RPO Models: Pennsylvania

Since 1992, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has used a forward-thinking and robust program to reach the regions of the state that are not served by metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs). The state partners with and funds the state’s six regional development organizations (known locally as local development districts), along with five rural independent counties, to conduct rural transportation planning activities.

The state DOT awards each region between $90,000 and $140,000 in state and federal planning funds, which is matched 10 percent with local funds. Most notably, the state provides the regional rural planning organizations (RPOs) with the same status as MPOs. State, regional and local decision-makers participate in the transportation planning programs of the six regions via technical advisory and policy committees. Each RPO is responsible for identifying and prioritizing transportation issues and opportunities within their regions.

They conduct transportation studies and make recommendations regarding the planning and implementation of transportation projects. In addition, the RPOs provide geographic information system (GIS) services to state and local agencies and provide technical assistance to transit, emergency responders and other transportation stakeholders.

The rural program provides a forum where state, regional and local officials identify issues and opportunities, conduct studies and make informed recommendations regarding the programming and implementation of transportation investments. Short and long-range plans are produced in each region, and the six regional organizations and the department jointly develop, negotiate and approve the rural portions of the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).

According to both state and local officials, the process has helped build professional capacity at the local level, bring attention to the long-range planning needs of rural areas and generate plans more closely aligned to community interests. It has also raised awareness of local economic development activities and improved the coordination between statewide plans and regional initiatives. With funding support from the state and other sources, each region engages in a wide range of special projects and studies.

For more information, see:

North Central Commission RPO Bylaws (PDF)

RPO STIP Procedure (PDF)

Local Development District Role in Planning (PDF)

Local Development District Role in TIP (PDF)

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program Guiding Principles



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