HomeMy WebLinkAbout~Master - March 25, 2025, Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization Transporation Policy Committee1.Motion approving Draft FY 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program and setting May 27,
2025, as date of public hearing
2.Motion adopting updated TAM and PM2 targets
3.Motion naming Justin Clausen as Interim Executive Director of the AAMPO until the City of
Ames hires a new Public Works Director
4.Motion appointing Ames Interim Public Works Director Justin Clausen as the 2025 AAMPO
representative to the Statewide Urban Design Specifications (SUDAS) Board of Directors
5.Motion approving annual self-certifications for FY 2026
6.Motion approving submittal of updated Title VI documentation to the Iowa DOT, Federal
Highway Administration, and Federal Transit Administration
7.Resolution approving designation of AAMPO 2025 representatives to the Central Iowa Regional
Transportation Planning Alliance (CIRTPA)
8.Resolution setting 2050 as the target year for achieving zero fatal and serious injury crashes in the
AAMPO's current planning area
AGENDA
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION (AAMPO)
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL
MARCH 25, 2025
CALL TO ORDE R: 6:00 p.m.
CONSENT AGENDA : All items listed under the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion.
There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a request is made prior to the time the
Committee members vote on the motion.
ADMINISTRATION:
POLICY COMMITTEE COMMENTS:
ADJOURNMENT:
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ITEM #:1
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:DRAFT FY 2026 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) (see Attachment A) is the
regional work plan developed by the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026. The TPWP is a requirement of 23 CFR
450.308 for metropolitan planning organizations to develop a document identifying work proposed for
the next one-year period by major activity and task. The document includes details to indicate who will
perform the planning activity, the schedule for completing the activity, what products should result from
each activity, funding for each activity, as well as a total program budget.
The following table details both the revenues and the expenses of the MPO's FY 2026 budget:
Revenue Source Amount Expense Category Amount
FHWA PL Carryover $30,057 1 – Administration $50,000
FTA 5305d Carryover $3,913 2 – Transportation Improvement
Program $8,000
FHWA PL Comp. Streets Carryover $3 3 – Transit Planning $50,000
FHWA PL New $128,075 4 – Comprehensive Planning $20,000
FTA 5305d New $49,269 5 – Complete Streets $3,286
FHWA STBG New $311,086 6 – Long-Range Planning $145,000
Comp. Streets Set-Aside New $3,283 7 – Transportation Data $155,000
Iowa DOT HSIP-SWAP $2,400 8 – Special Studies $250,000
Local Match (Ames Local Road Use
Tax Fund)$133,200
SS4A Discretionary Grant $20,000
FY26 TOTAL REVENUE:$681,286 FY26 TOTAL EXPENSES:$681,286
REVENUE:
Each fiscal year, the Iowa DOT allocates Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) funding to each of the Iowa MPOs for use in conducting the planning activities
identified in their TPWPs. However, most of these funding sources require a 20% local match. For the
AAMPO, this local match comes from the City of Ames Local Road Use Tax Fund.
The AAMPO was also awarded a $100,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) discretionary grant
in December 2023 for the creation of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP). The AAMPO
expects to have leveraged $80,000 of that grant by the end of FY 2025, meaning $20,000 will still be
remaining for use in FY 2026 to finish development of the CSAP.
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EXPENSES:
Starting on page 12, the FY 2026 TPWP organizes the anticipated planning activities to be performed
by the AAMPO into 8 work elements. These elements are:
1. Administration
2. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
3. Transit Planning
4. Comprehensive Planning
5. Complete Streets
6. Long-Range Transportation Planning
a. Long-Range Planning
b. Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) Consultant
c. SS4A Comprehensive Safety Action Plan Consultant
7. Transportation Data
a. Data Management
b. Traffic Data Procurement
c. Pavement Data Procurement
8. Special Studies
a. TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document Consultant
b. Duff Ave (Main St – 13th St) Study Consultant
Page 28 of the FY 2026 TPWP shows a comprehensive budget table which details the budgeted amount
allocated to each of the eight work elements and their sub-activities. The AAMPO has budgeted a total
of $681,286 in FY 2026. There are no budgeted unobligated federal funds. The budget and unobligated
amount conform with the MPO/RPA Carryover Policy described in Appendix E of the TPWP.
NEXT STEPS:
The Transportation Technical Committee reviewed and unanimously recommended approval of
the Draft FY 2026 TPWP. The next step in the approval process after review and approval by the
Transportation Policy Committee will be a review of the draft by the Iowa DOT and federal partners,
who will provide comments back to the AAMPO by May 1, 2025. A public comment period will also
occur from March 26, 2025, to April 30, 2025.
After all comments received from the Iowa DOT, federal partners, and the public are
incorporated into the final document, a public hearing on final approval of the FY 2026 TPWP
will occur on May 27, 2025. The final document is due to the Iowa DOT and federal partners by
May 30, 2025. Once fully approved, the FY 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program will be
effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. All MPO planning activities and processes
conducted during this time must conform with the work program.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve the Draft FY 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program and set May 27, 2025, as the
date of public hearing.
2. Modify the Draft FY 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program and set May 27, 2025, as the
date of public hearing.
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MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Transportation Technical Committee has reviewed the Draft FY 2026 Transportation Planning
Work Program and unanimously recommends approval. This establishes the work to be performed over
the next fiscal year, including the completion of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan update and the
Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the MPO Executive
Director that the Transportation Policy Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - Draft FY 2026 TPWP.pdf
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The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of
Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The
Ames Area MPO approved this document on May 27, 2025. Please call (515) 239-5160 to obtain permission to use.
DRAFT
Transportation Planning Work Program
Fiscal Year 2026
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
CONTENTS
1 - Introduction...........................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Document Purpose ...........................................................................................................................4
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area ...............................................................................................4
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee.....................................................................................................5
1.4 Transportation Technical Committee ...............................................................................................6
1.5 Planning Documents Maintained by AAMPO ...................................................................................6
2 – TPWP Development..............................................................................................................................7
2.1 TPWP Development Process.............................................................................................................7
2.2 Planning Priorities.............................................................................................................................8
2.3 Performance-Based Planning............................................................................................................9
3 – Work Elements ...................................................................................................................................10
3.1 Regional & Federal Planning Goals.................................................................................................10
3.2 Planning Emphasis Areas ................................................................................................................11
Element 1 - Administration...................................................................................................................12
Element 2 – Transportation Improvement Program ............................................................................14
Element 3 – Transit Planning ................................................................................................................16
Element 4 – Comprehensive Planning..................................................................................................19
Element 5 – Complete Streets ..............................................................................................................20
Element 6 – Long-Range Transportation Planning ...............................................................................22
Element 7 – Transportation Data..........................................................................................................24
Element 8 – Special Studies..................................................................................................................26
4 – FY 2026 Budget Summary...................................................................................................................28
4.1 Budget & Staff Hours Summary......................................................................................................28
4.2 Cost Allocation Plan ........................................................................................................................29
4.3 Private Sector Involvement.............................................................................................................29
5 – Revisions to the Transportation Planning Work Program ..................................................................30
5.1 Overview.........................................................................................................................................30
5.2 Waiver of Approvals........................................................................................................................30
5.3 Revision and Approval Procedures .................................................................................................31
Appendix A – Resolution of Approval.......................................................................................................32
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix B – Self-Certification of Procurement and Consultation Selection Procedures .......................33
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
1 - Introduction
1.1 Document Purpose
The Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) is the regional work plan
developed by the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026. The TPWP is a requirement of 23 CFR 450.308 for
metropolitan planning organizations to develop a document identifying work proposed for the next
one-year period by major activity and task. The document includes details to indicate who will perform
the planning activity, the schedule for completing the activity, what products should result from each
activity, funding for each activity, and the total program budget.
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area
AAMPO was officially designated the MPO of the Ames urbanized area by the Governor of Iowa in
March 2003. This designation was the result of the Ames urbanized area having a population greater
than 50,000 in the 2000 Census. As a result of the 2010 Census, the urbanized areas of Ames and
Gilbert were combined into one urbanized area, therefore requiring the Metropolitan Planning Area
Boundary be expanded to encompass this area in its entirety. The current boundary, a result of the
2020 Census and urban area adjustment, was adopted by the AAMPO on January 23, 2024 (shown in
Figure 1).
Figure 1: AAMPO Boundary (Adopted Jan 23, 2024)
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
The AAMPO provides and coordinates various transportation planning and improvement efforts
throughout the Ames urban area and consists of two standing committees: The Transportation Policy
Committee and the Transportation Technical Committee.
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee
Transportation Policy Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)John Haila Mayor
City of Ames Gloria Betcher Council Member
City of Ames Tim Gartin Council Member
City of Ames Anita Rollins Council Member
City of Ames Rachel Junck Council Member
City of Ames Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen Council Member
City of Ames Amber Corrieri Council Member
Boone County Scott Longhorn Board of Supervisors
Story County Linda Murken Board of Supervisors
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Emily Boland CyRide Board Member
City of Gilbert Jonathan Popp Mayor
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Shelby Ebel District 1 Transportation Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Gerri Doyle Region 7 Community Planner
Iowa State University ‡Brandi Latterell Director for Planning Services
‡ Non-voting
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
1.4 Transportation Technical Committee
The Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) serves as the primary advisory body to the TPC, and its
membership consists of technical personnel from various regional agencies involved in transportation
planning efforts and transportation project programming within the AAMPO planning area. Currently,
the TTC membership includes the City of Ames, City of Gilbert, Ames Transit Agency (CyRide), Boone
County, Story County, Iowa State University, Ames Community School District, Gilbert Community
School District, and the Ames Economic Development Commission. The Iowa Department of
Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration have
advisory, non-voting, representatives.
‡ Non-voting
The AAMPO develops, updates, and maintains the following core planning documents:
•Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP)
•Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
•Public Participation Plan (PPP)
•Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
•Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP)
Transportation Technical Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)Damion Pregitzer Traffic Engineer
City of Ames (Vice-Chair)Justin Moore Planner
City of Ames Kelly Diekmann Director of Planning & Housing
City of Ames Mindy Bryngelson Municipal Engineer
City of Ames Brad Becker Operations Manager (Interim)
City of Ames Mark Gansen Civil Engineer II
City of Ames Joshua Thompson Parks & Facilities Superintendent
City of Gilbert Mitch Holtz City Engineer (Strand Associates)
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Barbara Neal Transit Director
Iowa State University Sarah Lawrence Campus Planner
Iowa State University Angie Solberg Facilities Project Manager
Boone County Jonathan Bullock County Engineer
Story County Darren Moon County Engineer
Ames Community School Dist.Gerry Peters Facilities Director
Gilbert Community School Dist.Trent Becker Transportation Manager
Ames Economic Development Commission Greg Piklapp Director Econ. Outreach & Gov. Relations
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Shelby Ebel District 1 Transportation Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Gerri Doyle Region 7 Community Planner
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2 – TPWP Development
2.1 TPWP Development Process
The FY 2026 Transportation Planning Work Program was developed from input by AAMPO staff, the
AAMPO Transportation Technical Committee, the public, and the AAMPO Transportation Policy
Committee. The following milestones describe the process in which the Transportation Planning Work
Program was developed.
February 1, 2025 – March 12, 2025 – Initial Draft Development
AAMPO staff developed the initial Draft FY 2026 TPWP.
March 13, 2025 – Transportation Technical Committee Meeting
A review and discussion of the Draft FY 2026 TPWP were undergone by the Transportation
Technical Committee.
March 25, 2025 – Transportation Policy Committee Meeting
A review and discussion of the Draft FY 2026 TPWP were undergone by the Transportation
Policy Committee and the date of public hearing was set for May 27, 2025.
March 26, 2025 – April 30, 2025 – Public Input Period
A public comment period for the Draft FY 2026 TPWP was established from March 26 through
April 30, 2025. During the comment period, the draft document was posted on the MPO
website, aampo.org, and notifications were distributed to the public. Comments could be
submitted via online form, email, mail, and by phone.
April 1, 2025 – May 1, 2025 – Review by Federal and State Partners
Federal and State partners at the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit
Administration, and Iowa Department of Transportation reviewed the Draft FY 2026 TPWP. By
May 1, 2025, the MPO received comments to address in the Final FY 2026 TPWP.
May 1, 2025 – May 26, 2025 – Final TPWP Development
AAMPO staff created the Final FY 2026 TPWP based upon feedback from the public, state and
federal partners, and members of the AAMPO Technical and Policy Committees.
May 27, 2025 – Transportation Policy Committee Hearing
A public hearing was held by the Transportation Policy Committee to consider adoption of the
FY 2026 TPWP with opportunities from the public to respond and present to the committee.
This document was then formally approved by the Transportation Policy Committee.
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2.2 Planning Priorities
The FY 2026 TPWP addresses the planning goals of the AAMPO, which are:
•Provide a connected transportation system that offers efficient and reliable mobility options for
all modes of travel.
•Provide a safe transportation system.
•Consider and mitigate the impacts of the transportation system on the natural and built
environment.
•Provide an accessible transportation system which fits within the context of its surroundings
and preserves community character.
•Provide a transportation system that supports the regional economy and efficiently moves
goods.
•Maintain transportation infrastructure in a state-of-good-repair.
The following is a list of ongoing and future challenges the AAMPO expects to address through projects
and planning activities:
•The Ames regional area experiences a high variability in traffic due to weekly commuters,
regional commercial weekend traffic, and special events (such as Iowa State football games).
AAMPO will leverage emerging technologies as well as automated data collection to generate
regional metrics and Transportation Systems Management and Operations (TSMO) strategies in
coordination with local agencies to improve traffic operations.
•Some intersections and corridors within Ames are nearing operational capacities and struggle
to handle currently observed levels of traffic and users. Through emerging technologies such as
adaptive traffic signal control, transit signal priority, widescale data collection, and new ITS
communication technologies, AAMPO will ensure projects are planned and executed which
attempt to leverage new technologies to maximize operational capabilities and improve
intersection and roadway capacities across all modes of travel.
•The AAMPO is starting to place an even greater emphasis on prioritizing projects which benefit
underserved populations, and which reduce emissions and minimize or have positive
environmental impact. As such, impact on high-need areas and disadvantaged populations and
environmental impact and emissions reduction are now evaluation criteria components for
projects wishing to receive regional Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Carbon
Reduction Program (CRP), and Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding. The AAMPO
will also be sure to incorporate these emphases in future planning efforts and transportation
plan updates, such as the ongoing Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) update.
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2.3 Performance-Based Planning
Performance-based planning and performance management became a focus for State and regional
transportation planning with the signing of the 2012 Federal surface transportation bill Moving Ahead
for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21). The Federal government established seven national goals
through MAP-21, and maintained these goals in subsequent federal legislation, with the purpose of
improving decision-making through performance-based planning and programming. Those seven goals
are:
•Safety
•Infrastructure Condition
•Congestion Reduction
•System Reliability
•Freight Movement and Economic Vitality
•Environmental Sustainability
•Project Delivery
The AAMPO must establish and use a performance-based approach in transportation decision making
to support the national goals. The AAMPO implements these required metrics in coordination with the
Iowa DOT (see Appendix C for the Performance Management Agreement), which includes setting
regional targets for several performance measures established by the Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) and Federal Transit Administration (FTA). See Appendix D for these performance measure
targets. Future reports on the AAMPO’s progress in reaching regional targets will be included in the
ongoing MTP update.
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3 – Work Elements
This section will describe each of the eight transportation planning work elements that AAMPO will
undergo in Fiscal Year 2026: administration, transportation improvement program, transit planning,
comprehensive planning, complete streets, long-range transportation planning, transportation data,
and special studies.
3.1 Regional & Federal Planning Goals
Table 1 describes how each of the work elements relate to accomplishing regional transportation
planning goals/priorities (listed in the AAMPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), “Forward
2045”) and the federal planning factors that should guide the planning processes conducted by MPOs.
Table 1: Relation of Work Elements and Regional Goals/Planning Factors
Elem. 1
Admin
Elem. 2
TIP
Elem. 3
Transit
Elem. 4
Comp.
Planning
Elem. 5
Complete
Streets
Elem. 6
Long-
Range
Planning
Elem. 7
Transpor
-tation
Data
Elem. 8
Special
Studies
Accessibility X X X X X X X
Safety X X X X X X
Sustainability X X X X X X
Efficiency &
Reliability X X X X X X X
Placemaking X X X X X X X
Regional
Goals
Preservation X X X X
Economic
Vitality X X X X X
Safety X X X X X X X
Security X X X X X X X
Accessibility &
Mobility X X X X X X
Protect &
Enhance the
Environment
and Promote
Conservation
X X X X X X X
Integration &
Connectivity X X X X X X X
Efficiency X X X X X X
Preservation X X X X X
Improve
Resiliency &
Reliability
X X X X X X X
Federal
Planning
Factors
Enhance Travel
& Tourism X X X X X X X
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3.2 Planning Emphasis Areas
On December 30, 2021, the FHWA and FTA released updated 2021 planning emphasis areas (PEAs) for
use in the development of metropolitan and statewide planning and research programs. The following
details how the AAMPO addresses some of these PEAs through its various planning activities and
planning document updates.
Climate & Clean Energy – The AAMPO will continue to consider climate impacts (positive and negative)
when identifying, prioritizing, and evaluating projects in both TIPs and the MTPs. The new Carbon
Reduction Program (CRP) will also be specifically leveraged for projects which reduce carbon and other
greenhouse gas emissions. The AAMPO will both inform and encourage its local member agencies to
submit projects which will reduce or eliminate greenhouse gas and carbon emissions for funding for
this new program.
Equity & Justice – The AAMPO develops and maintains a Public Participation Plan (PPP) and a Limited
English Proficiency (LEP) Plan. These plans aim to ensure ample public involvement opportunities for
underserved and disadvantaged populations. Additionally, the AAMPO submits Title VI documentation
to both the FHWA and FTA, which ensures that the MPO is adhering to applicable Title VI federal
requirements. Title VI prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program
or activity that receives federal funding. These documents are all developed as a part of Work Element
1 (Administration). Additionally, impacts to underserved and disadvantaged populations are
considered when identifying, prioritizing, and evaluating projects in the Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) and the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP).
Complete Streets – The AAMPO previously supported the City of Ames in the development of its
Complete Streets Plan in 2018. The latest MTP refers to the Ames Complete Streets Plan and leverages
its policies and principles when evaluating the regionwide transportation network and developing and
prioritizing projects. The AAMPO also includes a dedicated work element in the TPWP (Work Element 5
- Complete Streets) specifically for Complete Streets planning activities and efforts.
Public Involvement – As previously mentioned, the AAMPO develops and maintains a Public
Participation Plan (PPP). This plan details how the MPO involves the public and stakeholders in its
transportation planning efforts. The MPO recently redesigned its website and updated its PPP in July
2024.
Planning & Environmental Linkages (PEL) – During MTP updates, the AAMPO always considers
environmental, community, and economic goals early in the transportation planning process. These
regional goals (identified in Table 1) form the foundation of the MTP, its development strategy, and its
project prioritization processes.
Data in Transportation Planning – The AAMPO is actively incorporating data within its planning
processes and shares its data with its member agencies and stakeholders. Work Element 6 -
Transportation Data is dedicated to obtaining and leveraging transportation datasets and utilizing data
analytics to strengthen performance-based planning efforts in the region.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 1 - Administration
Objective: To initiate and properly manage the “3-C” planning process, ensuring that it is continuous,
cooperative, and comprehensive, and in compliance with applicable State and Federal laws and
regulations.
Description:
This task includes all administrative tasks which support activities of the MPO including the following:
prepare and submit required documents to maintain the continuity and credibility of the planning
process. Sponsor and conduct meetings and provide support to policy and technical committees.
Prepare budgets, maintain financial records, and ensure planning funds are spent appropriately.
Coordinate activities with participating agencies and other public and private interests.
Purchase/lease supplies, computer equipment and other equipment necessary to carry out planning
efforts. Maintain sufficient software and purchase necessary upgrades when beneficial to the AAMPO.
Conducting informational meetings, as well as public hearings, to obtain public input and feedback on
ongoing activities. The Public Participation Plan (PPP), along with other pertinent documents
maintained and developed by the AAMPO are posted online on the MPO website (www.aampo.org).
The PPP will be evaluated for modifications to evolve with communication preferences, as warranted.
AAMPO staff will participate in conferences, seminars, meetings, and other training opportunities to
remain familiar with the latest regulations and techniques related to the transportation planning field
as provided by the Federal Transit Administration, Federal Highway Administration, American Planning
Association, Environmental Protection Agency, Iowa Department of Transportation, peer
transportation planning organizations, and other agencies and professional organizations.
FY 2026 Products:
•Administer the FY 2026 TPWP.
•Develop and approve the FY 2027 TPWP.
•Review Public Participation Plan (PPP) and Limited English Proficiency Plan (LEP) and update as
needed.
•Review Title VI documentation and update as needed.
•Review Roadway Federal Functional Classifications (FFCs) (in coordination with state & federal
partners) on an as-needed basis.
•Carry out required annual certifications.
•Maintain records and files.
•Complete reports, surveys, and other materials requested by Federal, State, or other
governmental agencies.
•Administer meetings for the Transportation Policy Committee and Transportation Technical
Committee.
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•Participate in regional and state-wide coordination meetings related to transportation planning.
•Participate in conferences, trainings, and meetings pertinent to transportation planning hosted
by Federal, State, professional organizations, or other appropriate organizations and agencies.
•Market and perform outreach for MPO planning activities.
•Purchase/lease supplies and equipment as well as maintain sufficient software and upgrades
that are beneficial to AAMPO planning efforts.
•Maintain the MPO website and update as needed.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted below.
•The FY 2027 TPWP will be developed and approved during Q3 & Q4 (January-June 2026).
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $50,000 (Federal - $40,000; Local - $10,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 534
Primary FY 2025 Accomplishments:
•Administered the FY 2025 TPWP.
•Developed and approved the FY 2026 TPWP.
•Updated and approved an updated Public Participation Plan (PPP).
•Updated and approved updated Title VI documentation.
•Carried out required annual certifications.
•Maintained records and files.
•Administered meetings for the Transportation Policy Committee and Transportation Technical
Committee.
•Participated in regional and state-wide coordination meetings related to transportation
planning.
•Participated in conferences, trainings, and meetings pertinent to transportation planning
hosted by Federal, State, professional organizations, or other appropriate organizations and
agencies.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this task.
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Element 2 – Transportation Improvement Program
Objective: Develop and maintain a regional program of near-term projects that are consistent with the
current AAMPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan, “Forward 45”.
Description:
The AAMPO is responsible for developing the funding program of transportation projects which utilize
federal funds or are regionally significant. The MPO carries out a process for soliciting regional projects
for the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), Transportation Alternatives program (TAP), and the
Carbon Reduction Program (CRP). The MPO also reviews regional projects seeking Iowa Clean Air
Attainment Program (ICAAP) funds to ensure that they conform with established regional
transportation goals and initiatives.
Projects which are awarded federal funding, or are regionally significant, are included in the
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is developed in coordination with local
governments, the state of Iowa, and transit operators. Consistent with the Public Participation Plan,
opportunities for public review and comments will be provided for all Transportation Policy Committee
actions on the TIP.
FY 2026 Products:
•Approve and administer the FFY 2026-29 TIP.
•Amend and modify the FFY 2026-29 TIP as needed.
•Develop the FFY 2027-30 TIP.
•Undergo the annual regional grant project application cycle (STBG, TAP, CRP) for projects
wishing to receive funding in FFY 2027-2030.
•Perform and manage regional project programming through the TPMS system.
•Certify ICAAP project application submitted to the Iowa DOT by regional sponsors.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted below.
•The FFY 2026-27 TIP will be approved in July 2025 and the FFY 2027-30 TIP will be developed
during Q4 (April-June 2026).
•The annual regional grant project application cycle (STBG, TAP, CRP) will be undergone during
Q3 (January-March 2026) for projects wishing to receive funding in FFY 2027-2030. Projects will
be reviewed and potentially incorporated into the Draft FFY 2027-2030 TIP during Q4 (April-
June 2026).
•ICAAP project applications will be reviewed and certified in September 2025.
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FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $8,000 (Federal - $6,400; Local - $1,600)
•MPO Staff Hours: 113
•Approved and administered the FFY 2025-28 TIP.
•Amended the FFY 2025-28 TIP.
•Developed the FFY 2026-29 TIP.
•Administered the annual regional grant application cycle (STBG, TAP, CRP) for projects wishing
to receive funding in FFY 2026-2029.
•Performed and managed regional project programming through the TPMS system.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this task.
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Element 3 – Transit Planning
Objective: Enhance a coordinated, accessible, and efficient transit system.
Description:
This item involves transit planning issues related to land use and development, facility expansion
analysis, technology planning, climate action planning, ridership surveys and analyses, managing transit
programs and services in accordance with the Federal Transit Administration guidelines, and the
development of fixed route transit services. Assets will be managed to ensure they are kept in a state
of good repair by strategizing investment decisions with available funding levels. Planning of capital
equipment will occur that meets the Americans with Disabilities Act, particularly for technology, bus
stop amenities and buses. The transit agency will work to provide its services without regard to race,
color or national origin by monitoring its own separate Title VI program as required by the Federal
Transit Administration (FTA). Additionally, the transit agency will work to monitor its Equal
Employment Opportunity and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise programs as required by FTA.
Meetings will be held to facilitate the MPO’s locally developed coordinated public transit/human-
services transportation plan to improve transportation services for the low-income, aging, and disabled
populations within the community. Efforts will concentrate on improving operating efficiencies of
current services and eliminating gaps where and when transportation is not available. The
transportation planner may conduct various planning and ridership studies throughout the year to
ensure compliance with federal regulations. The safety officer will also update the safety plan annually
through a coordinated process with front line staff. A memorandum of understanding will be
periodically updated between the transit agency and the MPO staffs for duties containing metropolitan
and statewide planning.
FY 2026 Products:
•Complete various transit planning as required, including the administration and audits of the
following programs requiring annual certifications by the transit agency: ADA Planning, Equal
Employment Opportunity Program (EEO), Title VI Program, Limited English Proficiency (LEP),
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Transit Asset Management Plan, CyRide Safety &
Security Plan, and State/Federal reviews and compliance.
•Attend quarterly Passenger Transportation Plan meetings with human & health service
organization groups and transportation providers to address transit gaps and needs
•Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP) revisions to the MPO, as needed
•Bus stop amenities & technology planning
•Capital/Financial planning to analyze fleet, facility, and technology needs
•Disadvantages Business Enterprise Program & Goals Submission, if necessary
•Equal Employment Opportunity Program monitoring
•Title VI Program monitoring
•Facility Expansion planning on current site
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
•NEPA Planning (facility & bus shelters)
•MPO-CyRide MOU update
•Safety Plan review/update and performance measures
•Update CyRide’s Transit Asset Management Plan, 2026-2030 performance targets & 2025
narrative report submission to FTA via the National Transit Database (NTD).
•Transit Service Planning for current/new services or ridership studies
•Transit Management Analysis of current/new policies
FY 2026 Schedule:
Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year unless noted as follows:
•Monitor DBE to ensure no federal contracting opportunities over $250,000, or else submit new
DBE Program and DBE Goals accordingly.
•Submit Passenger Transportation Plan meeting minutes to Iowa DOT by 7/31/2026.
•Update TAM Plan and performance targets and submit to AAMPO by 10/1/2025.
•Develop and submit TAM Plan narrative to FTA via NTD by 10/1/2025.
•Review & update Safety Plan in August then submit targets to AAMPO by 10/1/2025.
•Undergo State on-site Review with Iowa DOT in FY 2026.
•CyRide Title VI Program due to FTA by 10/1/2025.
•CyRide EEO program due to FTA by 3/1/2026.
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $50,000 (Federal - $40,000; Local - $10,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 688
Primary FY 2025 Accomplishments
•Completed shelter NEPA requirements
•Monitored grant contracts and completed reporting, surveys and other materials as requested
by Federal, State or other governmental agencies
•Prepared Triennial Review documentation for FTA for onsite that occurred on July 11-12, 2024.
After review of 23 compliance areas, FTA found zero deficiencies for the three-year period in
how CyRide manages its programs and services as well as how it spends its federal grant
funding.
•Analyzed DBE program and threshold requirement
•Completed Automatic Passenger Count Research Project final report
•Attended and participated in meetings with human service/health organizations and
transportation providers organizations for PTP planning to reduce transportation gaps in Ames
•Reviewed and developed FY2025 Capital Plan and price increases for buses.
•Safety Plan Development & Certification
•Monitored and documented CyRide’s Title VI Program requirements
•Monitored and documented CyRide’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program requirements
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
•Developed Transit Asset Management (TAM) Plan (performance measures, annual National
Transit Database narrative & performance targets updates)
•Transit Service Planning (i.e. route planning, battery electric bus project planning, ADA services)
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this task.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 4 – Comprehensive Planning
Objective: Integrate transportation planning and land-use planning for AAMPO member jurisdictions.
Description:
Participate in regional activities which enhance the transportation network including collaboration with
local transportation activities, technical assistance for member agencies, and other activities which are
promoting a comprehensive planning approach.
FY 2026 Products:
•Provide technical assistance to local agencies incorporating regional transportation goals and
objectives into comprehensive, sub-area, capital improvement, and other local plans.
•Perform traffic modeling (Microsimulation, Synchro, SIDRA, etc.) to support local studies and
projects as needed.
•Coordinate with the City of Ames on its ITS network projects.
•Prepare for Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Plan anticipated to be developed in FY 2027.
•Analyze potential alternative funding sources.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year.
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $20,000 (Federal - $16,000; Local - $4,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 281
Primary FY 2025 Accomplishments:
•Provided technical assistance and support to local agencies for various transportation studies
and projects (including speed studies, traffic studies, etc.).
•Performed traffic modeling for various projects and studies.
•Coordinated with the City of Ames for implementing Phases 1-4 of their Intelligent
Transportation System (ITS) Master Plan.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this work element except for preparing for
developing a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Plan. The SRTS Plan is now anticipated to begin development
in FY 2027.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 5 – Complete Streets
Objective: To increase safe and accessible options for multiple travel modes for people of all ages and
abilities.
Description:
BIL § 11206(b) requires that MPOs use not less than 2.5% of PL funds on Complete Streets planning
activities. These funds are eligible to be up to 100% reimbursable. Activities (per BIL § 11206(c)) must
“increase safe and accessible options for multiple travel modes for people of all ages and abilities,”
which if permissible under State and local laws, may include:
1. Adoption of Complete Streets standards or policies; (see BIL § 11206(a)… the term “Complete
Streets standards or policies” means standards or policies that ensure the safe and adequate
accommodation of all users of the transportation system, including pedestrians, bicyclists,
public transportation users, children, older individuals, individuals with disabilities, motorists,
and freight vehicles.)
2. Development of a Complete Streets prioritization plan that identifies a specific list of Complete
Streets projects to improve the safety, mobility, or accessibility of a street.
3. Development of transportation plans to…
a. Create a network of active transportation facilities, including sidewalks, bikeways, or
pedestrian and bicycle trails, to connect neighborhoods with destinations such as
workplaces, schools, residences, businesses, recreation areas, healthcare and childcare
services, or other community activity centers.
b. Integrate active transportation facilities with public transportation service or improve
access to public transportation.
c. Create multiuse active transportation infrastructure facilities (including bikeways or
pedestrian and bicycle trails) that make connections within or between communities.
d. Increase public transportation ridership; and
e. Improve the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.
4. Regional and megaregional planning (i.e., multi-jurisdictional transportation planning that
extends beyond MPO and/or State boundaries) that address travel demand and capacity
constraints through alternatives to new highway capacity, including through intercity passenger
rail.
5. Development of transportation plans and policies that support transit-oriented development.
FY 2026 Products:
•AAMPO staff time/contribution towards the multi-modal and active transportation components
of the 2050 MTP update. Work undertaken past the budget threshold of this work element will
fall under Work Element 6 – Long Range Transportation Planning.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activity for this work element will conclude no later than the adoption date of the 2050 MTP
(September 23, 2025).
•Total Budget: $3,286 (Federal - $3,286) 100% reimbursement rate
•MPO Staff Hours: 46
•Contributed towards the multi-model and active transportation components of the 2050 MTP
update.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this work element.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 6 – Long-Range Transportation Planning
Objective: Provide framework for long-term orderly and efficient growth of an integrated, multi-modal
transportation network.
Description:
The 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (known as “Forward 45”) became effective on October 27,
2020. To support the activities of this Metropolitan Transportation Plan, the AAMPO will continue to
monitor and update the plan, as necessary. AAMPO will continue to ensure that ongoing planning
efforts and regional transportation projects conform with the approved Metropolitan Transportation
Plan.
The AAMPO will complete development of the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (known as
“Ames Connect 2050”) in FY 2026, with anticipated final approval of the plan on September 23, 2025.
The update to the regional travel demand model will also be completed.
On December 13, 2023, the AAMPO was awarded $100,000 in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A)
grant funding by the U.S. DOT for the creation of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. In FY 2026, in
concurrence with the 2050 MTP update, the AAMPO will complete development of a Comprehensive
Safety Action Plan which incorporates all the required components specified by the U.S. DOT in the
SS4A funding requirements.
FY 2026 Products:
•Monitor and update the 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (“Forward 2045”) as needed
and ensure that all regional transportation efforts and projects continue to conform with the
regional planning goals and projects outlined in the plan. Undergo the same effort for the 2050
Metropolitan Plan (“Ames Connect 2050”) once it is adopted.
•Finish development of the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (“Ames Connect 2050”) and
adopt the plan no later than September 23, 2025.
•Complete the regional travel demand model update in coordination with the Iowa DOT and the
2050 MTP update and maintain and utilize the travel demand model as needed.
•Finish development of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan which meets SS4A criteria and
adopt the plan no later than September 23, 2025.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year except as noted
below.
•The 2050 MTP and Comprehensive Safety Action Plan are anticipated to be adopted on
September 23, 2025.
•The regional travel demand model update should be completed no later than Q1 (July-
September 2025).
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $145,000 (Federal - $96,000; State - $2,400; SS4A - $20,000; Local - $26,600)
•MPO Staff Hours: 281
6.1 Long-Range Planning
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the MPO staff time used for
completing the various tasks described in this work element.
•Budget: $20,000 (Federal - $16,000; Local - $4,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 281
6.2 MTP Consultant
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated for all incurred fees from the consultant
developing the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
•Total Budget: $100,000 (Federal - $80,000; Local - $20,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
6.3 SS4A Safety Action Plan Consultant
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated for all incurred fees from the consultant
developing the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.
•Total Budget: $25,000 (State HSIP-SWAP - $2,400; SS4A - $20,000; Local - $2,600)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
•Started the 2050 MTP update (“Ames Connect 2050”).
•Started developing the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP).
•Updated the Regional Travel Demand Model in coordination with Iowa DOT staff.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this work element.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 7 – Transportation Data
Objective: Obtain and leverage transportation datasets and utilize data analytics to strengthen
performance-based planning efforts in the region.
Description:
Rapidly emerging technologies have allowed for new forms and quantities of transportation data and
new powerful analytical capabilities. The AAMPO will explore and leverage these new transportation
datasets and analytical capabilities to farther performance-based planning efforts for all modes of
transportation throughout the region. The MPO will also continue to leverage more traditional data
sources such as field sensors, travel surveys, and census data. In addition to using transportation data
for its own planning efforts and planning document updates, the MPO will also seek to make its data
available to its member agencies, members of the public, as well as other regional stakeholders.
FY 2026 Products:
•Maintain and leverage existing subscriptions/contracts with transportation data and analytics
service providers.
•Explore new potential transportation data and analytics sources and procure new services or
devices as needed.
•Perform data collection as needed.
•Aid with the maintenance of member agency’s transportation datasets and assets as needed.
•Assess and analyze available region-wide datasets for any trends in vehicle speeds, travel times,
origin-destination behavior, socioeconomics, multi-modal data, pavement condition, or vehicle
volumes.
•Provide access to the MPO’s transportation data for member agencies, citizens, and other MPO
stakeholders.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•Activities for this work element will be ongoing throughout the fiscal year except as noted
below.
•Anticipated procurement of a pavement condition data collection and management system in
Q1 (July-September 2025).
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $155,000 (Federal - $124,000; Local - $31,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 141
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
7.1 Data Management
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the MPO staff time used for
completing the various tasks described in this work element.
•Budget: $10,000 (Federal - $8,000; Local - $2,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 141
7.2 Traffic Data Procurement
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the procurement of transportation
datasets or sensors as well as data analytics platforms.
•Total Budget: $65,000 (Federal - $52,000; Local - $13,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
7.3 Pavement Data Procurement
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated to the procurement of a pavement
condition data collection and management system.
•Total Budget: $80,000 (Federal - $64,000; Local - $16,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
Primary FY 2025 Accomplishments:
•Continued existing subscription/contract with StreetLight Data, Inc. for a transportation data
service platform which provides access to regionwide vehicle, O-D, and socioeconomic
transportation data sets as well as various analytical capabilities.
•Maintained and leveraged access to the Strava Metro platform, which provides regionwide
aggregated data using Strava user activity data (pedestrians, runners, and bicyclists).
•Leveraged & analyzed various datasets to provide to member agencies for various projects &
grant applications.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this work element.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Element 8 – Special Studies
Objective: To further the region’s transportation planning goals and objectives, as defined in the
AAMPO’s MTP, through special studies and projects undertaken by the AAMPO.
Description:
The AAMPO’s current Metropolitan Transportation Plan “Forward 2045” identified several policy
options, strategies, and studies that should be prioritized to augment the goals, priorities, and projects
defined in the plan. One recommendation was the development of a Transportation System
Management & Operations (TSMO) document for the MPO region. The AAMPO’s Regional Intelligent
Transportation System (ITS) Architecture document was last updated in 2007, and with the City of
Ames currently implementing multiple phases of their Traffic Signal Master Plan, the AAMPO region
has seen significant changes to its ITS architecture. Therefore, the AAMPO will develop a combined
TSMO and Regional Architecture Document to help local agencies properly leverage the rapidly
increasing emerging ITS solutions being implemented throughout the region.
In the City of Ames Bicycle-Pedestrian Master Plan “WalkBikeRoll Ames”, the Duff Ave corridor from
Main St to 13th St was identified as a high priority corridor for multi-modal improvements. Additionally,
the intersection of Duff Ave and E 12th St was identified as a high priority location for crossing
improvements. As such, a comprehensive corridor study of the Duff Ave corridor from Main St to 13th
St will be conducted in FY 2026 in order to assess existing and projected multi-modal operations and
identify potential multi-modal improvements that can be implemented along the corridor. Conducting
this study will allow a finer level of detailed analysis compared to what was possible in the
WalkBikeRoll Ames Plan and the MPO’s 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
FY 2026 Products:
There are two special studies planned in FY 2026.
•TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document
o Develop a combined TSMO and Regional Architecture Document to help local agencies
properly leverage the rapidly increasing emerging ITS solutions being implemented
throughout the region.
•Duff Ave Study (Main St – 13th St)
o Conduct a corridor study of Duff Avenue from Main Street to 13th Street. The Study will
include analyzing existing and future operations and recommending potential multi-
modal improvements along the corridor.
FY 2026 Schedule:
•TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document development is anticipated to begin in Q1 (July-
September 2025) and conclude in Q4 (April-June 2026).
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
•The Duff Ave Study is anticipated to begin in Q1 (July-September 2025) and conclude in Q4
(April-June 2026).
FY 2026 Hours/Budget:
•Total Budget: $250,000 (Federal - $200,000; Local - $50,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
8.1 TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document Consultant
This portion of the work element’s budget is dedicated to the payment of a consultant for the
development of the TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document.
•Budget: $150,000 (Federal - $120,000; Local - $30,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
8.2 Duff Ave Study Consultant
This activity within the work element’s budget is dedicated for all incurred fees from the consultant
conducting the Duff Ave Study from Main St to 13th St.
•Budget: $100,000 (Federal - $80,000; Local - $20,000)
•MPO Staff Hours: 0
Primary FY 2025 Accomplishments:
E Lincoln Way Corridor Study
•Presented final study report with acceptance of the study findings by the Ames City Council.
TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document
•Procured a consultant for completing the TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document.
Note, all activities from FY 2025 were completed for this work element except for the TSMO/Regional
ITS Architecture Document, which will be completed in FY 2026.
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4 – FY 2026 Budget Summary
4.1 Budget & Staff Hours Summary
Table 2 shows a breakdown of the seven work elements including their budget totals, funding sources, and MPO staff hours by activity.
Table 2: Budget and Funding Source Summary
Federal/State Funding Source
Work Element Activity
MPO
Staff
Hours
FHWA
PL C/O
FTA
5305d
C/O
FHWA
PL CS
C/O
FHWA PL
New
FTA
5305d
New
FHWA
STBG
New
FHWA PL
CS Set-
Aside
Iowa DOT
HSIP-
SWAP
Federal/State
Funding
Local
Funding
Total
Funding
1 - Administration Admin 534 $2,301 $300 $ - $9,807 $3,773 $23,820 $ - $ - $40,000 $10,000 $50,000
2 - Transportation
Improvement
Program
TIP 113 $368 $48 $ - $1,569 $604 $3,811 $ - $ - $6,400 $1,600 $8,000
3 - Transit Planning Transit Planning 688 $2,301 $300 $ - $9,807 $3,773 $23,820 $ - $ - $40,000 $10,000 $50,000
4 - Comprehensive
Planning Comp Planning 281 $921 $120 $ - $3,923 $1,509 $9,528 $ - $ - $16,000 $4,000 $20,000
5 - Complete Streets Complete Streets 46 $ - $ - $ 3 $ - $ - $ - $3,283 $ - $3,286 $ - $3,286
Long Range
Planning 281 $921 $120 $ - $3,923 $1,509 $9,528 $ - $ - $16,000 $4,000 $20,000
MTP Consultant 0 $4,603 $599 $ - $19,613 $7,545 $47,640 $ - $ - $80,000 $20,000 $100,000 6 - Long Range
Planning SS4A Safety Action
Plan Consultant 0 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $2,400 $2,400 $22,6001 $25,000
Data Management 141 $460 $60 $ - $1,961 $755 $4,764 $ - $ - $8,000 $2,000 $10,000
Traffic Data
Procurement 0 $2,992 $390 $ -$12,749 $4,904 $30,966 $52,000 $13,000 $65,0007 - Transportation
Data
Pavement Data
Procurement 0 $3,682 $479 $ - $15,691 $6,036 $38,112 $ - $ - $64,000 $16,000 $80,000
TSMO/Regional ITS
Architecture
Document
Consultant
0 $6,904 $899 $ - $29,420 $11,318 $71,459 $ - $ - $120,000 $30,000 $150,000
8 - Special Studies
Duff Ave (Main St –
13th St) Study
Consultant
0 $4,603 $599 $ - $19,613 $7,545 $47,640 $ - $ - $80,000 $20,000 $100,000
FY 2026 Budget Totals 2,084 $30,057 $3,913 $3 $128,075 $49,269 $311,086 $3,283 $2,400 $528,086 $153,200 $681,286
1 – $20,000 in Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Discretionary Grant funding and $2,600 in local funds will be leveraged to cover consultant fees for developing a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.
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Table 3 shows a breakdown of the budgeted unobligated federal and state funds by funding source.
Table 3: Unobligated Funds
FHWA
PL C/O
FTA
5305d
C/O
FHWA
PL CS
C/O
FHWA PL
New
FTA
5305d
New
FHWA
STBG
New
FHWA PL
CS Set-
Aside
Iowa DOT
HSIP-
SWAP
TOTAL
Starting Balance $30,057 $3,913 $3 $128,075 $49,269 $311,086 $3,283 $2,400 $528,086
Programmed $30,057 $3,913 $3 $128,075 $49,269 $311,086 $3,283 $2,400 $528,086
Unobligated Funds $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Appendix E). Note that FHWA program funding is
transferred to FTA and merged with FTA funds into a consolidated planning grant.
4.2 Cost Allocation Plan
4.3 Private Sector Involvement
•2050 MTP Development
•Comprehensive Safety Action Plan Development
•TSMO/Regional ITS Architecture Document Development
•Duff Ave Corridor Study
Appendix B).
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
5 – Revisions to the Transportation Planning Work Program
The TPWP is developed annually; however, it can be amended at any time throughout the life of the
document. The following section outlines the process to be used to amend the work program.
5.1 Overview
2 CFR 200 describes the uniform administrative rules for Federal grants and cooperative agreements
and subawards to State, local and Indian tribal governments. These requirements apply to
metropolitan planning (PL) and State Planning and Research (SPR) grants. FTA has similar requirements
and procedures documented in FTA Circular 5010.1F, which apply to all applicable FTA program grants.
Iowa uses a Consolidated Planning Grant (CPG) where FHWA and FTA planning funds are combined
into a single grant managed through FTA’s TrAMS system. The uses of these funds are documented in
the work programs of the Iowa DOT, MPOs, and RPAs. FTA is the lead agency administering the CPG.
5.2 Waiver of Approvals
All work program changes require prior written Federal approval, unless waived by the awarding
agency. 2 CFR § 200.308 outlines different types of revisions for budget and program plans, and this
FHWA memo on prior approvals summarizes revisions that require prior Federal approval, as well as
other miscellaneous actions and allowable costs that require prior Federal approval.
Types of TPWP revisions that require Federal approval include, but are not limited to, the following:
•Request for additional Federal funding.
•Transfers of funds between categories, projects, functions, or activities which exceed 10% of
the total work program budget when the Federal share of the budget exceeds $150,000.
•Revision of the scope or objectives of activities.
•Transferring substantive programmatic work to a third party (consultant).
•Capital expenditures, including the purchasing of equipment.
•Transfer of funds allotted for training allowances.
Types of revisions that require Iowa DOT approval include:
•Transfers of funds between categories, projects, functions, or activities which do not exceed
10% of the total work program budget, or when the Federal share of the budget is less than
$150,000.
Types of revisions that require MPO/RPA approval include:
•Revisions related to work that does not involve federal funding.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
5.3 Revision and Approval Procedures
•All revision requests from MPOs and RPAs should be submitted electronically to the Iowa DOT
Systems Planning Bureau and the agency’s Iowa DOT District Planner. If all necessary
information is provided, the request will then be forwarded to the FHWA and FTA for review
and any necessary approvals.
▪Revision requests shall, at a minimum, include:
•A letter detailing the work program revision(s)
•A resolution or meeting minutes showing the revision’s approval.
•Budget summary table with changes highlighted.
•Amended work program with any modified section(s) highlighted.
•Revisions where FHWA/FTA is the designated approving agency shall require written approval
by FHWA/FTA prior to commencement of activity, purchasing of equipment, or request for
reimbursement.
•Revisions where the Iowa DOT Systems Planning Bureau is the designated approving agency
shall require written approval by the Iowa DOT Systems Planning Bureau prior to
commencement of activity, purchasing of equipment, or request for reimbursement.
•Revisions where the MPO or RPA is the approving agency shall be approved by the Policy
Board.
•Notification by the approving agency will be in writing.
NOTE: All necessary TPWP approvals shall be in place prior to the commencement of activity,
purchasing of equipment, or request for reimbursement. More specifically, with regard to the
procurement of equipment and services, there should be no notification of award, signed contract,
placement of an order, or agreement with a contractor prior to receiving the necessary TPWP
approvals.
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix A – Resolution of Approval
[PLACEHOLDER FOR RESOLUTION]
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix B – Self-Certification of Procurement and Consultation
Selection Procedures
[PLACEHOLDER FOR CONSULTANT SELECTION PROCEDURES]
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FY 2025 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING WORK PROGRAM | AAMPO
Appendix C – Performance Management Agreement
On May 27, 2016, the final rule for statewide and metropolitan transportation planning was published,
based on 2012’s Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21) Act and 2015’s Fixing
America’s Transportation System (FAST) Act. As part of this final rule, 23 CFR § 450.314 (h) was
amended to state:
(h)
(1) The MPO(s), State(s), and the providers of public transportation shall jointly agree upon and
develop specific written provisions for cooperatively developing and sharing information
related to transportation performance data, the selection of performance targets, the reporting
of performance targets, the reporting of performance to be used in tracking progress toward
attainment of critical outcomes for the region of the MPO (see §450.306(d)), and the collection
of data for the State asset management plan for the NHS for each of the following
circumstances:
(i) When one MPO serves an urbanized area;
(ii) When more than one MPO serves an urbanized area; and
(iii) When an urbanized area that has been designated as a TMA overlaps into an
adjacent MPA serving an urbanized area that is not a TMA.
(2) These provisions shall be documented either:
(i) As part of the metropolitan planning agreements required under paragraphs (a), (e),
and (g) of this section; or
(ii) Documented in some other means outside of the metropolitan planning agreements
as determined cooperatively by the MPO(s), State(s), and providers of public
transportation.
In 2017, the following three-pronged approach was cooperatively developed to address 23 CFR §
450.314 (h). This approach provides a regular opportunity to review and update coordination methods
as performance management activities occur, which offers an adaptable framework as performance-
based planning and programming evolves.
•Agreement between the Iowa DOT and MPOs on applicable provisions through documentation
included in each MPO’s TPWP.
•Agreement between the Iowa DOT and relevant public transit agencies on applicable
provisions through documentation included in each public transit agency’s consolidated
funding application.
•Agreement between each MPO and relevant public transit agencies on applicable provisions
through documentation included in the appropriate cooperative agreement(s) between the
MPO and relevant public transit agencies.
Inclusion of the following language in an MPO’s TPWP, and that TPWP’s subsequent approval by Iowa
DOT, constitutes agreement on these items.
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The Iowa DOT and AAMPO agree to the following provisions. The communication outlined in these
provisions between the MPO and Iowa DOT will generally be through the metropolitan and regional
planning coordinator in the Systems Planning Bureau.
1) Transportation performance data
2) Selection of performance targets
3) Reporting of performance targets
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d. MPOs will include information outlined in 23 CFR § 450.324 (f) (3-4) in any metropolitan
transportation plan amended or adopted after May 27, 2018, and information outlined
in 23 CFR § 450.326 (d) in any transportation improvement program amended or
adopted after May 27, 2018.
e. Reporting of targets and performance by the Iowa DOT and MPOs shall conform to 23
CFR § 490, 49 CFR § 625, and 49 CFR § 673.
4) Reporting of performance to be used in tracking progress toward attainment of critical
outcomes for the region of the MPO
a. The Iowa DOT will provide MPOs with the statewide performance data used in
developing statewide targets, and, when applicable, will also provide MPOs with subsets
of the statewide data, based on their planning area boundaries.
5) The collection of data for the State asset management plans for the NHS
a. The Iowa DOT will be responsible for collecting bridge and pavement condition data for
the State asset management plan for the NHS.
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Appendix D – Performance Measure Targets
PM1 (Roadway Safety) Targets
The MPO adopted to support the Iowa DOT’s statewide roadway safety targets on September 24,
2024. These performance measures and associated targets are shown in the following table:
Five Year Rolling AveragesPerformance Measure 2019-2023 Baseline 2021-2025 Target
Number of Fatalities 350.2 365.8
Fatality Rate – per 100 million VMT 1.070 1.085
Number of Serious Injuries 1,378.4 1,496.1
Serious Injury Rate – per 100 million VMT 4.208 4.391
Non-Motorized Fatalities and Serious Injuries 142.2 148.4
*Rates are per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT)
PM2 (Pavement & Bridge) & PM3 (System Performance & Freight) Targets
The MPO adopted to support the Iowa DOT’s updated statewide PM2 targets on March 25, 2025. The
MPO adopted to support the Iowa DOT’s PM3 targets on January 24, 2023. These performance
measures and associated targets are shown in the following table:
Performance Measure 2021 Baseline 2-Year Target 4 Year Target
Interstate % Good Condition 58.8%55.0%53.0%
Interstate % Poor Condition 0.4%3.0%3.0%
Non-Interstate NHS % Good Condition 37.9%35.0%30.0%Pavement
Non-Interstate NHS % Poor Condition 3.7%6.0%6.0%
NHS % Good Condition 48.6%52.5%48.0%Bridge NHS % Poor Condition 2.4%5.0%6.6%
Interstate % Reliable 99.9%99.9%98.0%Reliability Non-Interstate NHS % Reliable 96.5%96.7%94.0%
Freight Interstate Truck Travel Time Reliability 1.13 1.13 1.25
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Transit Safety Targets
The MPO adopted to support CyRide’s transit safety targets on September 24, 2024. These
performance measures and associated targets are shown in the following table:
Mode of Transit
Service
Major
Events
Major
Events
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Collisions
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Pedestrian
Collisions
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Vehicular
Collisions
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Fatalities
Fatalities
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Fixed Route Bus 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0 0.00
Paratransit 0 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0 0.00
Mode of Transit
Service
Transit
Worker
Fatalities
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Injuries
Injuries
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Transit
Worker
Injuries
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
Assaults
on
Transit
Workers
Assaults
on
Transit
Workers
(per 100
thousand
VRM)
System
Reliability
(VRM/Failures)
Fixed Route Bus 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 34,119.55
Paratransit 0.00 0 0.00 0.00 0 0.00 238,798
The MPO adopted to support CyRide’s transit asset management (TAM) targets on March 25, 2025.
These performance measures and associated targets are shown in the following table:
Rolling Stock
40'-60' Buses
% of fleet exceeds
CyRide's ULB of 15 yrs.27%26%43%35%38%32%35%
Rolling Stock
Cutaways
% of fleet exceeds FTA
ULB of 8 yrs.0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Equipment
Shop Trucks
% of fleet exceeds
CyRide’s ULB of 10 yrs.0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Facilities
Admin./Maint.
Facility
% of facilities rated
under 3.0 on TERM scale 0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Facilities Ames
Intermodal Facility
% of facilities rated
under 3.0 on TERM scale 0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
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Appendix E – MPO/RPA Carryover Policy
Background
Each year, federal planning funds from both the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Federal
Transit Administration (FTA) are combined into a new consolidated planning grant (CPG) under the
FTA. This includes all federal transportation funds that are utilized by metropolitan planning
organizations (MPOs) and regional planning affiliations (RPAs) in Iowa for planning, including FHWA
metropolitan planning (PL), state planning and research (SPR), and surface transportation block grant
(STBG) funds and FTA 5305d, 5305e, and 5311 funds. The FHWA funding sources are transferred to FTA
for inclusion in the CPG, and once funds are part of an awarded CPG they are unable to be deobligated
for other purposes.
Carryover is defined as any unspent funding that has been targeted to the agency, but is not included
in the agency’s current state fiscal year (SFY) budget. During the Transportation Planning Work
Program (TPWP) development cycle, carryover ‘targets’ that show the current balances of carryover
funding are provided to the agency along with targets for new federal funding. However, it should be
noted that an agency does not have to wait for the next TPWP cycle to utilize carryover funding if there
are anticipated needs in the current fiscal year. Unbudgeted funding is available to the planning agency
to be amended into its budget at any time. Unspent funding from the prior SFY is available to the
planning agency to be amended into its budget following close-out of the prior SFY.
When developing the TPWP, agencies are required to program carryover funding before programming
new funding. When reimbursement requests are submitted to the Iowa Department of Transportation
(DOT), payments are made by utilizing the oldest funding source in the agency’s planning agreement.
Funding is drawn down first by age, then sequentially by source. This helps streamline bookkeeping
and ensure that funding within older CPGs is utilized prior to funding within newer CPGs.
Since MPOs and RPAs are allowed to carry over unused federal planning funds rather than being
required to draw them down within a fiscal year, multiple CPGs are open at any given time. FTA has
asked Iowa DOT to ensure funds are being drawn down in a timely manner and to work to limit the
number of CPGs that are open. Furthermore, the new grant management system FTA launched in 2016
requires additional documentation and justification to keep a grant open past its original end date.
In order to satisfy FTA while still providing flexibility to MPOs and RPAs, Iowa DOT has implemented
internal steps to reduce the number of CPGs that are open, and has also developed the policy outlined
below. Internal steps that Iowa DOT has taken include discussing the necessity of STBG transfers with
individual agencies when substantial carryover balances exist, and evaluating planning agreements and
amending them if necessary early in the SFY to ensure any older funding that was unspent in the
previous SFY is utilized prior to newer funding. The MPO/RPA carryover policy, which is outlined below,
took effect as part of the SFY 2018 TPWP cycle.
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The internal changes and the MPO/RPA carryover policy will help Iowa DOT manage carryover balances
that have become problematic for a small number of planning agencies. Over time, reduced carryover
balances will allow Iowa DOT to maintain fewer open CPGs. In addition, the policy will prevent
unnecessary funding transfers from FHWA to FTA, thus enabling SPR and STBG funding to be used
more efficiently.
MPO/RPA Carryover Policy
44
ITEM #:2
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:PERFORMANCE TARGET UPDATES
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Per federal requirements, the MPO is required to adopt and utilize the following performance measure
targets:
PM1 – Roadway Safety Targets
PM2 – Pavement & Bridge Condition Targets
PM3 – System Reliability & Freight Targets
Transit Asset Management (TAM) Targets
Transit Safety Targets
These targets are required to be included within the MPO’s transportation plans, with the regional
performance relative to these targets being detailed in Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) updates.
The Iowa DOT develops its own statewide targets for PM1, PM2, and PM3 measures. When the state
updates its targets, the MPO has 180 days to either support the updated statewide targets or develop its
own targets. Historically, the MPO has chosen to support the state’s targets.
On September 30, 2024, the Iowa DOT notified the MPO that it submitted its Mid-Performance
Period Progress Report (MPPPR) to FHWA. The MPPPR included a few adjusted PM2 targets.
As such, the MPO has until March 29, 2025, to adopt new PM2 targets.
CyRide develops its own TAM targets and transit safety targets. When CyRide updates its targets, the
MPO has 180 days to either support the updated targets from CyRide or develop its own. Historically,
the MPO has chosen to adopt CyRide’s targets. On November 25, 2024, CyRide notified the MPO of
its new TAM Plan, which included new TAM targets. As such, the MPO has until May 24, 2025,
to adopt new TAM targets.
The following tables show the updated targets from the Iowa DOT and CyRide:
Iowa DOT's Updated Statewide PM2 Targets
Performance Measure 2021 Baseline 2-Year Target 4 Year Target
Pavement
Interstate % Good Condition 58.8%55.0%53.0%
Interstate % Poor Condition 0.4%3.0%3.0%
Non-Interstate NHS % Good Condition 37.9%35.0%30.0%
Non-Interstate NHS % Poor Condition 3.7%6.0%6.0%
Bridge NHS % Good Condition 48.6%52.5%48.0%
NHS % Poor Condition 2.4%5.0%6.6%
Reliability Interstate % Reliable 99.9%99.9%98.0%
Non-Interstate NHS % Reliable 96.5%96.7%94.0%
Freight Interstate Truck Travel Time Reliability 1.13 1.13 1.25
45
*Adjusted targets from the previously adopted targets shown in RED.
CyRide's New TAM Targets
Class Performance Target
2024
Target
2024
Year-End
Results
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
Rolling Stock
40'-60' Buses
% of fleet exceeds
CyRide's ULB of 15
yrs.
27%26%43%35%38%32%35%
Rolling Stock
Cutaways
% of fleet exceeds
FTA ULB of 8 yrs.0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Equipment
Shop Trucks
% of fleet exceeds
CyRide’s ULB of 10
yrs.
0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Facilities
Admin./Maint.Facility
% of facilities rated
under 3.0 on TERM
scale
0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
Facilities Ames
Intermodal Facility
% of facilities rated
under 3.0 on TERM
scale
0%0%0%0%0%0%0%
CyRide provided the following narrative to the MPO pertaining to their TAM targets:
CyRide met the 40’-60’ HD Bus performance target for 2023 and replaced eleven buses in 2023
including two 40’ HD battery electric buses, one 60’ HD articulated bus and eight 40’ HD large diesel
buses. CyRide did not met the cutaway (minibus) target in replacing two buses as anticipated. CyRide
decided to purchase low-floor cutaways instead of high-floor cutaways which cost more than a high
floor. Then prices increased for this style bus over what was available in the contract and CyRide
worked with the Iowa DOT to receive additional grant funding for this considerable shortfall. These
issues delayed the purchase of the vehicles, but they are currently on order for delivery by the end of FY
2024.
No shop truck equipment is expected to exceed the useful life benchmark (ULB) of 10 years for 2024
through 2028.
The facilities are both rated a 4 on the TERM scale in 2022 for both the admin/maintenance facility and
Ames Intermodal Facility. CyRide has been renovating the HVAC system over the last three years and
is planning a major shop rehabilitation for 2023-2024 to expand the parts storage for mechanics and
update the shop area for the first time since the facility was built in 1983. Ongoing maintenance will
continue for the Ames Intermodal Facility that opened in 2012. Therefore, CyRide believes that 0% of
these facilities will be rated under 3.0 on the TERM scale through 2028.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Adopt the Iowa DOT's updated PM2 targets and CyRide's new TAM targets.
2. Direct the MPO to develop its own PM2 targets and/or TAM targets in coordination with the Iowa
46
DOT (PM2) and/or CyRide (TAM).
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Iowa DOT has a well-established methodology for developing its statewide performance targets,
and CyRide develops its TAM targets using their regional transit asset management data and knowledge
of their fleet and assets. Additionally, these targets were unanimously recommended for approval by the
Transportation Technical Committee. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the MPO Director that
the Transportation Policy Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
47
ITEM #:3
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:AAMPO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Since the inception of the AAMPO, the City of Ames Public Works Director has concurrently served as
the MPO Executive Director. After the retirement of former Public Works Director John Joiner, the City
of Ames named Justin Clausen as its Interim Public Works Director. Given Justin's history of
successfully serving on the MPO's Transportation Technical Committee and his status as Interim
Public Works Director, it is recommended to name him as Interim Executive Director of the
MPO until the City of Ames hires a new Public Works Director.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Name Justin Clausen as Interim Executive Director of the AAMPO until the City of Ames hires a
new Public Works Director.
2. Name a different individual as the Executive Director of the AAMPO on either an interim or
permanent basis.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
In the past, Justin Clausen successfully served on the MPO's Transportation Technical Committee and
he is now serving as the City of Ames Public Works Director on an interim basis. Therefore, it is the
recommendation of the MPO Executive Director that the Transportation Policy Committee adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted.
48
ITEM #:4
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:SUDAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025 APPOINTMENT
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Like all Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in Iowa, the AAMPO is allocated one member on
the Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Board of Directors. The representative must
be a registered professional engineer in Iowa. The City of Ames Public Works Director has served as
the AAMPO representative on the Board of Directors since the inception of SUDAS in June 2004.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Appoint Ames Interim Public Works Director Justin Clausen as the 2025 AAMPO representative
on the SUDAS Board of Directors.
2. Appoint another staff person as the AAMPO representative on the SUDAS Board of Directors in
2025.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The City of Ames Public Works Director has successfully served as the AAMPO's appointed
representative on the SUDAS Board of Directors since its inception in 2004. Therefore, it is the
recommendation of the MPO Executive Director that the Transportation Policy Committee adopt
Alternative No. 1, as noted above.
49
ITEM #:5
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:ANNUAL SELF-CERTIFICATIONS FOR FY 2026
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Pursuant to federal regulations, each Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) must self-certify that
its transportation planning process (Attachment A ) and consultant selection procedures (Attachment
B) are addressing the major issues in the metropolitan planning area and are being conducted in
accordance with all applicable requirements.
In the last Ames Area MPO process review by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), a joint report was issued finding that the transportation
planning activities of AAMPO are being carried out in accordance with federal regulations,
policies, and procedures.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Certify that the AAMPO's transportation planning process and selection procedures are being
conducted in accordance with all applicable requirements.
2. Do not certify compliance with the applicable requirements. This alternative would result in a
loss of access to federal funding.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
In the previous joint review, the Federal Transit Administration and Federal Highway Administration
determined that the Ames Area MPO was carrying out its transportation planning activities in
accordance with federal regulations, policies, and procedures. MPO staff also continuously reviews
MPO processes for compliance with federal regulations. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the
MPO Director that the Transportation Policy Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - Self-Certification of Process.pdf
Attachment B - Self-Certification of Selection Procedures.pdf
50
AMES AREA METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
ANNUAL SELF-CERTIFICATION
In accordance with 23 CFR 450.334, the STATE DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION and the Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization for the
Ames, Iowa urbanized area(s) hereby certify that the transportation planning process is
addressing the major issues in the metropolitan planning area and is being conducted in
accordance with all applicable requirements of:
(1) 23 U.S.C. 134, 49 U.S.C. Section 5303, and 23 CFR Part 450;
(2) In nonattainment and maintenance areas, Sections 174 and 176(c) and (d) of the Clean
Air Act as amended (42 U.S.C. 7504, 7506(c) and (d) and 40 CFR 93);
(3) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2000d-1) and 49 CFR
part 21;
(4) 49 U.S.C. 5332, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national
origin, sex or age in employment or business opportunity;
(5) Section 1101(b) of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity
Act: A Legacy for Users (Pub. L. 109-59) regarding the involvement of Disadvantaged
Business Enterprises in FHWA and FTA funded planning;
(6) 23 CFR part 230, regarding the implementation of an equal employment opportunity
program on Federal and Federal-aid highway construction contracts;
(7) The provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et
seq.) and 49 CFR parts 27,37, and 38, and USDOT implementing regulation;
(8) Older Americans Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 6101);
(9) 23 U.S.C. 324, regarding prohibition of discrimination based on gender; and
(10) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and 49 CFR Part 27, regarding
discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
For AAMPO:
__________________________________________
John Haila, Chair Date
Transportation Policy Committee
03-25-2025
51
Iowa Department of Transportation Procurement and Consultant Selection Certification Rev. 01/16/2025
MPO/RPA Self-Certification of
Procurement and Consultant Selection
Procedures
This is to certify that I have reviewed the Iowa DOT Purchasing Rules (Iowa Administrative Code 761,
Chapter 20) and will ensure procurements or the selection of consultant firms for projects to be reimbursed
with federal transportation planning funds will follow the policies and procedures outlined in the above-
referenced purchasing rules.
Further, I certify that the following requirements will be adhered to for procurements and consultant services
to be reimbursed with federal transportation planning funds.
•Capital expenditures, including the purchase of equipment, will be a separate line item in an
approved Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) if the anticipated total cost exceeds
$5,000.
•An approved TPWP will specify that a project will involve consultant services prior to initiating the
consultant selection process.
•Our agency will document the procedures utilized for the procurement or consultant selection, and
will retain this documentation on file for a minimum of three years.
•When reimbursement is requested for capital expenditures or consultant services, we will provide
our District Planner and the Systems Planning Bureau, through email or hard copy, invoices
documenting the expenditure(s) and proof of payment at the time the associated reimbursement
request is submitted.
I declare to the best of my knowledge and ability that we will adhere to the above requirements.
(Signature)
(Please Print Name)
(Title)
(Name of Organization)
(Date Signed)
authority to initiate procurements or
consultant selection for the
organization or by a higher level
John Haila
Chair
Ames Area MPO
03/25/2025
52
ITEM #:6
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:TITLE VI DOCUMENTATION UPDATE
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Every MPO is required to maintain up to date Title VI documentation with both the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in order to ensure compliance
with Title VI federal regulations pertaining to federal transportation grant programs and MPO planning
activities. The following are the primary documents the AAMPO maintains to meet this requirement:
Title VI Plan (FHWA Requirement)
Title VI Assurances (FHWA Requirement)
Title VI Report (FTA Requirement)
Due to a recent update to the AAMPO's planning area boundary, changes in MPO staffing, and
the duration since the last update to MPO's Title VI documentation, MPO staff initiated an
update to all three required Title VI documents (see attached).
MPO staff reflected the MPO's current transportation planning processes, organizational structure,
public participation methods, and regional transportation and socioeconomic data when updating the
MPO's Title VI documentation. The Title VI documentation was also developed using the Iowa DOT's
latest guidance and templates.
Once approved by the Transportation Policy Committee, the updated Title VI documentation will
be submitted to the Iowa DOT, FHWA, and FTA for their review and ultimate acceptance once
any comments they may have are addressed.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Approve submittal of updated Title VI documentation to the Iowa DOT, Federal Highway
Administration, and Federal Transit Administration.
2. Approve submittal of updated Title VI documentation to the Iowa DOT, Federal Highway
Administration, and Federal Transit Administration, with modifications.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The updated Title VI documentation reflects the MPO's current transportation planning processes,
organizational structure, public participation methods, and regional transportation and socioeconomic
data. They were also developed using the Iowa DOT's latest guidance and templates. Therefore, it is
the recommendation of the MPO Executive Director that the Transportation Policy Committee
adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - Title VI Plan.pdf
53
Attachment B - Title VI Assurances.pdf
Attachemnt C - Title VI Program.pdf
54
1
Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
_______________________________________________________
FHWA Title VI Plan – March 2025
Agency information
Name and title of administrative officer
Name ___________________________________________________ Title ____________________________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City _______________________________ State ____ ZIP code __________ County _______________________
Phone/Fax ___________________________________________ Email _______________________________________
Name and title of designated Title VI coordinator
Name ___________________________________________________ Title ____________________________________
Address ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City _______________________________ State ____ ZIP code _________ County _______________________
Phone/Fax ___________________________________________ Email _______________________________________
*If the Title VI coordinator changes, please contact the Iowa DOT Title VI specialist.
Title VI Program
I. Policy statement, authorities and citations
A. Policy of nondiscrimination
The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, hereinafter referred to as the AGENCY, hereby assures that
no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability, as provided by Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000d, and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, Pub. L. No. 100-
259, 102 Stat. 28, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be otherwise subjected to
discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The AGENCY further assures
every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all of its programs and activities, regardless of whether
those programs and activities are federally funded.
It is the policy of the AGENCY to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title VII of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. § 2000e; Age Discrimination Act of 1975, 42 U.S.C. §§ 6101-6107; Uniform Relocation
Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, 42 U.S.C. §§ 4601-4655; 1973 Federal Aid
Highway Act, 23 U.S.C. § 324; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Pub. L. No. 92-318, 86 Stat. 235;
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq; Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, Pub.
L. No. 100-259, 102 Stat. 28; Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq.; Title VIII of the
Civil Rights Act 1968, 42 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3631; Exec. Order No. 12898, 59 Fed. Reg. 7629 (1994) (Federal
Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations); and Exec. Order
No. 13166, 65 Fed. Reg. 50121 (2000) (Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English
Proficiency).
The Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, Pub. L. No. 100-259, 102 Stat. 28, broadened the scope of Title VI
coverage by expanding the definition of terms “programs or activities” to include all programs or activities of
Justin Clausen Executive Director
515 Clark Ave
515 Clark Ave
Ames IA
50010
50010
IAAmes Story
Story
515-239-5160 / 515-239-5404
515-239-5219 / 515-239-5142
Casandra Eames Title VI Coordinator
casandra.eames@cityofames.org
justin.clausen@cityofames.org
55
2
federal-aid recipients, subrecipients and contractors/consultants, regardless of whether such programs and
activities are federally assisted.
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Pub. L. No. 93-112, 87 Stat.
355, the AGENCY hereby gives assurance that no qualified disabled person shall, solely by reason of
disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or otherwise be subjected to
discrimination, including discrimination in employment, under any program or activity that receives or benefits
from this federal financial assistance.
The AGENCY also assures that every effort will be made to prevent discrimination through the impacts of its
programs, policies and activities on minority and low-income populations. In addition, the AGENCY will take
reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to services for persons with limited-English proficiency. The
AGENCY will, where necessary and appropriate, revise, update and incorporate nondiscrimination requirements
into appropriate manuals, directives and regulations.
In the event the AGENCY distributes federal-aid funds to a second-tier subrecipient, the AGENCY will include
Title VI language in all written agreements.
The AGENCY’s Casandra Eames, Ames City Manager’s Office, is responsible for initiating and monitoring Title VI
activities, preparing reports and performing other responsibilities, as required by 23 C.F.R. § 200 and 49 C.F.R. §
21.
__________________________________
Signature
__________________________________
Printed name and title
__________________________________
Date
B. Authorities
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. §2000d, provides that no person in the United States shall on
the grounds of race, color, national origin, or gender be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of,
or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.
The Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, Pub. L. No. 100-259 102 Stat. 28, broadened the scope of Title VI
coverage by expanding the definition of terms “programs or activities” to include all programs or activities of
federal-aid recipients, subrecipients and contractors, whether such programs and activities are federally assisted
or not.
Environmental justice (EJ): Executive Order 12898 addresses disproportionate adverse environmental, social
and economic impacts that may exist in communities, specifically minority and low‐income populations.
Limited English Proficiency (LEP): Executive Order 13166 addresses access to services for persons whose
primary language is not English and who have a limited ability to read, write, speak or understand English.
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA): The Act prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity
for persons with disabilities in employment, state and local government services, public accommodations,
commercial facilities and transportation.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Pub. L. No. 93-112, 87 Stat. 355, prohibits discrimination based on
disability.
C. Additional citations
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d to 2000d-4; 42 U.S.C. §§ 4601 to 4655; 23 U.S.C.
§109(h); 23 U.S.C. §324; DOT Order 1050.2; Executive Order 12250; Executive Order 12898; 28 C.F.R. § 50.3.
John Haila, Chair
03-25-2025
Justin Clausen, Executive Director
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II. Standard assurances
49 C.F.R. § 21.7
Pursuant to 49 C.F.R. § 21.7, every application for federal financial assistance or continuing federal financial
assistance must provide a statement of assurance and give reasonable guarantee that the program is (or, in the
case of a new program, will be) conducted in compliance with all requirements imposed by or pursuant to Part 21
(Nondiscrimination in Federally Assisted Programs of the Department of Transportation – Effectuation of Title VI
of the Civil Rights Act of 1964). Fully executed standard DOT assurances (including Appendices A, B, C, D and
E) are attached to this plan.
III. Organization, staffing and structure
A. Organizational chart – reporting relationships
B. Staffing
Metropolitan planning organization or regional planning affiliation administrator
The AGENCY administrator is authorized to ensure compliance with provisions of the department’s policy of
nondiscrimination and with the law, including the requirements of 23 C.F.R. § 200 and 49 C.F.R. § 21. The
AGENCY grants compliance function and Title VI coordination shall be performed under the authority of the
AGENCY.
Title VI coordinator
The AGENCY has appointed Cassandra Eames, City of Ames Engagement Coordinator, to perform the duties of
the Title VI coordinator (Coordinator) and ensure implementation of the AGENCY’s Title VI Federally Funded
Transportation Program pertaining to this agreement.
The AGENCY will notify Iowa DOT in writing of any changes to the Coordinator or Coordinator contact
information.
C. Implementation procedures
Title VI coordinator’s responsibilities and program administration
As authorized by the AGENCY Administrator, the Coordinator is responsible for initiating, monitoring, and
ensuring AGENCY compliance with Title VI requirements as follows.
1.Program administration. Administer the Title VI program and coordinate implementation of the plan.
Ensure compliance with the assurances, policy, and program objectives. Perform Title VI program
reviews to assess administrative procedures, staffing, and resources; provide recommendations as
required to the AGENCY administrator (see Section V: Self-Assessment and Remedial Action
Procedures).
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2.Complaints. Review written Title VI complaints that may be received by AGENCY following the adopted
procedural guidelines (see Section IV: Complaint Procedures). Ensure every effort is made to resolve
complaints informally at the local or regional level.
3.Data collection. Statistical data on race, color, national origin, age, disability, income level, language
spoken, and gender of participants in, and beneficiaries of, programs is to be gathered and maintained by
program area, as described in the Special Emphasis Program Areas Responsibilities Section VI of this
document. The AGENCY will review the statistical data gathering process periodically to ensure
sufficiency of data for meeting the requirements of Title VI program administration.
4.Environmental documents. To the maximum extent practical, ensure that appropriate data are included
as a part of all environmental impact statements (EIS) or environmental assessments (EA) for projects
receiving Federal Highway Administration or other federal assistance. Efforts are undertaken to ensure
that transportation system improvements that are implemented do not have disproportionately negative
effects on minority and low-income populations. In addition, system investments must provide for an
equitable distribution of benefits to the areas that are traditionally underrepresented in the planning
process.
5.Training programs. Conduct or facilitate training programs on Title VI issues and regulations for
AGENCY employees; and facilitate Title VI training for appropriate staff, contractors and subrecipients. A
summary of training conducted will be documented.
6.Title VI plan update. Review and update the AGENCY’s Title VI plan as needed or required. Present
updated plan to the AGENCY administrator for approval; submit amended plan to the Iowa DOT's Office
of Employee Services' civil rights section (OES-CR).
7.Public dissemination. Work with AGENCY staff to develop and disseminate Title VI program information
to AGENCY employees and subrecipients, including contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and
subconsultants and beneficiaries, as well as the general public. Public dissemination may include
postings of official statements, inclusion of Title VI language in contracts or other agreements, website
postings, and annual publication of the AGENCY’s Title VI Policy Statement in newspaper(s) having a
general circulation, and informational brochures. Ensure public service announcements or notices are
posted of proposed projects, hearings, meetings, or formation of public advisory boards, in newspapers or
other media reaching the affected community. Ensure the full utilization of available minority publications
or media; and, where appropriate, provide written or verbal information in languages other than English.
8.LEP. The AGENCY follows Executive Order 13166 in identifying and engaging LEP populations to ensure
their involvement and knowledge of transportation planning and projects in and around their communities.
A LEP person is defined as one who does not speak English as his or her primary language and has a
limited ability to read, write or understand English. The AGENCY’s policy for engaging individuals with
LEP is to provide translation services to individuals who request them, if reasonable accommodations can
be made. In addition, the AGENCY proactively identifies communities with high concentrations of LEP
persons and employs tactics and strategies to effectively engage them in the planning process. The
AGENCY trains staff to recognize individuals in community meetings and forums who may show difficulty
or inability to read or write English, and to assist them accordingly.
9.Elimination of discrimination. Work with other AGENCY offices to establish procedures for promptly
resolving deficiencies, as needed. Recommend procedures to identify and eliminate discrimination that
may be discovered in any AGENCY processes. Take affirmative action to correct any deficiencies found
within a reasonable time period, not to exceed 90 days, in order to implement Title VI compliance in
accordance with this agreement.
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10.Maintain legislative and procedural information. Federal laws, rules and regulations, Iowa DOT
guidelines, the current AGENCY Title VI plan, annual accomplishment and goals reports, and other
resource information pertaining to the implementation and administration of the AGENCY’s Title VI
program will be maintained and updated by the Coordinator. Information will be made available to other
AGENCY departments/offices or the public as requested or required.
IV. Discrimination complaint procedures – allegations of discrimination in federally assisted
programs or activities
Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization adopts the following discrimination complaint procedures for
complaints relating to federally assisted transportation-related programs or activities.
1.Filing a discrimination complaint: Any person who believes that he or she, or any class of individuals, or
in connection with any disadvantaged business enterprise, has been or is being subjected to discrimination
prohibited by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504
of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and/or the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, as amended,
has the right to file a complaint.
Any individual wishing to file a discrimination complaint must be given the option to file the complaint with
the AGENCY, or directly with the Iowa DOT, FHWA, USDOT and U.S. Department of Justice. Complaints
may be filed with all agencies simultaneously.
No individual or agency shall refuse service, discharge or retaliate in any manner against any persons
because that individual has filed a discrimination complaint, instituted any proceeding related to a
discrimination complaint, testified, or is about to testify, in any proceeding or investigation related to a
discrimination complaint, or has provided information or assisted in an investigation.
A Discrimination Complaint Form, which shall be made available on the AGENCY’s website, should be
completed and returned to the following address:
Title VI Civil Rights Coordinator
City Manager’s Office
PO Box 511
515 Clark Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
Alternate means of filing a complaint, such as a personal interview or audio record, will be made available
upon request to the AGENCY.
2.Complaint filing timeframe: A discrimination complaint must be filed within 180 calendar days of either:
(a) The alleged act of discrimination.
(b) Date when the person(s) became aware of the alleged discrimination.
(c) Date on which the conduct was discontinued, if there has been a continuing course of conduct.
The AGENCY or their designee may extend the time for filing or waive the time limit in the interest of
justice, specifying in writing the reason for so doing.
3.Contents of a complaint: A discrimination complaint must be written. The document must contain the
following information.
a) The complainant’s name and address, or other means by which the complainant may be
contacted.
b) Identification of individual(s) or organization(s) responsible for the alleged discrimination.
c) A description of the complainant’s allegations, which must include enough detail to determine if
the AGENCY has jurisdiction over the complaint and if the complaint was filed timely.
d) Specific prohibited bases of alleged discrimination (i.e., race, color, gender, etc.).
e) Apparent merit of the complaint.
f) The complainant’s signature or signature of his/her authorized representative.
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In the event that a person makes a verbal complaint of discrimination to an officer or employee of the
AGENCY, the complainant shall be interviewed by the AGENCY’s Coordinator. If necessary, the
Coordinator will assist the complainant in reducing the complaint to writing and then submit the written
version of the complaint to the person for signature.
4.Complaints against the AGENCY: Any complaints received against the AGENCY should immediately
be forwarded to the Iowa DOT for investigation. The AGENCY shall not investigate any complaint in
which it has been named in the complaint. The contact information for the Iowa DOT’s Title VI program is:
Iowa Department of Transportation
Office of Employee Services – Civil Rights
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, Iowa 50010
515-239-1422
515-817-6502 (fax)
dot.civilrights@dot.iowa.gov
5.Notice of Receipt: All complaints shall be referred to the AGENCY’s Coordinator for review and action. Within
10 days of receipt of the discrimination complaint, the Coordinator shall issue an initial written Notice of Receipt
that:
a) Acknowledges receipt of the discrimination complaint.
b) Advises the complainant of his/her right to seek representation by an attorney or other individual
of his or her choice in the discrimination complaint process.
c) Contains a list of each issue raised in the discrimination complaint.
d) Advises the complainant of the timeframes for processing the discrimination complaint and
providing a determination.
e) Advises the complainant of other avenues of redress of their complaint, including the Iowa DOT,
FHWA, USDOT and USDOJ.
f) Includes an invitation to mediation as described in paragraph 1 under item eight below.
6.Notification of the Iowa DOT of a complaint: The AGENCY shall advise the Iowa DOT within 10
business days of receipt of the complaint. Generally, the following information will be included in every
notification to the Iowa DOT.
a) Name, address and phone number of the complainant.
b) Name(s) and address(es) of alleged discriminating official(s).
c) Basis of complaint (i.e., race, color, national origin or gender).
d) Date of alleged discriminatory act(s).
e) Date complaint received by the AGENCY.
f) A statement of the complaint.
g) Other agencies (state, local or federal) where the complaint has been filed.
h) An explanation of the actions the AGENCY has taken or proposed to resolve the issue identified
in the complaint.
7.Processing a complaint and timeframe: The total time allowed for processing the discrimination
complaint is 90 calendar days from the date the complaint was filed. There is no extension available at
this level. This timeframe includes 60 calendar days at the AGENCY level and 30 days for review at the
state level, if needed.
If the complainant elects to file a complaint with both the AGENCY and Iowa DOT, the complainant shall
be informed that the AGENCY has 90 calendar days to process the discrimination complaint and the Iowa
DOT shall not investigate the complaint until the 90 calendar-day period has expired.
Immediately after issuance of the notice of receipt to the complainant (step four), the AGENCY’s
Coordinator shall either begin the fact-finding or investigation of the discrimination complaint, or arrange
to have an investigation conducted.
Based on the information obtained during that investigation, the Coordinator shall render a
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recommendation for action in a Report of Findings to the head of the AGENCY.
8.Alternative dispute resolution/mediation process: The complainant must be given an invitation to
participate in mediation to resolve the complaint by informal means. The AGENCY’s Coordinator shall
include an invitation to mediation with the Notice of Receipt, offering the opportunity to use the alternative
dispute resolution/mediation process.
If the complaint selects mediation, it allows disputes to be resolved in a less adversarial manner. With
mediation, a neutral party assists two opposing parties in a dispute come to an agreement to resolve their
issue. The mediator does not function as a judge or arbiter, but simply helps the parties resolve the
dispute themselves.
Upon receiving a request to mediate, the AGENCY’s Coordinator shall identify or designate a mediator
who must be a neutral and impartial third party. The mediator must be a person acceptable to all parties
and who will assist the parties in resolving their disputes.
If the complainant chooses to participate in mediation, she or he or the designee must respond in writing
within 10 calendar days of the date of the invitation. This written acceptance must be dated and signed by
the complainant and must also include the relief sought.
After mediation is arranged, a written confirmation identifying the date, time and location of the mediation
conference shall be sent to both parties. If possible, the mediation process should be completed within 30
calendar days of receipt of the discrimination complaint. This will assist in keeping within the 90 calendar-
day timeframe of the written Notice of Final Action if the mediation is not successful.
If resolution is reached under mediation, the agreement shall be in writing. A copy of the signed
agreement shall be sent to the Iowa DOT’s Title IV program coordinator. If an agreement is reached, but
a party to it believes his/her agreement has been breached, the nonbreaching party may file another
complaint. If the parties do not reach resolution under mediation, the AGENCY’s Coordinator shall
continue with the investigation.
9.Notice of Final Action: A written Notice of Final Action shall be provided to the complainant within 60
days of the date the discrimination complaint was filed. It shall contain:
a) A statement regarding the disposition of each issue identified in the discrimination complaint and
reason for the determination.
b) A copy of the mediation agreement, if the discrimination complaint was resolved by mediation.
c) A notice that the complainant has the right to file a complaint with the Iowa DOT, FHWA, USDOT
or USDOJ within 30 calendar days after the Notice of Final Action, if she or he is dissatisfied with
the final action on the discrimination complaint.
The AGENCY’s Coordinator shall provide the Iowa DOT’s Title VI program coordinator with a copy of this
decision, as well as a summary of findings upon completion of the investigation. Should deficiencies be
noted in the implementation of these discrimination complaint procedures by the AGENCY, the Iowa
DOT’s Title VI program coordinator will work in conjunction with the AGENCY’s Coordinator to review the
information and/or provide technical assistance in the discrimination complaint process, mediation
process, and/or investigation.
10.Corrective action: If discrimination is found through the process of a complaint investigation, the
respondent shall be requested to voluntarily comply with corrective action(s) or a conciliation agreement
to correct the discrimination.
11.Confidentiality: AGENCY and Iowa DOT Title VI program coordinators are required to keep the following
information confidential to the maximum extent possible, consistent with applicable law and fair
determination of the discrimination complaint.
a) The fact that the discrimination complaint has been filed.
b) The identity of the complainant(s).
c) The identity of individual respondents to the allegations.
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d) The identity of any person(s) who furnished information relative to, or assisting in, a complaint
investigation.
12.Recordkeeping: The AGENCY’s Coordinator shall maintain a log of complaints filed that alleged
discrimination. The log must include:
a) The name and address of the complainant.
b) Basis of discrimination complaint.
c) Description of complaint.
d) Date filed.
e) Disposition and date.
f) Any other pertinent information.
All records regarding discrimination complaints and actions taken on discrimination complaints must be
maintained for a period of not less than three years from the final date of resolution of the complaint.
V. Self-assessment and remedial action procedures
1. Title VI self-assessment federal-aid highway funds. Conduct Title VI self-assessment of the AGENCY’s
program areas and activities. Where applicable, revise policies, procedures and directives to include Title VI
requirements. Ensure that programs, policies and other activities do not have disproportionate adverse effects
on minority and low income populations.
2. Remedial action. When irregularities occur in the administration of Federal-aid highway programs, corrective
action will be taken to resolve identified Title VI issues. Take affirmative action to correct any deficiencies
found by the Iowa DOT, FHWA or the USDOT within a reasonable time period, not to exceed 90 days, in
order to implement Title VI compliance in accordance with this plan. The head of the AGENCY shall be held
responsible for implementing Title VI requirements.
VI. Title VI implementation activities in special emphasis program areas
The following activities may or may not apply to your AGENCY. Please adjust as needed.
A. Planning and location activities
1. Planning process. The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization has responsibility for
providing long-range planning, program development, and capital programming necessary to provide
efficient transportation services to AGENCY citizens. The AGENCY annually updates and
coordinates the AGENCY’s four-year plan for transportation improvement programs and projects. The
update also informs other AGENCY department of the AGENCY’s jurisdiction of the current planning
direction for transportation needs. Projects included in the update are the result of evaluation and
prioritization of needs in various transportation areas. The evaluation process includes input from the
AGENCY, local jurisdictions and organizations, citizen groups and private individuals.
2. Public involvement in planning activities and Title VI and EJ
a) Invite participation of a cross section of the populace from social, economic and ethnic groups in
the planning process by disseminating written program information to minority media and ethnic
organizations, and providing public service announcements for all local media, when forming
citizen advisory committees or planning board, and requesting involvement.
b) To ensure access to public meetings, evening meetings will be conducted in a variety of
community buildings throughout the AGENCY, including those along transit routes, ensure
translation services are available if anticipated, and ensure public meetings are held in
predominantly minority communities when transportation projects will specifically impact those
communities.
c) The AGENCY regularly conducts an analysis of how the benefits and burdens of the long-range
plan are distributed among low-income, minority and disabled populations versus the general
population. The analysis utilizes the demographic profile (included). The AGENCY is responsible
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for informing all staff members and consultants of all federal Title VI policies, including any
changes and updates. In addition, the AGENCY is responsible for informing all staff members
and consultants of the AGENCY’s Title VI plan, including the LEP plan, public involvement plan,
environmental justice policy, and ADA policy, as well as any updates and changes.
B. Consultant contracts activities
1. Consultant contracts administration. The administrative officer is responsible for recommending
consultant firms to the AGENCY for final selection, negotiation and award. The administrative officer
administers awarded consultant contracts.
2. Consultant selection process. Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization staff will request
qualifications from consulting firms specializing in various areas that may relate to public works
projects and the development of construction plans and special provisions for roads and bridges,
design work associated with structures, performing environmental studies or preparing National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 documents. Consultant selection from the certified list maintained
by the Ames Area Metroppolitan Planning Organization adheres to State of Iowa regulations and is
consistent with the AGENCY’s vendor policies. Title VI text is included in all request for proposals
(RFP) and contracts.
3. Title VI assurances and provisions
a) Include Title VI assurance and provision language in all federally funded consultant contracts.
Periodically review documents and language to ensure compliance with current laws and
regulations. Provide a copy of the form of the contract to the Coordinator, and any amendments
or updates that may occur over time.
C. Design and engineering/environmental activities
1. Design /Environmental Review Process and Title VI
a) Depending on the scope, complexity, and impacts of a project, a National Environmental Policy
Act document and process will be completed.
b) Monitor compliance with Title VI requirements in all aspects of conducting an EIS or EA. Provide
a comprehensive summary of the demographic and environmental data elements to be
considered by the EIS/EA process to the Coordinator; including updated summary lists as
applicable. Incorporate into the review process, adequate time for the Coordinator to review and
comment, as applicable, on the draft EIS/EA to ensure there are no violations of the Federal Civil
Rights Act, as amended, as a result of the AGENCY’s Federal-aid highway activities.
c) In order to ensure dissemination of information and foster participation from affected populations,
AGENCY staff will place public notices in applicable general and minority media; select
accessible locations and times for public hearings or meetings, and arrange for translation
services as needed; particularly in projects impacting predominantly minority communities. The
AGENCY will ensure the public has information pertaining to their rights to call or write the
AGENCY to view plans and discuss environmental problems.
d) AGENCY staff shall provide a copy of the Annual Construction Report to the Coordinator in or
around April of each year. The Coordinator shall work with the AGENCY geographic information
systems coordinator to generate a map of the federally funded transportation projects to include
demographic data of the neighborhoods affected by the projects.
e) Environmental justice
The concept of environmental justice includes the identification and assessment of
disproportionately high and adverse effects of programs, policies or activities on the minority and
low‐income population groups. Within the context of transportation planning, environmental
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justice considers the relative distribution of cost and benefits from transportation investment
strategies and policies among different segments of society.
A systematic process is used to study and evaluate all necessary environmental aspects of the
proposed action(s). Depending on the scope, complexity, and impacts of the project, the
AGENCY’s Coordinator oversees the process, ensures all federal and state requirements are
met, and the public has been invited to participate. The AGENCY is responsible for environmental
review, and Title VI environmental justice compliance in all aspects of AGENCY’s work that
triggers environmental review requirements.
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FTA Title VI Program
Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
515 Clark Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
Prepared in accordance with FTA C 4702.1B. Adopted on March 25, 2025.
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2025 FTA TITLE VI PROGRAM |AAMPO
Date: 03-25-2025
Recipient Profile
Recipient: Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Administrative Head: Justin Clausen MPO Executive Director
Name Title
Recipient Title VI Coordinator: Casandra Eames City of Ames Title VI Coordinator
Name Title
Address: Ames Area MPO, 515 Clark Avenue
City/State: Ames / Iowa Zip Code/County: 50010 / Story County
Phone: (515) 239-5160 Fax: (515) 239-5404
Email: justin.clausen@cityofames.org
Website: www.aampo.org
What strategies has your planning process developed for ensuring, demonstrating, and
sustaining compliance with Title VI?
The Ames Area MPO annually undergoes a self-certification process. This self-certification
includes a review of the MPO’s compliance with Title VI requirements. MPO staff also
periodically review Title VI and public participation requirements to ensure all staff are up to
date on the latest Title VI and public outreach procedures and strategies. The MPO posts its Title
VI notice, complaint procedure, and complaint form on the MPO website as well as at Ames City
Hall.
As outlined in the MPO’s Public Participation Plan and Limited English-Proficiency Plan, the
MPO always ensures all underserved populations are made aware of and can actively participate
in all MPO meetings, transportation planning activities, and transportation planning document
updates. In the MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan, one of the project evaluation criteria is
the improvement of access to transit for transit dependent, disabled, and disadvantaged
populations. The MTP also includes an environmental justice assessment. Impact on high-need
areas and disadvantaged populations is also a scoring criterion in the evaluation process for the
MPO’s funding programs: STBG, TAP (TA Set-Aside), and CRP.
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General Requirements
Attach a copy of recipient’s Title VI Notice to the Public. (See Appendix A)
Required elements:
X A statement that the agency operates programs without regard to race, color, or national
origin
X A description of the procedures that members of the public should follow in order to request
additional information on the recipient’s Title VI obligations
X A description of the procedures that members of the public shall follow in order to file a
Title VI discrimination complaint against the recipient
List locations where the notice is posted:
Ames Area MPO Office, Room 212 (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA)
Ames City Hall Entrance (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA)
https://aampo.org/about_us/title_vi.php
Please attach a copy of the recipient’s instructions to the public regarding how to file a
Title VI discrimination complaint, including a copy of the complaint form. (See
Appendix B)
Are complaint procedures and the complaint form posted on the recipient’s website?
Please provide the URL: https://aampo.org/about_us/title_vi.php
X
X
X
X
X
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3.
Please list and describe any transit-related Title VI investigations, complaints, or lawsuits
filed with, concerning, or naming the recipient in the last three years.
Date Filed
(Month,
Day,
Year)
Summary (include
basis of complaint:
race, color, or national
origin)
Status Action(s) Taken
Investigations NONE ---
1.----
2.----
Lawsuits NONE ---
1.----
2.----
Complaints NONE ---
1.----
2.----
X
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4.
Please attach a public participation plan that includes an outreach plan to engage minority
and limited English proficient populations, as well as a summary of outreach efforts made
in the last three years. (See Appendix C)
Please describe the methods used to inform low-income and minority populations of
planning efforts for transportation-related services and/or improvements:
The Ames Area MPO utilizes a variety of methods for outreach to minority and low-income
populations. These outreach strategies, described in more detail in the Chapter 3 of the Public
Participation Plan, include the MPO’s website, e-mail notifications, the use of local publications
and media sources, social media, and the City of Ames Newsletter, City Side. The outreach
methods described above inform of various public input opportunities, described in Chapter 4 of
the Public Participation Plan. These input opportunities include public hearings, public input
sessions, public workshops & open houses, public surveys, and public comments.
The MPO ensures that all meetings are held at a convenient, accessible, and ADA compliant
locations. MPO meetings are primarily held at Ames City Hall, which is easily accessible via
CyRide’s transit routes by using the bus stop at the south side of the building. The Ames Area
MPO participates in and coordinates with the Story County Transportation Collaboration, which
includes representatives from groups and organizations that share in interest in reducing
transportation barriers. The MPO also engages various regional advocacy groups for
disadvantaged, minority groups, and limited English-speaking individuals. These groups are
listed in Appendix B of the Public Participation Plan.
List minority and/or community media utilized to ensure notification of public meetings or
public review of recipient documents for residents in minority and low-income areas:
The Ames Area MPO utilizes the following publications & medias: Ames Tribune, Iowa State
Daily, Des Moines Register, Story County Sun, KASI/KCCQ radio, KURE student radio at Iowa
State, KHOI community radio, Channel 12 (Ames Governmental Channel), Channel 16 (Ames
Public Access), and YouTube (City of Ames YouTube channel). The MPO also makes use of the
City of Ames Newsletter, City Side, which is distributed with all Ames utility bills.
When was the public participation plan last reviewed? Please describe how.
The Public Participation Plan was last reviewed and updated in 2024. The current PPP was
adopted by the Transportation Policy Committee on July 9, 2024. MPO staff review the current
PPP during the annual self-certification process to ensure it accurately reflects the MPO’s current
engagement strategies and the latest state and federal requirements.
X
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5.
Please attach a copy of the recipient’s plan for providing language assistance to persons
with limited English proficiency, based on the DOT LEP Guidance, Federal Register,
Volume 70, Number 239, http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2005-12-14/html/05-
23972.htm. (See Appendix D)
What steps has the recipient taken to ensure meaningful access to the benefits, services,
information, and other important components of its programs and services to persons with
limited English proficiency?
The Ames Area MPO’s Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan follows the four-factor analysis
process, as recommended by the U.S. DOT. As a part of this process, the LEP Plan identifies
LEP populations located within the Ames region, the frequency with which those persons
encounter the MPO’s services and programs, the importance of the MPO’s services and
programs to people’s lives, and the resources available for the MPO to outreach to persons with
limited English proficiency.
Some of the ways the MPO ensures meaningful access for limited English persons include:
1.Oral Interpretation Services – The MPO will leverage the Language Line
Interpretation Service through TheBigWord. If there is a non-English speaking
individual that comes into a city department, staff can show them the brochure for the
Language Line Interpretation Service and have them select the language that they
understand (the languages are written in both the native language and in English).
Staff members can call the Language Interpretation Service and asks for an
appropriate interpreter, as pointed out by the customer. The City of Ames has also
developed a list of all City employees that speak, write, or read a language other than
English fluently. The City of Ames may contact employees on this list for
interpretation services as their schedule permits. A current list is maintained in the
Human Resources internal website. Note that the Ames Area MPO will also allow
LEP persons to use an interpreter of their own choosing (whether a professional
interpreter, family member, or friend) in place of or as a supplement to the Language
Line interpretation services offered by the Ames Area MPO. Additionally, where best
appropriate, staff employees will also utilize Google Translator Interpretation Service
from their computers and/or as application on their cell phones.
2.Written Translations (Vital Documents) - The MPO will provide a written
translation of all vital documents (Title VI Notice to the Public, Title VI Policy &
Procedures, and a Title VI Complain Form) to Mandarin Chinese, per the Safe Harbor
Provision requirements.
3.Bureau of Refugee Services – The MPO will, as needed, work with the Bureau of
Refugee Services.
X
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4.MPO Website – The MPO’s website can allow its information to be automatically
translated into over 90 different languages.
5.Regional Partners – The MPO will work with its regional agencies and contact
groups such as Iowa State University and CyRide to establish and provide additional
language assistance services to the MPO, as needed.
6.
List all non-elected committees and councils, the membership of which is selected by the
recipient:
No committees or councils comprised of non-elected members selected by the Ames Area MPO
were in place during the reporting period. Representatives on Ames Area MPO committees are
selected by each member jurisdiction.
Describe the process the recipient uses to encourage the participation of minorities on such
committees.
Each member jurisdiction follows its own procedures regarding the appointment of
representatives the Ames Area MPO’s committees. However, the Ames Area MPO encourages
member jurisdictions to consider members of minority groups when appointing individuals.
Racial/Ethnic Breakdown of Voting Members on Ames Area MPO committees:
Group Number
Male 16
Female 11
White 26
Black or African American 1
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0
Asian 0
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific
Islander
0
Other 0
*Note the data in the above table is summarizing all voting members of the Ames Area MPO’s
Transportation Policy and Technical Committees.
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7.
If applicable, describe the efforts the recipient uses to ensure subrecipients are complying
with Title VI:
Not applicable for the Ames Area MPO.
Include a schedule of subrecipient Title VI program submissions:
(Insert table or list)
N/A
Has the recipient constructed a facility, such as a vehicle storage facility, maintenance facility,
operation center, etc., with Federal Transit Administration funds? __ __ Yes __X__ No
If yes, please attach the Title VI equity analysis conducted during the planning stage with
regard to the location of the facility.
Please attach a copy(ies) of board meeting minutes, resolution(s), or other appropriate
documentation showing the board(s) of directors or appropriate governing entity(ies) or
official(s) responsible for policy decisions reviewed and approved the Title VI Program.
(See Appendix E)
X
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Requirements of Planning Agencies
Has the planning agency developed a demographic profile of the planning area that
includes identification of the locations of socioeconomic groups, including low-
income and minority populations? Provide a summary of the planning area
demographics.
Yes, please refer to Appendices C and D of the attached Public Participation Plan.
Demographic categories analyzed include disability, limited English proficiency, poverty
status, race, and age. The environment justice (EJ) mapping and screening tool, EJScreen,
is also utilized to spatially identify socioeconomic groups.
Please describe the procedures by which the mobility needs of minority populations are
identified and considered within the planning process.
The Ames Area MPO’s Public Participation Plan defines public engagement goals and strategies,
including outreach strategies and accommodations for minority populations. The MPO ensures
that its various meetings are held at convenient and accessible locations that are compliant with
the Americans with Disabilities Act. Most MPO meetings are held at Ames City Hall, which is
easily accessible via CyRide’s transit network via the bus stop located on the south side of the
building. The MPO website is automatically translated into over 90 different languages. The
MPO also participates in and coordinates with the Story County Transportation Collaboration
which includes representatives from groups and organizations that share an interest in reducing
transportation barriers.
During the AAMPO’s MTP updates, Environmental Justice (EJ) populations, including minority
populations and low-income populations are identified in the MPO’s region. Projects which are
identified in the MTP are evaluated to see if they disproportionately adversely affect minority
and low-income populations. The MPO also considers the project’s beneficial and/or adverse
impacts on minority and low-income populations when developing, evaluating, and prioritizing
projects in the MTP. Impact on high-need areas and disadvantaged populations is also a criterion
used in the scoring and recommendation on projects seeking funding from the MPO’s funding
programs: STBG, TAP (TA Set-Aside), and CRP.
X
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3.
Please attach demographic maps that show the impacts of the distribution of State
and Federal funds in the aggregate for public transportation projects. (See
Appendix F)
Please attach analysis of the planning agency’s transportation system investments
that identifies and addresses any disparate impacts. (See Appendix G)
List adverse social, environmental, economic or demographic impact identified in the
planning process:
The Ames Area MPO has reviewed both MTP and TIP projects and their socioeconomic impacts
and has determined that there are no adverse impacts.
As previously stated, the Ames Area MPO’s Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Forward 2045,
incorporates an analysis of project impacts on Environmental Justice populations. A map
showing proposed MTP project and Environmental Justice Populations is shown in the Appendix
G attachment. Also attached are maps showing the FFY25-28 TIP projects in relation to the
demographic index data map from the EJScreen tool.
During future project planning and evaluations, the MPO will continue to consider the project’s
beneficial and/or adverse impacts on minority and low-income populations when developing,
evaluating, and prioritizing projects in the MTP as well as when scoring projects that apply for
the MPO’s funding programs: STBG, TAP (TA Set-Aside), and CRP.
X
X
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Declaration of the Respondent
I declare that I have provided information as a part of the Title VI Program to the best of my
knowledge and believe it to be true, correct, and complete.
______________________________________________________________________________
Respondent Date
I declare that I have reviewed and approved the information provided in the Title VI Program
and to the best of my knowledge believe it to be true, correct, and complete.
______________________________________________________________________________
Respondent Date
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Appendix A – Title VI Notice to the Public
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Appendix B – Instruction to File Title VI Discrimination Complaint
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Appendix C – Public Participation Plan
The following pages contain the Ames Area MPO’s Public Participation Plan, adopted on July 9,
2024.
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The Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization prepared this report with funding from the U.S. Department of
Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The
Ames Area MPO approved this document on July 9, 2024. Please call (515) 239-5160 to obtain permission to use.
Public Participation Plan
2024 Update
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CONTENTS
1 - Introduction ............................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Document Purpose .............................................................................................................................4
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area .................................................................................................4
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee.......................................................................................................5
1.4 Transportation Technical Committee .................................................................................................6
1.5 MPO Staff & Contact Information ......................................................................................................6
2 - Regulations ..............................................................................................................................................7
2.1 Transportation Planning Requirements..............................................................................................7
2.2 Iowa DOT Requirements .....................................................................................................................7
2.3 Title VI .................................................................................................................................................7
2.4 Environmental Justice.........................................................................................................................8
2.5 Limited English Proficiency .................................................................................................................8
2.6 Iowa Open Meetings ..........................................................................................................................8
2.7 Iowa Public Records............................................................................................................................9
3 - Public Outreach Strategies ....................................................................................................................10
3.1 AAMPO Website ...............................................................................................................................10
3.2 Newsletter ........................................................................................................................................11
3.3 Publications ......................................................................................................................................11
3.4 TV & Streaming .................................................................................................................................11
3.5 Social Media .....................................................................................................................................11
3.6 City Side (City of Ames Newsletter)..................................................................................................12
4 - Public Input Methods ............................................................................................................................13
4.1 Public Hearings .................................................................................................................................13
4.2 Workshops & Open Houses ..............................................................................................................13
4.3 Surveys .............................................................................................................................................13
4.4 Comments ........................................................................................................................................13
4.5 Visualization Techniques ..................................................................................................................14
5 - Planning Documents .............................................................................................................................15
5.1 Public Participation Plan (PPP).........................................................................................................15
5.2 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP).........................................................................................16
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5.3 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)....................................................................................17
5.4 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP)..............................................................................18
5.5 Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP)...............................................................................................19
5.6 Amendments ....................................................................................................................................20
6 - Underserved Populations ......................................................................................................................21
6.1 Overview...........................................................................................................................................21
6.2 Accommodations ..............................................................................................................................21
6.3 Limited-English Proficiency Plan .......................................................................................................21
6.4 Complaint Procedures ......................................................................................................................22
Appendix A – List of Acronyms ...................................................................................................................23
Appendix B – List of MPO Stakeholders & Public Groups ..........................................................................25
Appendix C – ACS Demographic Data Tables .............................................................................................27
Appendix D – EJScreen Spatial Data ...........................................................................................................30
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1 - Introduction
1.1 Document Purpose
The Public Participation Plan (PPP) details how the Ames Area MPO (AAMPO) involves the public and
stakeholders in its transportation planning efforts. This document will provide public and stakeholder
engagement goals and strategies that the MPO plans to implement so that all interested parties have
ample opportunity to get involved with the MPO’s transportation planning efforts and planning
document updates. It will also detail how the MPO will provide easy access to relevant transportation
planning information and documentation.
MPOs are federally required to develop a PPP. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) requires
that MPOs update their PPP at least every five years. Even though five years is the maximum timeframe
between PPP updates, AAMPO continually reviews its public and stakeholder engagement strategies
and will update its PPP whenever warranted.
1.2 AAMPO Overview and Planning Area
AAMPO was officially designated the MPO of the Ames urbanized area by the Governor of Iowa in
March 2003. This designation was the result of the Ames urbanized area having a population greater
than 50,000 in the 2000 Census. As a result of the 2010 Census, the urbanized areas of Ames and Gilbert
were combined into one urbanized area, therefore requiring the Metropolitan Planning Area Boundary
be expanded to encompass this area in its entirety. The current boundary, a result of the 2020 Census
and urban area adjustment, was adopted by the AAMPO on January 23, 2024 (shown in Figure 1).
Figure 1: AAMPO Boundary (Adopted Jan 23, 2024)
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The Ames Area MPO provides and coordinates various transportation planning and improvement efforts
throughout the Ames urban area. This includes coordination and consultation with the MPO’s various
stakeholders, which are described in Appendix B.
The Ames Area MPO consists primarily of two standing committees: The Transportation Policy
Committee and the Transportation Technical Committee.
1.3 Transportation Policy Committee
Transportation Policy Committee (TPC) is the governing body of the AAMPO, and its membership
consists of representatives from AAMPO member agencies. Currently, the TPC membership includes the
City of Ames, City of Gilbert, Ames Transit Agency (CyRide), Boone County, and Story County. The Iowa
Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration, and
Iowa State University have advisory, non-voting, representatives.
Transportation Policy Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)John Haila Mayor
City of Ames Gloria Betcher Council Member
City of Ames Tim Gartin Council Member
City of Ames Anita Rollins Council Member
City of Ames Rachel Junck Council Member
City of Ames Bronwyn Beatty-Hansen Council Member
City of Ames Amber Corrieri Council Member
Boone County Bill Zinnel Board of Supervisors
Story County Linda Murken Board of Supervisors
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Emily Boland CyRide Board Member
City of Gilbert Jonathan Popp Mayor
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Shelby Ebel District 1 Transportation Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Dakin Schultz Iowa Division Planning Program Manager
Federal Transit Administration ‡Daniel Nguyen Region VII Community Planner
Iowa State University ‡Brandi Latterell Director for Planning Services
‡ Non-voting
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1.4 Transportation Technical Committee
The Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) serves as the primary advisory body to the TPC, and its
membership consists of technical personnel from various regional agencies involved in transportation
planning efforts and transportation project programming within the AAMPO planning area. Currently,
the TTC membership includes the City of Ames, City of Gilbert, Ames Transit Agency (CyRide), Boone
County, Story County, Iowa State University, Ames Community School District, Gilbert Community
School District, and the Ames Economic Development Commission. The Iowa Department of
Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration have
advisory, non-voting, representatives.
‡ Non-voting
1.5 MPO Staff & Contact Information
There are numerous ways to contact and engage with MPO staff, including:
Website: www.aampo.org
Phone: (515) 239-5160
Email: Staff Contact List
Mail/Office: Ames Area MPO
515 Clark Ave
Ames, IA, 50010
Transportation Technical Committee Membership
Representative Agency Member Representative Agency Role
City of Ames (Chair)Damion Pregitzer Traffic Engineer
City of Ames (Vice-Chair)Justin Moore Planner
City of Ames Kelly Diekmann Director of Planning & Housing
City of Ames Vacant Municipal Engineer
City of Ames Justin Clausen Operations Manager
City of Ames Mark Gansen Civil Engineer II
City of Ames Joshua Thompson Parks & Facilities Superintendent
City of Gilbert Scott Williams City Engineer (Strand Associates)
Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)Barbara Neal Transit Director
Iowa State University Sarah Lawrence Campus Planner
Iowa State University Angie Solberg Facilities Project Manager
Boone County Jonathan Bullock County Engineer
Story County Darren Moon County Engineer
Ames Community School Dist.Gerry Peters Facilities Director
Gilbert Community School Dist.Trent Becker Transportation Manager
Ames Economic Development Commission Greg Piklapp Director Econ. Outreach & Gov. Relations
Iowa Dept. of Transportation ‡Shelby Ebel District 1 Transportation Planner
Federal Highway Administration ‡Dakin Schultz Iowa Division Planning Program Manager
Federal Highway Administration ‡Sean Litteral Planning and Development Team Leader
Federal Transit Administration ‡Daniel Nguyen Region VII Community Planner
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2 - Regulations
There are several federal and state regulations pertaining to participation in the MPOs transportation
planning activities for members of the public and agency stakeholders. These regulations are described
in the following section.
2.1 Transportation Planning Requirements
23 CFR 450.316 details several federal requirements that MPOs need to follow regarding public and
stakeholder participation. In short, these regulations cover the development and content requirements
for Public Participation Plans, documentation of public comments on planning documents such as
Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs) and Metropolitan Transportation Plans (MTPs), the 45-day
public comment period requirement for initial or revised PPPs, and coordination with regional agencies
and officials which are responsible for other planning activities or are affected by regional planning
activities.
2.2 Iowa DOT Requirements
The Iowa DOT provides guidance documentation to Iowa MPOs and RPAs for the development and
maintenance of Public Participation Plans. Within this guidance, the Iowa DOT states various
requirements that help ensure that PPPs are both effective and comply with the various federal
requirements and regulations. Some of the more significant requirements are listed here:
•The PPP is required to be updated at least every five years.
•The PPP must be developed in consultation with all interested parties.
•The minimum required public comment period is 45 calendar days before final adoption.
•The Draft PPP must be submitted to Iowa DOT staff for review before final adoption.
•The Final PPP must be provided to Iowa DOT, FHWA, FTA, and published online.
•The PPP must cover public-related procedures for all five of the MPOs core planning documents
which include the MTP, PPP, PTP, TIP, and TPWP.
•All draft planning documents provided to the public for input should be in final draft form.
•Timeframes and notification methods for meeting agendas, public hearing notices, and public
comment periods should be explicitly stated in the PPP.
•Meeting agendas, meeting minutes, current planning documents, and Title VI documentation
(including notice to public, complaint form, and related documents) should be posted on the
MPO’s website.
2.3 Title VI
“Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national
origin in any program or activity that receives Federal funds or other Federal financial assistance.” MPOs
receive federal funding from both the FHWA and FTA and are therefore required to adhere to Title VI
requirements. Additionally, FTA has published FTA Circular 4702.1B, Title VI Requirements and
Guidelines for Federal Transit Administration Recipients. All recipients of FTA funds, including MPOs, are
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subject to these requirements. In addition to Title VI specific regulations, there also additional non-
discrimination protection regulations that agencies receiving federal funds must follow. Section 162 (a)
of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1973 (23 USC 324) covers the prohibition of sex-based discrimination.
The Age Discrimination Act of 1975 prohibits discrimination based on age. Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 prohibits discrimination
based on disabilities.
2.4 Environmental Justice
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that “Environmental justice (EJ) is the fair treatment
and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with
respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and
policies.” There are several regulations pertaining to environmental justice in minority populations and
low-income populations including Executive Order 12898, U.S. DOT Order 5610.2(a), FTA Circular
4703.1, and FHWA Order 6640.23A.
These regulations ensure that government agencies (such as MPOs), are providing reasonable
opportunities for all people (regardless of race, color, origin, or income) to be able to actively participate
in decisions and planning efforts that may affect their environment and/or health. Additionally, MPOs
need to assess and consider the potential impact their planning efforts and future projects may have on
the health and the environment for minority and low-income populations.
2.5 Limited English Proficiency
Executive Order 13166, signed August 11, 2000, “requires Federal agencies to examine the services they
provide, services to those with limited English proficiency (LEP), and develop and implement a system to
provide those services so LEP persons can have meaningful access to them.” Additionally, in accordance
with this Executive Order, the U.S. DOT issued its own LEP Guidance, which applies to all recipients of
U.S. DOT funding, including MPOs.
2.6 Iowa Open Meetings
Chapter 21 of the Code of Iowa details the full regulations pertaining to the open meetings law. Some
key points that relate to MPO meetings include:
•Public notice must be given for the time, date, place, and agenda for meetings.
•Meetings need to be held at a place and time reasonably accessible to the public.
•Meetings must be conducted in open session, with certain exceptions that may apply for holding
a closed session.
•Meeting minutes must be kept which include the date, time, place, members present, and
actions taken.
•Electronic meetings may be conducted only in circumstances where meeting in person is
impossible or impractical. Electronic meetings still need to be accessible to the public and
minutes still need to be kept.
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2.7 Iowa Public Records
Chapter 22 of the Code of Iowa details the full regulations pertaining to the public records law. Some
key points that relate to MPO meetings include:
•The public has the right to examine and copy public records.
•The agency may adopt and enforce reasonable rules regarding the examination and copying of
the records.
•If the agency’s physical possession, the right to examine public records should be free of charge.
•The agency may charge a reasonable fee for time and expense required for supervising
examination and copying the records, not exceed the actual cost of providing the service.
•Some records are considered confidential and are not subject to public release in the absence of
a court order, as outlined in Chapter 22.7.
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3 - Public Outreach Strategies
The goal of the AAMPO is to ensure that all interested parties are well-informed and have ample notice
and ability to provide meaningful input for all transportation planning activities and initiatives. To do
this, the AAMPO utilizes various strategies and mediums for which to reach out to members of the
public as well as the region’s stakeholders (see Appendix B for a list of stakeholders).
3.1 AAMPO Website
The AAMPO website, www.aampo.org, provides information about all MPO activities and efforts. It can
be automatically translated into over 120 languages and features an ADA accessibility widget with the
ability to convert the website into gray scale or high contrast and to convert links to yellow text or
underlined. Figure 2 below shows a screenshot of the website’s homepage.
Figure 2: AAMPO Website Homepage
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The following information and items can be found on the website:
•General information for the five core planning documents (MTP, TPWP, TIP, PPP, & PTP) as well
as links to both current and previous versions of those planning documents. General information
and documentation for other planning documents, planning efforts, and special studies are also
found on the website.
•Title VI information including: a Title VI notice to the public, Title VI complaint form, and all
current Title VI documentation.
•Event calendar for committee meeting dates, public open houses & workshops, other AAMPO-
led events, or events pertinent to transportation planning efforts in the Ames region.
•Latest news and updates from the AAMPO.
•Sign-up form for the AAMPO’s email newsletter.
•AAMPO staff directory.
•General information about the AAMPO and its core purpose and functions.
•Description of each of the AAMPO’s regional grant programs as well as links for member
agencies to those program’s application forms and notice of funding opportunities.
3.2 Newsletter
Anyone may sign up for the AAMPO email newsletter by inputting their email address online at
https://aampo.org/about_us/newsletter.php. Once signed up, the AAMPO will send out news and
updates via email. Information contained within a newsletter email may include upcoming events,
upcoming committee meetings, public comment period notices, news and information for ongoing plan
updates or projects, and more.
3.3 Publications
Information about all MPO meetings is added to the existing public meeting calendar which is produced
weekly and is distributed to local newspapers such as the Ames Tribune and ISU Daily. Formal notices
for public hearings are published in the Ames Tribune. Press releases to area newspapers and radio
stations will be used utilized to notify citizens of upcoming MPO activities.
3.4 TV & Streaming
The City of Ames maintains a local governmental access cable channel (Channel 12), a YouTube channel,
and a live stream on the city’s website for broadcasting public meetings. This includes the MPO’s
Transportation Policy Committee meetings and workshops. Archived videos of these meetings can also
be found on the MPO website under meeting materials.
3.5 Social Media
The AAMPO does not currently have its own social media account on any platform. However, the public
is provided notice about MPO plan updates through the City of Ames’s social media accounts on
Facebook and Twitter/X. The public can submit comments and feedback on MPO-related posts on thos
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e social media platforms. Links to the city’s social media pages are provided on the homepage of the
MPO website.
3.6 City Side (City of Ames Newsletter)
Meeting information and important updates from the AAMPO are included as a part of the City of
Ames’s newsletter, City Side, which is distributed monthly by mail with utility bills to all City of Ames
residents. City Side is also posted on the City of Ames’s website and social media accounts.
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4 - Public Input Methods
The AAMPO wants to ensure that the public has numerous methods to provide input on the MPO’s
planning documents and planning efforts. This section outlines the various strategies the MPO utilizes to
provide ample opportunity for citizens and stakeholders to be involved. The AAMPO will always
consider and respond to all public input received during program development and planning processes.
4.1 Public Hearings
The AAMPO Transportation Policy Committee (TPC) hosts formal public hearings for final approval of
any of the core planning documents during the committee meeting. Additionally, the public is welcome
to comment during TPC meetings on any of the agenda items when that item is up for discussion and is
also provided an opportunity to provide comments on topics not on the agenda. Public hearing notices
are published between 4 to 20 days prior to the public hearing date, per Iowa Code 362.3. Typically, the
MPO will publish notices one to two weeks prior to a public hearing date.
4.2 Workshops & Open Houses
Workshops and open houses are typically meetings with a series of activities aimed to be visually
engaging and gather public input in the form of written, spoken, or other forms. Workshops and open
houses can employ several activities such as visual preference surveys, mapping activities, discussions,
and other input gathering strategies. Workshops and open houses are commonly utilized during the
development of Metropolitan Transportation Plans (MTPs) but may be held during other planning
efforts, as appropriate.
4.3 Surveys
Surveys may be conducted using the MPO website or by using mailings to gather input and information
from a large number of citizens. The AAMPO typically conducts a Regional Transportation Survey during
development of MTPs. This survey helps residents present their opinions on the current state of the
transportation system and their hopes for the future of the transportation system. It also helps the MPO
gather information about the public’s travel characteristics and preferences.
4.4 Comments
The MPO always accepts comments from the public for any topic, whether in-person, by phone, or by
email (see Section 1.5 for contact information). The MPO also monitors social media posts for any
feedback. The MPO holds public comment periods for all five core planning documents. This is the
opportunity when members of the public can submit their comments to MPO staff on the final draft
planning document before it is finalized and brought forward for the public hearing and final approval. A
public comment period is also required for any amendments to planning documents. Public comments
received on the MTP and the TIP are always documented within the final version of the planning
document.
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4.5 Visualization Techniques
The MPO ensures that visualization techniques are incorporated into public participation activities. The
MPO website and interactive web-based GIS maps may be utilized to provide another method of
receiving feedback and comments. One application of this would be the ability of citizens to provide
project-specific feedback on projects listed in the MTP or the TIP on an interactive GIS map.
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5 - Planning Documents
This section will describe each of the five core planning documents that the MPO maintains as well as
the development process for each planning document (including public participation processes).
5.1 Public Participation Plan (PPP)
The PPP details how the AAMPO involves the public and stakeholders in its transportation planning
efforts. It provides public and stakeholder engagement goals and strategies that the MPO plans to
implement so that all interested parties have ample opportunity to get involved with the MPO’s
transportation planning efforts and planning document updates. It also details how the MPO will
provide easy access to relevant transportation planning information and documentation.
The PPP is required to be updated at least every five (5) years, or as needed (the MPO will periodically
review the effectiveness of the procedures and strategies contained within this plan to ensure full and
open participation process). The development process (shown in Figure 3) includes a 45-day public
comment period and a public hearing. Information on the Public Participation Plan and how to sign up
for the newsletter is available on the MPO website at:
https://aampo.org/about_us/public_participation.php
Figure 3: Public Participation Plan Development Process
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5.2 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
The Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP), formally known as the Long-Range Transportation Plan
(LRTP), acts a framework for guiding the AAMPO’s transportation investments and policy decisions over
a 25-year period by identifying a regional vision for a multi-modal transportation system through
stakeholder and community input. This includes developing short-term, medium-term, and long-term
plans for regional project programming based upon a performance-based, community-driven approach.
The MTP is required to be updated every five (5) years. The development process for the MTP is shown
in Figure 4. Because the MTP utilizes a community-driven planning approach, members of the public
and regional stakeholders need to be involved early in the plan’s development. As such, the first step is
to create a Public Engagement Plan to be leveraged throughout the life of the MTP’s development
which details all strategies, methodologies, and processes for informing and engaging with the public
and stakeholders. During review of the final draft MTP, there will be a 30-day public comment period
and a public hearing on the date of final approval. Information on the Metropolitan Transportation Plan
is always available on the MPO website at: https://aampo.org/mtp.php.
Figure 4: Metropolitan Transportation Plan Development Process
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5.3 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
The Transportation Improvement Program is a 4-year implementation program for federally funded and
regionally significant transportation projects within the Ames region. It reflects the investment priorities
that are established in the MTP. Additionally, any projects funded with Section 5310 (Enhanced Mobility
for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities) funding needs to be identified previously in the Passenger
Transportation Plan (PTP) prior to being programmed in the TIP. The AAMPO TIP is included in the
Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), which is developed by the Iowa DOT.
The TIP is updated annually. The development process (shown in Figure 5) includes a 30-day public
comment period and a public hearing. Information on the Transportation Improvement Program is
always available on the MPO website at: https://aampo.org/tip.php.
Figure 5: Transportation Improvement Program Development Process
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5.4 Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP)
The Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP) functions as the regional work plan for the Ames
Area MPO. Each TPWP covers one fiscal year and defines the anticipated work and tasks to be
performed. This work is broken down into major planning activities. The document includes details on
who will perform the various planning activities, the schedule for completing the activities, the resulting
products and expectations of each activity, as well as the total program budget for the year (including
funding amounts for each activity).
A new TPWP is developed annually, since each TPWP only covers a single fiscal year. The development
process (shown in Figure 6) includes a 30-day public comment period and a public hearing. Information
on the Transportation Planning Work Program is always available on the MPO website at:
https://www.cityofames.org/government/aampo/tpwp.
Figure 6: Transportation Planning Work Program Development Process
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5.5 Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP)
The primary purpose of the Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP) is to promote joint, coordinated
passenger transportation planning programs that further the development of the local and regional
transportation systems. It provides key community decision makers with the knowledge of how
individuals are currently being transported throughout Ames, the additional transportation needs and
service requests identified, and recommended strategies or projects to overcome these needs.
A new PTP is developed every five (5) years, at a minimum, with updates as needed. Specifically,
Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities projects or strategies need to be
identified in the PTP before a project can be included in the AAMPO’s TIP, which is required to obtain
grant funding. The development process (shown in Figure 7) includes coordination with and review by
the Transportation Collaboration (TC) of Story County, which functions as the AAMPO’s Transportation
Advisory Group (TAG). This process also includes reviews by both the TTC and TPC. Information on the
Transportation Planning Work Program is always available on the MPO website at:
https://aampo.org/ptp.php. Additionally, the TAG group is required to have at least two meetings every
fiscal year with meeting minutes submitted to the Iowa DOT annually by July 31st.
Figure 7: Passenger Transportation Plan Development Process
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5.6 Amendments
While each of the core planning documents are updated under the respective time cycles, they can be
amended in between updates when the need arises. Amendments are also subject to public review
requirements and procedures.
The AAMPO requires that before any core planning document can be amended, the amendment must
be reviewed by the Transportation Technical Committee (TTC) and the Transportation Policy Committee
(TPC). Additionally, amendments to the PTP need to be reviewed by the Transportation Collaboration
(TC) of Story County. A minimum of a 10-day public comment period (45 days for the PPP) must also
occur prior approval of an amendment to any core planning document. A public hearing and final
approval of the amendment must occur at a TPC meeting.
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6 - Underserved Populations
6.1 Overview
The Ames Area MPO is committed to providing planning services across the Ames region that benefit all
members of the public regardless of race, color, national origin, age, gender, income, or disability. To
meet this commitment, the AAMPO follows the obligations outlined for Iowa MPOs in the state and
federal regulations stated in Section 2 of this document. Appendix C provides an overview of regional
demographic data for underserved population groups using American Community Survey (ACS) data and
Appendix D provides a spatial overview of regional demographic data for the AAMPO relative to
statewide data for underserved population groups using the EPA’s Environmental Justice Screening and
Mapping Tool (EJScreen).
6.2 Accommodations
The MPO ensures that its various meetings are held at convenient and accessible locations that are
compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Most MPO meetings are held at Ames City Hall,
which is easily accessible via Transit as there is a CyRide bus stop on the south side of the building.
There are also bike racks located at Ames City Hall. The MPO website is automatically translated into
over 120 languages and features an ADA accessibility widget with the ability to convert the website into
gray scale or high contrast and to convert links to yellow text or underlined. The AAMPO participates
with the Story County Transportation Collaboration (conducted under the leadership of the United Way
of Story County), which includes representatives from groups and organizations that share an interest in
reducing transportation barriers.
During the AAMPO’s MTP updates, Environmental Justice (EJ) populations, including minority
populations and low-income populations are identified in the MPO’s region. Projects which are
identified in the MTP are evaluated to see if they disproportionately adversely affect minority and low-
income populations. The MPO also considers the project’s beneficial and/or adverse impacts on
minority and low-income populations when developing, evaluating, and prioritizing projects in the MTP.
When evaluating AAMPO grant program project applications for inclusion in the TIP, one criterion
evaluated is the “Impact on high-need areas and disadvantaged populations.” For the STBG & CRP
programs, this criterion is worth 10% of the final project application score. For the TAP program, this
criterion is worth 15% of the final project application score.
6.3 Limited-English Proficiency Plan
The AAMPO develops and maintains a separate Limited-English Proficiency (LEP) Plan. This plan helps
ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency have access to the MPO’s various transportation
documents and planning processes. Within this plan, areas within the Ames region with limited English
proficiency are identified. As recommended by the U.S. DOT, the LEP Plan follows the four-factor
analysis process. Those four factors are:
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1.The number or proportion of persons with limited English proficiency who are eligible to be
served or likely to be encountered by MPO services and programs.
2.The frequency with which persons with limited English proficiency come into contact with
MPO services and programs.
3.The nature and importance of the MPO’s services and programs in people’s lives.
4.The resources available to the MPO for outreach to persons with limited English proficiency,
as well as the costs associated with the outreach.
The City of Ames and CyRide, which staff the AAMPO, also maintains their own respective LEP Plans:
•City of Ames LEP Plan
•CyRide LEP Plan
6.4 Complaint Procedures
Any person wishing to file a formal discrimination complaint may do so by completing the Title VI
Complain form. This form can be accessed online on the Title VI page of the AAMPO website or by
contacting the MPO. More information on the complaint form and process can be found on the website.
This complaint form should be returned to the MPO’s current Title VI Civil Rights Coordinator, who’s
contact information is identified on both the form and online.
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Appendix A – List of Acronyms
Acronym Definition
AAMPO Ames Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
ADA American Disabilities Act
ACS American Community Survey
CIRTPA Central Iowa Regional Transportation Planning Alliance
CRP Carbon Reduction Program
DMAMPO Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
DOT Department of Transportation
EJ Environmental Justice
EMS Emergency Medical Services
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
FTA Federal Transit Administration
ISU Iowa State University
ITS Intelligent Transportation System
LEP Limited English Proficiency
LRTP Long-Range Transportation Plan
MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization
MTP Metropolitan Transportation Plan
PPP Public Participation Plan
PTP Passenger Transportation Plan
RPA Regional Planning Affiliation
STBG Surface Transportation Block Grant
STIP Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
TAG Transportation Advisory Group
TAP Transportation Alternatives Program (TA Set-Aside)
TC Transportation Collaboration
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TIP Transportation Improvement Program
TPC Transportation Policy Committee
TPWP Transportation Planning Work Program
TTC Transportation Technical Committee
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Appendix B – List of MPO Stakeholders & Public Groups
The AAMPO communicates with a wide variety of stakeholders so that feedback throughout the MPO’s
various planning processes is comprehensive and properly reflects community values. The following
stakeholders are identified as primary targets for key messages and communications on MPO planning
activities and planning document updates.
1.Local, State, & Federal Government Agencies
•Ames Transit Agency (CyRide)
•Boone County
•City of Ames
•City of Gilbert
•Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
•Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
•Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT)
•Iowa State University (ISU)
•Story County
Note: The AAMPO maintains a joint planning agreement with the Iowa DOT. This joint planning
agreement is updated and renewed annually as a part of the TPWP development process.
2.Local & Regional Transportation Groups & Agencies
•Ames Area Running Club
•Ames Bicycle Coalition
•Ames Kidical Mass
•Ames Velo
•Central Iowa Bicycle-Pedestrian Roundtable
•Central Iowa Regional Transportation Planning Alliance (CIRTPA)
•Des Moines Area MPO (DMAMPO)
•Iowa Bicycle Coalition
3.Local, Community, & Development Groups/Organizations
•Ames Chamber of Commerce
•Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau
•Ames Economic Development Commission
•Ames Historical Society
•Ames Home Builders Association
•Ames School District
•Campustown Action Association
•Downtown Ames
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•First Responders (Police, Fire, EMS)
•Gilbert School District
•Hospitals
•Iowa State University Student Government
•Local Developers
•Neighborhood Associations & Groups
4.Advocacy Groups for disadvantaged, minority groups, and limited English-speaking individuals
•Story County Transportation Collaboration (United Way of Story County)
•Engaging International Spouses (EIS) – YWCA Ames
•Human Service Organizations (previous Story County Human Service Council, no longer formal
group)
•International Students & Scholars (ISS)
•Intensive English & Orientation Program
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Appendix C – ACS Demographic Data Tables
The following tables summarize demographic data for all census tracts located partially or wholly within
the AAMPO’s boundary. Five-year data (2018-2022) was obtained at the census tract level from the
2022 American Community Survey (ACS) dataset, available at https://data.census.gov.
Table 1: Overview of Reported Disability Status
Disability Population Percentage
Hearing Difficulty 1,901 2.2%
Vision Difficulty 963 1.1%
Cognitive Difficulty 2,791 3.2%
Ambulatory Difficulty 2,097 2.4%
Self-Care Difficulty 917 1.1%
Independent Living Difficulty 1,941 2.3%
DISABILITY REPORTED 6,502 7.5%
NO DISABILITY REPORTED 79,652 92.5%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
Table 2: Overview of Poverty Status
Poverty Status Population Percentage
Below Poverty Level 15,397 22.6%
Above Poverty Level 52,676 77.4%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
Table 3: Overview of Population by Race
Race Category Population Percentage
White 65,489 78.8%
Black or African American 2,285 2.8%
Asian 7,066 8.5%
Hispanic or Latino 3,013 3.6%
Some Other Race 1,559 1.9%
Two or More Races 3,657 4.4%
WHITE 65,489 78.8%
NON-WHITE 17,580 21.2%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
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Table 4: Overview of Population by Age Group
Age Group Population Percentage
≤ 19 20,000 25.0%
20-34 31,042 38.8%
35-54 12,660 15.8%
55-64 6,681 8.3%
≥ 65 9,673 12.1%
LESS THAN 65 70,383 87.9%
GREATER THAN OR EQUAL TO 65 9,673 12.1%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
Table 5: Abbreviated Overview of Language Populations
Category Population Percentage
Speak only English 66,757 86.7%
Speak English "very well"6,886 8.9%
Speak English less than "very well"3,394 4.4%
TOTAL 77,037 100.0%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
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Table 6: Breakdown of Language Group Populations
Category Population Percentage
Total:77,037 100.0%
Speak only English 56,757 86.7%
Spanish:1,491 1.9%
Speak English "very well"1,245 1.6%
Speak English less than "very well"246 0.3%
French, Haitian, or Cajun:154 0.2%
Speak English "very well"144 0.2%
Speak English less than "very well"10 0.0%
German or other West Germanic languages:465 0.6%
Speak English "very well"433 0.6%
Speak English less than "very well"32 0.0%
Russian, Polish, or other Slavic languages:307 0.4%
Speak English "very well"251 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well"56 0.1%
Other Indo-European languages:2,024 2.6%
Speak English "very well"1,663 2.2%
Speak English less than "very well"361 0.5%
Korean:710 0.9%
Speak English "very well"256 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well"454 0.6%
Chinese (incl. Mandarin, Cantonese):2,550 3.3%
Speak English "very well"1,026 1.3%
Speak English less than "very well"1,524 2.0%
Vietnamese:504 0.7%
Speak English "very well"229 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well"275 0.4%
Tagalog (incl. Filipino):349 0.5%
Speak English "very well"309 0.4%
Speak English less than "very well"40 0.1%
Other Asian and Pacific Island languages:1,030 1.3%
Speak English "very well"820 1.1%
Speak English less than "very well"210 0.3%
Arabic:217 0.3%
Speak English "very well"198 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well"19 0.0%
Other and unspecified languages:479 0.6%
Speak English "very well"312 0.4%
Speak English less than "very well"167 0.2%
Source: 2018-2022 ACS Data
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Appendix D – EJScreen Spatial Data
To better meet their responsibilities related to the protection of public health and the environment, the
EPA developed a new environmental justice (EJ) mapping and screening tool called EJScreen. This tool
draws from nationwide data and combines environmental and demographic data indicators in both
maps and reports. When generating maps, the EJScreen tool utilizes recent ACS demographic data at
the Census Block Group level (the finest level of detail that Census data is publicly shared).
The AAMPO used EJScreen to generate socioeconomic data maps for its planning area based upon State
of Iowa percentiles. Maps for the following socioeconomic indicators were generated (descriptions for
each factor are taken directly from the EPA’s website at this link):
•Demographic Index
o The demographic index in EJScreen is a combination of percent low-income and percent
minority, the two socioeconomic factors that were explicitly named in Executive Order
12898 on Environmental Justice. For each Census block group, these two numbers are
simply averaged together. The formula is as follows: demographic index = (% people of
color + % low-income) / 2.
•People of Color
o The percent of individuals in a block group who list their racial status as a race other than
white alone and/or list their ethnicity as Hispanic or Latino. That is, all people other than
non-Hispanic white-alone individuals. The word "alone" in this case indicates that the
person is of a single race, not multiracial.
•Low Income
o Percent of individuals whose ratio of household income to poverty level in the past 12
months was less than 2 (as a fraction of individuals for whom ratio was determined).
•Unemployment Rate
o All those who did not have a job at all during the reporting period, made at least one
specific active effort to find a job during the prior 4 weeks, and were available for work
(unless temporarily ill).
•Limited English Speaking
o Percent of households in which no one age 14 and over speaks English "very well" or
speaks English only (as a fraction of households).
•Over Age 64
o Percent of individuals over age 64 as a fraction of the population.
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Figure 8: Demographic Index Data Map
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Figure 9: People of Color Data Map
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Figure 10: Low Income Data Map
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Figure 11: Unemployment Rate Data Map
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Figure 12: Limited English Speaking Data Map
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Figure 13: Over Age 64 Data Map
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Appendix D – Limited-English Proficiency (LEP) Plan
The following pages contain the Ames Area MPO’s LEP Plan, adopted on October 26, 2021.
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Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration, and in part through local matching
funds of the Ames Area MPO member governments. These contents are the responsibility of the Ames Area MPO. The
U.S. government and its agencies assume no liability for the contents of this report or for the use of its contents. The
Limited English
Proficiency (LEP) Plan
2021 Update
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CONTENTS
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Background ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Four-Factor Analysis ............................................................................................................................... 3
Factor 1 – LEP Population .......................................................................................................................... 4
American Community Survey (ACS) Data ............................................................................................. 4
Overview of Language Data ................................................................................................................... 4
Safe Harbor Provision ............................................................................................................................. 4
Factor 2 – Frequency of Contact ................................................................................................................. 7
Previous Requests ................................................................................................................................... 7
Iowa State University Students ............................................................................................................... 7
Public Participation Plan ......................................................................................................................... 7
Factor 3 – Importance of Services and Programs ....................................................................................... 8
MPO Services and Programs................................................................................................................... 8
Vital Services and Documents ................................................................................................................ 8
Planning Documents ............................................................................................................................... 8
Factor 4 – Resources Available for Outreach ............................................................................................. 9
MPO Public Outreach Strategies............................................................................................................. 9
City of Ames ........................................................................................................................................... 9
CyRide and Iowa State University ........................................................................................................ 10
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Summary ............................................................................................................................................... 11
Language Assistance Services .............................................................................................................. 11
Outreach Strategies ............................................................................................................................... 12
Updating the LEP Plan .......................................................................................................................... 12
Contact Information .............................................................................................................................. 12
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Introduction
Background
The primary objective of the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Plan is to ensure that individuals with
limited English proficiency are provided meaningful access to the Ames Area Metropolitan
Transportation Planning Organization’s (AAMPO’s) various transportation planning processes.
Executive Order 13166, signed August 11, 2000, “requires Federal agencies to examine the services
they provide, services to those with limited English proficiency (LEP), and develop and implement a
system to provide those services so LEP persons can have meaningful access to them.” Additionally, in
accordance with this Executive Order, the U.S. DOT issued its own LEP Guidance, which applies to all
recipients of U.S. DOT funding, including MPOs. The Iowa DOT also provides additional guidance to
Iowa MPOs regarding outreach to limited English proficiency persons as a part of their Public
Participation Plan guidance.
The Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 “prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or
national origin in any program or activity that receives Federal funds or other Federal financial
assistance.” MPOs receive federal funding from both the FHWA and FTA and are therefore required to
adhere to Title VI requirements. Regarding Title VI, any conduct that has a disproportionate effect on
persons with limited English proficiency is prohibited, since this conduct would constitute national
origin discrimination.
Four-Factor Analysis
The U.S. DOT LEP guidance recommends the use of a Four-Factor Analysis during the creation of LEP
Plans. The following are the four factors:
1. The number and proportion of persons with limited English proficiency who are eligible to
be served or likely to be encountered by MPO services and programs.
2. The frequency with which persons with limited English proficiency encounter MPO services
and programs.
3. The nature and importance of the MPO’s services and programs in people’s lives.
4. The resources available to the MPO for outreach to persons with limited English proficiency,
as well as the costs associated with the outreach.
The Four-Factor Analysis will act as the framework for the AAMPO’s LEP Plan. Each of the four factors
will be included as a separate section in this document.
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Factor 1 – LEP Population
The first analysis factor is the number and proportion of persons with limited English proficiency who
are eligible to be served or likely to be encountered by MPO services and programs.
American Community Survey (ACS) Data
The U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) is an excellent data source for
summarizing socioeconomic data, including data on English proficiency. For this analysis, data was
downloaded from https://data.census.gov for the census tract level. 5-year ACS data was gathered for
years 2015 through 2019. Only census tracts with greater than 10% of their land area located within
the MPO boundary were included in the analysis.
Overview of Language Data
Table 1 shows an abbreviated overview of the language data for Ames Area MPO region. Around 86%
of the population within the AAMPO region speak only English. Nearly 14% of the population speak a
language other than English. Just under 6% of the population are classified with limited English
proficiency (speaks English less than “very well”).
Table 1: Abbreviated Overview of Language Populations
Category Population Percentage
Speak only English 58,640 86.3%
Speak English "very well" 5,392 7.9%
Speak English less than "very well" 3,949 5.8%
TOTAL 67,981 100.0%
Source: 2015-2019 ACS Data
Safe Harbor Provision
The U.S. DOT’s LEP guidance references the Department of Justice’s Safe Harbor Provision, which
outlines circumstances that can provide a “safe harbor” for recipients regarding the translation of
written materials for LEP populations. In short, the Safe Harbor Provision recommends a written
translation of vital documents for each eligible LEP language group that constitutes 5% or 1,000
persons, whichever is less. It also adds that the translation of non-vital documents, if needed, can be
provided orally.
Table 2 provides a detailed breakdown of all the language group populations, as defined in the
American Community Survey. The only language group within the AAMPO boundary which met the
above Safe Harbor Provision criteria was Chinese (including Mandarin & Cantonese). Although this
group constituted less than 5% of the total population (3.3%), greater than 1,000 people fell within this
group (2,263). See Figure 1 for a map summarizing limited English proficiency populations by census
tract within the AAMPO region.
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Table 2: Breakdown of Language Group Populations
Category Population Percentage
Total: 67,981 100.0%
Speak only English 58,640 86.3%
Spanish: 1,294 1.9%
Speak English "very well" 961 1.4%
Speak English less than "very well" 333 0.5%
French, Haitian, or Cajun: 118 0.2%
Speak English "very well" 87 0.1%
Speak English less than "very well" 31 0.0%
German or other West Germanic languages: 377 0.6%
Speak English "very well" 368 0.5%
Speak English less than "very well" 9 0.0%
Russian, Polish, or other Slavic languages: 180 0.3%
Speak English "very well" 150 0.2%
Speak English less than "very well" 30 0.0%
Other Indo-European languages: 1,188 1.7%
Speak English "very well" 870 1.3%
Speak English less than "very well" 318 0.5%
Korean: 660 1.0%
Speak English "very well" 196 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well" 464 0.7%
Chinese (incl. Mandarin, Cantonese): 4,036 5.9%
Speak English "very well" 1,773 2.6%
Speak English less than "very well" 2,263 3.3%
Vietnamese: 169 0.2%
Speak English "very well" 30 0.0%
Speak English less than "very well" 139 0.2%
Tagalog (incl. Filipino): 142 0.2%
Speak English "very well" 118 0.2%
Speak English less than "very well" 24 0.0%
Other Asian and Pacific Island languages: 763 1.1%
Speak English "very well" 496 0.7%
Speak English less than "very well" 267 0.4%
Arabic: 244 0.4%
Speak English "very well" 189 0.3%
Speak English less than "very well" 55 0.1%
Other and unspecified languages: 170 0.3%
Speak English "very well" 154 0.2%
Speak English less than "very well" 16 0.0%
Source: 2015-2019 ACS Data; Purple = Met Safe Harbor Criteria
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Figure 1: Limited English Proficiency Map (Source: 2015-2019 ACS Data)
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Factor 2 – Frequency of Contact
The second analysis factor is the frequency with which persons with limited English proficiency
encounter MPO services and programs.
Previous Requests
To date, the Ames Area MPO has never received a request for language assistance services, written or
oral, from any individuals or groups with limited English proficiency. However, it is anticipated that the
proportion of limited English proficiency individuals within the region could increase. Therefore, the
probability of contact with a limited English proficiency group or individual may increase as well.
Iowa State University Students
It is worth noting that approximately 31,000 of 68,000 of the Ames region’s population is comprised of
the student body of Iowa State University. Iowa State University has a sizable enrollment of minority
populations, including Chinese students, which may have limited English proficiency. The MPO does
not typically see many direct contacts from Iowa State University students. However, the MPO does
frequency communicate and coordinate with Iowa State University and CyRide, both of which do
frequently interact with students. Iowa State and CyRide both have representatives on the MPO’s
technical and policy boards.
CyRide, whose staff conducts many of the MPO’s transit planning activities as a part of a joint planning
agreement, has its own LEP Plan. CyRide’s LEP Plan follows a similar four factor analysis to this LEP Plan
and includes detailed breakdowns of the Iowa State student body as well as CyRide’s interactions with
limited English proficiency students who utilize their bus transit system.
Public Participation Plan
The Ames Area MPO’s Public Participation Plan (PPP) summarizes how the MPO involves the public and
stakeholders in its transportation planning efforts, including engagement goals and strategies. The PPP
also highlights the MPO’s commitment to providing its planning services to all members of the public,
including underserved populations such as those with limited English proficiency.
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Factor 3 – Importance of Services and Programs
The third analysis factor is the nature and importance of the MPO’s services and programs in people’s
lives.
MPO Services and Programs
The Ames Area MPO provides and coordinates various transportation planning and improvement
efforts throughout the Ames region. This includes a data-driven and community-based planning
approach which identifies necessary transportation improvements and programs in the region. The
MPO also directs the programming and use of federal funds on future transportation projects
(including roadway, transit, and multi-modal improvements). Since every individual directly utilizes or
relies upon the region’s transportation system in some capacity, the MPO’s transportation planning
activities impact everyone within the region.
Vital Services and Documents
The MPO does not provide any emergency-based services such as medical treatments or basic needs
services (food, water, shelter, etc.). The MPO does maintain various planning documents (described
below) as well as a Title VI Notice to the Public, Title VI Policy & Procedures, and a Title VI Complain
Form. These three Title VI documents are considered vital, per FTA Circular 4702.1B.
Planning Documents
The Ames Area MPO maintains five core planning documents including:
1. Public Participation Plan (PPP)
2. Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
3. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
4. Transportation Planning Work Program (TPWP)
5. Passenger Transportation Plan (PTP)
More information about these planning documents can be found on the MPO website. They are also
summarized within the Public Participation Plan. The MPO also maintains other documents and
materials such as Title VI documentation, an Intelligent Transportation Systems Architecture
document, and this LEP Plan. These are also all located on the MPO website.
The MPO always prioritizes inclusivity when developing transportation plans, studies, documents, and
programs. The impact a transportation project or initiative will have on underserved populations,
including limited English proficiency individuals, is always considered when evaluating that project or
initiative. The MPO, through the strategies and procedures developed in the Public Participation Plan
and LEP Plan, will always attempt to encourage outreach to and allow participation by limited English
proficiency groups.
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Factor 4 – Resources Available for Outreach
The fourth analysis factor is identifying the resources available to the MPO for outreach to persons
with limited English proficiency, as well as the costs associated with the outreach.
MPO Public Outreach Strategies
The MPO’s Public Participation Plan (PPP) outlines goals and strategies for public outreach and
participation. Some of public outreach methods listed in the PPP and utilized by the MPO include:
• AAMPO Website (www.aampo.org) – Automated translations available for over 90 languages.
• E-Mail Notifications – Signup available on the MPO website.
• Publications – Including Ames Tribune, ISU Daily, and radio stations.
• TV & Streaming – Meetings are broadcast on the local governmental access cable channel
(Channel 12), the City of Ames YouTube Channel, and as a live stream on the city’s website.
• Social Media – The MPO utilizes the City of Ames’ social media accounts on Facebook and
Twitter.
• City Side – The City of Ames Newsletter, City Side, is distributed monthly by mail to all City of
Ames residents.
City of Ames
The following are a list of resources that the City of Ames has for ensuring access for LEP persons:
• Oral Interpretation Service
o The City of Ames offers the Language Line Interpretation Service. If there is a non-
English speaking individual that comes into a city department, staff can show them the
brochure for the Language Line Interpretation Service and have them select the
language that they understand (the languages are written in both the native language
and in English). Staff members can call the Language Interpretation Service and asks for
the appropriate interpreter as pointed out by the customer. Staff members can utilize a
speaker phone so both the staff member and the customer can be on the line at the
same time. Flyers offering the Language Line Interpretation Service will be posted in the
Administrative Offices. Additionally, where best appropriate, staff employees will also
utilize Google Translator Interpretation Service from their computers and/or as
application on their cell phones.
• The City of Ames, as needed, will work with the Bureau of Refugee Services.
• The City of Ames has developed a list of all City employees that speak, write, or read a language
other than English fluently. The City of Ames may contact employees on this list for
interpretation services as their schedule permits. A current list will be maintained in the in the
Human Resources internal website.
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• The City of Ames will also allow LEP persons to use an interpreter of their own choosing
(whether a professional interpreter, family member, or friend) in place of or as a supplement to
the Language Line interpretation services offered by the City of Ames.
• The City’s web page can allow its information to be translated into different languages by
selecting the language of choice.
CyRide and Iowa State University
CyRide’s LEP Plan provides an excellent summary of the resources they have available to them for
reaching out to Limited English Proficiency persons. Some of these resources include:
• Google Translate for documents, notices, agendas, flyers, and other printed materials.
• Coordination with the Iowa State University’s International Student & Scholars
• Coordination with Iowa State University’s Intensive English & Orientation Program/Office of the
Registrar
• Coordination with local human service organizations through Story County’s Human Services
Council and United Way’s Transportation Collaboration Committee
• Coordination with Community Partners (such as the City of Ames, Iowa State University, and
the Iowa State University Student Government)
• CyRide has a contract with “CTS Language Link” who is a 24/7/365 Telephone Interpreting
service that supports over 240 languages and has 24-hour support. According to CyRide’s LEP
Plan, this service costs about $0.82/min.
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Conclusion
Summary
A four-factor analysis was conducted, per the U.S. DOT LEP guidance, to determine which language
assistance services are appropriate for the MPO to implement for effective communication with
limited English proficiency persons. The four analysis factors included:
1. The number and proportion of persons with limited English proficiency who are eligible to
be served or likely to be encountered by MPO services and programs.
2. The frequency with which persons with limited English proficiency encounter MPO services
and programs.
3. The nature and importance of the MPO’s services and programs in people’s lives.
4. The resources available to the MPO for outreach to persons with limited English proficiency,
as well as the costs associated with the outreach.
Language Assistance Services
The Ames Area MPO is currently staffed and fiscally supported by the City of Ames. Therefore, the
MPO will plan to leverage the resources that the City of Ames has available for engaging limited English
proficiency persons. The following is a list of the language assistance services the MPO will provide:
1. Oral Interpretation Services – The MPO will leverage the Language Line Interpretation
Service through TheBigWord. If there is a non-English speaking individual that comes into a
city department, staff can show them the brochure for the Language Line Interpretation
Service and have them select the language that they understand (the languages are written
in both the native language and in English). Staff members can call the Language
Interpretation Service and asks for an appropriate interpreter, as pointed out by the
customer. The City of Ames has also developed a list of all City employees that speak, write,
or read a language other than English fluently. The City of Ames may contact employees on
this list for interpretation services as their schedule permits. A current list is maintained in
the Human Resources internal website. Note that the Ames Area MPO will also allow LEP
persons to use an interpreter of their own choosing (whether a professional interpreter,
family member, or friend) in place of or as a supplement to the Language Line
interpretation services offered by the Ames Area MPO. Additionally, where best
appropriate, staff employees will also utilize Google Translator Interpretation Service from
their computers and/or as application on their cell phones.
2. Written Translations (Vital Documents) - The MPO will provide a written translation of all
vital documents (Title VI Notice to the Public, Title VI Policy & Procedures, and a Title VI
Complain Form) to Mandarin Chinese, per the Safe Harbor Provision requirements.
3. Bureau of Refugee Services – The MPO will, as needed, work with the Bureau of Refugee
Services.
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4. MPO Website – The MPO’s website can allow its information to be automatically translated
into over 90 different languages.
5. Regional Partners – The MPO will work with its regional agencies and contact groups such
as Iowa State University and CyRide to establish and provide additional language assistance
services to the MPO, as needed.
The MPO will continue to monitor for any translation requests made from LEP persons and will
evaluate whether full written language translations may be required for any of the core transportation
planning documents or other MPO materials in the future. The MPO will leverage its oral
interpretation services for the translation of any planning document or written material, upon request.
Outreach Strategies
The MPO will continue to coordinate with its regional contacts, as outlined in the Public Participation
Plan, regarding outreach strategies for limited English proficiency persons. Additionally, the MPO will
continue to utilize its various public outreach resources such as: the MPO website (with automated
translations into over 90 different languages), e-mail notifications, publications, radio stations, Channel
12, streaming, social media, and the City of Ames newsletter, City Side.
Updating the LEP Plan
The MPO will continue to monitor and update the LEP Plan per Iowa DOT and U.S. DOT requirements.
Some reasons an update may be warranted include:
• Changes in the region’s LEP population (number, proportion, location) as indicated by new
Census and ACS data.
• New analysis strategies for evaluating LEP populations and resources.
• New interactions with or translation requests from LEP persons.
• Updates to LEP policies or procedures at the local, state, or federal level.
The MPO evaluates if an update to the LEP Plan is warranted during its annual self-certification
process. The MPO’s Transportation Policy Committee may also direct the creation of an updated LEP
Plan at its discretion.
Contact Information
The Ames Area MPO wants to ensure that its Limited English Proficiency Plan is effective in providing
outreach and translation services for limited English proficiency persons. Anyone who requires
language assistance services should contact the Ames Area MPO using the information below:
Ames Area MPO
515 Clark Ave
Ames, IA, 50010
Phone: (515) 239-5169
Email
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2025 FTA TITLE VI PROGRAM |AAMPO
Appendix E – Meeting Minutes for Approval of Title VI Program
[PLACEHOLDER FOR MINUTES SHOWING APPROVAL.]
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Appendix F – Demographic Map with Transit Routes
The Ames Area MPO awards funds to the Ames Transit Agency (CyRide) for bus purchases and
projects that are utilized systemwide. Therefore, the following map shows the location of
different percentiles of the Demographic Index utilized in the EJScreen tool in relation to
CyRide’s transit route network.
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Appendix G – Demographic Maps with MTP & TIP Projects
Figure Source: Ames Area MPO MTP (Forward 45), Page 175
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2025 FTA TITLE VI PROGRAM |AAMPO
FFY 2025-2028 TIP Projects Relative to the EJScreen Tool’s Demographic Index
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ITEM #:7
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:AAMPO 2025 CIRTPA REPRESENTATIVES
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
Each year the Transportation Policy Committee appoints representatives and alternate representatives to
the Central Iowa Regional Transportation Planning Alliance’s (CIRTPA's) two committees – the
Transportation Policy Committee (TPC) and the Transportation Technical Committee (TTC). Since the
AAMPO is an advisory member of CIRTPA, these are non-voting positions.
It is recommended that the AAMPO’s designated representatives for 2025 be as follows:
CIRTPA TPC Representative: Kyle Thompson, Transportation Planner
CIRTPA TPC Alternate Representative: Damion Pregitzer, Traffic Engineer
CIRTPA TTC Representative: Kyle Thompson, Transportation Planner
CIRTPA TTC Alternate Representative: Damion Pregitzer, Traffic Engineer
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Appoint the individuals named above to their respective roles representing the AAMPO on
CIRTPA’s committees in 2025.
2. Designate other individuals to represent the AAMPO on CIRTPA’s committees in 2025.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The individuals named above have successfully served as the AAMPO’s representatives on CIRTPA’s
committees for the past five years. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the MPO Executive
Director that the Transportation Policy Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
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ITEM #:8
DATE:03-25-25
DEPT:AAMPO
SUBJECT:TARGET YEAR FOR ACHIEVING ZERO FATAL AND
SERIOUS INJURY CRASHES
TRANSPORTATION POLICY COMMITTEE ACTION FORM
BACKGROUND:
The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) discretionary grant program was established in the
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) with the primary purpose to improve roadway safety by
significantly reducing or eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries through safety action plan
development, refinement, and implementation focused on all users.
On December 13, 2023, the AAMPO was awarded $100,000 in SS4A planning & demonstration grant
funding by the U.S. Department of Transportation for the creation of a comprehensive safety action plan
(CSAP). The AAMPO has been developing its CSAP in coordination with its 2050 Metropolitan
Transportation Plan (MTP) update, including shared data collection and public engagement efforts (see
Attachment A for presentation slides introducing the CSAP and highlighting its components and
anticipated timeline) The anticipated adoption date of the CSAP is September 23, 2025.
One required component of the CSAP specified by the SS4A grant program is a leadership
commitment and goal setting as follows:
An official public commitment (e.g., resolution, policy, ordinance) by a high-ranking official and/or
governing body (e.g., Mayor, City Council, Tribal Council, metropolitan planning organization [MPO],
Policy Board) to an eventual goal of zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries. The commitment must
include a goal and timeline for eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries achieved through
one, or both, of the following:
(1) the target date for achieving zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries, OR
(2) an ambitious percentage reduction of roadway fatalities and serious injuries by a specific date with
an eventual goal of eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries.
At its meeting on March 13, 2025, the Transportation Technical Committee, which is comprised
of technical staff from all the MPO's member agencies, discussed and arrived at a
recommendation as to what target year would be appropriate for achieving zero fatal and serious
injury crashes in the current AAMPO planning area. Using a balance of regional crash data
trends, anticipated future funding available to implement safety-focused projects and initiatives,
and a desire to establish a target year that was both ambitious and attainable as well as in
alignment with the planning horizon year of the 2050 MTP, Ames Connect 2050 , the technical
committee unanimously recommended that 2050 would be the most appropriate target year.
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ALTERNATIVES:
1. Set 2050 as the target year for achieving zero fatal and serious injury crashes in the AAMPO's
current planning area.
2. Set an alternative year as the target year for achieving zero fatal and serious injury crashes in the
AAMPO's current planning area.
MPO DIRECTOR'S RECOMMENDED ACTION:
The Transportation Technical Committee, which is comprised of technical staff from all the MPO's
member agencies, unanimously recommended setting 2050 as the target year for achieving zero fatal
and serious injury crashes based on a balance of regional crash data trends, anticipated future funding
available to implement safety-focused projects and initiatives, and a desire to establish a target year that
was both ambitious and attainable as well as in alignment with the planning horizon year of Ames
Connect 2050. Therefore, it is the recommendation of the MPO Executive Director that the
Transportation Policy Committee adopt Alternative No. 1, as noted.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Attachment A - CSAP Presentation.pdf
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AMES CSAP
Policy Committee Informational Presentation
145
WHAT IS A CSAP AND SS4A?
CSAP
Comprehensive
Safety Action Plan
SS4A
Safe Streets and
Roads for All
Leadership Commitment & Goal Setting
Equity Considerations
Planning Structure
Policy & Process Changes
Safety Analysis
Strategy & Project Selections
Engagement & Collaboration
Progress & Transparency
146
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
AAMPO Traffic crash statistics from 2017 to 2023
98
SERIOUS INJURIES
30
CYCLIST CRASHES
29
PEDESTRIAN CRASHES
11
FATALITIES
22
IMPAIRMENT CRASHES
158
YOUNG DRIVER CRASHES
147
HOW WILL WE GET THERE?
•Multimodal travelers
•Engineers
•Planners
•Educators
•Maintenance
•Law Enforcement
•EMS/Hospitals
148
MAJOR PROJECTS
Highest-Ranking | Project Details I Capital Improvement Plan
HOW WILL WE GET THERE?
149
MAJOR PROJECTS
Highest-Ranking | Project Details I Capital Improvement Plan
HOW WILL WE GET THERE?
SYSTEMIC PROJECTS
Low-Cost Strategies | Minimal Investment but Noticeable Improvements Countermeasures
150
MAJOR PROJECTS
Highest-Ranking | Project Details I Capital Improvement Plan
HOW WILL WE GET THERE?
SYSTEMIC PROJECTS
Low-Cost Strategies | Minimal Investment but Noticeable Improvements Countermeasures
POLICY STRATEGIES
Behavior Modification I Proactive Prevention I Policy Change I Best Practices
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WHAT MIGHT THAT LOOK LIKE?
SPEED MANAGEMENT
•Appropriate speed limits for all road
users
•Variable speed limits
•Speed safety cameras
?
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WHAT MIGHT THAT LOOK LIKE?
NON-MOTORIST SAFETY
•Bicycle lanes
•Leading pedestrian interval
•Pedestrian hybrid beacons
•Road diets (roadway configuration)
•Crosswalk Visibility
•Medians and pedestrian refugee
islands in urban suburban areas
•Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons
(RRFB)
•Walkways
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WHAT MIGHT THAT LOOK LIKE?
INTERSECTIONS
•Backplates with retroreflective boarders
•Dedicated left-and-right-turn lanes at
intersections
•Roundabouts
•Yellow change intervals
•Corridor access management
•Reduced left-turn conflict intersections
•Systematic application of multiple low-
cost countermeasures at stop-
controlled intersections
154
WHAT MIGHT THAT LOOK LIKE?
CROSSCUTTING
•Lighting
•Pavement friction management
•Local road safety plans
•Road safety audit
155
WHAT MIGHT THAT LOOK LIKE?
ROADWAY DEPARTURE
•Enhanced delineation for horizontal,
curves
•Longitudinal rumble strips and stripes
on two-lane roads
•Median barriers
•Roadside design improvements at
curves
•Wider edge liners
•SafetyEdge SM
156
Draft Results
Safety Analysis
Policy & Process Review
WHAT IS OUR PROGRESS?
157
Progressing
Public & Stakeholder
Input
WHAT IS OUR PROGRESS?
Draft Results
Safety Analysis
Policy & Process Review
Regular Technical
Committee Input
Equity Considerations
Target Year Setting
158
Progressing
Public & Stakeholder
Input
WHAT IS OUR PROGRESS?
Draft Results
Safety Analysis Regular Technical
Committee Input
Equity Considerations
Target Year Setting
Still to Come
Policy & Process
Recommendations
Future Annual Progress
Reporting
Technical Committee
Handover of Actions
Leadership Adoption of Plan
Public & Stakeholder Plan
Review
Strategy & Project Selections
Policy & Process
Review
159
WHAT IS THE PLANNING STRUCTURE?
SHORT TERM
Approval of CSAP work products
LONG TERM
Action plan implementors of projects and strategies
EXISTING FIRST MAJOR ACTION
AAMPO Technical Committee will serve as the planning structure
Proposed adoption of a target year of 2050 to reach zero deaths and serious injuries
SS4A Taskforce
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TARGET YEAR SETTING
Requires a 4%
reduction
average
annual
reduction
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WHAT IS LEADERSHIP’S ROLE?
•Be a safety champion – You have a unique
platform to encourage safe driver behaviors
•Commit to a Goal of Zero Deaths and Serious Injuries by 2050
•Adopt the Plan in September 2025
•Support funding of priority projects identified by
this community plan
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QUESTIONS
163