Interrelationship between Planning and Funding

Improved transportation begins with transportation planning which incorporates available funding. This is illustrateed by the problems facing the Texas Department of Highway and Public Transportation which were: increasing traffic volume, rising costs, and leveling off of revenue growth. In cooperation with a consultant firm, a complete analysis was made to find solutions to the immediate problems and evaluate the financial situation. A system-oriented program is being developed to establish a balanced system within a foreseeable time that can be funded and controlled. This approach to highway planning should result in maximum benefits from available funds and a highway program with a realistic, solid foundation. Effective transportation planning must include consideration of funding limitations and must be accomplished by the parties who have the authority and responsibility for implementation.