RPO Models: Virginia

Virginia has implemented a Rural Transportation Planning Program (RTPP) to address the needs of non-metropolitan areas of the state. The program is implemented in partnership with the 12 of the state’s 20 regional development organizations (known locally as planning development commissions) that serve rural portions of the state.

Under the two-part program, the regional commissions typically receive a baseline of $48,000 each year to serve as liaisons with local governments, assist with the development of the statewide multi-modal plan and the state highway plan and develop bicycle and pedestrian plans. The regional commissions conduct studies, prepare transportation enhancement grant applications, conduct GIS services, develop rural transit plans and prepare the transportation elements of regional comprehensive plans. The regions are also eligible to apply for additional rural planning and implementation funds through a competitive grant process.

The Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, which also serves as an MPO, is enhancing its rural work program in the current year to include a preliminary analysis of transportation safety issues. As part of its safety conscious planning initiative, the regional commission is forming a new committee of various community representatives to act as a community leader and clearinghouse for transportation safety information and best practices. The committee will include local law enforcement agencies, municipal traffic engineers and planners and representatives from the various modes.

For more information, see:

Virginia Association of Planning Development Commissions Web site

Northern Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission Rural Transportation Planning Program (PDF)

Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission Work Program (PDF)



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