Montana ISTEA2 Local Control

ISTEA gave local officials a stronger role

ISTEA gave local governments a greater role than ever before in deciding how their transportation systems would work for their citizens. In metropolitan areas (those with 50,000 or more residents), community officials had to take a lead in planning their transportation futures. And, in creating their plans, officials had to involve their citizens. In many cases, this led to a better "fit" between the plans and the community.

It allowed flexibility in the use of federal funds. For example, metropolitan areas with a crying need for transit investment could shift some of their funds from other gas tax sources to take care of that need. Missoula, for example, did just that. Based on strong public support for the bus system, they shifted $2 million into the transit fund from other pots of transportation money.

ISTEA's rules make it clear:

"...The metropolitan area has a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive transportation planning process that results in plans and programs that consider all transportation modes and supports metropolitan community development and social goals. These plans and programs shall lead to the development and operation of an integrated,intermodal transportation system that facilitates the efficient, economic movement of people and goods." (Section 450.300)

What will happen to local control in the new law?

It depends who wins the battle in Congress. Some want to continue the role of local officials and expand it in several important ways. Others do not.

ISTEA2

ISTEA2 will maintain the role of local governments and will expand it. For instance, the powers now assured to metropolitan areas (those with 50,000 or more residents) will be expanded to include smaller urban areas and rural communities.

Is there any wonder that groups like the National League of Cities, National Association of Counties, the U.S. Council of Mayors, the National Association of Regional Councils, and the American Public Works Association support the ISTEA2 platform?

Opposition comes from some state DOTs

Having to share power with local officials really irks some state DOTs. Often, the views of local officials reflect the priorities of local residents but conflict with the desires of the state.

Town leaders may, for example, want to improve the community's main street --- adding sidewalks and other features that would make it a place all could enjoy. But such plans may conflict with the DOT's desire to widen the highway through town.

Other Proposals

Under the guise of "streamline the planning process," other proposals would return power to the states and would give them new powers by weakening federal guidelines.

For more information, check out CEPT's fact sheet on Local Control and the positions of the National Association of Counties, the League of Cities, and the U.S. Conference of Mayors.