Policy Alert: Maximizing Transportation Efficiency Act
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Over the past year, ACT and our members have partnered closely with congressional staff in these offices to draft, refine, and build support for this legislation. Through targeted and strategic advocacy, ACT advanced our policy priorities and helped lay the groundwork for this bill’s introduction.
This legislation will modernize federal transportation policy by ensuring that TDM strategies are recognized, funded, and available to communities of all sizes.
The Bill's Four Provisions
1. Codify a Federal Definition of TDM
Currently, there is no standard definition of TDM in federal law. This has created a patchwork system, where regional FHWA offices interpret TDM differently, leading to inconsistent funding eligibility across the country. Codifying a clear definition will streamline funding and project delivery nationwide.
2. Clarify TDM as an Eligible Use in Existing Programs
The bill explicitly confirms that TDM strategies are eligible under Title 23 programs, including the Mega Grant Program, BUILD, CMAQ, Congestion Relief Program, and SS4A. This clarification will ensure federal programs are administered consistently and efficiently, giving communities more certainty as they plan mobility solutions.
3. Create a Rural TDM Pilot Program
Rural communities often face unique mobility challenges. This provision establishes a set-aside within the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program to fund pilot projects that bring TDM strategies to rural areas. These grants will help improve mobility, expand access to jobs, and provide more affordable, reliable transportation options for families and workers.
4. Eliminate Barriers to the Congestion Relief Program
Currently, high grant minimums and population requirements exclude most communities from accessing Congestion Relief Program (CRP) funds. The bill fixes this by creating a set-aside for projects between $500,000 and $10 million and eliminating population thresholds, ensuring communities of all sizes can benefit.
How You Can Help
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To make these proposals a reality, we need your support. ACT members are encouraged to reach out to their Members of Congress to support the Maximizing Transportation Efficiency Act to ensure its inclusion in the surface transportation reauthorization bill.
Find your Members of Congress here. Your outreach matters. With your voice, we can ensure that every community has access to the tools needed to reduce congestion, expand mobility options, and build a more efficient transportation system. |