Development of a Comprehensive Regional Congestion Management System: Lessons in Integrating System Management with Planning and Programming

Abstract

A remaining management system requirement is for major metropolitan areas to develop congestion management systems (CMS). These systems must identify and evaluate congestion and select mitigation strategies on the basis of systemwide analysis. In addition, congestion relief strategies must be selected that emphasize operational and demand management strategies in favor of, or in coordination with, new highway capacity. The CMS provides a level of analysis on a regional scale, but it can also guide additional studies that may be required at the subarea, corridor, or project level. This provides an important link between regional and subregional planning efforts and ensures that the policies to guide strategy selection are maintained throughout the process. In addition, a well-designed CMS can eliminate duplication of effort and support later major investment study or National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 planning work to streamline the planning effort. The CMS is an integrated part of the metropolitan planning process, but congestion mitigation must be considered in a larger context and with consideration given to other planning factors. WILMAPCO developed a four-step CMS process that included system identification, congestion identification, strategy evaluation, and system monitoring. The CMS was also developed through a strong interagency effort, including the input of planning and project development staff at member implementing agencies, who have the responsibility to use the CMS products to guide further planning and project development efforts. Although additional work is required, the WILMAPCO CMS will support planning work and influence policy debate regarding transportation investment priorities and regional quality-of-life goals.