanized Area Policy Board)
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Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee (RTBC)
Louise From City of University Heights
Bob Oppliger Bicyclists of Iowa City
Doug Boldt City of Tiffin
Becky Soglin Johnson County
Sherri Proud City of Coralville
Jay Geisen University of Iowa
Ryan Rusnak City of North Liberty
Juli Seydell Johnson City of Iowa City
Liz Hubing Bike Iowa City
*The Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee is a subcommittee of the MPOJC Transportation Technical
Advisory Committee.
(RTBC is charged with making recommendations to the TTAC and Urbanized Area Policy Board)
MPO Transportation Planning Division Staff
Kent Ralston Director/Transportation Planner
Emily Bothell Sr. Associate Transportation Planner
Sarah Walz Associate Transportation Planner
Hannah Neel Associate Transportation Planner
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Introduction
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 Multimodal 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.
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MPO Planning Boundary
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MPO Public Input Process
Outreach Strategies
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
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.
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Getting the Word Out
MPOJC uses five outlets to notify residents about upcoming public comment periods and public
workshops:
1. Residents may sign-up to receive email notices of public input opportunities by visiting
www.icgov.org/e-subscriptions and completing the subscription form.
2. Notices of public input opportunities are published in the Iowa City Press Citizen.
3. The MPOJC website (www.MPOJC.org) lists upcoming meeting information.
4. Posters are displayed in Iowa City, Coralville, and University of Iowa Cambus buses
regarding TIP approval.
5. Notices are sent to the following MPOJC Public Input Organizations:
▪ Access 2 Independence
▪ Bicyclists of Iowa City
▪ Chamber of Commerce
▪ Citizens for Sensible
Development
▪ Climate Action Committee
▪ Coralville Parks & Recreation
Commission
▪ Coralville Planning and Zoning
Commission
▪ CRANDIC Railroad
▪ Environmental Advocates
▪ Friends of Historic Preservation
▪ Goodwill of the Heartland
▪ Iowa City Area Association of
Realtors
▪ Iowa City Area Development
Group
▪ Iowa Bicycle Coalition
▪ Iowa City Historic Preservation
Commission
▪ Iowa City /Johnson County
Senior Center
▪ Iowa City Neighborhood
Services Office
▪ Iowa City Sierra Club
▪ Iowa Interstate Railroad
▪ Iowa City Planning and Zoning
Commission
▪ Johnson County Historical
Society
▪ Johnson County Historic
Preservation Commission
▪ Johnson County Planning and
Zoning Commission
▪ Johnson County SEATS
▪ League of Women Voters of
Johnson County
▪ MPOJC Regional Trails and
Bicycling Committee
▪ North Liberty Parks &
Recreation Commission
▪ North Liberty Community Center
▪ Project GREEN
▪ Soil & Water Conservation
Service
▪ Systems Unlimited
▪ Tiffin Planning and Zoning
Commission
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To request being added to the MPOJC Public Input Organization list, please contact MPOJC staff
at (319) 356-5235.
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Procedural Notices and Processes
Public Participation Plan
The Public Participation Plan outlines the process MPOJC will follow to adequately involve the
community and gather meaningful input regarding transportation decisions. A minimum public
comment period of 45 days will be established prior to any Public Participation Plan adoption or
revision. Notice is sent to interested parties and posted on the MPOJC website.
Long Range Transportation Plan
The Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) provides direction and guidance for each MPO to make
efficient transportation investment decisions over a 20-year planning horizon and to address major
transportation needs in the Iowa City Urbanized Area. The LRTP must be updated every five years.
A minimum of two public workshops shall be held to present new or major updates to the Long Range
Transportation Plan prior to adoption. At least one of these meetings shall be held a minimum of 30
days prior to adoption of the Long Range Transportation Plan to provide for a 30-day comment period.
Notice is sent to interested parties and posted on the MPOJC website.
Amendments to the LRTP require a recommendation from the Transportation Technical Advisory
Committee (TTAC). A 30-day public input notice will be published in the Iowa City Press-Citizen prior
to the Urbanized Area Policy Board meeting. Notice is sent to interested parties and posted on the
MPOJC website.
Transportation Improvement Program
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a four-year schedule of projects to improve or
maintain the quality of the public transportation network. A new TIP is developed and adopted
annually.
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 change 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 amount of through
lanes, type of work from an overlay to reconstruction, or a change to include widening of the
roadway.
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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.
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).
Passenger Transportation Plan
The MPOJC Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP) promotes joint, coordinated passenger
transportation planning programs and provides needs-based justification for passenger
transportation projects. The PTP involves key community organizations, including human services
organizations, public and private transit providers, and local business representatives. The PTP
identifies transportation needs and service requests and recommends strategies or projects to
overcome these needs. The PTP is updated every 5 years with annual updates provided to the Iowa
DOT.
Amendments to the Passenger Transportation Plan will be required when any changes are proposed
to Section 5310 funding. Amendments will be presented to the TTAC and a recommendation will be
presented to the Urbanized Area Policy Board for approval. A 30-day public input notice will be
published in the Press-Citizen prior to the Urbanized Area Policy Board meeting. A notice is sent to
interested parties and is posted on the MPOJC website.
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Transportation Planning Work Program
The Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) is developed each year by MPOJC in a
coordinated effort involving the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee, the Regional Trails
and Bicycling Committee, and the Urbanized Area Policy Board. The TPWP includes special
requested projects, ongoing and routinely occurring projects, projects required by the FHWA, FTA,
and Iowa DOT, and carry-over projects from the previous year.
Public participation is required in the preparation of the TPWP. The Transportation Technical Advisory
Committee reviews and makes a recommendation to the Urbanized Area Policy Board for approval.
A notice is sent to interested parties and is posted on the MPOJC website.
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MPO PROGRAM DESCRIPTION REQUIREMENTS
Public Participation Plan Public input process for Updated as necessary
transportation planning
Long Range Transportation Plan 20-year long range plan Adopted every 5-years by MPOJC
including policies and projects Urbanized Area Policy Board
Amending the LRTP Changes to projects and Adopted as necessary
financial constraints
4-year schedule of projects Adopted annually by MPOJC
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Awarding STBG/TAP funding Local process to award Awarded by MPOJC
federal funding Urbanized Area Policy Board
Amending the TIP Changes to programmed Adopted as necessary
projects
Passenger Tranportation Program Coordinated transit Adopted every 5-years by MPOJC
planning Urbanized Area Policy Board
Transportation Planning Work Program Annual Work Program Adopted annually by MPOJC
Urbanized Area Policy Board
PUBLIC INPUT
OPPORTUNITIES
(45 days)
(30 days)
Public
Input/Mtg
Open
House
Transportation Improvement Program
Public
Notice/Public
Comment
Bus
Notice/Poster
Notice to
Interested
Parties
Social
Media
Web
Notice
Summary of Public Partitipation Procedures
(30 days)
(30 days)
(30 days)
(15 days min)
SUMMARY OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCEDURES TYPE OF PUBLIC INPUT NOTICE
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Attachment E: Iowa City Transit Contract Language
TITLE VI CONTRACT LANGUAGE
During the performance of this contract, the contractor, for itself, its assignees, and successors
in
interest, (hereinafter referred to as the "contractor") agrees as follows:
1. Compliance with Regulation
The contractor shall comply with the regulations relative to nondiscrimination in
federally assisted programs of the Department of Transportation (hereinafter referred
to as DOT), Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, part 21 (hereinafter referred to as
the Regulations), as they may be amended from time to time, herein incorporated by
reference and made a part of this contract.
2. Nondiscrimination
The contractor, with regard to the work performed during the contract, shall not
discriminate on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin in the selection of and
retention of subcontractors, including procurement of materials and leases of equipment.
The contractor shall not participate either directly or indirectly in discrimination prohibited
by Section 21.5 of the Regulations, including employment practices when the
contract covers a program set forth in Appendix B of the Regulations.
3. Solicitation for Subcontracts, including Procurement of Materials and Equipment
In all solicitations either by competitive bidding or negotiations made by the contractor
for work to be performed under a subcontract, including the procurement of material for
leases of equipment, each potential subcontractor or supplier shall be notified by the
contractor of the contractor's obligations under this contract and the Regulations relative
to nondiscrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex, or national origin.
4. Information and Reports
The contractors shall provide all information and reports required by the Regulation or
directives issued pursuant thereto, and shall permit access to its books, records, accounts,
other sources of information and its facilities as may be determined by the MPOJC, the
City of Iowa City, Iowa Department of Transportation or appropriate Federal Agency to be
pertinent to ascertain compliance with such Regulation, orders and instructions. Where
any information required of a contractor is in exclusive possession of another who fails or
refuses to furnish this information, the contractor shall so certify to the Iowa Department
of Transportation or the appropriate Federal Agency as needed, and shall set forth what
efforts it has made to obtain the information.
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5. Sanctions for Noncompliance
In the event of the contractor's noncompliance with the nondiscrimination provisions of
this contract, the MPOJC/City of Iowa City shall impose such contract sanctions as the
Iowa Department of Transportation may determine to be appropriate, including, but not
limited to:
• Withholding of payments to the contractor under contract until the contractor
complies, and/or
• Cancellation, termination, or suspension of the contract, in whole or in part.
6. Incorporations of Provisions
The contractor shall include the provisions of paragraphs (1) through (5) in every
subcontract, including procurement of materials and leases of equipment, unless exempt
by Regulations or directives issued pursuant thereto. The contractor shall take such
action with respect to any subcontractor or procurement as the MPOJC/City of Iowa City,
Iowa Department of Transportation, or appropriate Federal Agency may direct as a means
of enforcing such provisions, including sanctions for noncompliance.
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Attachment F:
Maps: Median Household Income/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and
CRP project locations (2025)
Special Needs Housing/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP and CRP
project locations (2025)
Non-White Population Density/Transit Routes/STBG, TAP, and
CRP project locations (2025)
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Attachment G:
Long Range Transportation Plan – Scoring Criteria
MPOJC Policy Board Approved November 18, 2020
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
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
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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:
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:
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1Not used to score Transportation Alternatives 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 5-Year Estimates (2012-2016)
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #3(d): Update regarding the MPOJC FY2026 Transit Program of Projects
Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and University of Iowa Cambus are programming projects for
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds in FY2026. Please see the attached tables for your
reference. The projects will also be included in the FY2026 Iowa Department of Transportation’s
Consolidated Transit Funding applications MPOJC completes for each transit system and in the
FY2026-2029 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Not every project listed in the Program
of Projects will be funded; however, to be eligible for federal funding, projects must be included.
This information is being distributed to you for your reference and will also be included in the draft
FY2026-2029 MPOJC TIP which will be presented to you at your May meeting. All three transit
agencies will hold public hearings and have their Program of Projects approved as part of their
Consolidated Funding Applications process by May 1.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this information, please contact me at 319-356-
5235 or hneel@iowa-city.org.
FY2026 Federal Transit Administration Program of Projects - Coralville Transit
Project Total FTA
1 Operating Assistance $925,000 (est)
2 Contracted services for persons with special needs (5310)*$459,600 $62,757
3 Associated capital bus maintenance (spare parts)$100,000 $80,000
4 Design and construction of Intermodal Transportation Center -Phase II $15,627,938 $12,502,350
5 Purchase 3 - 40' heavy-duty buses w/cameras (8), AVL/annunciators,
auxilary heaters, and fixed route configuration for replacement $2,136,000 $1,815,600
6 Purchase 5 - 40' heavy-duty buses (108, 109, 110, 111, 112) w/cameras (8),
AVL/annunciators, auxiliary heaters, and fixed route confuguration for
replacement $3,560,000 $3,026,000
7 Purchase 4 - 176" light-duty expansion buses w/cameras (6)
and auxilary heaters $697,600 $592,960
8 Purchase 2 - 176" light-duty expansion electric buses w/cameras (6)$1,260,000 $1,071,000
9 Purchase 2 - 176" light-duty replacement buses (344, 366) w/ cameras (6)
and auxilary heaters $348,800 $296,480
10 Construct New Transit Facility - Phase II $2,232,562 $1,786,050
11 Replace 2 passenger shelters and associated improvements $37,422 $29,938
12 Purchase 6 passenger shelters and associated improvements $112,266 $89,813
13 Purchase shop equipment (armature lathe, misc.)$89,250 $71,400
14 Purchase replacement fare collection system $400,000 $320,000
Total Capital Funds:$26,601,838
FTA Capital Funds:$21,681,591
FTA Operating Funds:$987,757
*This is an estimate provided by Iowa DOT
FY2026 Federal Transit Administration Program of Projects - Iowa City Transit
Project Total FTA
1 Operating Assistance (5307)$3,200,000 (est)
2 Contracted services for persons with special needs (5310)*$2,060,000 $257,019
3 Purchase bus shelters $300,000 $255,000
4 Associated capital bus maintenance (spare parts)$500,000 $425,000
5 Transit Operations and Maintenance Facility $36,706,517 $19,733,293
6 Purchase (4) - 40' heavy-duty battery-electric replacement buses
(101, 102, 103, 104) w/ cameras, low floor, fixed route configuration,
AVL and charging equipment $16,860,000 $12,886,000
7 Purchase (10) - 40' heavy-duty diesel bus replacement buses
(656, 658, 660, 661, 667, 668, 669, 670, 671, 672) w/ cameras, low floor,
fixed route configuration, and AVL $8,022,000 $6,814,800
8 Purchase (2) - 40' hybrid diesel/battery electric bus replacement buses
buses (673, 674) w/ cameras, low floor, fixed route configuration, and AVL $2,221,600 $1,982,980
9 Purchase (10) - 176" light-duty replacement buses (6510, 6520, 6530,
6540, 6710, 6711, 6712, 6713, 6714) w/ cameras and AVL $1,855,000 $1,574,000
Total Capital Funds:$66,465,117
FTA Capital Funds:$43,671,073
FTA Operating Funds:$3,457,019
*This is an estimate provided by Iowa DOT
FY2026 Federal Transit Administration Program of Projects - University of Iowa Cambus
Project Total FTA
1 Operating Assistance $1,200,000 (est)
2 Paratransit operating assistance (5310)*$300,000 $0
3 Purchase in-ground hoist system $120,000 $96,000
4 Associated capital bus maintenance (spare parts)$200,000 $160,000
5 Purchase 6 replacement passenger shelters $90,000 $72,000
6 Purchase replacement forklift for maintenance $75,000 $60,000
7 Expand and upgrade the maintenance facility and equip it for the
conversion to electric buses $13,500,000 $10,800,000
8 Purchase 1 - 30' heavy-duty replacement bus (11) w/cameras (8),
low floors, fixed route configuration, and AVL/annunciators $663,600 $564,060
9 Purchase 6 - 40' heavy-duty replacement electric buses (95, 96, 97, 99,
103, 105) w/ cameras (8), low floors, fixed route configuration,
AVL/annunciators, and auxilary heaters $8,070,000 $6,859,500
10 Purchase 6 - 40' heavy-duty replacement diesel buses (94, 98, 100, 101,
102, 104) w/ cameras (8), low floors, fixed route configuration, and
AVL/annunciators $4,248,600 $3,611,310
11 Purchase 3 - 40' heavy-duty replacement diesel buses (106, 107, 108) w/
cameras (8), low floors, fixed route configuration, and
AVL/annunciators $2,124,300 $1,805,655
12 Purchase 2 - 176" light-duty low floor replacement buses (17 and 18)
w/cameras (6)**$401,600 $341,360
Total Capital Funds:$29,493,100
FTA Capital Funds:$24,369,885
FTA Operating Funds:$1,200,000
*This is an estimate provided by Iowa DOT
**Includes 5310 funds of $160,310 in Bus 17 and $104,325 in Bus 18
Date: March 26, 2025
To: Urban Area Policy Board
From: Madelyn Stoen, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #3(e): Update on MPOJC Long Range Transportation Plan revision
process
The MPOJC Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) is a transportation planning document
designed to help guide decision making about transportation improvements and transportation
funding into the future. The LRTP is a compilation of plans and visions for all modes of
transportation (vehicle, transit, pedestrian, and bicycle) for the Iowa City Urbanized Area (Iowa
City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin, University Heights, and portions of unincorporated Johnson
County). It includes elements such as community transit and bike/pedestrian plans, the MPOJC
arterial streets plan, population projections, historic transportation perspectives and background,
a summary of community transportation visions, existing and forecasted arterial street
deficiencies, and a fiscally constrained list of future transportation projects.
Per federal requirements, MPOs must update their Long Range Transportation Plans at least
every five years in order to receive federal funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs
Act (IIJA). In order to present the final plan to the MPOJC Urban Area Policy Board for adoption
in May 2027, the revision process will begin in July 2025. This is an update to Connecting
Communities 2050: Long Range Transportation Plan which was adopted in May 2022.
Throughout the revision process, staff will reach out to member communities for data and a list of
capital transportation infrastructure needs/projects for the years 2027-2055 to be considered for
inclusion in the plan. There will also be many opportunities for public engagement, and staff will
present updates to the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee and the Urban Area Policy
Board throughout this process.
The current Long Range Transportation Plan can be found here:
https://www.icgov.org/home/showpublisheddocument/1495/638261418400230000
I will be present at your April 2nd meeting for any questions you may have.
Date:
To:
From:
RE:
March 26, 2025
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Sarah Walz; Associate Transportation Planner
Agenda Item #3(f): Update on Metro Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Collision Data
Ensuring the safety and comfort of cyclists and pedestrians is a key priority for the MPO and its
member communities. Collision data is instrumental in identifying high-risk intersections and
corridors, developing safety strategies, and prioritizing improvements. This data also plays a
role in evaluating grant applications (e.g., TAP and STBG), helping to determine which
infrastructure projects should be prioritized. Additionally, the MPO’s Long Range Transportation
Plan uses bicycle and pedestrian collision data as a performance measure to track our progress
in improving safety.
The charts below show trends in reported bicycle and pedestrian collisions within the Urbanized
Area over time, including the severity of injuries. These data are sourced from the Iowa
Department of Transportation’s Crash Analysis Tool and represent incidents that occurred
within public street rights-of-way, including sidewalks. Collisions on I-80/380 or U.S. Highway
218.
Bicycle Collisions
Figure 1 displays the number of bicycle crashes annually since 2012. From 2015-2023, the
number of bicycle collisions in the metro area generally decreased, dropping more than 60%
between 2016 and 2020. The significant reduction in crashes during 2020 is likely due to
COVID-19 restrictions.
While 2023 saw a notable decline in both total collisions and those resulting in serious injuries
or fatalities, the number of bicycle collisions surged by more than 60% in 2024. The number of
collisions resulting in injuries (Figure 2) reached the highest level since 2016, along with an
increase in the percentage of collisions causing serious injury or death. Whether this rise is due
to a combination of factors, an anomaly, or the beginning of a longer-term trend is uncertain.
Figure 3 compares bicycle collision data and the resulting severe injuries and fatalities from the
past five years (2020-2024) with the preceding five years (2015-2019).
While 74% of reported bicycle collisions occur within Iowa City’s municipal limits, collisions have
also been reported across the urbanized area, including 4 in North Liberty, 2 in Tiffin, and 5 in
Coralville.
2
23
30 30 27 26
16 20 21
12 11
17
12
24
3
1 1 3 6
2
2 2
2 1
1
4
1
1
1
1
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Metro Area Bicycle Injuries
Minor Serious Fatal
Figure 1: Total annual bicycle collisions and percentage of incidents that result in
serious injury or fatality, 2012-2024.
Figure 2: The total annual number of injuries resulting from bicycle collisions, 2012-2024.
3
2015-2019 2020-2024 Trend
Bicycle Collisions 195 126 $
Serious Injury 15 8 $
Fatality 2 2 =
Figure 3: Comparisons of 5-year bicycle collision totals and resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
Pedestrian Collisions
Figure 4 illustrates the number of pedestrian collisions annually since 2012. Similar to bicycle
collisions, pedestrian collisions in the metro area began to decrease around 2016, showing a
more than 60% reduction from 2016 to 2020. Although 2023 saw a significant drop in pedestrian
collisions, the number of pedestrian collisions surged by over 95% in 2024. The number of
collisions resulting in injury (Figure 5) reached its highest point, coinciding with an increase in
the percentage of collisions leading to serious injury or fatalities (Figure 4).
Figure 4: Total annual pedestrian collisions and percentage of collisions resulting in serious injury or
fatality, 2012-2024.
4
12
23
7
14
19
11
16 12
5
17 17
9
18
3
3
2
3
6
3
4
3
4
2 5
3
14
1
1
2
1
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Metro Area Pedestrian Injuries
Minor Serious Fatal
Figure 5: The total annual number of injuries resulting from pedestrian collisions, 2012-2024.
2015-2019 2020-2024 Trend
Pedestrian Collisions 131 123 $
Serious Injury 17 28 #
Fatality 1 3 #
Figure 6: Comparisons of 5-year pedestrian collision totals and resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
Figure 6 compares the most recent five years (2020-2024) of pedestrian collision numbers and
resulting severe injuries and fatalities with the previous 5-year data (2015-2019).
While 76% of reported pedestrian collisions occurred within Iowa City, incidents were also
recorded in surrounding areas: 4 in North Liberty, 4 in Coralville, and 1 in Johnson County.