Organizational
Structure
and Operational
Improvements
Executive Director Presentations to National Professional Organizations
During 1999, the Executive Director enhanced the perception
of the agency through presentations to a number of state and national
organizations, including the National Association or Regional
Councils (NARC), the Executive Director's Committee, the Association
of Metropolitan Planning Organizations (AMPO) and the Arizona
City/County Management Association (ACMA) among others. These
presentations helped to inform others on many of the important
programs and efforts of this organization.
Participation in Arizona Town Hall
The Executive Director participated in the Arizona Town Hall
focusing on the topic "Unifying a Diverse Arizona."
By doing so, people became better informed of the activities of
Regional Councils and issues which are important to this region.
Articles Authored for National Publications
There is an increased emphasis within MAG on professional development
and contributing to professional organizations as well as helping
to inform nationwide professional groups about our activities.
This included an article authored by the Executive Director for
the ICMA journal Public Management, and a commentary by
the Regional Development Manager in Land Use Law and Zoning
Digest.
Completed Evaluations of Executive Director, Managers, and Staff
As part of the Executive Director's effort to provide appropriate
leadership for the staff, foster excellent internal communication
and continue the evaluation process in the agency, the staff anonymously
evaluated the Executive Director. In addition, this past year
the process was extended as the staff also completed evaluations
for their managers. Additionally, personnel evaluations were completed
for all staff members, providing important and timely feedback
to employees on their performance. The results of all evaluations
were very positive and useful.
Organizational Structure and Operational
Improvements
Streamlined MAG Committee Structure and
Process
At its January 1999 Retreat, the MAG Regional Council agreed that to provide a more proactive policy-making structure, we needed a more problem-specific and action-oriented decision-making process. To streamline the existing process, some MAG committees were thanked for their services and sunsetted. The focus then became workshops, forums and discussion groups. This approach allowed for broader involvement of local officials and other stakeholders from the private and public sector.
MAG
Committee Structure (PDF, 16.7 KB)
Implemented State of the Art Technology
Implemented state of the art modeling tools for land use, transportation
and air quality, including land use models that provide analysis
at very detailed levels of geography and transportation models
that are extremely sensitive for transit and HOV lane analysis.
Developed PM-10 modeling capability that leads the nation.
Developed Plan
for a Regional Videoconferencing System to Link all MAG Member
Agencies
The MAG Regional Videoconferencing System will implement videoconferencing technology to facilitate communication between MAG and its member agencies and help reduce congestion by eliminating the need to travel to as many meetings. The objectives of the system are to reduce travel, congestion and air quality emissions, and to increase regional collaboration and participation in the decision-making process. Further benefits include improved communications, wider agency participation, and increased public participation in the decision-making process. MAG will oversee the purchase, installation, service, support and training of videoconferencing equipment and network for member agencies. This videoconferencing equipment is to be installed at 28 sites throughout Maricopa County.
Videoconferencing
Project Page
Enhanced Professional Staff Capability
Increased the technical resources available to this region
by searching nationally for the most experienced and professionally
trained staff to address complex urban modeling needs. Several
people with Ph.D's were added to the staff, as were individuals
with several years of land use modeling training. Having a well-trained
modeling staff has allowed MAG to meet the land use, transportation
and air quality challenges that have faced this region.
Organizational Structure and Operational
Improvements
Evaluated and Upgraded
MAG Equipment and Software to Ensure Y2K Compliance
MAG compiled a complete list of its vulnerable systems and then analyzed each identified system to determine whether the manufacturer claimed the system was compliant. Vulnerable systems that were not claimed as compliant or able to be made compliant were discarded. Staff applied any manufacturer-specified patches and tested operation whenever reasonable. Staff also made arrangements for unexpected failures by placing its critical systems on maintenance contracts and creating a Local Area Network (LAN) and Disaster Recovery Plan (see below).
Completed the MAG Local Area Network (LAN) and Telecommunications Disaster Recovery Plan
One of the findings in the 1999 audit indicated that MAG needed
a Disaster Recovery Plan. In response, the MAG LAN and Telecommunications
Disaster Recovery Plan was created. The Plan identifies contacts,
an alternative location and procedures for recovering from minor
and major disasters. The Plan will allow MAG to resume normal
business operations as quickly as possible in the event of a disaster.
Implemented Full Scale Bulk Mail Procedures
Our bulk mailing volume has increased considerably over the
past two years. Full scale bulk mail procedures have been implemented
with an average savings of $.145 per piece.
Negotiated Reduced Costs and Improved Local and Long Distance Telephone Service
Competition among telephone companies provided an opportunity
to negotiate reduced rates for our long distance and local services.
Long distance rates have been reduced by fifty percent and local
and line connection charges have been reduced by nearly $500.00
per month. In addition, we recently installed long distance call
tracking software on our telephone system to further facilitate
charge-back on long distance calls to various task codes.
Organizational Structure and Operational
Improvements
Implemented
an Employee Appreciation Day
A MAG Employee Appreciation Day and Anniversary Presentation were celebrated with a Mexican-themed fiesta. Awards were give to employees with 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service.
Story in November 99 MAGAZine (PDF,796KB)
Offered Voluntary Benefits to Staff
New voluntary benefits were offered to staff, including Short-Term
Disability, Portable Life Insurance, and Accidental Death &
Dismemberment policies. A Family and Medical Leave policy was
also written.
Professional Development
The staff initiated requests for a broad range of professional
development and training programs over the past twelve months.
Fiscal services related professional development programs include:
joint training with ADOT and other MPOs on topics such as indirect
cost plans and indirect rate calculations, federal grants administration
and DBE program compliance. Also, in an effort to promote professional
development in governmental financial management, the agency hosted
the Government Finance Officers Association's Certified Public
Finance Officer exam for the second consecutive year. The growth
and diversity of the agency's workforce prompted a request for
training programs for all MAG employees on issues such as hostile
work environments and sexual harassment in the workplace. As part
of the agency's continuing efforts to promote employee professional
development, annual personnel evaluations were conducted and the
results documented for the third consecutive year. In addition,
this year marks the agency's first efforts to conduct "360-degree"
personnel evaluations of all the managers in an effort to promote
further professional growth and to improve working conditions.
In-House Training was Provided to Staff for a Number of MAG-Related Topics
These training sessions included developing computer presentations for MAG meetings using templates; setting up and using the computer and projector; describing the policy and technical aspects of telecommuting; and using the in-house developed news clips database. Training on population, land use and transportation modeling was also given.
Fiscal Management
Awarded the Government
Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate for Excellence
in Financial Reporting
The agency's financial reporting accomplishments were acknowledged
by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) with the
awarding of the Certificate for Excellence in Financial Reporting
for the agency's June 30, 1998 Comprehensive Annual Financial
Report (CAFR). The progress continued in FY 1999 with the completion
of the June 30, 1999 CAFR within five months of the fiscal year
end. The staff also made progress in addressing the management
letter and Single Audit comments from the June 30, 1998 CAFR.
During the year, the staff began to address the agency's most
significant audit finding, the lack of an integrated financial
management system. A new financial software system was selected
and an aggressive implementation schedule was adopted. The completion
of this project will be the single most important effort to improve
MAG's financial management and reporting. Another critical audit
finding was addressed with the development of written financial
policies and procedures covering such key financial areas as procurement,
grant management, fixed asset management, payroll and budgeting.
Completed Special Fiscal
Projects
During 1999, several special projects were completed, many
of which were first time efforts for the agency. The special projects
completed during the year include closing-out the 1995 Special
Census with the member-agencies and ADOT and completing a comprehensive
evaluation of the agency's insurance coverage that resulted in
the acquisition of a Directors and Officers insurance policy.
During the year, the staff completed the agency's first indirect
cost plan and indirect cost rate according to OMB Circular A-87
guidelines. An indirect cost plan and rate are requirements for
the reimbursement of indirect costs under federal grants. In response
to an audit finding, the staff developed the agency's first written
financial policies and procedures.
Fiscal Management
Updated the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program
The agency's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program was updated and revised to comply with the recently enacted US Department of Transportation requirements. As part of the updating process, MAG's draft program was posted on the agency's Web site for public review and comment. The plan was also submitted to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and ADOT for review. The new program will substantially increase the agency's administrative, compliance and reporting requirements. Representatives from FHWA, ADOT and the MAG fiscal staff held an in-house training session to educate the MAG managers and program managers about our new DBE program. MAG's revised DBE program went into effect on October 1, 1999.
MAG
Disadvantage Business Enterprise Program (PDF 73KB)
Completed Revised Contract
with ADOT
The agency's long-standing Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) contract with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), which outlines the terms and conditions under which the agency must administer the federal and state planning funds it receives, expired on September 30, 1999. The expiration of this important contract provided MAG with an opportunity to completely revise the outdated multi-year MPO contract. This was the first time in more than 10 years the contract had been updated by ADOT. The new contract offers the agency efficiencies in the administration of our various programs funded under the contract. It also reflects our ongoing effort to foster a partnership with ADOT in the spirit of the federal TEA-21 legislation.
Arizona Department of Transportation Hompage
Implemented Financial Management
Software
During the past year, the search for a new financial management
system was completed and Protrax software by Axium Incorporated
was selected. The staff began the conversion and implementation
of several core modules of the new financial management software
system. In addition, key members of the fiscal staff attended
local and national training on the new financial management software
system. The implementation of the new financial management system
will play a vital part in improving the internal financial management
and external financial reporting of the agency.
Communications
and Agency Outreach
Collaborated with other Metropolitan Regions
For the second year, the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) collaborated with the Pima Association of Governments (PAG) in sponsoring a joint meeting between the two agencies. This meeting is conducted to focus on the common ground of the two urban areas and to work in concert to achieve common objectives. The first meeting of our two agencies resulted in increased transportation funding. The second meeting, held this year, focused on Growing Smarter issues and Transportation funding estimates.
Pima Association of Governments
Partnered with Business Community
Continued to have the organization be an active participating member in several community organizations, including:
Partnered with Governmental
Agencies
Participated with the MAG member agencies in several forums
to increase the dialogue regarding regional issues. These groups
include the West Valley Mayors and Managers, East Valley Mayors
and Managers, Arizona Town Halls, the League of Arizona Cities
and Towns and the Arizona City/County Management Association.
In many instances, multiple presentations were made to these groups.
Participated in the Governor's Ozone Alert Program
MAG came forward as the key financial sponsor ($300,000) for the Governor's Ozone Alert Program. In partnership with the business community, this program resulted in no exceedances of the ozone standard for the Summer. The MAG staff averaged 53 percent alternate mode usage on High Pollution Advisory Days.
d Agency Outreach
Conducted Two Issue Forums
for Regional Clean Cities Stakeholders
In July 1999, MAG and the Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office conducted a workshop to identify potential topics for a series of issue forums. The topics identified were Repairing Alternative Fuel Vehicles; Funding for Alternative Fuel Vehicles; Increasing the Number of Alternative Fueling Sites; Increasing the Number of Off-Road Alternative Fuel Vehicles; Cost of Alternative Fuel Vehicles; and Creating Awareness of Alternative Vehicles. To accommodate the September deadlines for a state grant and federal funds, the Funding for Alternative Fuel Vehicles forum was conducted in September 1999. The second issue forum on Repairing Alternative Fuel Vehicles was conducted in October 1999. Approximately forty stakeholders attended each forum.
Unveiled the Regional Recycling
Information Exchange Project to Help Solid Waste Planners
Funded through a grant from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, the Regional Recycling Information Exchange Project is designated to provide cities, solid waste planners and the public with information that will help communities develop viable recycling programs. The project had four main goals: to encourage the development of recycling programs, to establish a recycling Web site, to hold regional forums to discuss recycling and solid waste issues, and to provide a database to help track solid waste in Maricopa County. Communities can use the database to better manage their solid waste systems, improve recycling programs, save money and generate revenue.
Manager Appointed by Governor to Arizona Juvenile Justice Advisory Commission; Co-Chairman of Planning Committee
The MAG Human Services Manager was appointed by the Governor
to the Arizona Juvenile Justice Advisory Commission, and serves
as the Co-Chairman of the Planning Committee. During 1999, the
grant review process for Juvenile Justice Delinquency and Prevention
Act funds was implemented at the local level, allowing representatives
at the regional level to identify the priorities for each region.
Manager Appointed by Governor to Joint Legislative Task Force on Homelessness
The MAG Human Services Manager was appointed by the Governor
to serve as a member of the Joint Legislative Task Force on Homelessness.
This Task Force was created by statute to develop recommendations
related to homelessness. Three subcommittees have been formed:
prevention, behavioral health and supportive services.
Communications and Agency Outreach
Provided and Presented
Information to the Governor's Transportation Vision 21 Task Force
MAG staff actively participated in the Governor's Transportation
Vision 21 Task Force process. Meetings were attended and information
was supplied on a wide range of related topics including the governing
process, transportation plans, and funding needs. Presentations
were made to the Task Force and each of its subcommittees a special
luncheon was held for members of the Task Force to meet with members
of the MAG Regional Council.
Participated in Test of ITS Software
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) plans to make
its ITS Turbo Architecture software available to MPOs and DOTs
for developing state and regional ITS architectures. MAG participated
in a Beta test of this software. All future federally-funded ITS
projects are required to be consistent with the National ITS Architecture.
Conducted a Public Outreach
Process to Receive Input on Transportation Issues from Stakeholders
and the General Public
The adopted MAG public involvement process is divided into four phases: early input, mid-phase, final phase and continuous involvement. Program enhancements were enacted beginning with the FY 1999 Early Input Opportunity, and included the use of focus groups, stakeholder involvement and expanded outreach to Title VI (minority and low income) populations. The enhanced public involvement process involves transportation stakeholders as outlined in TEA-21. The input received during the enhanced input opportunity was incorporated into the development of early guidelines to guide project selection for the TIP and LRTP. The stakeholder involvement process was continued with the Mid-Phase Input Opportunity and a final public hearing was held in June. The FY 2000 Early Input process was held in 1999 and included reconvening stakeholders to identify projects and reassess guidelines. The outreach process to non-public organizations was expanded and members of the community were invited to provide comments to modal committees.
MAG
Transportation Information
Co-sponsored a Conference on Safety and Mobility for Western States
The Federal Highway Administration, MAG and ADOT co-sponsored
this conference. The conference addressed safety and mobility
issues in general. Several sessions addressed pedestrian issues,
mobility needs and concerns of the elderly. The one-day conference
was attended by over 100 persons.
Communications and Agency Outreach
Prepared and Delivered Targeted Presentations
of MAG Services
During the course of the year, it has been important to inform
member agencies, private sector organizations and the public about
the data MAG has available and the technical assistance MAG can
provide through MAGIC. Several presentations were made at committees,
seminars, conferences, member agency sites, and various organizations.
Examples of groups reached are the Population Technical Advisory
Committee, Urban Land Institute, Maricopa County Flood Control
District, Arizona Geographic Information Council and Transportation
Right of Way Conference.
Held MAGIC Advisory Forum
to Solicit Input on Future Direction of MAGIC
When MAGIC was formed, the Regional Council identified the creation of an advisory group of Management Committee representatives and MAGIC data users. A Forum was held for this group to focus on future MAGIC data analysis and collection efforts as well as possible new markets and applications. Forum participants reviewed activities for FY1999, discussed existing data and possible update and enhancement activities, and held a dialogue on anticipated needs of member agencies and the community.
MAGic Publication List Brochure
and Order Form (PDF,
206K)
Held a Forum to Obtain
Input from Videoconferencing Users on the Selection and Use of
Videoconferencing Systems
The MAG Videoconferencing Forum was held on August 9, 1999 at Arizona State University in Tempe. The purpose of the Forum was to share experiences and obtain input from videoconferencing users on the selection and use of videoconferencing systems. There were four panelists at the forum and 33 people attending, representing both private and public sector agencies. Each panelist provided valuable input on their organization and videoconferencing system; how they selected their videoconferencing equipment, network and bridge; their experiences with implementation; and lessons learned.
MAG
Videoconferencing Forum Agenda (PDF, 155 KB)
Redesigned, Updated and
Maintained Valley Vision 2025 Web Site
The Valley Vision 2025 Web site was redesigned and updated with meeting notices, public forum meetings, draft documents, and on-line presentations.
Created Web Sites for Major MAG Projects
Two additional hosted sites are the Regional Recycling Information Exchange (RRIE) Web site, which provides information about recycling options and methods to reduce waste in Maricopa County, and the ITS Strategic Plan Web site, which supports development of the ITS project.
Communications and Agency Outreach
Revised MAG Web Site Design
In 1999 the MAG Web site included new sections to keep the public informed on MAG activities. Pages added include those for press releases, requests for proposals, the Urban Atlas, the Regional Council Activity Report, the downloadable TIP data entry system, Y2K information, and more. Many on-line publications were also posted, including committee minutes and agendas, the Specifications and Details manual and the MAGAZine newsletter. Technical improvements include the ability to view the site in a non-frames mode, the use of pull-down menus, faster-loading graphics, rollover navigation buttons, and a more consistent design. The Web site includes over 3000 files and currently averages over 500 hits per week.
Continued Implementation of Strategic Communication Plan
MAG continued implementation of the Strategic Communication
Plan, including: generating and increasing positive media coverage
through targeted efforts; increasing name recognition among key
publics through increased public outreach; developing consistent
messages and graphic standards; increasing distribution of MAG
materials such as information packets and newsletters; producing
brochures, hotlines and other collateral materials; promoting
use of the Internet as a means for communicating with key audiences;
building a stronger base of advocacy among key publics through
strategic communication measures; and improving internal communications.
Expanded and
Improved MAGAZine
Improvements to MAG's quarterly newsletter included an improved 12-page format that highlights MAG news and events through stories, photographs and graphics. New standard human interest features were added, including "MAG Moment," a photograph that captures MAG employees in moments of dedication, fun or service. Paper stock was upgraded for a more professional look and circulation lists have been updated.
Worked With Valleywide Public Information Officers to Increase Recognition
To increase familiarity with MAG among member agencies, MAG
worked to establish solid relationships with Valley public information
officers. MAG's public communications program manager joined the
Valleywide PIO team, participating in regular meetings and serving
on the PIO Y2K Committee. The PIO Y2K Committee produced a brochure
designed for universal distribution among cities to educate citizens
about Y2K issues and to provide tips on preparing for the rollover.
MAG hosted the quarterly Valleywide PIO meeting in September,
which provided an opportunity for PIOs to learn more about MAG
and included a tour of the MAG offices. In addition, MAG also
worked with the PIO team on census issues.
Communications and Agency Outreach
Held Series of Y2K Forums
Acting on a request from city managers, MAG initiated a series of forums to provide information on issues involving the Year 2000 (Y2K) computer problem. This series of seven workshops included speakers and experts from a variety of venues, including major utilities (electric, gas, water and telephone); city and state disaster services; public information officers; the petroleum industry; 9-1-1 operations; liability experts; the banking industry; law enforcement/safety agencies; the retail grocery industry; hospitals and health care organizations; aviation and representatives for people with disabilities. Each forum also included roundtable discussions for cities to share information and best practices for dealing with Y2K.
Improved Media Relations
Through individual meetings with reporters, targeted press
releases, widespread outreach and improved response times to queries,
MAG significantly improved and expanded its media relations. This
was evident in an increased amount of print and broadcast coverage
and in "positive" news stories. A strategic campaign
focusing on television and radio outlets to better educate the
broadcast media about MAG's roles and responsibilities led to
a measurable increase in broadcast coverage of MAG events.
Continued Distribution
of Regional Council Activity Reports
Initiated one year ago to serve member agencies, this monthly report is a synopsis of the discussions and actions taken during Regional Council meetings. It is designed to provide information to city managers, council members and other staff who have a vital interest in the outcome of Council actions but who are unable to attend the meetings. It also includes information about upcoming items and events, allowing interested parties to prepare for and participate in regional activities.
Regional
Council Activity Reports Page
Implemented Comprehensive News Clip Tracking System
Because MAG's broad-based membership and wide-ranging roles
and responsibilities make the purchase of standard news clipping
services difficult, we have developed our own news clip tracking
system and database. This includes a unique Web-based tracking
system (which searches hundreds of newspapers, magazines and on-line
publications) in which news items of both local and national interest
are captured on-line and downloaded into a MAG database. Accessible
to all MAG staff, the database includes the story's headline,
byline, synopsis, publication name and publication date. News
clips not available online are also tracked, reproduced and entered
into the database. All clips are additionally made available in
hard copy format.
Held the Second Annual
Desert Peaks Awards Dinner
The Desert Peaks Awards Dinner was held on June 23, 1999 at the Airport Marriott Hotel in Phoenix in conjunction with the MAG Regional Council Meeting. These awards were established to recognize individuals and groups that have contributed to the concept of regionalism through cooperative efforts. They showed that by working together, impressive results can transcend jurisdictional boundaries and provide better use of resources and service delivery to citizens. MAG Executive Director James Bourey delivered the 1999 State of the Region report for Mayor Neil Giuliano. The report was compiled by MAG staff and included statistics summarizing the status of the region in key areas, major accomplishments completed over the past year, as well as key challenges ahead. MAG staff organized the event, including providing administrative and technical support, graphic materials and presentations. The evening was attended by nearly 300 people and engendered much positive feedback.
Desert
Peaks 1999 Information Page
Program Accomplishments
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS
Completed the MAG 1999
Serious Area Carbon Monoxide Plan for the Maricopa County Non-attainment
Area
In June 1999, the Regional Council adopted the MAG 1999 Serious Area Carbon Monoxide Plan which contains 56 air quality measures designed to attain the standard by December 31, 2000. Key measures included in the plan are: California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase 2 Reformulated Gasoline During the Winter Months; Phased-In Cutpoints for the I/M 240 Vehicle Emissions Test; Traffic Synchronization; Intelligent Transportation Systems; One-Time Waiver From the Vehicle Emissions Test; and other Transportation Control Measures. Also, there have been no violations of the carbon monoxide standard since January 1996.
Carbon
Monoxide Plan (PDF, 3.3 MB)
Completed the MAG 1999 Serious Area Particulate Plan for PM-10 for the Maricopa County Nonattainment Area
The MAG 1999 Serious Area Particulate Plan for PM-10 was adopted
by the Regional Council in June 1999. Collectively, the plan contains
77 air quality measures designed to attain the standard by December
31, 2006. Key measures included in the plan are: Strengthened
and Better Enforcement of Fugitive Dust Control Rules; Reduce
Particulate Emissions from Unpaved Roads and Alleys; PM-10 Efficient
Street Sweepers; Curbing, Paving, or Stabilizing Shoulders on
Paved Roads; PM-10 Episode Thresholds; Restaurant Charbroiler
Controls; Clean Burning Gasoline; Pre-1988 Heavy-Duty Diesel Commercial
Vehicle Standards; and Coordinate Traffic Signal Systems.
Completed Conformity
Finding for the FY 2000-2004 MAG Transportation Improvement Program
and Long Range Transportation Plan Summary and 1999 Update
Rallied the Governor's Office and the Legislature to take action to protect the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program from sunsetting to ensure that this key measure could be used in the MAG air quality modeling efforts for conformity.
The conformity finding was completed by MAG staff in April 1999 and approved by the Regional Council in June 1999, after a public hearing held on June 1, 1999. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) made a joint finding of conformity for the MAG FY 2000-2004 Transportation Improvement Program and Long Range Transportation Plan Summary and 1999 Update in a letter dated June 10, 1999. Under federal regulations, transportation projects cannot be approved unless they are from a conforming regional transportation plan and improvement program.
1999 Conformity Analysis Executive
Summary (PDF, 669
KB)
Reaffirmed Conformity Finding for the Current Approved 1998 Conformity Finding for the FY 1999-2003 MAG Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Long Range Transportation Plan
Took immediate action to ensure that the air quality conformity
finding for this region did not lapse due to a precedent-setting
national court ruling. Mobilized the MAG staff to rapidly reaffirm
the conformity finding, and worked as a team with the Federal
Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration, Arizona
Department of Transportation and Governor's Office to avoid a
conformity lapse that was suffered by other MPO's. In a letter
dated April 29, 1999, the Federal Highway Administration, in coordination
with the Federal Transit Administration, reaffirmed the approval
of the October 20, 1998 conformity finding for the MAG regional
transportation plan and FY 1999-2003 TIP. The reaffirmation was
necessary to ensure that the regional transportation program would
not be placed in a lapse due to the March 2, 1999 court ruling.
As a result of these efforts, no projects were affected.
Conducted Consultation on Conformity Assessments, Processes, and Regionally Significant Projects
Regulations require MAG to consult with federal, state, and
local air quality and transportation agencies regarding various
conformity processes. MAG reviewed projects for compliance with
the federal conformity rule and completed conformity assessments
as required. Conformity assessments were transmitted to the agencies
and other interested parties for consultation purposes. In addition,
MAG consulted on the designation of transportation projects as
regionally significant for conformity purposes in accordance with
Arizona conformity rules.
Completed Emission Reduction
Assessment of Proposed Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Projects
Submitted for the FY 2001-2005 MAG Transportation Improvement
Program
In accordance with new Federal Highway Administration guidance,
MAG staff conducted an emission reduction assessment for proposed
Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) projects submitted for
the FY 2001-2005 MAG Transportation Improvement Program. The emission
reduction and corresponding emission reduction per CMAQ dollar
results of the projects analyzed were presented to various MAG
modal committees for use in prioritizing projects for funding.
Program Accomplishments
Completed the 1999 Brown Cloud Project
for the Maricopa Association of Governments Area
Completed a nationally significant project to clean up the visible air pollution in this region. This study incorporated the latest policy direction from the Environmental Protection Agency and will place statewide attention on the need for cleaner burning diesel fuel.
The project was designed to review existing source data and identify potential measures to reduce the visible brown cloud. The report includes information on brown clouds in Western urban areas; the brown cloud in Maricopa County; emission sources contributing to the brown cloud; and potential control measures to decrease the brown cloud. The report applies the current control measure being implemented by the federal, state, and local governments to the various source categories and then recommends six potential control measures to be evaluated by the respective implementing entities. In addition to the six recommended measures, there are two measures suggested for further study. It is important to note that the 1999 Brown Cloud Project is not intended as a State Implementation Plan revision for any air pollutant, including PM-10 and PM-2.5.
Received an award for $100,000
from the U.S. Department of Energy for Alternative Fuel Vehicles
In April 1999, MAG completed a grant proposal on behalf of
the MAG Clean Cities stakeholders. In September 1999, the U.S.
Department of Energy notified MAG that MAG stakeholders will receive
$100,000 for the Advancing the Use of Alternative Fuel Vehicles
grant. The award recipients included eight MAG member agencies,
two school districts, and one private company. This grant will
provide assistance in purchasing 95 alternative fuel vehicles.
Provided Technical Assistance
to Entities in Preparing MAG 208 Water Quality Management Plan
Amendments
The MAG 208 Water Quality Management Plan contains the desired wastewater treatment configuration for the Maricopa County area. In 1999, several entities inquired about adding new wastewater treatment facilities to the MAG 208 Plan, which is indicative of the high growth rate experienced by the region. This year, the MAG Regional Council approved two facilities for inclusion in the 208 Plan - the Blue Horizons Villages Wastewater Treatment Facility and the City of Phoenix Cave Creek Water Reclamation Facility.
MAG
Water Quality Committee Page
HUMAN SERVICES
Completed Annual Human Services Plan and Reduction of Social Services Block Grant Funds
Each year, MAG completes an annual Human Services Plan. This
year, we were required to reduce the planned amount of Social
Services Block Grant funds by approximately $800,000. These reductions
affect all target groups, including children, adults, elderly
and persons with disabilities.
Published Domestic Violence Safety Plan and Distributed over 200,000 Copies
The MAG Domestic Violence Subcommittee developed a safety plan to assist victims of domestic violence to be as safe as possible at home and at work. The brochure, written in English and Spanish, also includes information on items to take when fleeing the abuser. More than 200,000 copies of the brochure have been distributed.
Domestic
Violence Safety Plan (PDF, 57 KB)
Published Domestic
Violence Plan after Extensive Community Planning Process
A regional domestic violence plan was developed by 150 participants representing a wide range of community stakeholders. The plan was approved by the Regional Council in May. It contains 41 recommendations which focus on victim safety and batterer accountability, and includes strategies related to prevention and early intervention, crisis and transitional services, long term response and system coordination. A domestic violence coordinator will be hired to assist with the implementation of the regional plan.
1999
Domestic Violence Plan (PDF, 3.1 MB)
Assumed Responsibility for Federal Continuum of Care Planning and Application Process for Competitive Funds for Homeless Programs
The federal government provides a significant amount of funds
for homeless programs through the Stewart B. McKinney Act. A regional
competitive grant is required. MAG was asked to assume responsibility
for ensuring that a regional application was submitted in 2000.
Staffing resources were provided by the Stardust Foundation and
technical assistance by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development.
INFORMATION SERVICES
Conducted Public Input Processes for Human Services
To determine human services needs across the region, MAG collects
information on a continuous basis. During the past year, the community
councils and cities assisted in this process.
Completed a Successful First Year of Operation in the Maricopa Association of Governments Information Center (MAGIC)
The Maricopa Association of Governments Information Center
(MAGIC) was established by the Regional Council in June 1998.
The formation of MAGIC has encouraged the efficient utilization
of existing data and information, making the specialized information
and services more available to member agencies, private sector
businesses, individuals and other public sector agencies. In the
short time that MAGIC has been in operation, the clients have
been numerous and varied, in both the public and private sectors.
During the first year of operation, MAGIC customers included:
58 commercial customers for 88 maps and 27 datasets; 17 member
agencies and 89 datasets; 14 consultants to member agencies and
55 datasets; 22 noncommercial customers and 48 datasets; and 11
consultant engagements.
Prepared Book of Maricopa
Community Colleges District (MCCD) Planning Dataset.
Through MAGIC staff, created a targeted set of 22 maps for
the Maricopa Community Colleges District (MCCD) planning activities,
which were incorporated into a glossy book. The maps, created
using GIS, illustrated the benefit of using local information
and standard base information. For example, maps were created
of the distribution of population by age, race, and ethnicity
in the region and were then compared with student information
from MCCD for the same variables. These maps were therefore able
to demonstrate the differences and similarities between the MCCD
population and Maricopa County in general.
Program Accomplishments
Reviewed Population and Housing Projections
in the Citizens Water Resources Service Area
Reviewed the population, housing and employment projections
in the Citizens Water Resources study area. The review specifically
focused on graphically depicting and understanding the base data
and assumptions that were used to derive the officially adopted
1997 MAG housing unit and population projections. MAGIC also examined
the changes that might be expected due to additional known development
and revised municipality General Plans. Specific planning area
zones were identified, additional data and assumptions were identified
and all GIS coverages were updated accordingly. The
new data will be used when MAG develops its next round of socioeconomic
projections using the results of Census 2000 as the base.
Enhanced the Solid Waste Information Management System (SWIMS)
SWIMS was enhanced to include additional recycling options and the ability to map the information with a Geographic Information System (GIS). This required identifying potential materials for recycling, as well as the likelihood of recovering the materials from the waste stream over time. With SWIMS, various scenarios identifying different recycling rates may be generated and the cost effectiveness of the areas identified. This effort was partially funded by a Regional Recycling Information Exchange grant.
Solid
Waste Technical Advisory Committe Page
Prepared July 1, 1999 Municipality Resident Population Updates
These updates were prepared using data supplied and verified by member agencies and a method that has been used over the last nine years. The updates are used to allocate $23 million in lottery funds to cities and towns each year. They are also used to calculate expenditure limitations where necessary. These updates were adopted by the MAG Regional Council.
Population
Technical Advisory Committee Page
Prepared July 1, 1998 Water Service Area Resident Population Updates
The Updates were prepared by MAG in collaboration with the
Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR). ADWR uses the water
service area updates to gauge compliance with per capita water
use targets. MAG has worked with ADWR to provide these Updates
for over ten years. These updates were adopted by the MAG Regional
Council.
Prepared a Build-Out Scenario
for Population, Employment and Housing by Traffic Analysis Zone
The build-out scenario will be used to test the enhanced MAG
socioeconomic projections model for the next round of socioeconomic
projections and can be used as a policy tool by member agencies
to evaluate long-term needs.
Achieved Enhancements to the 2000 Census
Through the Executive Director's participation in
the U.S. Commerce Secretary's Census Advisory Committee, we were
able to achieve significant improvements in the operations of
the 2000 Census for the United States. These enhancements included
the establishment of a new construction program which will provide
this region the opportunity to include new construction up to
the time of the 2000 Census. This will result in the addition
of approximately 50,000 more dwelling units which will be mailed
questionnaires. In addition, we have achieved an enhancement to
the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) process by the Census
Bureau agreeing to mail questionnaires to all households for which
we submitted addresses, whether or not the Census Bureau has confirmed
their existence.
Prepared July 1, 1998 Population
Updates by Census Tract
Using a Geographic Information System (GIS), staff aggregated
the new housing units constructed, which had previously been geocoded,
to Census Tracts to help the Census Bureau define its census personnel
recruiting needs. In addition to assisting the Bureau in defining
personnel needs, the updates will also assist member agencies
with their review of address files for Census 2000.
Prepared a Block/Traffic Analysis Zone (TAZ) Equivalency Table
Staff used GIS and devoted a substantial amount of time to
assigning a census block to each of the 1500+ traffic analysis
zones. The equivalency table submitted to the Census Bureau will
enable MAG to receive data by Traffic Analysis Zone from the Census
Bureau.
Prepared Housing Unit Estimates by Census Tract and Provided Them to Member Agencies
Using GIS, MAG staff aggregated new permits to the housing
units already present in each census tract to derive a July 1,
1998 update. This update enabled member agencies to identify missing
units in the Census Bureau's address files and facilitate their
review for the update/leave area.
Developed New Traffic Analysis Zone System
Using a GIS system, growth projections, input from the transportation
planning section and from MAG member agencies, MAG staff updated
its Traffic Analysis Zone system. New zones were created where
necessitated by growth and the boundaries of some were changed
to reflect updated General Plans. The new system will be used
for the next round of population and socioeconomic projections.
Enhanced the
MAG Street Centerline File by Improving the Positional Accuracy
of the Street Centerlines
Additional work was performed to ensure correct street names
and address ranges. The MAG Street Centerline File contains approximately
140,000 links representing freeways, arterials, and residential
streets within Maricopa County.
Enhanced the MAG Subarea Allocation Model for Developing Socioeconomic Projections
The ability to identify varying criteria for distributing population
to small areas was expanded, as was the use of GIS for identifying
assumptions, such as persons per household, occupancy rates, floor
area ratios, and employees per thousand square feet.
Prepared Socioeconomic Data for the Update
This project will include defined data and methods necessary
for the next round of socioeconomic projections, the enhancement
of the MAG Street Centerline file, the establishment of employment
and development databases, the creation of GIS coverages and the
collection of other data that, along with the results of Census
2000, will form the base from which new projections will be developed.
The Consultant will be selected by end of year.
Ran a Clinic to Help Staff Use Dial-Up Networking When Telecommuting
MAG allowed staff to bring in their home computers for scheduled
appointments with the Network Administrator. The Network Administrator
helped staff members set up their home computers to dial into
MAG. This allowed staff who were uncomfortable performing the
setup themselves to prepare their computers for telecommuting.
Introduced Pilot NT Workstations
to Reduce Costs and Model Runtimes
The agency purchased pilot NT workstations for air quality,
transportation and land use modeling to evaluate their performance
as an alternative to UNIX and to prepare for changes in the application
software market. NT workstations are significantly less expensive
than UNIX workstations and allow MAG to retire UNIX equipment
that is no longer capable of running complex models or which require
expensive maintenance agreements. There has also been a move among
application providers toward NT over UNIX. By moving to NT, staff
is able to take advantage of the latest software tools.Transportation
Modeling noticed a 50% decrease in model runtimes and was able
to maintain that improved runtime with up to three models running
simultaneously. Air Quality and Land Use Modeling are developing
comprehensive testing procedures to see if NT workstations will
provide them with a similar benefit.
Created Templates
for Computer Presentations
Templates were designed for ongoing consistency of computer
presentations. Templates include a basic MAG template, one for
each of the MAG divisions, and one for Executive Director's reports.
Other templates were designed for special events such as the Regional
Council Retreat and Desert Peaks Awards.
Participated as Member
of Phoenix Clean Air Initiative Team
The Phoenix Clean Air Initiative Team (PCAIT) is a coalition
of concerned government and business organizations working to
implement meaningful and successful measures to reduce ozone emissions,
and to change behavior in the population to accomplish these goals.
A key focus of the team in 1999 was to oversee and implement the
"Governor's Ozone Alert" Program media campaign. MAG
participated as a member of the team, providing input, collecting
information, and forging valuable partnerships with members of
the business community and air quality stakeholders.
Secured Federal Grant/Implemented
"It All Adds Up to Cleaner Air" Campaign
MAG was selected as one of only 14 communities nationwide to participate as a demonstration community in "It All Adds Up to Cleaner Air," a federally-sponsored public education and information initiative to highlight the connection between transportation choices, congestion and air quality. Sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Transit Administration, MAG received a $25,000 grant to support the program. Implementation began in July with the distribution of television Public Service Announcements promoting the initiative's three main messages of trip-chaining, alternative transportation and car maintenance to reduce congestion and pollution. Working with the Clean Air Campaign and the Phoenix Clean Air Initiative Team, MAG distributed thousands of campaign materials to more than 500,000 Valley employees. The theme was the focus of the winter pollution season kick-off press conference, which drew coverage from all major Valley news outlets.
Completed Reports and Draft
Goal Statements for Valley Vision 2025
MAG facilitated the completion of the Valley Vision 2025 Draft Goal Statements which were coalesced into a framework of Valley Vision principles: people, place, prosperity and partnerships. The goals were presented at twelve forums held at various locations throughout the region. Citizen input from the forums will be incorporated into the final vision report, which will have progress measures for each goal and provide a road map for shaping a desirable future for this region.
Valley Vision 2025 Draft Goal Statements
Completed Draft Reports
for Desert Spaces Implementation Task Force
andEnvironmentally Sensitive Areas Policies and Design Guidelines
The Desert Spaces Implementation Task Force provides a series of recommendations to implement the MAG Desert Spaces Plan adopted in 1995. These recommendations include identification of funding sources, the formation of a citizen's committee and continued technical support from MAG Staff. The environmentally sensitive area policies will assist local, state and federal jurisdictions and the private sector in incorporating the conservation areas contained in the Desert Spaces Plan into their planning efforts. Both of these projects enlisted the participation of a wide variety of stakeholder groups. They were presented to the MAG Management Committee and Regional Council and will be considered for adoption in January 2000.
Tracked the Activities of the Growing Smarterand Citizens Growth Management Initiative
Staff made recommendations on potential policy implications.
Working with intergovernmental representatives, planners and managers
from MAG member agencies, staff developed eight principles of
good planning for consideration by the Management Committee and
Regional Council. These will be used in planning legislation policy
discussions during the 2000 legislative session.
lishments
Received a Grant through
the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) for the Agua Fria
Corridor Plan
MAG received the first planning grant ever awarded through
the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Enhancement Funds
Program. The $450,000 grant will be used to develop a non-motorized
transportation plan for the West Valley Multi-Modal Transportation
Corridor. The Corridor lies along the New River, from just north
of the community of New River southward approximately 30 miles
to its confluence with the Agua Fria River, which it then follows
12 miles south to the Salt River. To assist with technical analysis
and implementation, the work for this plan will be integrated
with the development of the Agua Fria Water-course Master Plan
initiated by the Flood Control District of Maricopa County.
Completed the Regional Pedestrian Plan 2000
The MAG Pedestrian Plan 2000 provides guidance for future targeted
activities and programs that will result in increasing the number
of people in this region who walk instead of drive single occupant
vehicles, and provides guidance for evaluating potential projects
region-wide. The Plan also identifies actions and policies that
will help the Working Group use existing and potential opportunities
and bypass existing and potential constraints to increase the
number of people who walk.
Received $2.5 Million in Enhancement Funds for Projects in the Region
Five projects were selected by the State Transportation Enhancement
Review Committee for funding. A multi-use path in Mesa along the
Consolidated Canal will include security, rest areas, lighting
and minor landscaping. A 1.5 mile segment of The Paseo in Chandler
will provide alternative transportation, passive recreation and
open space. Mesa also received funding for phase one of a pedestrian
connection to encourage pedestrian travel in the downtown. The
City of Phoenix sponsored a project to provide 16 neighborhood
gateways under the I-17 freeway to improve safety. MAG also received
a planning grant to develop a non-motorized transportation plan
along the Agua Fria and New Rivers.
Completed 1999 Update of
the MAG Long Range Transportation Plan
MAG annually updates the MAG Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) to reflect both the latest available information and results of the latest transportation studies. Principal plan changes included in the 1999 update were as follows:
Long Range Transportation Plan, 1999 Update Executive Summary (PDF, 1.6 MB)
Programmed $26 Million in MAG Federal Funds for New Alternative Mode Transportation Projects
MAG receives an annual allocation of federal funds for transportation.
A major portion of these funds is committed to completing new
freeways. However, in 1999, new projects programmed also included
$10 million for bicycle/pedestrian projects, $15 million for transit
and $1 million for demand management programs.
Increased the Level of ADOT Funding Provided to the Region
The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century requires
that state transportation departments and metropolitan planning
organizations work cooperatively to define funding levels and
projects in metropolitan areas. MAG developed "Fair Share"
information to show that a reasonable portion of transportation
revenues raised in the region needed to be returned to the region.
Intensive discussions were held with ADOT and other Councils of
Governments concerning the State's commitment to fund transportation
improvements in the MAG area, and as a result ADOT agreed to increase
its commitment to the region. In 1999, ADOT provided an estimated
of $205 million for additional projects in the region. However,
efforts will need to continue to bring the total five-year program
up to the Fair Share level.
Accelerated Completion
of the Freeway Plan from 2014 to 2007
MAG developed a plan to accelerate completion of the freeway system from 2014 to 2007. The plan included a Fair Share contribution of ADOT funding and bonding of MAG federal funds. New freeways to be completed by 2007 include the Agua Fria, Pima, Price, Squaw Peak, Red Mountain, and the Santan. Also, eight grade separations are to be completed along Grand Avenue.
MAG
Transportation Review Committee Page
Developed an Agreement
with ADOT on a New Planning and Programming Process (Casa Grande
Resolves)
Collaborated with the Arizona Department of Transportation,
Metropolitan Planning Organizations and Councils of Governments
to transform the transportation programming process in Arizona
to reflect the regional decision-making provisions embodied in
the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act and its successor,
the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century. A key component
of the reformed process is the establishment of a Revenue Resource
Allocation Committee to cooperatively determine revenue estimates
for the two large urban areas and the rest of the state. Another
key reform is the recognition of a regionally-based programming
process for the MAG region, where cooperative programming decisions
are made with MAG, ADOT and the RPTA. These are groundbreaking
concepts for funding estimates and cooperative programming for
MPO's across the nation.
Included Widening of SR 85 and Loop 303 in the MAG Plan and Program
Widening of S.R. 85 between I-10 and I-8, as well as widening
of Loop 303 from Grand to M.C. 85 were included in the MAG Long
Range Transportation Plan. Elements of these projects were included
in the MAG Five Year Transportation Improvement Program. Portions
of S.R. 85 were programmed for widening to reduce accidents, and
interchange improvements on Loop 303 were programmed to smooth
traffic flows.
Program Accomplishments
Completed Grand Avenue Major Investment
Study (MIS)
The 1998 MAG Grand Avenue Corridor Study identified and analyzed
fourteen options and short-listed three for more detailed consideration
in the MIS, which was completed in late 1999. The MIS recommended
that Option 4, Alternating Grade Separations, be implemented by
2006. This recommendation allows Grand Avenue to be further upgraded
to expressway standards by controlling access and construction
of additional grade separations as indicated in the MAG Long Range
Transportation Plan.
Completed Draft of Agreement with ADOT for the First Issuance of Grant Anticipation Notes in Arizona for the Regional Freeway Program
Legislative authority was obtained in 1999 to issue Grant Anticipation
Notes against MAG federal funds to accelerate completion of the
MAG Freeway System. MAG has committed $34.1 million in MAG federal
funds each year to complete new freeways. The first notes were
issued in the last quarter of 1999.
Completed and Presented the 1999 Annual Report for the MAG Regional Freeway Program
The report demonstrates that the freeway program is in balance
and that projects are being completed close to the scheduled dates.
The report documents the need to develop a single program for
state highways in the region.
Completed a Long Range
Transit Plan Update Including a New Funding Plan
The MAG Long Range Transit Plan was updated to reflect the latest planning studies. The plan includes tripling local bus service, tripling Dial-A-Ride service, quadrupling express bus service and a 39-mile light rail transit system. The cost of the plan is $6.3 billion and requires increased revenues from local and regional sources.
Valley Metro Regional Public Transportation Authority
Homepage
Completed the MAG Fixed Guideway System Study
MAG completed a system level study of fixed guideway options
in 1999. Options analyzed included light rail transit, commuter
rail, busway/express bus and automated guideway. The study established
the basis of the MAG Long Range Transit Plan which includes local
bus service, express bus service and a light rail transit system.
Incorporated two Major Investment Studies into the MAG Long Range Transportation Plan
Major Investment Studies were completed for high demand travel
corridors between Central Phoenix and downtown Mesa and between
Central Phoenix and downtown Glendale. The studies concluded that
the preferred technology in these corridors was light rail transit
(LRT). These studies were incorporated into the MAG Long Range
Transportation Plan as part of a 39-mile LRT system.
Facilitated Preliminary
Engineering for a Light Rail Starter Corridor
MAG contributed $5 million in Congestion Mitigation Air Quality
funds to complete preliminary engineering for a light rail transit
system between Central Phoenix and the East Valley. MAG has supplied
all modeling results for this effort and has been an active participant
in the Agency Oversight process.
Provided Input on the Development of Local Airport Master Plans and Noise Studies
MAG staff participated in the advisory committees associated
with a number of local airport planning efforts. In this capacity,
staff provided input to ensure consistency between local airport
planning efforts and the MAG Regional Aviation System Plan Update.
Specifically, MAG staff addressed the Phoenix Sky Harbor Master
Plan, the Phoenix Sky Harbor Noise Compatibility Study, the Williams
Gateway Airport Noise Study, the Peoria Airport Site Selection
Study and the Chandler Master Plan Update.
Received $300,000 Grant
to Update the MAG Regional Aviation System Plan and Implement
the MAG Continuous Aviation Planning Process
The $300,000 received from the FAA will be used to maintain
the continuous aviation system planning process and to update
the Regional Aviation System Plan (RASP). The update will identify
airport improvements needed to meet future demand and policies
to ensure the efficient functioning of the airport system.
Program Accomplishments
Enhanced MAG's Leadership
Role in ITS Planning by Initiating a Regional ITS Strategic Plan
and Integrating the AZTech Project
The first ITS Strategic Plan for the region was developed in 1995 utilizing a grant from USDOT. This plan was adopted by the MAG Regional Council in 1996. Since 1995 the pace of ITS related infrastructure implementation in the region has increased several fold, and a Strategic Plan update has been initiated. The plan update will develop a regional architecture and an implementation plan to guide development of regionally integrated systems. A proposal was submitted to USDOT by MAG for a grant of $3.8 million for ITS Integration in the region.
Intelligent
Transportation Systems Committee Page
Completed the MAG Special Transportation Needs Study
This study examined the transportation needs and program for
low income and cash assistance clients, the frail elderly, and
persons with disabilities. Through analysis of existing services
and needs, both short and long-term transportation alternatives
were recommended. These include eight management activities and
twelve project activities. To date, results of the study were
included in a regional application to the Federal Transit Administration
for Access to Jobs funding which was successful in securing $1
million to support two transportation projects targeting special
needs populations.
Programmed $750,000 in MAG Federal Funds for Maricopa County Work Links Program
Work Links is a 24 hour, 7 days a week transportation brokerage
service targeted to low-income and cash assistance clients in
Maricopa County. The project ensures transportation to and from
jobs and child care facilities by linking participants with a
diverse network of transportation services and providers. Over
38,000 cash assistance clients in Maricopa County face immediate
requirements to find and retain employment due to changes in the
welfare laws; 56 percent of these clients do not own cars. Failure
to meet these requirements results in sanctions and eventual elimination
of their cash benefits. The $750,000 CMAQ funding will enable
Work Links to serve an additional 1,000 individuals and families
in need of this service to maintain self-sufficiency.
Facilitated Receipt of a $1 million Federal Access to Jobs Grant
MAG acted as the convener and facilitator in developing a collaborative
proposal to submit to the Federal Transit Administration for competitive
grant funds targeted to low income residents of Maricopa County.
The City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, the Department of Economic
Security, the Regional Public Transit Authority and MAG developed
a joint application for our region to broker transportation services
countywide and to create a fixed-stop transit service in the southwest
part of the Valley. Maricopa County, the lead agency in the project,
will receive the $1 million grant award in January 2000.
Program Accomplishments
Prioritized Projects for Section 5310
Elderly and Persons with Disabilities Transportation Program
An ad hoc Committee of MAG, chaired by Ralph Velez, City Manager
of Tolleson, reviewed and ranked twenty applications submitted
to the Arizona Department of Transportation for funding of vehicles
to transport elderly persons and those with disabilities. The
grant review process identifies agencies with great unmet needs
and recommends federal resources to purchase vans to transport
their clients. The ranking was approved by the Regional Council
on March 24, 1999.
Facilitated an Addition of $1 Million in Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) Funds to Provide Transportation Assistance
As a member of the Joint Legislative Task Force on Welfare
Reform's Transportation and Child Care Working Group, MAG staff
assisted in garnering an additional $1 million in state funding
for transportation services targeted to welfare recipients. These
funds can be utilized for an array of services to ensure mobility
to and from work.
Developed New Mode Split Submodel for the MAG Transportation Model to Better Forecast Transit and Car Pool Travel
A new process to estimate mode choice was developed. This was
done to improve light rail transit forecast, forecast HOT (high
occupancy toll) lane usage and make the MAG Travel Demand Model
more sensitive to land uses near transit service. In addition,
other models were made more sophisticated to support the new mode
choice model. These upgrades include provisions for predicting
the number of vehicles that households own, the number of workers
in households, the age of householders, and the income of workers.
Completed MAG Congestion
Study
MAG has completed a detailed study of congestion in the region. Results will be used to analyze projects and to recalibrate the MAG transportation models to better simulate transportation conditions.
Completed 1998 Traffic Count Map
MAG has completed a map of the most recent available current traffic volumes on major roads throughout the region. The results are used in the public sector to better manage roadways and by the private sector to make commercial decisions. Traffic counts are basic to all transportation planning and modeling.
1998 MAG Traffic
Count Map (PDF) and Inset
(PDF)
Provided Transportation Modeling Service to Member Agencies for Over 70 Transportation Projects
Traffic and transit simulations were provided to member agencies
and RPTA. This information was used for a variety of purposes
including designing road and transit projects as well as estimating
development fees.
Completed Survey of Stated Transportation Performances to Better Estimate LRT Transit Demand
MAG conducted a state preference survey to determine the likelihood of special event attendees to use various modes of travel. The survey data will then be used to refine the mode choice model.