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MPO Participation in SHSP - New Jersey

Original publication: SHSP Implementation Process Model, Supplement Number 1 – Case Studies; FHWA-SA-10-025; 2010 (PDF, 1MB)

Publication Year: 2010


Key Accomplishments

  • Developed MPO safety plans aligned with the SHSP.
  • Deployed regional and local safety countermeasures.
  • Incorporated safety projects into regional TIPs.
  • Enhanced communication between NJDOT and regional, county, and local officials.

Prior to the initiation of the SHSP development process, New Jersey had fully embraced Safety Conscious Planning and established working relationships with its MPOs on transportation safety planning. The SHSP process took metropolitan planning organization (MPO) engagement to the next level. A contact with responsibility for transportation safety was identified in each MPO, and each agency established a transportation safety program.

Once the SHSP development process was underway, MPO safety programs were incorporated into it. Some MPOs have now developed regional safety action plans linked directly to the SHSP emphasis areas. MPOs have also developed alliances with local agencies and organizations to facilitate implementation.

The MPOs view themselves as “Safety Ambassadors” to county and local governments. They provide technical guidance on the collection and analysis of data, develop solutions, and prepare funding proposals. Each MPO collects and analyzes regional safety data. They also develop and implement such safety countermeasure programs as RSAs, safety belt surveys, and deer crash avoidance education programs.

The MPOs have incorporated their safety goals into their long-range plans and use them as a basis for prioritizing projects in their TIPs. Their safety programs and activities are also incorporated into their UPWPs and they have dedicated full-time staff assigned to transportation safety.

MPO efforts are a natural and vital element of the SHSP process. Good communication between the NJDOT and the regional agencies facilitated their participation; no formal Memorandums of Agreement were established, and little or no additional funding was provided.

Results

MPO participation in the SHSP resulted in the development of their own safety programs and action plans aligned with the SHSP. Increased MPO involvement in safety via the SHSP process has resulted in MPOs using safety as a criterion in project prioritization.

Contact:
Patricia Ott
Director, Traffic Engineering and Safety
New Jersey DOT
609-530-2488
Patricia.Ott@dot.state.nj.us

Publication Year: 2010

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