Executive Summary
Chapter 1: 3C Transportation Planning and the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization
Chapter 2: About the Unified Planning Work Program
Chapter 3: MPO Support and 3C Planning
Chapter 4: Boston Region MPO Planning Studies and Technical Analyses
Chapter 5: Resource Management and Support Activities
Chapter 6: Metropolitan Area Planning Council Activities
Chapter 7: Boston Region MPO Budget and Operating Summaries
Certification of the Boston Region MPO Transportation Planning Process
Prepared by
The Central Transportation Planning Staff:
Staff to the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization
Directed by the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization,
which is composed of the
Massachusetts Department of Transportation
Metropolitan Area Planning Council
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
MBTA Advisory Board
Massachusetts Port Authority
Regional Transportation Advisory Council
City of Boston
City of Beverly
City of Everett
City of Framingham
City of Newton
City of Somerville
Town of Arlington
Town of Acton
Town of Brookline
Town of Burlington
Town of Hull
Town of Medway
Town of Norwood
Federal Highway Administration (nonvoting)
Federal Transit Administration (nonvoting)
This document was funded in part through grants from the US Department of Transportation. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the US Department of Transportation.
The Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) operates its programs, services, and activities in compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, and related statutes and regulations. Title VI prohibits discrimination in federally assisted programs and requires that no person in the United States of America shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin (including limited English proficiency), be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that receives federal assistance. Related federal nondiscrimination laws administered by the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration, or both, prohibit discrimination on the basis of age, sex, and disability. The Boston Region MPO considers these protected populations in its Title VI Programs, consistent with federal interpretation and administration. In addition, the Boston Region MPO provides meaningful access to its programs, services, and activities to individuals with limited English proficiency, in compliance with US Department of Transportation policy and guidance on federal Executive Order 13166.
The Boston Region MPO also complies with the Massachusetts Public Accommodation Law, M.G.L. c 272 sections 92a, 98, 98a, which prohibits making any distinction, discrimination, or restriction in admission to, or treatment in a place of public accommodation based on race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or ancestry. Likewise, the Boston Region MPO complies with the Governor’s Executive Order 526, section 4, which requires that all programs, activities, and services provided, performed, licensed, chartered, funded, regulated, or contracted for by the state shall be conducted without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, disability, veteran’s status (including Vietnam-era veterans), or background.
A complaint form and additional information can be obtained by contacting the MPO or at http://www.bostonmpo.org/mpo_non_discrimination. To request this information in a different language or in an accessible format, please contact
Title VI Specialist
Boston Region MPO
10 Park Plaza, Suite 2150
Boston, MA 02116
civilrights@ctps.org
By telephone:
857.702.3700 (voice)
For people with hearing or speaking difficulties, connect through the state MassRelay service:
Relay Using TTY or Hearing Carry-over: 800.439.2370
Relay Using Voice Carry-over: 866.887.6619
Relay Using Text to Speech: 866.645.9870
For more information, including numbers for Spanish speakers, visit
https://www.mass.gov/massrelay
Srilekha Murthy
UPWP Manager, Central Transportation Planning Staff
10 Park Plaza, Suite 2150
Boston, MA 02116
857.702.3693 (voice)
For people with hearing or speaking difficulties, connect through the state MassRelay service:
Relay Using TTY or Hearing Carry-over: 800.439.2370
Relay Using Voice Carry-over: 866.887.6619
Relay Using Text to Speech: 866.645.9870
For more information, including numbers for Spanish speakers, visit https://www.mass.gov/massrelay
This document was funded in part through grants from the US Department of Transportation. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the US Department of Transportation.
Metropolitan planning organizations (MPO) are responsible for providing forums for making decisions about how to allocate federal transportation funds for capital projects and planning studies in a metropolitan area. These decisions are guided by information and ideas collected from a broad group of people, including elected officials, municipal planners and engineers, transportation advocates, and interested residents. Each metropolitan area in the United States with a population of 50,000 or more—also known as an urbanized area—is required by federal legislation to establish an MPO for the area.
The Boston Region MPO’s planning area extends across 97 cities and towns from Boston north to Ipswich, south to Marshfield, and west to Interstate 495.
Figure ES-1 shows the map of the Boston Region MPO’s member municipalities.
Figure ES-1
Municipalities in the Boston Region
The MPO’s board has 22 voting members. Several state agencies, regional organizations, and the City of Boston are permanent voting members, while 12 municipalities are elected as voting members for three-year terms. Eight municipal members represent each of the eight subregions of the Boston region, and four represent at-large municipal seats. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) participate on the MPO board as advisory, or nonvoting, members. More details about the MPO’s permanent members can be found in Appendix F.
Figure ES-2 details MPO membership and the organization of the Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS), which serves as staff to the MPO.
Figure ES-2
Boston Region MPO Organizational Chart
The federal government regulates the funding, planning, and operation of the transportation system through the federal transportation program, which was enacted into law through Titles 23 and 49 of the United States Code. The Federal-Aid Highway Act and the Federal Transit Act require that urbanized areas conduct a transportation planning process to be eligible for federal funds, resulting in plans and programs consistent with the planning goals of the metropolitan area.
The most recent reauthorization of the transportation law is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which sets policies related to metropolitan transportation planning. The law requires all MPOs to carry out a continuing, comprehensive, and cooperative (3C) transportation planning process. As part of its 3C planning process, the Boston Region MPO annually produces the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). These documents, along with the quadrennial Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), are required for the MPO to be certified as meeting federal requirements. This certification is a prerequisite for receiving federal transportation funds. In addition to this requirement, the MPO must establish and conduct an inclusive public engagement process, as well as maintain travel models and data resources to support air quality conformity determinations, transportation equity analyses, and long- and short-range planning work and initiatives.
Appendix E explains the regulatory and legislative context in which the MPO operates in greater detail.
The 3C planning process is an approach for conducting meaningful transportation planning:
Chapter 1 explains the 3C process in greater detail.
The UPWP is a one-year planning document and financial plan that explains how the Boston region’s federal transportation planning funds will be spent in a given federal fiscal year (FFY).
The development of the UPWP involves the prioritization of all potential transportation planning programs, studies, and technical analyses that could be undertaken to benefit the region in a given year. The scopes and budgets of the prioritized work are documented in the UPWP. The aim is to ensure that the work undertaken by the MPO supports the region’s transportation goals, as established through the 3C process.
The UPWP serves as a source for the following information:
The Boston Region MPO plans for the transportation future of the Boston region. The MPO is guided by a 20-year vision for a modern, safe, equitable, sustainable, and technologically advanced transportation system for the region. This vision is described in the MPO’s current LRTP, Destination 2040. The transportation planning work funded through the UPWP is an integral part of achieving this regional vision.
The transportation goals of the Boston region, as defined in Destination 2040, are as follows:
The MPO is currently in the process of developing its next LRTP. The following paragraph is the MPO’s vision statement as approved in February 2023; this UPWP was developed to be consistent with this vision.
The Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization envisions an equitable, pollution-free, and modern regional transportation system that gets people to their destinations safely, easily, and reliably, and that supports an inclusive, resilient, healthy, and economically vibrant Boston region.
In addition to the LRTP and the UPWP, the MPO also produces the TIP for the Boston region. As the near-term capital investment plan of the MPO, the TIP describes and prioritizes transportation construction projects that are expected to be implemented during the upcoming five-year period. Figure ES-3 illustrates the relationship between the LRTP vision and goals; the planning foundation for the MPO’s work, the UPWP; the TIP; and the process for monitoring and evaluating progress towards achieving the region’s goals.
The total federal funding programmed in this UPWP is $7,116,954. All federal funds programmed in the UPWP are awarded to the Boston Region MPO by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) as FHWA 3C Planning (PL) funds. These federal funds initially come from two sources: the FHWA and the FTA. There are two categories of funds. Federal funds originating from FHWA, known as FHWA 3C Planning funds, are distributed across MPO regions using a formula developed by the Massachusetts Association of Regional Planning Agencies. Federal funds originating from the FTA are known as FTA 3C Planning (Section 5303) funds. Both FHWA 3C Planning funds and FTA 3C Planning funds programmed in this UPWP include a state match. For more detailed information on funding sources and breakdowns, please see Chapter 2.
In addition to MPO-funded work, CTPS performs planning analyses and studies funded by state transportation agencies, including MassDOT, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), and the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport). More detail about these agency-funded studies can be found in Appendix A.
The UPWP contains detailed information about work programs, studies, support activities, and technical analyses that are organized in the following categories:
Table ES-1 contains the budget allocated for the MPO’s 3C planning activities in FFY 2024. The table reflects the FHWA metropolitan PL funds and FTA Section 5303 funds, which CTPS and Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) expect to spend in FFY 2024. The table also reflects the work that CTPS will conduct with funds provided by other transportation agencies.
Chapters 3 through 5 provide detailed information about the transportation-planning activities that will be performed by CTPS during FFY 2024. The new studies chosen for funding in FFY 2024 are summarized below in Table ES-2 and described in more detail in Chapter 4.
Table ES-1
Unified Planning Work Program Budget for FFY 2024
| 3C Studies and Programs by Budget Categories | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| Resource Management and Support Activities | $395,500 |
| MPO Certification Requirements | $4,575,486 |
| Ongoing MPO-Funded Technical Analyses | $146,700 |
| New MPO-Funded Discrete Studies | $150,000 |
| MassDOT-Directed PL Funds* | $359,326 |
| Direct Support | $175,000 |
| Total FFY 2024 CTPS Budget | $5,802,012 |
| 3C Studies and Programs by MAPC Budget Categories | Proposed FFY 2024 MAPC Budget |
| MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses | $769,942 |
| MAPC Administration, Resource Management, and Support Activities | $545,000 |
| Total MAPC FFY 2024 UPWP Programmed Funds | $1,314,942 |
| Agency Supporting MPO/3C Work | Proposed FFY 2024 Budget |
| CTPS | $5,802,012 |
| MAPC | $1,314,942 |
| 3C Budget Subtotal | $7,116,954 |
| FFY 2024 UPWP Budget | $7,116,954 |
Note: This budget includes salary, overhead, and direct support costs.
* Projects in this category are conducted on behalf of MassDOT but funded through the MPO 3C contract.
Table ES-2
New Discrete Funded Studies in FFY 2024
| Universe ID | Project ID | Study or Program | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| M-1 | 14001 | Lab and Municipal Parking Phase II | $45,000 |
| A-1 | 14002 | Parking in Bike Lanes: Strategies for Safety and Prevention | $20,000 |
| R-2 | 14003 | Strategies for Environmental Outreach and Engagement | $25,000 |
| TE-1 | 14004 | Applying Conveyal to TIP Project Scoring | $60,000 |
| Total for New Discrete Studies | blank | blank | $150,000 |
The annual process of creating the UPWP includes both generating and evaluating ideas for new studies, as well as updating the scopes and anticipated deliverables for ongoing programs, technical analysis activities, certification requirements, and administrative support activities.
Ideas for studies, technical analysis activities, and deliverables for ongoing programs come from a combination of the following resources:
Ideas for new studies are compiled into the Universe of Proposed Studies. Each proposal is evaluated based on how it would help the region accomplish the LRTP goals. In selecting the final list of studies, the UPWP Committee also considers the utility of the projected study results to MPO stakeholders; whether sufficient staff resources are available to execute the needed work; and whether the work to be carried out is coordinated, rather than redundant, with work being done in other agencies.
The MPO continually seeks to improve its process through inclusive and collaborative decision-making. For this reason, the MPO seeks to involve a broad and diverse range of stakeholders throughout the UPWP development process.
MPO staff will continue to seek public input for ideas for the Universe of Proposed New Studies and engage participants in discussing, evaluating, and eventually prioritizing studies for inclusion in the UPWP. Staff will also continue to monitor and enhance the MPO’s communication channels, such as those listed below:
Toward the end of the document development process, the MPO votes to release for public review a draft UPWP. MPO staff posts the document on the MPO’s website (www.bostonmpo.org) and publicizes its release via an email distribution list that includes municipal contacts, interested members of the public, and other stakeholders in the region, and via social media. Email messages inform stakeholders about upcoming opportunities for public review and involvement in MPO decision-making. MPO staff also solicit public input during open houses, meetings with stakeholders, and at public events hosted by the MPO or its transportation partners (including MassDOT and the MBTA). MPO staff compile comments made during the public review period and present them to the MPO board. Information about the public review process for the Draft FFY 2024 UPWP is provided in Appendix B.
The MPO monitors the progress of programs and studies funded through the UPWP by performing the following tasks:
This UPWP document is structured as follows:
Decisions about how to allocate transportation funds in a metropolitan area are guided by information and ideas gathered from a broad group of people, including elected officials, municipal planners and engineers, transportation advocates, and interested residents. Metropolitan planning organizations (MPO) are the bodies responsible for providing a forum for this decision-making process. Each metropolitan area in the United States with a population of 50,000 or more, also known as an urbanized area, is required by federal legislation to establish an MPO, which decides how to spend federal transportation funds for capital projects and planning studies for the area.
The federal government regulates the funding, planning, and operation of the surface transportation system through the federal transportation program, which was enacted into law through Titles 23 and 49 of the United States Code. Section 134 of Title 23 of the Federal Aid Highway Act, as amended, and Section 5303 of Title 49 of the Federal Transit Act, as amended, require that urbanized areas conduct a transportation planning process, resulting in plans and programs consistent with the planning objectives of the metropolitan area, in order to be eligible for federal funds.
The most recent reauthorization of the federal surface transportation law is the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which has succeeded the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The BIL sets policies related to metropolitan transportation planning, and requires that all MPOs carry out a continuing, comprehensive, and cooperative (3C) transportation planning process.
The Boston Region MPO is responsible for carrying out the 3C planning process in the Boston region. The MPO has established the following objectives for the process:
More information about the federal, state, and regional guidance governing the transportation planning process, and about the regulatory framework in which the MPO operates can be found in Appendix E.
The Boston Region MPO’s planning area extends across 97 cities and towns from Boston north to Ipswich, south to Marshfield, and west to Interstate 495.
Figure 1-1 shows the map of the Boston Region MPO’s member municipalities.
Figure 1-1
Municipalities in the Boston Region
The MPO’s board comprises 22 voting members. Several state agencies, regional organizations, and the City of Boston are permanent voting members, while 12 municipalities are elected as voting members for three-year terms. Eight municipal members represent each of the eight subregions of the Boston region, and there are four at-large municipal seats. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA) participate on the MPO board as advisory (nonvoting) members. More details about the MPO’s permanent members can be found in Appendix F.
Figure 1-2 shows MPO membership and the organization of the Central Transportation Planning Staff, which serves as staff to the MPO.
Figure 1-2
Boston Region MPO Organizational Chart
The following paragraph is the MPO’s central vision statement, as adopted in Destination 2040, the MPO’s current Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), which was adopted in August 2019.
The Boston Region MPO envisions a modern, well-maintained transportation system that supports a sustainable, healthy, livable, and economically vibrant region. To achieve this vision, the transportation system must be safe and resilient; incorporate emerging technologies; and provide equitable access, excellent mobility, and varied transportation options.
This vision statement takes into consideration the significant public input received during the drafting of the Needs Assessment for Destination 2040. This statement also reflects the MPO’s desire to emphasize the maintenance and resilience of the transportation system while supporting the MPO’s six core goals: Safety, System Preservation and Modernization, Capacity Management and Mobility, Clean Air and Sustainable Communities, Transportation Equity, and Economic Vitality. More information on the MPO’s vision, goals, and objectives for the transportation system is available in Figure 1-3.
The Boston Region MPO is in the process of developing Destination 2050, its next LRTP, which is expected to be completed in the summer of 2023. The updated vision, goals, and objectives created as part of Destination 2050 will not only guide the recommendations included in that plan, but also the development of future MPO Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP) and LRTPs. It was also considered when developing this UPWP. The following paragraph is the MPO’s vision statement as approved in February 2023.
The Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization envisions an equitable, pollution-free, and modern regional transportation system that gets people to their destinations safely, easily, and reliably, and that supports an inclusive, resilient, healthy, and economically vibrant Boston region.
As part of its 3C process, the Boston Region MPO annually produces the TIP and the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). These documents, along with the quadrennial LRTP, are referred to as certification documents and are required for the federal government to certify the MPO’s planning process. This federal certification is a prerequisite for the MPO to receive federal transportation funds. In addition to the requirement to produce the LRTP, TIP, and UPWP, the MPO must establish and conduct an inclusive public participation process, and maintain transportation models and data resources to support air quality conformity determinations and long- and short-range planning work and initiatives.
The following is a summary of each of the certification documents.
Figure 1-3
LRTP Goals and Objectives
Vision Statement
The Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization envisions an equitable, pollution-free, and modern regional transportation system that gets people to their destinations safely, easily, and reliably, and that supports an inclusive, resilient, healthy, and economically vibrant Boston region.
| GOALS | OBJECTIVES |
| EQUITY | blank |
| Facilitate an inclusive and transparent transportation-planning process and make investments that eliminate transportation-related disparities borne by people in disadvantaged communities. | • Facilitate an inclusive and transparent engagement process with a focus on involving people in disadvantaged communities.* • Ensure that people have meaningful opportunities to share needs and priorities in a way that influences MPO decisions. • Eliminate harmful environmental, health, and safety effects of the transportation system on people in disadvantaged communities. • Invest in high-quality transportation options in disadvantaged communities to fully meet residents’ transportation needs. * Disadvantaged communities are those in which a significant portion of the population identifies as an MPO equity population—people who identify as minority, have limited English proficiency, are 75 years old or older or 17 years old or younger, or have a disability—or has low income. |
| SAFETY | blank |
| Achieve zero transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries and improve safety for all users of the transportation system. | • Eliminate fatalities, injuries, and safety incidents experienced by people who walk, bike, roll, use assistive mobility devices, travel by car, or take transit. • Prioritize investments that improve safety for the most vulnerable roadway users: people who walk, bike, roll, or use assistive mobility devices. • Prioritize investments that eliminate disparities in safety outcomes for people in disadvantaged communities. |
| MOBILITY AND RELIABILITY | blank |
| Support easy and reliable movement of people and freight. | • Enable people and goods to travel reliably on the region’s transit and roadway networks. • Prioritize investments that address disparities in transit reliability and frequency for people in disadvantaged communities. • Reduce delay on the region’s roadway network, emphasizing solutions that reduce single-occupancy-vehicle trips, such as travel demand management. • Prioritize investments that reduce delay on the region’s transit network. • Support reliable, safe travel by keeping roadways, bridges, transit assets, and other infrastructure in a state of good repair, and prioritize these investments in disadvantaged communities. • Modernize transit systems and roadway facilities, including by incorporating new technology that supports the MPO’s goals, such as electric-vehicle technologies. |
| ACCESS AND CONNECTIVITY | blank |
| Provide transportation options and improve access to key destinations to support economic vitality and high quality of life. | • Improve multimodal access to jobs, affordable housing, essential services, education, logistics sites, open space, and other key destinations. • Prioritizing transportation investments that support the region’s and the Commonwealth’s goals for housing production, land use, and economic growth. • Increase people’s access to transit, biking, walking, and other non-single-occupancy-vehicle transportation options to expand their travel choices and opportunities. • Prioritize investments that improve access to high quality, frequent transportation options that enable people in disadvantaged communities to easily get where they want to go. • Close gaps in walking, biking, and transit networks and support interorganizational coordination for seamless travel. • Remove barriers to make it easy for people of all abilities to use the transportation system, regardless of whether they walk, bike, roll, use assistive mobility devices, or take transit. |
| RESILIENCY | blank |
| Provide transportation that supports sustainable environments and enables people to respond and adapt to climate change and other changing conditions. | • Prioritize investments to make the region’s roadway and transit infrastructure more resilient and responsive to current and future climate hazards, particularly within areas vulnerable to increased heat and precipitation, extreme storms, winter weather, and sea level rise. • Prioritize resiliency investments in disadvantaged communities and in areas that bear disproportionate climate and environmental burdens. • Prioritize investments in transportation resiliency that improve emergency access and protect evacuation routes. • Prioritize investments that include nature-based strategies such as low-impact design, pavement reduction, and landscape buffers to reduce runoff and negative impacts to water resources, open space, and environmentally sensitive areas. |
| CLEAN AIR AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES | blank |
| Provide transportation free of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants and that supports good health. | • Reduce transportation-related greenhouse gases, other air pollutants, and growth in vehicle-miles traveled by encouraging people and goods to move by non-single-occupancy-vehicle modes. • Support transit vehicle electrification and use of electric vehicles throughout the transportation system to reduce greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. • Prioritize investments that address air pollution and environmental burdens experienced by disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. • Support public health through investments in transit and active transportation options and by improving access to outdoor space and healthcare. |
Figure 1-4 depicts the relationship between the three certification documents and the MPO’s performance-based planning and programming process, which is a means to monitor progress towards the MPO’s goals and to evaluate the MPO’s approach to achieving those goals.
Figure 1-4
Relationship between the LRTP, TIP, UPWP,
and Performance-Based Planning Process
This chapter explains the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and its connection to the overall regional transportation vision developed in the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). As outlined in Chapter 1, the UPWP plays an integral part of achieving the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) vision and mandate by documenting the federal funding that will be spent on surface transportation studies and work programs in the Boston region during a given federal fiscal year (FFY). This plan also serves as the basis for financing the ongoing work of the staff to the Boston Region MPO.
The UPWP is a financial plan that the MPO produces annually in compliance with the federally mandated continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive (3C) metropolitan planning process described in Chapter 1.
As the basis for transportation planning at the Boston Region MPO, the UPWP prioritizes federal funding for transportation planning work that will be implemented in the 97-municipality area of the Boston region. The Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS) or the staff of the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) conduct this work (CTPS is the staff of the MPO and MAPC is the Boston region’s regional planning agency). This work primarily consists of the following four parts.
Certification Requirements and Other MPO Support Activities. The UPWP includes activities that the federal government requires the MPO to conduct to remain certified as an MPO and be eligible to receive and distribute federal transportation dollars. Work in this category includes preparing federally required plans such as the LRTP and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The LRTP, which is updated every four years, allocates funding for transportation construction projects and programs over a 20-year period. The TIP, which is updated annually, allocates funding for the implementation of projects during the next five years. This section of the UPWP also includes air quality conformity and transportation equity-related compliance and other planning activities associated with the LRTP and TIP. In addition, the UPWP programs the MPO’s public participation activities, including support to the Regional Transportation Advisory Council (Advisory Council) and support to meetings of the MPO and its committees.
The UPWP also funds other activities that support MPO planning and certification requirements, including graphics and editing support; managing data and computer resources; and maintaining the MPO’s regional travel demand model, which is used to forecast the potential impacts that changes to the transportation system will have on traffic congestion and transit ridership. See Chapters 3 and 5 for more detail about these areas of work.
Ongoing/Continuing Work Programs. Ongoing and continuing work programs support technical analyses and planning studies for cities and towns in the region. Examples of these programs include Bicycle and Pedestrian Support Activities, Regional Transit Service Planning Technical Support, and Community Transportation Technical Assistance. See Chapter 4 for more detail about these programs.
New Studies. Every year, funds are available for the MPO staff to perform new studies. CTPS conducts these activities to enhance staff’s and the MPO’s knowledge of transportation planning practices, augment analytical methods, and evaluate transportation planning strategies. Examples of these studies in the FFY 2024 UPWP include Parking in Bike Lanes: Strategies for Safety and Prevention, and the Lab and Municipal Parking Phase II study. See Chapter 4 for more detail about these new studies.
Agency Studies and Technical Analyses. CTPS conducts planning analyses and studies funded by state transportation agencies, including the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), and the Massachusetts Port Authority. CTPS also occasionally conducts planning analyses and studies funded by municipalities. See Appendix A for more details on these agency-funded studies.
MPO staff produces the UPWP each year under the supervision and guidance of the MPO’s UPWP Committee. The UPWP Committee, comprised of a subset of MPO board members and supported by MPO staff, convened 6 meetings in FFY 2023 to consider and provide input on the UPWP development process. Discussion included the following topics:
These meetings resulted in the committee’s recommendation for the Draft FFY 2024 UPWP. The MPO approved the UPWP Committee’s recommendations for public review of the Draft FFY 2024 UPWP on [date to be determined].
Below are details about the process for selecting studies and programs for the FFY 2024 UPWP.
To develop new planning studies for the FFY 2024 UPWP, the MPO drew from the following sources to generate a listing known as the Universe of Proposed New Studies (see Appendix C) for evaluation by MPO staff and the MPO’s UPWP Committee.
MPO staff works continuously to enhance public participation in the UPWP and other MPO activities, and strives to achieve continued improvements in the volume, diversity, and quality of public input. More information about the MPO’s public outreach process is available in Chapter 3, and at https://www.bostonmpo.org/public-engagement.
MPO staff evaluated each new proposal in the Universe of Proposed New Studies based on how it helps the region accomplish the MPO’s goals as laid out in the LRTP; whether staff has the capacity to carry it out; and a variety of other factors.
In addition to conducting the study evaluation process, MPO staff defined general scopes and estimated costs for proposed planning studies and considered potentially feasible issues to study. Staff considered these factors with input from the public, MPO members, and partner agencies, along with the availability of funds for new studies, when identifying a recommended set of new proposed planning studies for review by the UPWP committee.
Table 2-1 shows the studies in the FFY 2024 universe that were selected for funding in FFY 2024. Chapter 4 provides detailed descriptions of these studies.
Table 2-1
FFY 2024 New Discrete Funded Studies
| Universe ID | Project ID | Study or Program | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| M-1 | 14001 | Lab and Municipal Parking Phase II | $45,000 |
| A-1 | 14002 | Parking in Bike Lanes: Strategies for Safety and Prevention | $20,000 |
| R-2 | 14003 | Strategies for Environmental Outreach and Engagement | $25,000 |
| TE-1 | 14004 | Applying Conveyal to TIP Project Scoring | $60,000 |
| Total for New Discrete Studies | blank | blank | $150,000 |
In addition to the process of selecting new discrete transportation planning studies, the MPO reviews activities for ongoing programs and work. MPO staff identifies and develops budgets for these continuing programs that will be carried out in the upcoming FFY. Staff proposes changes to the budget of any program resulting from revisions to planned activities.
Examples of ongoing and continuing activities comprise work that is required of the MPO, including certification requirements (see Chapter 3), ongoing technical assistance to municipalities (see Chapter 4), and resource management and support activities (see Chapter 5).
The annual study program review and budget development process defines the amount of 3C funding (from federal grants that support the 3C process) that is available for new studies in the UPWP. After accounting for 3C-funded continuing and ongoing programs, the remaining funding is available for new studies.
MPO staff incorporates into the draft UPWP descriptive and financial information about ongoing and new UPWP studies, information about the UPWP development process, and other major transportation planning studies that will occur in the region during the relevant federal fiscal year. Appendix D provides an analysis of the distribution of UPWP-funded work products by subregion and municipality. Once the MPO votes to release the draft for public review, MPO staff posts the document to the MPO website (www.bostonmpo.org) and provides notice of its availability through various communication outlets.
As previously noted, public outreach forms a major part of the input to the UPWP each FFY. After the MPO approves the draft UPWP, there is a public comment period. During this time, MPO staff members solicit public input via the MPO email list, the MPO website, and social media outlets. Staff compiles all public comments received during this period and presents them to the MPO.
Information about the public review process for the Draft FFY 2024 UPWP is available in Appendix B.
The UPWP also includes a list (Appendix A) of other federally funded and/or regionally significant transportation planning activities active in the region during the relevant FFY. These activities are not funded with the MPO’s planning funds, but may be funded and implemented by individual transportation agencies, municipalities, or academic institutions. Often, these efforts make use of the expertise and tools that CTPS is uniquely able to provide.
The MPO approved the following procedures for monitoring the studies in the FFY 2024 UPWP:
If necessary, MPO staff can make amendments and administrative modifications to the UPWP throughout the year. All 3C documents endorsed by MPOs, such as the TIP, LRTP, and the UPWP, must follow standardized procedures regarding amendments and/or administrative modifications. If an amendment is under consideration, MPO staff notifies the Advisory Council and other interested parties, including any affected communities. The MPO follows the procedures specified in the MPO’s Public Engagement Plan.
The following are the guidelines regarding the conditions that constitute an amendment to the UPWP, as received from FHWA by MassDOT and the MPO in FFY 2024 for future UPWPs.
Amendments to the UPWP, defined as significant changes to the overall UPWP that require federal approval, include the following:
Administrative modifications to the UPWP, defined as minor adjustments to the overall UPWP that do not require federal approval, include the following:
Staff must present all proposed amendments and administrative modifications to the MPO for consultation prior to endorsement. The UPWP Committee will review both amendments and administrative modifications before forwarding them to the MPO. MPO members must vote to approve both amendments and administrative modifications. For amendments, the MPO will vote to either release the amendment for a 21-day public comment period or waive said comment period (upon recommendation from the UPWP Committee) prior to an endorsement vote. Members of the public may attend and provide comments at UPWP committee meetings and MPO meetings at which amendments and administrative modifications are discussed.
The MPO may make administrative modifications without a public review period at the MPO’s discretion, although information will be shared with MassDOT’s Office of Transportation Planning (OTP). When submitting the standard Budget Reallocation Request form to OTP, staff must fill out all fields with clear indication that the MPO was consulted prior to submission. Staff must submit back-up documentation, including the UPWP description of task(s) affected, original budget, revised budget, and justification for the request. Amendments will go into effect after approval by FHWA.
The total federal funding programmed in this UPWP is $7,116,954. All federal funds programmed in the UPWP are awarded to the Boston Region MPO by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) as FHWA 3C Planning (PL) funds. However, these federal funds initially come from two sources: the FHWA and the FTA. The federal funds, which are supplemented by a local match provided by MassDOT, include the following initial sources:
In addition to MPO-funded work, CTPS performs planning analyses and studies funded by state transportation agencies, including MassDOT, the MBTA, and the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport). More detail about these agency-funded studies can be found in Appendix A.
The activities described in this chapter broadly cover work that the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) completes to fulfill the continuous, comprehensive, and cooperative (3C) process and to maintain its certification by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Activities are grouped into three areas: (1) those that support the core MPO planning and programming functions, (2) those that support the 3C planning process, and (3) those that support the MPO board and committee operations and their decision-making processes.
Table 3-1 presents the funding in federal fiscal year (FFY) 2023 and FFY 2024 for each of these activities and includes a brief description of their work, progress, and products. Although many generally comprise the same tasks from year to year, often there are variations in budgets that reflect greater or lesser emphasis in certain tasks. For example, MPO staff may undertake new analyses under specific line items; expand or change the form of public engagement; fold tasks undertaken in one year into an ongoing activity in a subsequent year; take on a new initiative of the MPO; or experience fluctuations in staffing levels that account for budget changes. Where appropriate, the table and individual descriptions explain these differences.
The budget tables that accompany each activity description include the associated salary and overhead costs. Direct costs associated with the activities are found in Chapter 5.
Table 3-1
FFYs 2023–24 MPO Support and 3C Planning
| Name | Project ID | FFY 2023 CTPS UPWP Budget | FFY 2023 Work Progress and Products | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget | FFY 2024 Planned Work Progress and Products |
| Core MPO Functions | blank | blank | blank | blank | blank |
| Long-Range Transportation Plan | 8124 | $326,000 | • Developed, sought public feedback on, and finalized the 2023 LRTP, Destination 2050. The plan is effective as of October 1, 2023, and will remain in effect for four years • Finalized the Needs Assessment for Destination 2050, shared results and materials, and developed processes for maintaining and updating information over time • Reviewed and updated the MPO’s planning framework • Continued public outreach to support Destination 2050 activities, including scenario planning, creating a planning framework, and selecting investment programs and projects • Identified, evaluated, and selected projects and programs for the recommended LRTP • Analyzed the recommended plan with respect to greenhouse gas emissions and equity outcomes • Addressed comments on Destination 2050 from state and federal agencies • Continued implementation of Destination 2040 (the 2019 LRTP) • Continued to monitor best practices in planning and communication, as well as developments in key issue areas • Responded to changes to the SIP |
$266,500 | • Begin implementing Destination 2050, including by carrying out and refining investment programs and initiatives outlined in the LRTP • Conduct public outreach on LRTP topics, including Needs Assessment updates and the MPO's vision, goals, and objectives • Continue to monitor current state-of-the-practice communications methods, planning tools, and approaches • Conduct research and analysis and continue developing materials for ongoing updates to the Needs Assessment • Update the web page for the Destination 2050 • Begin processes to develop and analyze scenarios to support the MPO's next LRTP • Coordinate with MassDOT, the MBTA, the region's RTAs, other MPOs, and other stakeholders regarding LRTP development |
| Transportation Improvement Program | 8224 | $323,000 | • Developed the FFY 2024–28 TIP • Continued outreach to municipalities, subregions, regional transit authorities, MassDOT, and other partners to solicit ideas for inclusion in the FFY 2024–28 TIP and in the TIP Universe of Projects • Devised new investments for the TIP, including the deployment of a Bikeshare Support line item and Project Design Pilot in FFY 2025 • Created a scope of work for Transit Modernization Program for deployment in FFY 2025 along with a Shuttle Action Plan to inform the funding of shuttle pilot projects in subsequent TIPs • Held workshops and internal discussions to inform the development of the FFY 2025–29 and subsequent TIPs with an eye towards the project pipeline, discretionary grant applications, and evaluation criteria |
$286,000 | The TIP is updated annually, and in FFY 2024 will be updated to the FFYs 2025–29 TIP document. This update will entail the repetition of some of the tasks performed in column D, including the deployment of various new investment programs (Design Pilot, Bikeshare Support, Transit Modernization). |
| Unified Planning Work Program | 8324 | $101,500 | • Developed the FFY 2024 UPWP • Conducted outreach to municipalities and other stakeholders in the region through MAPC subregional meetings, digital communications, and conversations with agencies to develop study ideas for the UPWP • Conducted outreach to advocacy and policy groups and interested citizens to gauge needs and collect study ideas for the FFY 2024 UPWP and beyond • Discussed UPWP matters with Regional Transportation Advisory Council, including development of study ideas for the UPWP and education about the UPWP products and process • Held internal discussions on potential future changes to the UPWP process and document |
$122,500 | Activities generally remain the same year to year, with staff supporting the MPO in producing its annual (FFY 2025) UPWP. A potential point of emphasis in FFY 2025 may be expanding the focus of engagement beyond the discrete studies program, as well as streamlining the document development process. |
| Public Engagement Program | 9624 | $278,000 | Engaged municipalities, advocates, community groups, and the general public in the MPO's decision-making processes and planning work Provided timely communications and accessible engagement opportunities via public meetings, open houses, surveys, email, and social media Expanded the program to support additional engagement in MPO discrete studies and corridor and intersection studies Evaluated and refined the Public Engagement Plan Developed an annual memo summarizing and evaluating engagement activities per the Public Engagement Plan Took over administration of the Regional Transportation Advisory Council |
$296,000 | Activities generally remain the same year to year, with staff supporting public engagement in the MPO's decision-making processes and planning work. In FFY 2024, engagement staff will support engagement activities related to the implementation of the Destination 2050 LRTP, the start of the development of the next LRTP, the development of the FFY 2024 TIP and UPWP, and several transportation planning studies. Administration of the Regional Transportation Advisory Council will be fully brought under the Public Engagement Program. Staff will continue to expand the program to better reach constituencies underserved by the transportation system and those with limited English proficiency. The strategies and methods employed by engagement staff will continue to evolve with best practices to become more sophisticated. Changes to methodology will be included in updated versions of the MPO's Public Engagement Plan. |
| Regional Transportation Advisory Council Support | 9323 | $18,000 | N/A | Activities will now be a part of the Public Engagement Program. | |
| Performance-Based Planning and Programming | 8824 | $117,000 | • Developed annual, two-year, and four-year performance targets for several areas of measurement • Incorporated performance targets and past performance into LRTP and TIP • Began developing process to replace the current online program dashboard • Explored areas for setting performance targets in addition to those mandated by FTA. |
$140,000 | Activities generally remain the same year to year. Establishing performance targets for required measures in safety, infrastructure condition, asset management, congestion management, and air quality. Incorporating performance targets into TIP and LRTP processes. Exploring areas of performance target setting beyond those mandated by FTA. |
| Transportation Equity Program | 8524 | $177,000 | • Completed a 2022 Title VI Triennial Report • Completed a 2023 Coordinated Public Transit—Human Services Transportation Plan • Began developing analyses that identify transportation inequities in preparation for building them into an online dashboard • Conducted Disparate Impact and Disproportionate Burden analysis for the LRTP • Supported the MPO’s public engagement program in engagement with Title VI, EJ, and other nondiscrimination populations • Provided technical support to the LRTP Needs Assessment, TIP, and MPO-guided studies • Maintained equity Census data for the MPO • Supported project-related EJ analyses |
$210,000 | Activities generally remain the same year to year. Completing continuing developing equity performance metrics and building a dashboard to display them Developing an approach for identifying disparate impacts and disproportionate burdens in the TIP Supporting Scenario Planning for the LRTP Supporting scoring changes to the TIP project selection criteria Updating the MPO's DI/DB application to reflect the DI/DB analysis results from the most recent LRTP, Destination 2050. |
| Air Quality Conformity Determinations and Support | 8424 | $21,500 | Coordinated with external partners such as MassDOT, FHWA, and EPA on topics related to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and CMAQ Provided technical support for the air quality conformity and greenhouse gas sections of the TIP and LRTP Assessed regional projects in eSTIP for greenhouse gas reporting requirements Conducted project-level air quality analysis for projects in the TIP. Prepared material and voted on behalf of the Boston Region for the annual CMAQ consultation committee meeting Connected with USGAO and Volpe to answer questions about greenhouse gas emissions reporting Attended webinars related to emissions, air quality, and federal funding sources |
$35,000 | Activities generally remain the same year to year, and will include coordination with external partners on air quality topics, performing project-level analyses to estimate emissions for the TIP and determine CMAQ eligibility, attending the annual CMAQ consultation committee meeting, supporting a regional greenhouse gas analysis for the LRTP, updating the air quality conformity language to reflect the most recent regulations, and other tasks as needed. |
| Congestion Management Process | 2124 | $134,000 | Finished creating a corridor-based expressway network in GIS Attended monthly MassDOT/INRIX meetings Completed the 2019 arterial performance dashboard Created a new expressway corridor CMP network Defined the arterial corridor network (performance measures still need to be calculated) Hosted a CMP committee meeting which provided a workshop for the roadway pricing study Completed materials for the roadway pricing study workshop Completed meeting minutes for both the 12/2/2021 and 3/23/2023 CMP committee meetings Assisted with selecting projects for the roadway pricing study |
$144,000 | Several of these tasks remain the same year to year. Staff will continue to monitor the CMP for all modes. However, the main objective is to complete an online CMP dashboard, which will show a snapshot of congestion on the CMP network. In addition, the CMP committee will meet several times a year to help promote the Boston Region MPO’s CMP. |
| Programs Supporting the 3C Process | blank | $1,496,000 | blank | $1,500,000 | blank |
| Climate Resilience Program | 8724 | $44,000.00 | Provided technical support for the TIP and the LRTP’s Needs Assessment Discussed environmental engagement strategies and developed new partnerships with regional organizations Processed the Massachusetts Coast Flood Risk Model (MC-FRM) and other climate data to support analyses of transportation infrastructure exposed to climate hazards Coordinated internally to discuss resilience themes, data sources, engagement, and resilience in the MPO’s certification documents. Coordinated with external partners such as MAPC, the MBTA, and MassDOT on resilience topics Attended an external event related to resilience and adaptation Inventoried findings from Boston Region municipalities' vulnerability assessments Attended informational webinars on resilience topics such as climate trends and PROTECT funds established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Presented resilience work and led a resilience discussion at a May Regional Transportation Advisory Council meeting |
$76,000 | Maintain connections with external partners through regular check-ins Continue collaboration among staff on resilience tasks Participate in environmental events and build new connections with regional stakeholders Develop text and material to create a resilience-focused page on the MPO’s website Review the components of a Resilience Improvement Plan as laid out in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, determine whether to develop an MPO-specific plan, research what other MPOs are doing, and start a framework for developing the plan if we decide to produce one Review usability, data needs, outputs, and credibility of vulnerability assessment tools and develop a plan for assessment of Boston region transportation assets of interest to the MPO Evaluate resilience and environmental TIP criteria and adjust as necessary to successfully invest in resilience-focused projects |
| Freight Planning Support | 2224 | $93,000 | Completed research and produced technical memo on shared bus and truck priority lanes Research on freight guidelines and exploration of freight data Began development of freight dashboard Outreach and coordination with stakeholders Concepts for coordinating freight and land use Developed webpage for the freight program |
$111,500 | Freight Planning Work Scope in coordination with Destination 2050 that reflects input gathered from MPO stakeholders during FFY 2023 and implications of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Freight planning roadmap Develop a program to coordinate freight and land use in the Boston MPO region Develop truck-counting and data-sharing protocols to extend the freight program’s data-gathering reach Develop a dashboard with freight infrastructure in the region Serve on interagency working groups Provide data and analysis in support of advanced travel demand model implementation |
| Regional Model Enhancement | 7124 | $890,000 | Estimated parameters for secondary components (airport, truck, university, special generators, and externals) in TDM23 Completed implementation of core and secondary components in TDM23 Implemented process to track network changes requested and released network contents Updated and released TDM19.2 network and code Updated highway and transit networks to 2019 base year, developed 2050 LRTP scenario networks Prepared calibration data including LBS data for trip flows, transit boarding data, pnr demand, highway count, and speed data Developed validation reports for all model components and calibrated parameters to 2019 base year Improved model runtime through simplification of input networks and benchmarking and refining code Connected TDM23 with TMIP-EMAT to facilitate exploratory analysis Designed and implemented integrated post processors for equity and air quality analysis Completed development version of TDM23 for calibration with updated network and input data Developed draft model summary and comparison reports Developed model documentation |
$762,500 | Develop model roadmap with input from stakeholders and responses to demonstrated tdm23 capabilities Prepare application supporting documentation and features for tdm23 Conduct exploratory analysis to demonstrate tdm23 capabilities and identify needs for enhancements Develop a post-pandemic model base year calibrated to most recent roadway and transit data Prepare network requirements and initiate process to rebuild roadway networks Enhance model reports Prioritize, maintain, and release updated versions of tdm23 reflecting reported issues, requested enhancements, and regular software improvements |
| Data Program | 5024 | $572,000 | Developed a data vision Developed standards for cataloguing data and documenting analysis processes Evaluated options for data visualization Responded to data requests from external stakeholders Maintained the MPO website infrastructure |
$590,000 | Develop guidelines for data request process for external stakeholders Develop data publication standards and explore new methods for sharing data publicly Ensure adoption of documentation standards within CTPS Research new data sources and analytic techniques |
| Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Program* | 2524 | $83,500 | Coordinated with state agencies, MAPC, other MPOs, MassDOT’s Safe Routes to School Program, WalkBoston, MassBike, LivableStreets, municipalities, and other groups regarding bicycle and pedestrian planning for the region Provided ongoing technical support to communities for current tools and practices regarding bicycle and pedestrian issues, with particular focus on promoting safety Updated the bicycle gap analysis Coordinated regional efforts to coincide with the vision and goals outlined in the Massachusetts Bicycle and Pedestrian Statewide Transportation Plans |
$129,400 | Provide technical assistance, data collection, analysis, review of materials, and attendance at state, regional, and local forums and committee meetings Conduct analysis of regional bicycle and pedestrian counts Update how gaps are identified in the Boston region bicycle network Evaluate regional intersections and roadways using the Pedestrian Report Card Assessment and Bicycle Report Card tools Research, engagement, and strategy for the Boston Region MPO’s bicycle and pedestrian plan development |
| Multimodal Mobility Infrastructure Program* | 2824 | $323,000 | Updated project selection criteria for corridor and intersection studies Evaluated corridors and intersections for project selection Conducted study of Route 37 in Braintree to develop concepts with short-term and long-term recommendations for the corridor Conducted study of Freeman Square in Lynn to develop concepts with short-term and long-term recommendations for the intersection Conducted study of the Washington Street (Route 129) at Hanover Street/Beacon Hill Avenue intersection in Lynn to develop concepts with short-term and long-term recommendations for the intersection |
$336,000 | Multimodal mobility infrastructure program roadmap Recommendations for selected corridor improvements Recommendations for selected intersection improvements Curb management data collection, analysis and strategies Transit service access, and priority assessments Freight activity evaluations and recommendations Guidebook(s) to support multimodal infrastructure studies |
| Support to the MPO and its 3C Process | blank | $2,005,500 | blank | $2,005,400 | blank |
| Support to the MPO and its Committees | 9124 | $355,088 | Continued support to the meetings and activities of the MPO board and its committees. Work entailed • Preparing meeting and information materials, including agendas, minutes, notices, document translations, memoranda, reports, correspondence, summaries, website content, maps, charts, illustrations, and other visual materials as needed to support MPO discussion and actions • Posting meeting materials in digital form on the MPO meeting calendar webpage and in hard copies that are provided at meetings • Hosting approximately 24 MPO meetings and 18 MPO subcommittee meetings, and performing the associated tasks and pre- and post-meeting logistics • Conducting activities to support compliance with federal requirements and guidance, including coordination with neighboring MPOs, MassDOT, and federal partners |
$505,086 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same from year to year, with variations to the level of effort based on the specific requests by the MPO and state and federal partners. Generally, the expected effort includes • Hosting approximately 24 MPO meetings and 10 MPO subcommittee meetings, and performing the associated tasks and pre- and post-meeting logistics • Coordinating 3C planning and programming activities and programs • Coordinating with state and federal partners • Coordinating with neighboring MPOs • Supporting the Transportation Policy Task Force |
| General Graphics | 9224 | $243,500 | Provide graphics support to the MPO and its member agencies. This includes Designing and producing maps, charts, illustrations, report covers, brochures, slides, and photographs Applying other visualization techniques Creating standards and proof all MPO products both printed and online Producing finished layouts of MPO Documents Creating other products that improve communication within the agency and its member agencies Produce accessible materials in PDF and HTML formats for posting on the Boston Region MPO website Assist in producing materials, including meeting minutes, work scopes, memoranda, reports, and other public materials Review accessibility requirements and current CTPS standards and processes Implement standards within memorandum and report templates |
$305,000 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same from year to year. |
| General Editorial | 9724 | $174,000 | Provide editorial support to the MPO staff. Review public-facing documents and make revisions to correct grammar and formatting, improve clarity and organization, and maintain consistent style. Products reviewed include certification plans, reports, memoranda, work scopes, meeting minutes, presentations, job advertisements, and other materials as required. Maintain and update document templates for use in the creation of accessible documents. Set editorial standards and maintain the CTPS Editorial Style Guide for staff’s use. | $227,000 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same year to year. |
| Transit Working Group Support | 8924 | $42,000.00 | • Hosted four working group meetings and a series of small discussion groups ("coffee chats") and managed pre- and post-meeting communications and logistics • Updated the MPO about Transit Working Group development and activities • Updated the Transit Working Group web page • Summarized meeting discussions • Hosted a forum on microtransit in cooperation with MAPC and the MBTA Advisory Board • Researched topics and issues that may be relevant to future Transit Working Group meetings |
$33,000 | • Host quarterly working group meetings • Host one to two coffee chats per month • Host one-off additional events as proposed • Manage pre- and post-meeting logistics • Develop materials and resources to support working group meeting and activities, as needed • Provide updates to the MPO about the transit working group • Support communication for and about the group using email, social media, and the MPO website • Prepare documentation about pilot working group meetings, activities, and participant feedback for the MPO |
*Indicates that program fulfills Federal Highway Administration Complete Streets requirement
The programs and activities included in this section include the core products required by the MPO’s federal partners and related activities for carrying out the MPO’s 3C planning and programming functions. Programs supporting the 3C planning process, such as the Data Program and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, can be found in the following section, Programs Supporting the 3C Process.
Project ID Number |
8124 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$266,500 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The LRTP guides transportation investments for the Boston region for at least the next 20 years and must be updated every four years per federal regulations. It serves as the MPO’s guiding document: it establishes regional transportation goals, objectives, and investment approaches that the MPO operates under. The MPO adopted the current LRTP, Destination 2040, in August 2019, and expects to adopt the next LRTP, Destination 2050, in the summer of 2023, which will go into effect October 1, 2023.
The Needs Assessment provides a holistic view of the transportation needs of the Boston region through data analysis and public engagement. It guides the development of the LRTP and informs project investment decisions in the TIP and study selection in the UPWP. It also shapes the development of MPO programs, such as in the selection of corridor study locations. In FFY 2024, staff will build on resources created as part of the Destination 2050 Needs Assessment, with a focus on expanding the availability of data and findings to the public. This may involve integrating Needs Assessment information into other MPO applications and data resources. Staff will also develop a process for maintaining and updating the Needs Assessment over time.
Staff will begin implementing Destination 2050 in FFY 2024 through the development of the TIP and UPWP (see these respective program descriptions). This will include supporting initiatives to develop guidelines for MPO investment programs and updating TIP project selection criteria, where applicable. MPO staff will also support public engagement about the adopted Destination 2050 plan and its implementation, as needed.
If changes are made to the projects funded in the FFYs 2024–28 TIP that meet criteria for being included in the LRTP, an amendment to Destination 2050 may be required. Staff will prepare the informational materials for MPO decision-making and follow MPO procedures for informing and engaging the public.
In FFY 2022, MPO staff began exploratory scenario planning work to help the MPO envision multiple possible futures for the Boston region and assess how to best prepare for uncertainties while pursuing an overarching vision for the transportation network. Some findings from this process were incorporated into activities to develop Destination 2050. During FFY 2024, MPO staff will continue exploratory scenario work in partnership with Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) staff. This work is expected to make use of alternative socioeconomic and land use scenarios provided by MAPC, as well as tools such as the MPO’s travel demand model. Staff will develop and analyze scenarios of interest to MPO members, staff, and other stakeholders; develop materials to effectively communicate results; and engage MPO members and others in the process. This work will support MPO decision-making and lay the groundwork for future long-range transportation plans.
The LRTP program plays an important role in keeping the MPO abreast of current state-of-the-practice communications methods, transportation issue areas, and planning tools. This information also supports work in other MPO programs. In collaboration with MAPC, staff will continue to explore effective ways to assess and address the Boston region’s needs, analyze transportation and land-use options, and apply best practices in long-range transportation planning.
Project ID Number |
8224 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$286,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The Boston Region MPO’s TIP is a five-year, financially constrained program of planned investments in the metropolitan area’s transportation system. Although federal regulations require that the TIP be updated every four years, Massachusetts MPOs produce annual updates.
Staff communicate with the MPO region’s municipalities through online TIP informational sessions and workshops, MAPC subregional meetings, and correspondence with municipal TIP contacts, MassDOT staff, and elected officials to gather information on existing and new TIP project-funding requests. Staff then compile the projects into a Universe of Projects list for consideration by the MPO.
The MPO uses TIP project evaluation criteria to identify projects that help the region attain the vision, goals, and objectives established by the LRTP. The criteria support decision-making for the programming of transportation projects in the region by establishing a transparent, inclusive, and data-driven process through which funds are allocated.
When the next LRTP, Destination 2050, is endorsed in the summer of 2023, staff will review current criteria and make revisions as needed to reflect updated LRTP goals and objectives and changes to MPO investment programs. Staff expect that revisions will be targeted, rather than an overhaul of existing criteria.
Staff develop a recommendation that proposes how to prioritize the MPO’s Regional Target funding. Staff prepares a list of projects containing the evaluation scores and project-readiness information, then develops programming recommendations that include a selection of these projects taking into consideration the project scores, geographic distribution of investments across the region, project design status, LRTP-identified needs, and cost. Staff present the programming recommendations and work with board members to define the final program.
In addition to preparing the recommendation, staff prepare and present MassDOT state-prioritized projects and the capital programs for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), the Cape Ann Transportation Authority, and the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority for the MPO’s consideration.
Staff prepare a draft TIP that maintains compliance with federal regulations and requirements for a public review and comment period. During the public comment period, staff compile and summarize comments on the draft TIP and relay the comments to the MPO for consideration before endorsing the final TIP document.
The TIP document reports on the MPO’s implementation of its performance-based planning program. It highlights the results of monitoring trends in the region and notes any progress made toward established performance targets.
In a typical year, various projects experience cost or schedule changes that require an amendment or administrative modification to the TIP. Staff prepare for the possibility of several amendments and/or administrative modifications to the FFYs 2024–28 TIP and manage public review processes as needed, including posting TIP materials on the MPO website.
Project ID Number |
8324 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$122,500 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The UPWP, a federally required document that supports the 3C transportation planning process, has two main purposes:
The UPWP document includes descriptions and budgets for work that MPO staff will conduct during the upcoming federal fiscal year, including 3C-funded work conducted by Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS) for the MPO; work conducted by CTPS and funded by state agencies or other entities; and 3C-funded work executed by MAPC, which receives approximately one-third of the Boston region’s allotment of 3C funding. Appendix A provides supplementary information about transportation studies happening in the Boston region that are regionally significant, and work conducted by CTPS and funded by state agencies or other entities.
Work on the UPWP is ongoing throughout the year, with the twin goals of developing the coming year’s UPWP and supporting staff, the MPO, and its UPWP Committee in monitoring implementation of the current UPWP. Staff coordinates and prepares materials for all phases of development of the upcoming UPWP, including
In support of the implementation of the current year’s UPWP, staff
Project ID Number |
9624 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$296,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Public engagement is one of the core functions of an MPO. Engaging the public in the transportation planning process improves decision-making by helping to illuminate the social, economic, and environmental impacts of transportation planning decisions. Continuous engagement supports a communication loop that allows the MPO to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including advocates, community leaders, and members of the public. The MPO’s vision for public engagement in the region is to hear, value, and consider, throughout all planning work the needs and views of the full spectrum of the public and incorporate this input into decision-making.
Staff coordinates public engagement efforts with the MPO’s TE Program to ensure that all members of the public—including populations that have been traditionally underserved by the transportation system and have historically lacked access to the decision-making process—have meaningful opportunities to participate in the transportation planning process that shapes the Boston region. Staff additionally provide operations support to this body and its subcommittees.
Staff implement the MPO’s Public Engagement Program according to the MPO’s Public Engagement Plan by coordinating and implementing the MPO’s public engagement activities via external communication and proactive engagement efforts. This process provides information to individuals, organizations, and community representatives and creates avenues for providing input in the MPO’s planning and decision-making. Staff continually evaluate the Public Engagement Plan to ensure that it reflects current best practices and the MPO’s engagement goals.
Staff provide convenient, timely, and meaningful opportunities for members of the public to participate in the MPO’s transportation planning process. These opportunities include the following:
To ensure that opportunities to participate in the transportation planning process are accessible and transparent, staff create content and disseminate information that is concise, current, and accessible regardless of ability.
Staff continually evaluate and refine the Public Engagement Program to increase public understanding of the MPO’s work and improve its efforts to break down barriers to participation. In consultation with the TE program, staff provide accommodations for people with disabilities at MPO-sponsored meetings as requested and all materials—both digital and paper—in accessible formats.
Staff provide language access (both interpreter and translation services) at MPO-sponsored meetings and engagement events, as requested. Staff also provide translations of engagement documents, surveys, emails, the MPO website, and other materials that allow for participation that is comparable to those with English language fluency. (These accommodations are funded as direct costs; see Chapter 6.)
In collaboration with the Regional Transportation Advisory Council chair and vice-chair, staff plan and facilitate monthly meetings. This includes handling meeting logistics, scheduling speakers, and preparing and distributing agendas, meeting notices, materials, and minutes. Staff also regularly provide information, updates, and briefings on MPO activities at meetings. Staff also manage the administration of the Regional Transportation Advisory Council by soliciting new members, implementing and updating bylaws, coordinating Regional Transportation Advisory Council elections, and maintaining contact and attendance lists. During public comment periods on MPO documents, staff also request and coordinate comments and work with the Regional Transportation Advisory Council and its committees as they conduct and submit their reviews.
Project ID Number |
8824 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$140,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
PBPP applies data to inform decisions aimed at helping to achieve desired outcomes for the region’s transportation system. Federal legislation directs states, public transportation providers, and MPOs to use this performance-driven, outcome-based approach in their transportation planning processes. The Boston Region MPO can also use PBPP practices to help achieve its goals for improving the region’s transportation system.
Staff provides information and recommendations to MPO members as they set, revisit, or update targets for federally required performance measures. This includes annual updates to targets pertaining to roadway safety, transit asset management, and transit safety, as well as targets that have two-year or four-year time horizons, including those related to National Highway System infrastructure condition, travel time reliability, congestion, and transportation-related emissions. MPO staff review and respond to federal regulations and guidance; gather and analyze data; develop performance baselines; and explore ways to improve target-setting methodologies. Staff coordinate with MassDOT, federal agencies, other MPOs and states, the region’s public transportation providers, and other stakeholders as part of this work.
Building upon prior work to integrate PBPP into the TIP and LRTP, MPO staff examine the links between capital projects that the MPO funds and potential improvements in various performance areas. Activities include
The MPO reports on performance in Destination 2040 and TIP documents, through the CMP, and on its web-based Performance Dashboard. To do so, staff
Staff enhance these existing reports and tools by adding and/or updating baseline and trend data and may create additional reports or tools. When developing these resources, staff incorporate information on performance targets and, to the extent practicable, describe the effect that MPO investments may have on performance.
The MPO’s PBPP practice can expand beyond meeting federal requirements to address other aspects of the MPO’s goals and objectives. These efforts include
Project ID Number |
8524 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$210,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The TE program ensures that the transportation needs of populations underserved by the transportation system and underrepresented in the planning process are addressed throughout all of the MPO’s activities. These populations—referred to as TE populations—include minority populations, low-income populations, people with LEP, older adults, youth, and people with disabilities. These populations are covered by the federal mandates below:
In addition to these mandates, work in the TE Program also aligns with federal approaches to equity. This includes Justice40—which directs the federal government to work toward the goal for at least 40 percent of the benefits flow to disadvantaged communities. Under Justice40, USDOT has developed a definition of transportation disadvantaged Census tracts that can support the activities under the TE Program. The USDOT has also developed an Equity Action Plan that guides its equity priorities; again, activities in the TE Program align with the Action Plan where feasible.
The goal of the program is to not only ensure that the MPO complies with federal regulations, but also goes beyond compliance by supporting the development of a more equitable transportation system that serves all people, regardless of their background and disability status, while working toward eliminating harmful disparities in transportation impacts and access.
Through the TE program, staff implements the MPO’s Title VI program and responds to MassDOT requests regarding program updates and submission of a Title VI report as requested. The report documents the MPO’s compliance with FTA and FHWA’s Title VI, EJ, and other nondiscrimination requirements, as well as MPO areas of focus of import to MassDOT.
In collaboration with the MPO’s Public Engagement Program, staff ensure that TE populations remain central to the MPO’s public engagement process. This includes a focus on expanding meaningful opportunities to people with LEP to participate in the MPO’s processes. Staff continue to expand capacity for translating written and digital materials, engaging with organizations and individuals with LEP, and developing non-technical materials that are accessible and easily digestible. These engagement activities are described in more detail in the Public Engagement Program in this chapter.
To improve the effectiveness of the analyses that evaluate the impacts of the MPO’s investments on TE populations, staff refine current analysis methods and develop new ones to further the MPO’s TE goal. This includes analyses undertaken for the LRTP, TIP, and UPWP, although the actual analyses are funded under their respective programs. Anticipated work funded under the TE program includes but is not limited to
Building off the FFY 2022 MPO study Identifying Transportation Inequities in the Boston Region, staff will develop a dashboard that tracks existing disparities in transportation outcomes among TE populations in the Boston region. The goal of the dashboard is to establish a baseline for outcomes and track progress over time to help the MPO prioritize investment decisions that address disparities as described in the LRTP TE goal. Metrics will initially focus on destination access metrics, and as resources allow, other metrics will be added, such as those related to air quality, travel time, climate change, and safety. Staff will coordinate with the FFY 2024 study Applying Conveyal to TIP Project Scoring to ensure consistency in the MPO’s approach to conducting and reporting on destination access analyses. The dashboard will be developed in collaboration with the Data Management Program and support efforts to bring a streamlined, consistent approach to managing public-facing data dashboards to CTPS.
Staff regularly coordinate with CTPS staff who conduct EJ analyses for client work to ensure consistency between those conducted for client projects and those conducted for the LRTP. In doing so, staff coordinate with CTPS’s regional travel demand modeling staff in any metric or analysis updates needed to successfully conduct EJ analyses.
Staff coordinate with MassDOT’s Office of Diversity and Civil Rights to ensure consistency of MPO Title VI-related processes, procedures, and activities with MassDOT’s own practices. Staff also continue to support the MassDOT Rail and Transit Division in its evaluation of applications for funding from the Community Transit Grant Program.
Project ID Number |
8424 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$35,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
This program ensures that the MPO’s plans, programs, and projects comply with the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990 to secure federal funding for the Boston Region MPO’s transportation system. It also provides ongoing support for the MPO regarding air quality matters and maintains technical expertise in air quality and climate change matters, including conformance with federal air quality requirements and the state’s climate change policies.
Staff demonstrate that the MPO meets air quality conformity requirements for the TIP and for the LRTP (if an amendment is needed that includes the addition of a regionally significant project) for pollutants for which the MPO is not in attainment. Under the CAAA, states must monitor emissions from transportation vehicles and other sources to determine whether ambient emissions levels exceed allowable levels of air pollutants. Areas in which emissions exceed these levels are designated as nonattainment areas. For nonattainment areas, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) must develop a State Implementation Plan (SIP) that establishes emissions budgets and shows how the plan would reduce emissions in the area sufficiently to comply with national ambient air quality standards. MPOs with nonattainment areas must complete air quality conformity determinations to demonstrate the conformity of transportation plans, programs, and projects with the Massachusetts SIP. Even if the MPO is in attainment, it must still show that it is complying with transportation control measure requirements outlined in the SIP.
The Boston MPO area had been classified as a nonattainment area for ozone, but it was reclassified as an attainment area under the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2008 ozone standard. As an attainment area, the MPO has since not been required to demonstrate that the LRTP and TIP conform to national standards for the two pollutants that form ozone: volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides. However, in 2023 a new ozone standard was proposed by the EPA, and the MPO region might again be classified as a nonattainment area if this standard is approved. If the MPO area is reclassified as a nonattainment area, conformity determinations for ozone would be required.
Staff also provide expertise in air quality and climate change matters so that the MPO can respond to changing requirements for air quality in its planning, analysis, and reporting. This includes initiatives known today, as well as the ability to participate in issues that might emerge during the year. Staff also support the implementation of air quality-related transportation programs and projects, and provide consultation, research, and coordination between the MPO and federal, state, local, and private entities.
Project ID Number |
2124 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$144,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The MPO’s CMP is a federally mandated requirement to monitor congestion, mobility, and safety needs of the Boston region’s transportation network. Within the program, staff recommend strategies for reducing congestion while accounting for equity, uncertainty, and resiliency of the MPO’s multimodal transportation network. The CMP is developed in an integrated manner along with the MPO’s certification documents (LRTP, TIP, and UPWP) to ensure cohesive strategy evaluation and implementation.
In the Boston Region MPO area, the CMP follows federal guidelines and recommendations from the MPO’s CMP Committee to fulfill the following activities:
The current members of the CMP Committee are
Depending upon CMP Committee recommendations, staff monitor and analyze data for highways, arterial roads, transit, park-and-ride lots, freight movements, and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. CMP activities include using electronic travel-time and speed data to monitor roadways and transit, identify existing conditions, and recommend appropriate improvements in accordance with federal guidelines.
CMP activities include monitoring performance, assessing needs, and recommending strategies for multimodal facilities and services, including the following tasks:
These programs are designed to supplement and enhance the MPO’s core 3C planning and programming activities. The programs in this section include the following:
Project ID Number |
8724 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$76,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Resilience describes an entity’s, such as a transportation system, ability to anticipate extreme events under uncertainty, absorb impacts, recover in a timely and efficient manner, and adapt to better withstand future disturbances. The Climate Resilience Program assesses vulnerability and coordinates resilience improvements in the face of climate change and increasing risk to transportation assets in the Boston region posed by flooding, sea level rise, and rising temperatures. Investments in resilience can reinforce equity and safety goals by prioritizing improvements in disadvantaged areas and supporting a more reliable, safe system for transportation users.
The Climate Resilience Program was established in FFY 2022. Climate resilience will for the first time be one of the MPO’s six goals for the Boston region’s transportation system as part of the next LRTP, Destination 2050, indicating the increasing importance of ensuring the Boston region and its people are able to withstand the impacts of climate change.
Staff perform work to strengthen the MPO’s consideration of climate resilience in the transportation planning process, including
Project ID Number |
2224 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$111,500 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Planning for the policies and infrastructure that enable the movement of freight and goods by road, rail, water, and air is a mandatory part of the federal 3C planning process. The goals for MPO freight planning are to
The MPO’s freight planning activities are guided by the 2013 Freight Planning Action Plan and its 2019 update and is also conducted in coordination with the 2017 Massachusetts State Freight Plan with a planned update in 2023. CTPS will leverage the data and stakeholder input from the updated statewide plan in its regional freight planning efforts. The MPO’s freight planning and analysis is ongoing and conducted on a multiyear basis. Typical activities include
The freight program supports the MPO’s freight planning needs. Freight planning at the MPO focuses on freight movement between metropolitan areas and, increasingly, with regional and local distribution of goods and packages (first- and last-mile delivery). Freight planning frequently includes investigation, analysis, and classification of truck movement, including commercial and service vehicles.
Specific study topics are chosen in consultation with MPO members and other stakeholders. The choice of topic sometimes hinges on complex regulatory and land use issues outside the direct scope of MPO activities, and freight planning activities often support planning efforts underway through other entities.
Public engagement and MPO support activities will continue as opportunities and needs are identified. Freight model development activities, generally funded under the Regional Model Enhancement task, take advantage of ongoing freight program findings and data.
Anticipated FFY 2024 efforts may include
Project ID Number |
7124 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$762,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The long-term goal of the travel demand modeling practice at CTPS is to have a reliable, robust set of well-documented travel demand tools, data, and procedures that address a diverse set of needs for transportation planning in the Boston region and statewide with engaged and informed stakeholders and a coordinated team of modelers who have the skills, knowledge, and experience to effectively
Through the Regional Model Enhancement Program, CTPS supports the research, maintenance and development aspects of the long-term goal. This has been realized through the development and maintenance of a regional travel demand model (TDM23) and support of other tools for assessing the area’s transportation needs and evaluating alternatives to improve the transportation system.
The regional travel demand model estimates the millions of individual decisions that generate travel throughout the region and simulates the impact of those decisions on an abstracted representation of the region’s roadway and transit networks. Through variations of the inputs and assumptions, the regional travel demand model provides planners with insights to current and future travel activity and conditions. Metrics produced by the model aid in developing policy, performing technical and equity analyses, and meeting federal reporting requirements, including the MPO’s certification requirements. Regional travel demand models are also used by the MPO and state and regional agencies to support planning and policy analysis.
Model enhancement work is balanced across research of new model components, approaches, and data; development of new tools to enhance and complement the regional model; and maintenance of the regional model for MPO and application needs.
Moreover, FFY 2024 will see the development of a modeling roadmap. The first step of the roadmap is delivery and support of the newly developed travel demand model (TDM23). Input to the roadmap will be gathered from the current model steering committee, which is composed of stakeholders internal and external to the agency, as well as a broader group of stakeholders including other public agencies, researchers, and consultants.
The TDM23 development process began with the identification of planning needs for model support. Not all of the identified needs will be met by TDM23 because of time and resource constraints as well as the limitations intrinsic in the model structure. CTPS will work to address those needs through complementary tools and data and endeavor to maintain a suite of next generation practices and tools that will serve regional transportation planning needs. The suite will define practice areas, procedures, and tools for common activities. The potential tools and data to be included in this suite include
CTPS Staff will also work to advance exploratory model applications, leveraging the integration of TMIP-EMAT with TDM23 to support testing scenarios across a range of potential inputs and evaluating programs in a robust manner.
Development activities will include refinements and enhancements to TDM23 as identified through the development and calibration process and by stakeholders.
Some of the potential enhancements to TDM23 are
To support the initial delivery and roadmap development, CTPS staff will develop reports and accessible presentations of TDM23 outputs as well as a portfolio of test applications.
The major maintenance activity will be to define, document, and release versions of TDM23 on a regular basis. Versions will include bug fixes, network updates, and enhancements.
As part of maintenance, CTPS staff will also continue to develop model documentation and training materials.
A potential maintenance activity will be to develop a post-pandemic model base year to complement the 2019 pre-pandemic calibration year. A post-pandemic model base year would be useful for growth rate calculations and project applications.
Staff will develop accessible materials to communicate the TDM23 capabilities to various stakeholders and develop a model roadmap for future enhancements and complementary model tools. Documented versions of TDM23 will be released throughout the year to deploy the latest enhancements, bug fixes, and new inputs. Staff will continue work to develop and define exploratory modeling approaches to enhance the MPO’s ability to provide state-of-the-practice support for MPO staff, member agencies, and partner organizations.
Project ID Number |
5024 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$590,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The Data Program is a set of consolidated efforts to improve how data are used, developed, and shared at the agency. The purpose of the program is to support the data needs of the MPO and its stakeholders. There are four main areas of focus for this program:
This program allows MPO staff to effectively
Staff review the program’s data vision, strategy, and roadmap for CTPS and assess where changes are needed. These guiding documents are updated each year to ensure the Data Program meets the current needs of the MPO and its stakeholders and keeps up with the evolution of data and analysis in the industry.
Data requests are one of the services CTPS provides to municipalities, peer agencies, private sector consultants, research institutions, and the broader public. While CTPS has made more data publicly available, there is still a need to respond to ad hoc, quick-response data gathering, processing, and analysis requests throughout the year. Staff continue to review its established policies and structures in this area.
The goal of this ongoing effort is to conduct coordinated, strategic assessments of continuously evolving data sources and analytical techniques to address current and future needs. These assessments inform CTPS’s long-term investments in the staff skills that are required to meet the evolving needs of the MPO and its stakeholders. This work allows MPO staff to explore new data and analysis methods, consider how they apply to MPO work, document findings, and develop best practices around the management and use of these data.
Staff conduct foundational work that supports data users across CTPS. Consolidating this effort under this program ensures that staff is making decisions about key datasets in a thoughtful, collaborative manner. Datasets and work activities managed under this program include the following:
Project ID Number |
2524 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$129,400 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Program works to improve safety and comfort for people walking and bicycling in the Boston MPO region through a variety of efforts. MPO staff supports the MPO’s and the region’s need for bicycle and pedestrian planning through ongoing data collection, analysis, and technical assistance in this program.
In FFY 2024, the program will officially establish the Boston Region MPO’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and convene the first full year of committee meetings. The membership of this committee will be determined in FFY 2024. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee will help MPO staff determine how the Bicycle and Pedestrian Support Activities program will focus its future efforts. These endeavors might include bicycle and pedestrian studies and larger regional analyses related to walking and bicycle travel.
While the direction of future bicycle and pedestrian work will be influenced by conversations with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, MPO staff plans to complete the following work as part of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Support Activities program during FFY 2024:
Anticipated outcomes include
Project ID Number |
2824 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$336,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
The purpose of this program is to conduct studies that will address both regional and community multimodal transportation needs. During MPO engagement, communities often identify transportation problems and issues relating to safety, congestion, bottlenecks, and lack of access to multimodal transportation facilities in their areas. A major focus of this program will be on the development of conceptual design recommendations that address regional multimodal transportation needs with an emphasis on the most vulnerable roadway users.
For study selection, MPO staff will reach out to MAPC subregions, municipalities, and other groups to identify corridors, intersections, curbs, and other areas of interest. MPO staff will refer to the LRTP Needs Assessment, the CMP, MassDOT’s IMPACT portal, transit and freight data and other tools to identify further candidates. Study locations will be screened by staff using criteria consistent with the TIP selection criteria with emphasis on safety and equity considerations. Final study selections will be made in cooperation with the MPO’s UPWP Committee. In addition to Complete Streets, operational, and safety considerations, analysis will concentrate on transit services, nonmotorized modes of transportation, curb usage, and truck activity along roadway segments.
The improvement recommendations and strategies will help develop a guide for designing and implementing a Complete Streets corridor, improved intersection, curb management, and other multimodal infrastructure projects. This guide will be provided to communities and implementing agencies, which may choose to fund improvements through various federal, state, and local sources, either separately or in combination.
The studies will provide communities with the opportunity to review the requirements of a specific study area, starting at the conceptual level, before committing design and engineering funds to a project. If the project qualifies for federal funds for construction of the recommended upgrades, the study’s documentation will be useful to MassDOT and the community.
The activities described in this section support core MPO programs as well as those supporting the 3C planning process in general, collaboration with other agencies, and compliance with federal requirements. These activities include technical and administrative support to the MPO and its committees, as well as the development of materials supporting all MPO work.
Project ID Number |
9124 (Support to the MPO and its Committees) 9224 (General Graphics) 9724 (General Editorial) 8924 (Transit Working Group Support) |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$1,070,086 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Under this program, staff implement MPO policies, plan and coordinate the delivery of information for MPO decision-making, and support the operation of the MPO and its committees. It also involves providing support for MPO meeting management and agenda planning.
MPO staff perform the following tasks related to MPO board and committee meetings.
Technical and process support is provided to the MPO’s UPWP Committee, Administration and Finance (A&F) Committee, CMP Committee, and other ad hoc committees. These committees conduct their work as follows:
Staff also provide administrative activities that ensure the MPO’s compliance with federal requirements. This includes researching, analyzing, and reporting information on 3C planning topics and responding to federal recommendations from the MPO’s Certification Review, among others. Staff also implement federal and state legislation, such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law requirements (see Chapter 2 and Appendix E).
This work also includes collaboration with other agencies involved in 3C planning activities, other Massachusetts MPOs (particularly those in the Boston region urbanized area), and MAPC subregional municipal groups. To support this collaboration, staff support updates to governing Memoranda of Understanding between the Boston MPO and partner agencies when necessary.
Other activities include overseeing 3C program-related activities, collecting and fielding comments and inquiries, and responding to requests for information and support.
The MPO conducts its transportation planning activities and public engagement process in accordance with federal regulations governing accessibility standards. Staff produce materials that adhere to these regulations as appropriate to ensure all people have access to MPO materials and therefore can meaningfully engage with the transportation planning process, regardless of background or ability.
To do so, staff produce written and electronic materials in accessible formats and maintain a library of document templates that incorporate accessibility guidelines and standards. To ensure web access for people with low or no vision who use screen readers, all documents are posted to the MPO website and meeting calendar in both PDF and HTML formats. In addition, staff make every effort to make data presented in tables fully navigable by a screen reader and provide alternative text to describe tables, figures, and images that cannot be read by a screen reader.
This work includes reviewing and editing reports, memoranda, guidebooks, presentations, and other public-facing materials, as well as documents internal to CTPS. The editorial process focuses on ensuring content is clear and understandable, making improvements to document structure, correcting grammar, ensuring proper word usage, and adhering to accessibility requirements.
The TWG meets quarterly, in addition to holding informal “coffee chats” and cosponsoring or supporting other one-off events on occasion. MPO staff support includes the following activities:
As described in Chapter 1, each federal fiscal year (FFY), the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) receives federal transportation planning funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). Combined with the local Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) matching amount, these funds form the budget that allows the MPO staff—Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS)—to accomplish the certification requirement activities described in Chapter 3; the planning studies and technical analyses described in this chapter; and the administrative tasks and data management described in Chapter 5.
To prepare each Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) accurately, the Boston Region MPO must understand the status of the previous year’s studies and work activities. In general, throughout the UPWP’s development, the MPO tracks a study’s progress according to the four categories cited below.
In addition, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), an MPO member agency, conducts planning studies and technical assistance throughout the region (see Chapter 6, Metropolitan Area Planning Council Activities).
The project descriptions throughout this chapter describe new transportation planning studies chosen for funding in FFY 2024. They also provide detailed updates for the FFY 2024 funding and work products for the MPO’s and MAPC’s ongoing programs.
Some titles of these products and activities may change as they are finalized. All certification documents and many other work products are, or will be, available for download from the MPO website (www.bostonmpo.org). Work products not found on the MPO website may be requested by contacting CTPS at 857.702.3700 (voice), 711 (MassRelay), or ctps@ctps.org (email).
Table 4-1
Completed MPO Funded Transportation Planning Studies, FFY 2022–23
| Project Name | ID | FFY 2023 Budgeted Total Funding | Work Products (reports, technical memoranda, and other work products or activities) |
| FFY 2023 Studies | blank | blank | blank |
| Learning from Roadway Pricing Experiences | 13807 | $45,000 | The anticipated deliverable is a memorandum summarizing the results of the interviews, workshops, MPO’s intended goals for roadway pricing, and ways to incorporate roadway pricing into the various MPO planning processes. |
| Sustainability and Decarbonization in the Freight and Logistics Sector in the North Suffolk Region | 13808 | $67,500 | StoryMap or technical memo with stakeholder identified needs, data gaps, and recommendations for next steps |
| Bicycle and Pedestrian Count Database Update | 13803 | $80,000 | An updated web application for bicycle and pedestrian counts and recommendations for updating current counting practices |
| Lab and Municipal Parking Study | 13806 | $80,000 | A technical memorandum that recommends a methodology for conducting parking utilization studies at lab and life science facilities |
| FFY 2022 Studies | blank | blank | blank |
| Trip Generation Follow-Up | 13310 | $20,000 | A technical memo that includes a literature review on the relationship between parking policy and auto ownership and use, detailing available datasets that can be used to inform research on the impact of parking policy in the Boston region |
| Travel Demand Management Follow-Up | 13311 | $10,000 | A memorandum and presentation to the MPO on Travel Demand Management and options for MPO involvement in the field |
| Addressing Equity and Access in the Blue Hills | 13314 | $40,000 | A StoryMap and presentation to the MPO on equity of access to the Blue Hills and proposed possible solutions |
| Identifying Transportation Inequities in the Boston Region | 13315 | $70,000 | This study resulted in a report, interactive application, and data online repository to report on existing transportation inequities for environmental justice populations and zero-vehicle households |
| Staff Generated Research and Technical Assistance | 20906 | $20,000 | This research project resulted in an interactive web app that allows users to investigate durable transit ridership corridors since the start of the pandemic |
Table 4-2
Discrete Boston Region MPO Planning Studies and Technical Analyses Continued into FFY 2024
| Project Name | ID | FFY 2023 Funding | FFY 2022 Work Products and Progress | FFY 2024 Funding | FFY 2023 Planned Work Products and Progress |
| CTPS Activities | blank | blank | blank | blank | blank |
| Community Transportation Technical Assistance Program* |
2424 | $68,000 | Responded to various communities' inquiries related to transportation issues: Quincy—Provided assistance analyzing safety at the Skyline Trail crossing of Route 28 in the Blue Hills Reservation Concord—Provided assistance analyzing safety at the intersections of Route 2 at Route 62 and Route 2 at Old Road to Nine Acre Corner |
$115,700 | Table under construction. |
| Bicycle/Pedestrian Support Activities |
2523 | $83,500 | Coordinate with state agencies, MAPC, other MPOs, MassDOT’s Safe Routes to School Program, WalkBoston, MassBike, LivableStreets, municipalities, and other groups regarding bicycle and pedestrian planning for the region. Collect data on bicycle and pedestrian volumes at on-road and off-road facilities in the Boston region, and post collected count data to the Boston Region MPO’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Count Database for public use. Provide ongoing technical support to communities for current tools and practices regarding bicycle and pedestrian issues, with particular focus on promoting safety. Examine potential routes, both on-road and off-road, to increase the connectivity of the existing transportation system, including trails, on-road facilities, and public transit, emphasizing connections on the Bay State Greenway, LandLine Network, and Emerald Network, where applicable; consider development of future possible strategic bicycle and pedestrian safety plans. Coordinate regional efforts to coincide with the vision and goals outlined in the Massachusetts Bicycle and Pedestrian Statewide Transportation Plans. |
This program has been moved to Chapter 3 as of FFY 2024. | |
| Regional Transit Service Planning Technical Support |
4124 | $50,000 | Supported City of Peabody and North Shore TMA with a survey on potential public transit in Peabody. Analyzed survey results and presented them to the City of Peabody and the North Shore TMA. | $64,000 | Supported the Town of Sudbury with analysis and mapping of current trip patterns, which could be used to support grant applications for new transit service. |
| Roadway Safety Audits | 2324 | $14,500 | Provided support to MassDOT and communities for safety audits conducted in the Boston Region MPO area. | $17,000 | Provide support to MassDOT and communities for safety audits conducted in the Boston Region MPO area. |
*This program is shared between MAPC and CTPS. The description for this work can be found in Chapter 4, while the funding amount shown here reflects the combined funding from MAPC and CTPS.
Table 4-3
Ongoing Boston Region MPO Technical Analyses, FFY 2023–24
| Universe ID | Project ID | Study or Program | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| M-1 | 14001 | Lab and Municipal Parking Phase II | $45,000 |
| A-1 | 14002 | Parking in Bike Lanes: Strategies for Safety and Prevention | $20,000 |
| R-2 | 14003 | Strategies for Environmental Outreach and Engagement | $25,000 |
| TE-1 | 14004 | Applying Conveyal to TIP Project Scoring | $60,000 |
| Total for New Discrete Studies | blank | blank | $150,000 |
The project descriptions in this section describe the new studies chosen by the MPO for funding in FFY 2024. As described in Chapter 2 and Appendix B, CTPS gathers new study ideas each year and classifies them into the following categories: active transportation; land use, environment, and economy; multimodal mobility; transit; other technical work; resiliency; and transportation equity. Each of the project descriptions on the following pages begins with a funding table that shows the project identification number, category, funding sources, and total budget.
Project ID Number |
14001 |
Category |
Multimodal Mobility |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$45,000 |
Schedule |
10/2023 through 9/2024 |
The first phase of this study (funded originally in the FFY 2023 UPWP) aimed to develop a methodology to assess parking utilization at lab and life science facilities. Phase II will employ that methodology to support data collection at facilities across the Boston region to better understand travel behavior. The goal of this study is to provide rigorous research to help guide parking regulation at lab and life science facilities. This research will support municipal planners and developers in their approach to parking provision at these sites.
This research will proceed from the basis of MAPC’s Perfect Fit Parking research (https://perfectfitparking.mapc.org), which assessed regional parking demand and use at multifamily housing developments. The study will pilot data collection at two to three sites to evaluate the proposed methodology. CTPS will then make any necessary adjustments and complete data collection at lab and life science facilities in municipalities throughout the region. The selected sites will vary in terms of scale, accessibility via different modes of transportation, and parking regulations. The study will calculate parking demand at each site and model how facility characteristics, parking characteristics, and the built environment influence this demand.
The study will produce a database and a model of parking supply and demand at lab and life science facilities.
Project ID Number |
14002 |
Category |
Active Transportation |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$20,000 |
Schedule |
10/2023 through 9/2024 |
The purpose of this study is to address the issue of vehicles parking in bike lanes in the Boston region. This behavior poses a safety hazard for cyclists and forces people traveling by bicycle to switch lanes. This study will research successful strategies and practices employed in other municipalities to prevent vehicles from parking in bike lanes and recommend strategies that can be implemented in the Boston region to reduce the number of vehicles parked in bike lanes.
This study will research approaches to prevent vehicles from parking in bike lanes adopted by cities outside of the Boston region. The research will include a review of existing policies and programs and may feature interviews with peers to better understand their techniques and challenges. MPO staff may also engage with municipalities in the Boston region to understand the existing policies they have in place to reduce incidences of vehicles parked in bike lanes.
The anticipated outcome of the study is a report that summarizes the research findings, which would ideally include successful strategies employed by cities to prevent vehicles from parking in bike lanes. The report will also ideally feature recommendations for potential techniques that could be piloted in the Boston region to reduce the incidence of vehicles parked in bike lanes.
Project ID Number |
14003 |
Category |
Resiliency |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$25,000 |
Schedule |
10/2023 through 9/2024 |
The MPO is well-positioned to connect regional stakeholders around shared interests and facilitate collaboration on the environmental aspects of transportation planning, including the key goal areas of climate resilience and equity. To improve representation of environmental, resilience, and environmental justice voices in MPO work, it is important to understand the range of efforts and interests currently operating in this space, and to build relationships with environmental practitioners in the Boston region. This study seeks to establish connections with environmental groups, understand how other MPOs approach environmental engagement, and determine the most effective engagement strategies for the MPO to pursue in order to better understand and meaningfully contribute to environmental and climate action in the region.
This study will employ outreach strategies to connect with environmental advocacy groups, environmental justice groups, and municipal-level environmental departments, and will conduct a survey to gather information on how these groups would like to be engaged in MPO work. Staff will use research and interview methodology to evaluate environmental engagement strategies employed by other MPOs in Massachusetts and elsewhere. Environmental stakeholders will be invited to existing MPO events such as Regional Transportation Advisory Council or Transit Working Group Meetings to assess their responses to different engagement platforms. Equitable engagement approaches such as compensation will be considered in order to reach a more diverse range of stakeholders.
Staff will prepare a report summarizing lessons learned from conversations, research, and survey results. These findings will provide a foundation for more meaningful, intentional engagement with environmental practitioners and will provide a better understanding of the MPO’s role in regional environmental action.
Project ID Number |
14004 |
Category |
Transportation Equity |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$60,000 |
Schedule |
10/2023 through 9/2024 |
This study aims to develop a process that can be used to score Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) projects using the Conveyal destination access analysis application.
Staff will build on experiences using Conveyal for the study funded in the FFY 2022 UPWP, “Identifying Transportation Inequities in the Boston Region,” while exploring new ways to use this tool, particularly to represent projects and how they might affect the ability for people to access destinations across the region. Throughout the study, staff will coordinate with staff at the MassDOT Office of Transportation Planning to gain guidance and direction on the use of Conveyal in the context of this study, as well as ideas from other MPO regions. Staff will set up a Conveyal deployment that reflects assumptions about the roadway and transit network for a specific timeframe (for example, a five-year TIP period). Next, staff will explore ways to reflect projects of various types (such as Complete Streets, intersection improvements, and Community Connections shuttle pilots) in Conveyal and run analyses to show how destination access outcomes would change if a project or a group of projects were implemented. Destinations could include but are not limited to
Staff will document approaches for representing projects in Conveyal and identify destination access metrics and parameters that could be helpful to incorporate into updates to the MPO’s TIP project evaluation criteria and scoring processes. Staff will also develop methodology adapted from the Identifying Transportation Inequities in the Boston Region study that will allow access to be analyzed for different demographic groups.
Outcomes will include the following:
The project descriptions in this section consist of ongoing MPO programs that provide technical planning assistance, support, and analyses to cities, towns, and other entities throughout the region. The major areas of technical analyses include data provision and analysis, bicycle and pedestrian support, transit service planning, and community-level transportation planning and technical assistance.
Project ID Number |
2324 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$17,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
This program supports CTPS participation in roadway safety audits (RSA).
An RSA, as defined by FHWA, is a formal safety performance examination of an existing or future road or intersection by an independent audit team. MassDOT guidelines require an RSA to be conducted where Highway Safety Improvement Program-eligible crash clusters are present. The program has expanded to cover additional high-crash locations and individual crash types, such as pedestrian and bicycle hot spots. The RSA examines the location to develop both short- and long-term recommendations to improve safety for vehicles, for people walking and for people biking. These recommendations help communities identify safety improvements that can be implemented in the short term, and determine if more substantial improvements are needed as part of a larger, long-term improvement process.
Audit teams include MassDOT headquarters and district office staff, MassDOT consultants, municipal planners and engineers, local and state police, local emergency response personnel, and CTPS personnel, as requested. In the RSA process, the audit team (1) reviews available crash data; (2) meets and communicates with local officials, planners, engineers, and other stakeholders; (3) visits the site to observe traffic operations and identify safety issues; and (4) develops and documents recommendations.
Anticipated outcomes include the following:
Project ID Number |
2424, MAPC5 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$65,700 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Through this ongoing program, MPO staff and MAPC staff provide technical advice to municipalities throughout the region on local transportation issues of concern.
In this program, a team of CTPS and MAPC engineers and planners will meet with community officials to learn more about the transportation problems that the community identified, such as those related to parking, traffic calming, walking, bicycling, and transit locations.
Technical assistance activities may include the following:
The number of technical assistance cases will depend on the funding amount and the complexity of the specific technical assistance requests from municipalities. MAPC and CTPS will coordinate and collaborate on a case-by-case basis.
MPO staff will provide technical assistance to municipalities as described above and will document the work, recommendations, and outcomes of these consultations in the form of technical memoranda.
Project ID Number |
4124 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$64,000 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
Through this ongoing program, the MPO provides technical support to regional transit authorities, municipalities, MAPC subregions, and transportation management associations. This work is focused on improving or expanding transit service and reducing single-occupancy-vehicle (SOV) travel in the region.
The MPO’s policy is to support transit services and reduce SOV travel in the region. As such, MPO staff provide technical support to regional transit authorities (RTA) to promote best practices and address issues of ridership, cost-effectiveness, route planning, first- and last-mile strategies, and other service characteristics. The MPO also extends support to transportation management associations (TMA), MAPC subregions, and municipalities seeking to improve the transit services that they operate or fund. Past technical assistance work has resulted in memoranda such as Bicycle and Pedestrian Connections to West Concord Station (FFY 2018) and Bus Priority Feasibility near Alewife Station (FFY 2020).
MPO staff will provide technical assistance to RTAs, municipalities, MAPC subregions, and TMAs as described above and will document the work, recommendations, and outcomes of these consultations in the form of technical memoranda.
To support core Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) activities and studies, staff conduct various ongoing computer and other support activities.
For each activity described in this chapter, we cite the purpose of the work, describe how the work is accomplished, and provide a summary of the anticipated federal fiscal year (FFY) 2024 work products. The budget tables at the head of each project description give salary and overhead costs associated with the projects. Any direct costs associated with the projects are included in the Direct Support section below.
Table 5-1 summarizes the funding assigned to each of the activities in this chapter that were also assigned in FFY 2023, a summary of the work products and/or progress made in FFY 2023, the funding proposed for each of these activities in FFY 2024, and the anticipated work products and/or progress in FFY 2024.
Although many of the activities in this chapter generally comprise similar tasks from year to year, often there are variations in budgets that reflect greater or lesser emphasis on certain efforts. For example, MPO staff may undertake new or additional work under specific line items; the tasks undertaken as part of one line item in one year might be folded into an ongoing activity in a subsequent year; or there simply could be fluctuations in staffing levels. Where appropriate, these differences are explained in Table 5-1.
Table 5-1
CTPS Ongoing Resource Management and Support Activities, FFY 2024
| Project Name | ID | FFY 2023 Funding | FFY 2023 Work Products and Progress | FFY 2024 Funding | FFY 2024 Planned Work Progress and Products |
| CTPS Activities | blank | blank | blank | blank | blank |
| Computer Resource Management | 6024 | $280,000 | Provided maintenance and enhancements to CTPS’s desktop and server computer systems; computer network back-up system; and peripheral devices, such as printers, plotters, and mass storage devices. | $300,000 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same from year to year. |
| Professional Development | 9524 | $80,000 | Cover the labor expenses of staff attending conferences and seminars related to MPO work. | $95,500 | Cover the labor expenses of staff attending conferences and seminars related to MPO work. |
The following sections contain details on the administration, resource management, and support activities undertaken by Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS) each FFY.
Project ID Number |
See Individual Tasks Below |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$280,000 |
In order to fulfill the Boston Region MPO functions, CTPS maintains state-of-the-practice computer resources.
CTPS performs the following subtasks as part of computer resource management.
This subtask includes managing and maintaining hardware and software for all CTPS computer systems to ensure that staff has maximum access to the computing resources required for its work, including an intranet site; continuing to ensure the security and integrity of all hardware, software, and data resources; and planning, monitoring, and maintaining CTPS IT infrastructure.
This subtask includes assisting staff in using computer resources, and, where appropriate, providing written and online user guides for particular resources. It also includes attending various application-specific training and various cybersecurity training opportunities.
Computer Resources staff purchase and maintain CTPS’s IT resources. These include internal assets such as servers, desktop and laptop computers, tablets, mass-storage devices, networking and communications hardware, printers and plotters, system and application software, and consumable supplies. These also include cloud resources, such as software and hardware purchased as a service, cloud-based storage, and other cloud-based computing resources. Computer Resources staff also purchase and maintain various cyber security applications and hardware.
This subtask includes updating the CTPS short- and long-term plans for the agency’s IT infrastructure in conjunction with developing the CTPS state fiscal year operating budget.
CTPS will continue to maintain and update the existing MPO website and external data catalog while alternatives for a new web platform are being evaluated. Other distribution channels for information delivery may also be considered as part of this task.
Work on these tasks will continue as described above.
Project ID |
9524 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$95,500 |
Schedule |
Ongoing |
MPO staff maintains its technical expertise in part by participating in courses, programs, and workshops offered by the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, the Transportation Research Board, the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO), the Institute of Transportation Engineers, and other public, private, and nonprofit organizations. Previous professional development endeavors have been related to topics such as performance-based planning, traffic engineering issues and applications, regional modeling, bicycle/pedestrian issues, transit planning, public involvement, environmental justice, air quality, computer operations and maintenance, database applications, and other areas related to the provision of technical support services.
Staff will attend conferences, peer exchanges, trainings, and other enrichment and professional advancement opportunities.
Project ID Number |
Varies |
MPO 3C Planning Funds |
$120,000 |
3C-Funded Work Direct Support Total |
$120,000 |
SPR Funds |
$0 |
MassDOT Other Funds |
$0 |
MBTA Funds |
$600 |
Other Funds |
$0 |
Agency-Funded Work Direct Support Total |
$600 |
Through this activity, CTPS provides integral direct support for all CTPS projects and functions.
CTPS computer needs are programmed in the CTPS Five-Year Plan for Computer Resource Development, as amended.
Consultants are hired periodically to perform specialized, time-specific tasks as project work demands.
Annual dues are paid to some organizations of which the MPO is a member. These organizations provide coordination opportunities with other MPOs and transportation planning resources.
Project-specific printing costs, such as those for surveys, maps, reports, presentation boards, and other informational materials, are included in this budget.
Periodically, the US Department of Transportation and other organizations sponsor courses and seminars that enhance staff’s ability to do project work; the costs of registration, travel, and lodging associated with attending such programs are direct-support expenditures. Mileage, tolls, and parking expenses associated with project work are also charged as direct-support expenditures.
To meet the needs of people with limited-English proficiency, the MPO translates vital documents into the six most widely spoken non-English languages in the MPO region, currently Chinese (both traditional and simplified), Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Translation expenses are considered a direct cost. The MPO also provides real-time interpretation of meetings and events upon request with one week of advance notice, which is also considered a direct cost.
Various other expenditures may become necessary during the term of this Unified Planning Work Program, such as postage for return mail or services for preparing and processing data for specific projects. Other nonrecurring costs, such as software for specific project work, equipment for conducting passenger surveys, or traffic-counting equipment, also may be funded through this line item.
Direct costs include computer and general office equipment, AMPO membership dues, in-state project-related travel, out-of-state travel associated with staff attendance at professional and training conferences, and other costs deemed appropriate.
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) receives approximately 20 percent of the Boston region’s annual combined 3C PL and §5303 funding. With this funding, MAPC staff conduct various studies, technical analyses, and outreach and support activities to help fulfill the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) functions as a regional planning body. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) provides the match to both the Federal Transit Administration and Federal Highway Administration funds described in this chapter.
Table 6-1
UPWP-Funded MAPC Activities, FFY 2024
| Project Name | ID | FFY 2023 Funding | FFY 2023 Work Products and Progress | FFY 2024 Funding | FFY 2024 Planned Work Products and Progress |
| MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses | blank | blank | blank | blank | blank |
| Corridor/Subarea Planning Studies | MAPC1 | $253,518 | Local parking management plans; data collection and analysis to repurpose on-street parking spaces for dedicated bus and bike lanes; planning products and engagement support for MBTA Better Bus Project; multimodal transportation plans for select corridors or subregions. | $260,000 | Local parking management plans in selected communities; planning projects and engagement support for MBTA Better Bus Project; multimodal transportation planning for selected corridors or subareas; coordinated housing and transportation plan. |
| Active and Carbon-Free Planning and Coordination | MAPC2 | $238,509 | Planning to support the advancement of zero emission vehicles with a focus on charging station siting and incentives for vehicle purchases; expansion and strategic planning of the Blue Bikes bikeshare system; advancement of the LandLine regional greenway system with conceptual planning to connect key gaps and continued updating of region-wide mapping tools; completed municipal bicycle and pedestrian plans in Milton and Wakefield. | $245,000 | Planning to support the advancement of zero-emission vehicles; bicycle- and pedestrian-planning support; expansion of the LandLine regional greenway system through planning and mapping efforts. |
| MetroCommon 2050 | MAPC3 | $115,000 | Final updated plan with policy recommendations and identification of planning needs to mitigate impacts of scenarios. | $120,000 | Support implementation and coordination of plan through outreach and engagement; expand outreach to municipalities and members of the public through regionwide discussion with partner organizations to expand knowledge and understanding of equitable transit-oriented development planning, transportation opportunities, and greenhouse gas emissions reduction; continued research and evaluation of planning practices. |
| Land Use Development Project Reviews | MAPC4 | $95,696 | Technical memos with transportation recommendations for development projects and large transportation infrastructure projects with a land use component. | $94,942 | Technical memos reviewing development projects with a significant land use component using the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. |
| Community Transportation Technical Assistance Program* | MAPC5 | $48,156 | Responded to various communities’ inquiries related to transportation issues: Salem—Provided assistance analyzing potential impacts associated with changing residential streets to one-way streets to prevent diversions from a congested main street Concord—Provided guidance regarding a possible bicycle count program that Concord would like to conduct associated with the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail and the West Concord MBTA station. Coordinated with MAPC about various technical assistance outreach needs and possible study locations. |
$50,000 | Responded to various communities’ inquiries related to transportation issues: Salem—Revised previous work to post-pandemic conditions analyzing impacts associated with diversions from Route 114 Quincy—Provided assistance analyzing safety at the Skyline Trail crossing of Route 28 in the Blue Hills Reservation Medway—Provided assistance analyzing potential impacts associated with change in land use and redevelopment of town-owned land. |
| MAPC Administration and Support Activities | blank | blank | blank | blank | blank |
| MPO/MAPC Liaison and Support Activities | MAPC6 | $185,000 | Continue to support the MPO process to develop the TIP, UPWP, and LRTP with robust public engagement, as well as participate in related regional planning efforts conducted by MassDOT, MBTA, municipalities, or federal partners. | $190,000 | Continue to support the MPO process to develop the TIP, UPWP, and LRTP with robust public engagement, as well as participate in related regional planning efforts conducted by MassDOT, MBTA, municipalities, or federal partners. |
| UPWP Support | MAPC7 | $14,000 | Support the UPWP development process and attend relevant meetings. | $15,000 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same from year to year. |
| Land Use Data and Forecasts for Transportation Modeling | MAPC8 | $115,000 | Improved land use allocation model; multiple demographic and land use scenarios for transportation modeling; updated development data and analysis; documentation; and mapping products to support advanced transportation modeling year to year. | $120,000 | Continued improvement of land use allocation model; multiple demographic and land use scenarios for transportation modeling; updated development data and analysis; documentation; and mapping products to support advanced transportation modeling year to year. |
| Subregional Support Activities | MAPC9 | $220,000 | Support subregional groups. Includes preparing agendas, coordinating with transportation agencies, reviewing transportation studies in subregions, and helping to set subregional transportation priorities. | $220,000 | Tasks and work products generally remain the same from year to year. |
*This section will be described in Chapter 4.
MAPC conducts transportation planning studies through four ongoing programs: Corridor/Subarea Planning Studies, Alternative Mode Planning and Coordination, MetroCommon 2050 Implementation, and Land Use Development Project Reviews. MAPC and Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS) also collaborate on the Community Transportation Technical Assistance Program (MAPC5), which is described in Chapter 4.
Project ID Number |
MAPC1 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$260,000 |
These studies include funding to support MAPC’s work on several corridor and subarea studies in the region. Some of these projects will be funded jointly through the UPWP and other funding that MAPC receives through its assessment on municipalities, state contracts, and other planning grants.
This task is accomplished through the following subtasks.
The goal is to address the challenges that municipalities face from not managing their parking supply in commercial and mixed-used areas, and to identify whether space that is currently dedicated for parked cars could be used more efficiently for other transportation or land use purposes. MAPC will work with selected municipalities to develop local parking management plans to provide optimal parking supply to stimulate local economic prosperity, reduce congestion caused by circling vehicles, help municipalities plan for greater land use density by decreasing parking requirements, and encourage mode shift away from single-occupant vehicle trips. This work will involve on- and off-street parking, as well as understanding trade-offs associated with repurposing on-street parking for dedicated bus lanes, bike lanes, or wider sidewalks. This work would benefit local air quality and congestion by managing parking supply and demand and creating places where people can park once and then walk to multiple destinations. In locations where parking requirements can be reduced, the number of households with one or more vehicles could decline, which could result in higher percentages of walking, biking, and transit ridership.
MAPC will support the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority’s (MBTA) Bus Network Redesign, a multifaceted planning effort to improve the bus system through bus priority infrastructure, a redesigned bus network with changed and new routes, an increase in bus vehicles through planning for fleets and facilities, and improved bus stops with better shelters, street furniture, and electronic information signs. MAPC will help convene municipal officials and other stakeholders to coordinate planning. MAPC will provide technical assistance at the corridor level to understand the trade-off of repurposing parking or travel lanes for more dedicated bus space. MAPC will support community engagement and related planning at the corridor level.
MAPC will work in a selected subregion or roadway corridor to coordinate multimodal transportation planning, safety improvements, and transit service operations to be implemented by MassDOT, MBTA, Regional Transit Authorities, Transportation Management Agencies, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), employers, and/or municipalities with local land use planning to achieve livability and smart growth goals. This work will also include identification of areas in the region that face “transportation insecurity” with low auto ownership rates, lack of convenient public transit, poor pedestrian infrastructure. The goal is to provide more mobility options for a variety of different users and trip types, as well as safer conditions for all users.
MAPC will work with selected municipalities to help them comply with the new state requirement to allow for multifamily residential development near MBTA transit stations. MAPC will support zoning, transportation planning, transportation demand management, and other activities to establish transit-oriented housing as required by Section 3A of M.G.L. Chapter 40A. MAPC will also conduct regional research on topics related to this new state law to support more cities and towns to comply with the requirement.
Project ID Number |
MAPC2 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$245,000 |
MAPC provides alternative-mode transportation-planning support to the Boston Region MPO and municipalities that focuses on non-single-occupancy vehicle modes and promoting zero emission vehicles (ZEV). This work benefits bicycle and pedestrian transportation, encourages transit in areas that currently are underserved by existing regional transit authorities, improves the region’s understanding of transportation network companies, advances ZEVs, and identifies and supports transportation demand management strategies.
This area of work is accomplished through the following subtasks.
MAPC will support municipalities in planning for ZEVs, such as electric vehicle charging infrastructure, transitioning or retrofitting municipal fleets, advancing electric school buses, electric cargo bikes, promoting zero emission car sharing and ride-hailing, and other initiatives. This work will increase the number of ZEVs in the region, thereby helping the state meet greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals.
MAPC will work with municipalities to identify local bicycle and pedestrian improvements with a focus on closing sidewalk gaps, implementing separated bicycle facilities, supporting bike and pedestrian safety plans, complete streets prioritization plans, and other improvements at the local level. This work will lead to safer infrastructure, increase the rate of cycling and walking in the region, and decrease bicycle and pedestrian injuries.
MAPC will continue to support municipalities in the region to plan for the implementation and expansion of the BlueBikes bicycle sharing program. This work will include analyzing trip data, supporting station siting, coordinating funding opportunities, planning for electric bikes, and supporting the next procurement process for a system operator.
MAPC will continue to work with MassDOT, CTPS, DCR, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, municipalities, and trail organizations to plan, map, design, and implement portions of a regional bicycle and pedestrian network of off-road and on-road connections (a greenway) that form a contiguous system around greater Boston. In 2015, MAPC worked with the above-cited partners to develop the branding of this system named the LandLine. The trails consist of shared-use paths along former railroad rights-of-way, hiking trails through conservation land, and historic corridors that connect points of interest. The binding theme of the proposed and completed corridors is creating attractive places to walk, bike, or otherwise travel through low-traffic or no-traffic green areas.
Project ID Number |
MAPC3 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$120,000 |
This task continues to support the ongoing coordination and implementation of the new regional plan, MetroCommon 2050, the Boston region’s 30-year comprehensive plan (through the year 2050) for sustainable, equitable growth and development. The new plan establishes goals for topics including mobility, climate mitigation, and resiliency, as well as actionable recommendations needed to accomplish these goals. The agency is aligning its annual workplan and technical assistance priorities to implement the recommendations of MetroCommon.
This work is accomplished through the following subtasks.
Changing demographics and location preferences, planned investments in public transportation, and emerging transportation technologies will have a profound influence on the Boston region in the decades ahead. The regional plan includes recommendations for improving mobility, reducing GHG emissions from the transportation sector, and expanding the access, capacity, and affordability of public and active transportation. This task will include outreach and education to municipal leaders about the mobility-focused recommendations, seeking commitments to work towards implementing specific action items. It will also include tracking implementation progress across the region.
MAPC will continue to work with municipal and state officials and residents to seek changes in land use that will support livable communities and sustainable transportation. This will include engaging the public in planning and dialogue that enhances equitable transit-oriented development planning, and influences other decision-making to improve development outcomes, transportation opportunities, and reduction of GHG emissions. As part of the plan update, MAPC will hold regional discussions regarding challenges and opportunities in making long-term improvements to the Boston region’s transportation system, including restoring and expanding service to equitable transit-oriented development locations. This is especially critical with the new state law that requires cities and towns to zone for multifamily districts around transit stations. Task outputs are expected to include engaging at least 500 people with a focus on diverse and underserved communities and partnering with organizations that serve those communities. Outputs also include hosting at least 10 different events or activities as part of the engagement.
Incorporation of best practices and evaluation is important to improving MAPC’s work and for advancing implementation at the local and state levels. Transportation and integrated land use planning practices will be evaluated to determine if improvements can be made to our practices, with a particular emphasis on evaluating the equity outcomes and processes of these plans. Best practices from other regions will also be evaluated for their applicability in Greater Boston.
Anticipated outcomes include a stronger constituency for sustainable land use and transportation investments and programs; case studies or best practices for regional and local mobility; and local commitments to implement the regional plan’s recommendations.
Project ID Number |
MAPC4 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$94,942 |
This task supports MAPC’s review of potential development projects in the region. In particular, MAPC will review projects for consistency with its sustainable land use and transportation goals, impacts on the transportation network and projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), and consistency with the MPO’s Economic Vitality goals.
MAPC tracks all projects reviewed in the region under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and provides a regional-planning analysis to MassDOT and the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs for all developments considered to have significant impact. Special attention is given to mitigation and planning requirements that serve to reduce auto travel by encouraging carpooling, transit, parking regulations, and other travel demand management techniques. MAPC coordinates these reviews with MassDOT and the municipalities, and works with MassDOT to identify updated requirements to be included in the transportation impact assessments that must be conducted by developers.
MAPC also reviews notices of offered railroad property from MassDOT, consults with municipalities as necessary, and provides appropriate input. Often, these notices involve rail trails, but they also may involve other types of proposed developments.
Anticipated outcomes include analyses and reports of MEPA reviews, development of mitigation recommendations, coordination with municipalities and transportation agencies, maintenance and updates of MAPC’s development database, and input into the project evaluations for the TIP and LRTP. In addition, MAPC will continue to review and respond to notices of offered railroad property.
The following section contains details on the administration, resource management, and support activities undertaken by MAPC every federal fiscal year.
Project ID Number |
MAPC6 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$190,000 |
This task includes working with MPO members and staff to establish work priorities and meeting agendas. It also includes implementing the continuous, comprehensive, and cooperative (3C) transportation planning process and engagement in regional transportation planning led by MassDOT, the MBTA, or municipalities in the region. It also includes reporting to the MAPC executive committee, MAPC council members, MAPC subregions, and MAPC staff on MPO activities to ensure strong coordination of land use and transportation planning across the region.
In addition to participating in the Boston MPO process, MAPC actively participates in and attends statewide and regional planning committees, task forces, working groups, and commissions to represent the interests of the region, with a particular focus on the critical links between land use and transportation. These committees include the Massachusetts Association of Regional Planning Agencies; Regional Coordinating Councils; MassDOT and MBTA board meetings; and various MassDOT, MBTA, or municipally led transportation working groups or study advisory committees. MAPC will also be actively involved in regional transportation plans and programs related to land use and transportation. Advisory committees may change from year to year as studies are started or completed, but participation in various advisory committees is an ongoing task.
MAPC provides education and outreach for a wide variety of transportation-related and land use-related topics in the region, with emphasis on outreach through the subregions to municipal officials. MAPC also supports CTPS in its outreach to environmental justice communities, older adults, and people with disabilities.
Working with the MBTA Advisory Board, MAPC will coordinate and implement annual elections for municipal representatives in the MPO.
MAPC will review PBPP targets and follow progress toward meeting targets and objectives, with a focus on coordinating state, local, and regional safety planning and goal setting.
MAPC will work with CTPS to update the TIP scoring criteria as necessary and to advise CTPS about the land use and economic-development aspects of the TIP evaluations. MAPC will provide updated TIP criteria and help implement the comprehensive regional growth plan, MetroCommon. MAPC will evaluate TIP projects and work with municipalities to advance TIP projects.
MAPC will work with CTPS and MassDOT to develop MPO meeting agendas and presentations and participate in MPO processes.
Outcomes of this program will result in interagency coordination; work scopes and agendas; participation in advisory and corridor committees; public participation and outreach; reports to the MAPC executive committee, MAPC Council members, MAPC subregions, and MAPC staff; MPO elections; PBPP targets and data; LRTP scenarios; TIP criteria update and project evaluations; and attendance at relevant meetings.
Project ID Number |
MAPC7 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$15,000 |
This task supports MAPC’s management and oversight of UPWP-funded planning studies, projects, and programs, including preparing updates and budget information in monthly reports to MassDOT.
MAPC assists with the annual development of the UPWP and coordinates with MassDOT and CTPS to support development of UPWP project ideas and specific work scopes. Through community liaison and subregional support activities, MAPC staff also help communities identify and develop studies for inclusion in the UPWP.
MAPC staff will prepare UPWP project listings and monthly reports on UPWP activities. MAPC will assist with annual development of the UPWP and support development of specific project proposals and work scopes. MAPC staff will also assist communities in identifying and developing studies to be included in the UPWP through community liaison and subregional support activities.
Project ID Number |
MAPC8 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$120,000 |
This task allows MAPC to support the MPO’s planning and decision-making by providing CTPS with detailed population, household, employment, and land use data (current conditions and scenarios of future growth) for transportation modeling and project evaluation.
MAPC will continue to investigate, acquire, and improve additional sources of employment and built environment data to inform land use allocation modeling. MAPC will continue to refine and improve Zoning Atlas data and corresponding development capacity estimates that serve as key inputs to the land use allocation model. A major focus this year will be on collecting information about new zoning districts adopted pursuant to the MBTA Communities Multifamily mandate.
MAPC will continue to monitor development projects that are being planned across the region and will maintain an up-to-date development database in an online portal at www.massbuilds.com. MAPC will support CTPS and MassDOT in applying these data for project evaluation or updates to the regional travel demand model.
MAPC will maintain the UrbanSim land use allocation model and will make incremental improvements as necessary. MAPC develops methods to prepare updated land use forecasts on an as-needed basis for transportation project analysis, environmental permitting (MEPA modeling), or scenario modeling.
MAPC will continue frequent and regular communication and coordination with the CTPS modeling staff to support travel model improvements and integration of the land use allocation and travel demand models. MAPC will also help to plan and participate in webinars and other peer exchange opportunities involving other regional agencies to improve our understanding of the state of the practice regarding demographic and land use forecasting.
Anticipated outcomes include new data sources; an improved land use allocation model; multiple demographic and land use scenarios for transportation modeling; updated development data and analysis; documentation; and mapping products to support advanced transportation modeling.
Project ID Number |
MAPC9 |
FFY 2024 Total Budget |
$220,000 |
The Boston MPO region consists of 97 cities and towns. The region is subdivided into eight geographic areas that are represented by subregional councils comprising municipal officials, business leaders, community-based organizations, and other local participants. MAPC staff planners are assigned as coordinators to each of the subregional groups to help members develop an understanding of subregional and regional transportation and land use issues. This project supports community involvement in the development of transportation planning documents.
Subregions jointly identify and review the transportation priorities in their areas and recommend subregional projects and priorities for the TIP, LRTP, UPWP, and the MassDOT and MBTA capital investment plans.
Subregional coordinators and MAPC transportation staff report to the MPO through formal and informal communications. MAPC subregional groups will continue to participate in local corridor advisory committees whenever these committees are appropriate vehicles for working on projects in their areas. The subregions will continue to identify priority transportation needs, plan for first- and last-mile connections to transit, identify regional trail connections, pilot new technology to support increased mobility, and support planning for transit-oriented housing around MBTA stations.
MAPC staff ensures timely discussions of transportation-related issues by placing the topics on meeting agendas, leading and participating in the discussions, and distributing appropriate documents and notices relating to region and statewide transportation meetings.
Outcomes of this program include preparing monthly meeting agendas for transportation topics at subregional meetings; coordinating with transportation agencies; reviewing transportation studies in subregions; supporting subregional and corridor advisory committee meetings; generating public input on MPO processes and certification documents; and helping to set subregional transportation priorities.
This chapter contains overall budget information for the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) federal fiscal year (FFY) 2024 activities. The information is organized according to the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) categories described in Chapters 3 through 6. Recipient agencies and funding sources are indicated.
The funding for the projects, programs, and activities listed in Chapters 3 through 6 comes from the following sources, which are described in Chapter 2.
| UPWP Work Areas | Total Budget |
| MPO Support and 3C Planning | $4,575,486 |
| MassDOT-Directed PL Projects | $359,326 |
| Ongoing MPO-Funded Technical Analyses | $146,700 |
| MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses | $769,942 |
| New MPO-Funded Discrete Studies | $150,000 |
| Resource Management and Support Activities | $395,500 |
| MAPC Resource Management and Support Activities | $545,000 |
| Direct Costs (3C) | $175,000 |
| Total | $7,116,954 |
| Funding Source | Total Programmed Funds |
| FHWA 3C PL/MassDOT Local Match | $4,599,322 |
| FTA 3C PL (Section 5303)/MassDOT Local Match | $2,517,632 |
| Total | $7,116,954 |
The nine tables on the following pages summarize the funding information presented in the preceding chapters. There is one table for each UPWP category of work conducted by Central Transportation Planning Staff (CTPS), and one for each UPWP category of work conducted by Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC).
The total federal funding programmed in this UPWP is $7,116,954. All federal funds programmed in the UPWP are awarded to the Boston Region MPO by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) as Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) 3C Planning (PL) funds. However, these federal funds initially come from two sources: the FHWA and the Federal Transportation Authority (FTA). The federal funds, which are supplemented by a local match provided by MassDOT, include the following initial sources:
This budget also reflects projects funded with Statewide Planning and Research and other funds from MassDOT; projects funded with Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority funds; and projects funded from other sources. These projects are listed in Table 7-4.
Project status and financial data reported in the following tables are subject to change.
Table 7-1
UPWP Budget—MPO Support and 3C Planning for FFY 2024
| Project ID | Name | FFY 2023 CTPS UPWP Budget | Expected Project Status as of 10/1/2023 | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| 8123 | Long-Range Transportation Plan | $326,000 | Ongoing | $266,500 |
| 8223 | Transportation Improvement Program | $323,000 | Ongoing | $286,000 |
| 8323 | Unified Planning Work Program | $101,500 | Ongoing | $122,500 |
| 9623 | Public Engagement Program | $278,000 | Ongoing | $296,000 |
| 9323 | Regional Transportation Advisory Council Support | $18,000 | Ongoing | N/A |
| 8823 | Performance-Based Planning and Programming | $117,000 | Ongoing | $140,000 |
| 8523 | Transportation Equity Program | $177,000 | Ongoing | $210,000 |
| 8423 | Air Quality Conformity Determinations and Support | $21,500 | Ongoing | $35,000 |
| 2123 | Congestion Management Process | $134,000 | Ongoing | $144,000 |
| Core MPO Functions Subtotal | blank | $1,496,000 | blank | $1,500,000 |
| 8723 | Climate Resilience Program | $44,000.00 | Ongoing | $76,000 |
| 2223 | Freight Planning Support | $93,000 | Ongoing | $111,500 |
| 7123 | Regional Model Enhancement | $890,000 | Ongoing | $762,500 |
| 5023 | Data Program | $572,000 | Ongoing | $590,000 |
| 2524 | Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Program | $83,500 | Ongoing | $129,400 |
| 2824 | Multimodal Mobility Infrastructure Program | $323,000 | Ongoing | $336,000 |
| Programs Supporting the 3C Process Subtotal | blank | $2,005,500 | blank | $2,005,400 |
| 9123 | Support to the MPO and its Committees (Includes General Graphics, General Editorial, and Transit Working Group Support Subtasks) | $355,088 | Ongoing | $1,070,086 |
| 9223 | General Graphics | $243,500 | Ongoing | N/A |
| 9723 | General Editorial | $174,000 | Ongoing | N/A |
| 8923 | Transit Working Group Support | $42,000 | Ongoing | N/A |
| Support to the MPO and its 3C Process Subtotal | blank | $814,588 | blank | $1,070,086 |
| MPO Support and 3C Planning Total | blank | $2,820,088 | blank | $4,575,486 |
Table 7-2
UPWP Budget—Ongoing Technical Analyses for FFY 2024
| Project ID | Name | FFY 2023 CTPS UPWP Budget | Expected Project Status/Completion as of 10/1/2023 | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| 2323 | Roadway Safety Audits | $14,500 | Ongoing | $17,000 |
| 2423 | Community Transportation Technical Assistance | $68,000 | Ongoing | $65,700 |
| 4123 | Regional Transit Service Planning Technical Support | $50,000 | Ongoing | $64,000 |
| MPO-Funded Ongoing Technical Analyses Subtotal | blank | $132,500 | blank | $146,700 |
Table 7-3
UPWP Budget—MPO New Discrete Studies for FFY 2024
| Universe ID | Project ID | Study or Program | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| M-1 | 14001 | Lab and Municipal Parking Phase II | $45,000 |
| A-1 | 14002 | Parking in Bike Lanes: Strategies for Safety and Prevention | $20,000 |
| R-2 | 14003 | Strategies for Environmental Outreach and Engagement | $25,000 |
| TE-1 | 14004 | Applying Conveyal to TIP Project Scoring | $60,000 |
| Total for New Discrete Studies | blank | blank | $150,000 |
Table 7-4
UPWP Budget—Resource Management and Support Activities for FFY 2024
| Project ID | Name | FFY 2023 CTPS UPWP Budget | Expected Project Status as of 10/1/2023 | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| 6024 | Computer Resource Management | $280,000 | Ongoing | $300,000 |
| 9524 | Professional Development | $80,000 | Ongoing | $95,500 |
| Resource Management and Support Activities Subtotal* | blank | $360,000 | blank | $395,500 |
*Does not include Direct Support.
Table 7-5
UPWP Budget—MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses for FFY 2024
| Project ID | Name | FFY 2023 MAPC UPWP Budget | Proposed FFY 2024 MAPC Budget |
| MAPC1 | Corridor/Subarea Planning Studies | $253,518.00 | $260,000.00 |
| MAPC2 | Active and Carbon-Free Planning and Coordination | $238,509.00 | $245,000.00 |
| MAPC3 | MetroCommon 2050 | $115,000.00 | $120,000.00 |
| MAPC4 | Land Use Development Project Reviews | $95,696.00 | $94,942.00 |
| MAPC5, 2424* | Community Transportation Technical Assistance Program* | $48,156.00 | $50,000.00 |
| MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses Subtotal | blank | $750,879 | $769,942 |
* This project is shared with MAPC.
Table 7-6
UPWP Budget—MAPC Resource Management and Support Activities
for FFY 2024
| Project ID | Name | FFY 2023 MAPC UPWP Budget | Proposed FFY 2024 MAPC Budget |
| MAPC6 | MPO/MAPC Liaison and Support Activities | $175,000 | $190,000.00 |
| MAPC7 | UPWP Support | $12,000 | $15,000.00 |
| MAPC8 | Land Use Data and Forecasts for Transportation Modeling | $105,000 | $120,000.00 |
| MAPC9 | Subregional Support Activities | $214,000 | $220,000.00 |
| MAPC Resource Management and Support Activities | blank | $506,000 | $545,000 |
Table 7-7
UPWP Budget—Summary of FFY 2024 Budgets for CTPS
| 3C Studies and Programs by Budget Categories | Proposed FFY 2024 CTPS Budget |
| Resource Management and Support Activities | $395,500 |
| MPO Certification Requirements | $4,575,486 |
| Ongoing MPO-Funded Technical Analyses | $146,700 |
| New MPO-Funded Discrete Studies | $150,000 |
| MassDOT-Directed PL Funds* | $359,326 |
| Direct Support | $175,000 |
| Total FFY 2024 CTPS Budget | $5,802,012 |
Note: Budget figures include salary, overhead, and direct support.
* This project is conducted on behalf of MassDOT but funded through the MPO 3C contract.
Table 7-8
UPWP Budget—Summary of FFY 2024 Budgets for MAPC
| 3C Studies and Programs by MAPC Budget Categories | Proposed FFY 2024 MAPC Budget |
| MAPC Planning Studies and Technical Analyses | $769,942 |
| MAPC Administration, Resource Management, and Support Activities | $545,000 |
| Total MAPC FFY 2024 UPWP Programmed Funds | $1,314,942 |
Table 7-9
UPWP Budget—3C Budget and Overall Budget for FFY
| Agency Supporting MPO/3C Work | Proposed FFY 2024 Budget |
| CTPS | $5,802,012 |
| MAPC | $1,314,942 |
| 3C Budget Subtotal | $7,116,954 |
| FFY 2024 UPWP Budget | $7,116,954 |