florence area transportation study
FLORENCE AREA TRANSPORTATION STUDY DRAFT UNIFIED PLANNING WORK PROGRAM DRAFT Federal ID #57‐6000351 Fiscal Year 2014 Funding provided by:
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION and
FLORENCE COUNTY www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/ florenceco.blogspot.com Public Comment Period 5/17/13 through 5/27/13 ( )
FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Table of Contents INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 2 FLATS COMMITTEE MEMBERS............................................................................. 4 PLANNING EMPHASIS AND ISSUES ...................................................................... 6 FUNDING ............................................................................................................ 8 A. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................ 9 B. SURVEILLANCE ............................................................................................. 16 C. DOCUMENTATION AND ANALYSIS ................................................................ 23 APPENDIX A. LIST OF ACRONYMS ...................................................................... 29 APPENDIX B. GENERAL REFERENCES ................................................................. 30 SCDOT CERTIFICATION ...................................................................................... 31 SCDOT LPA AGREEMENT ................................................................................... 32
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Introduction This Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) identifies the transportation planning activities being conducted by the Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which serves the Urbanized Florence Area in South Carolina. The FLATS MPO study area boundary includes the City of Florence, Town of Quinby, City of Darlington, Town of Timmonsville and the northwestern unincorporated area of Florence and Darlington counties. The FLATS MPO serves a population of approximately 124,316 (US Census 2010). Florence County Planning, GIS and Engineering staff completes the activities outlined in the UPWP during each fiscal year between July 1st and June 30th. Planning staff prepared this document, in consultation with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and other agencies involved in transportation planning and implementation. This document is written in compliance with the Title VI requirements contained in the Federal Regulations for the development of plans and programs. The FLATS MPO is allocated a total of $158,584 ($147,968 in Planning and Transit, PL/FTA, allocations and $10,616 in carryover funds). The planning funds are appropriated under the enactment of the Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century Act (MAP‐21; Public Law 112‐ 141; Bill H.R. 4348). The MAP‐21 law promotes investment in transportation infrastructure as a boost to the US economy. Planning funds are allocated into the three categories as shown in Table 1 with 80% being federally funded and a 20% local match from Florence County. For this term, the goals are: to minimize administrative costs, increase public participation and the utilization of traffic congestion modeling. The Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA‐ LU) (pub. 109‐59, August 10, 2005) mandates changes in the metropolitan planning process. FLATS has adopted the eight Planning Emphasis Areas (PEAs) described under this law into our planning process. Increased participation from stakeholders, operational improvements, protection of existing corridors and improvements to bicycling, walking and transit facilities are all given great emphasis. The FLATS planning process emphasizes the importance of connectivity and managing access to our corridors. The PEAs are explained in the Planning Emphasis and Issues section of this document. The UPWP describes the specific tasks for FLATS for FY 2014 pursuant to these PEAs. MAP‐21 directs transportation planning actions (Titles 23 and 49, United States Code). MAP‐21 states that the metropolitan transportation planning process shall provide for the establishment and use of a performance‐based approach to transportation decision‐making to support the nation goals described in section 150(b) of Title 23 and in section 5301(c) of Title 49. The FLATS MPO shall establish performance targets that address the performance measures described in section 150(c) of Title 23, where applicable, to use in tracking progress towards
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attainment of critical outcomes for the FLATS region. Selection of performance targets shall be coordinated with the SCDOT to ensure consistency, to the maximum extent practicable. The FLATS program is designed to solicit and include input from local officials, business owners and citizens into the decisions directing expenditures of transportation funds within the urban area of Florence, South Carolina. Federal Funds must be considered and approved by the FLATS Policy Committee for major road or transit projects that take place within the FLATS area. FLATS continues its mission to coordinate with local transportation interests and long‐term planning partners including the Pee Dee Council of Governments (PDCOG), Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA), local governments within the FLATS area as well as members of the public. The FLATS 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) was approved by the Policy Committee on July 12, 2012. The approved 2035 LRTP is incorporated on the FLATS website. FLATS MPO’s selection and prioritization process in developing the Long Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan in addition to other required Federal documents are in accordance with South Carolina General Assembly Act 114 enacted on June 2007. The FY2014 UPWP is supported by the 2035 LRTP. To further guide the FLATS planning process, the vision and goals of the 2035 LRTP are grouped according to the SAFETEA‐LU eight planning factors. The essence of the 2035 LRTP elements represent the collective vision for a safe, multimodal and interconnected transportation system that supports continued economic development without compromising the natural historic and social resources vital to the FLATS area’s sustainability. Annual updates and amendments to the UPWP are performed as addressed in the Public Participation Process plan. Additional information about FLATS planning activities is available on the Florence County website at: http://www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/ or by contacting FLATS staff at the Florence County Planning Department at (843) 676‐8600. This report was funded in part through grant[s] from the Federal Highway Administration [and Federal Transit Administration], U.W. Department of Transportation. The views and opinions of the authors [or agency] expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
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FLATS Committee Members
The FLATS Policy Committee is the decision‐making body that transacts the business to develop FLATS in accordance with State and Federal laws and regulations. The FLATS Policy Committee consists of the following voting and non‐voting members: Policy Committee (Voting) Mayor, City of Florence Councilman, City of Florence Mayor, Town of Quinby Chairman, Florence County Council Councilman, Florence County Senator, South Carolina Senate (District 31) Representative, South Carolina House of Representatives (District 63) Commissioner, South Carolina Transportation Commission (District 7) Chairman, County Transportation Committee Policy Committee (Non‐Voting) City Manager, City of Florence Administrator, Florence County Director, Florence County Planning and Building Inspection Department (PBID) Deputy Secretary of Transportation, SCDOT District Engineering Administrator, SCDOT (District 5) Chairman, Florence County Planning Commission Executive Director, PDRTA Chairman, Florence Airport Commission Division Administrator, FHWA Chairman, City of Florence Planning Commission The FLATS Study Team is established by the Policy Committee to provide recommendations on technical methods, procedures and standards that are used in the development of transportation plans and programs. The FLATS Study Team consists of the following members: Study Team Statewide Programs Manager, SCDOT, Office of Public Transit Regional Planning Manager, SCDOT, Office of Public Transit Area Planning Engineer, SCDOT District 5 Traffic Engineer, SCDOT Program Manager, Pee Dee Regional Production Group, SCDOT Assistant Program Managers (2), Pee Dee Regional Production Group, SCDOT Manager, SCDOT Enhancement Program Coordinators (2), SCDOT Enhancement Program Environmental Engineer, FHWA
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Director, Planning, Research and Development, City of Florence Chairman, Florence County Planning Commission Planner, Pee Dee Regional Council of Governments Executive Director, Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority Chairman, City of Florence Planning Commission Director, Darlington County Planning Department Councilmember, City of Darlington Councilmember, Town of Timmonsville Director, Florence County PBID Planning Services Officer, Florence County PBID
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Planning Emphasis and Issues Changes in the economy will always present challenges for the Florence Area Transportation Study. There are several key planning issues to continually address for improvements. Implementation of safety measures in the transportation planning process is at the top of the list. The FLATS planning process focuses on a multi‐modal transportation network that can be financially justified, maintain its current attainment air quality status, increase public involvement in the planning process and strive for a livable, sustainable community. A focus on operational improvements and the protection of existing corridors through access management offers relatively low cost projects that can significantly improve congestion and safety on community streets and roads. The 2010 Census for the FLATS area was recently released. The population increased approximately 5% in the FLATS area. As a result, the FLATS study area boundary expanded. Increased planning to reduce/mitigate congestion will be mandatory and greater demographic data development of the entire MPO area will be needed as a result of this growth. Air quality issues will be more closely monitored and there will be an emphasis on GIS/GPS activities. FLATS works closely with the City of Florence Parks and Beautification Department in enhancing its current Florence Trail System. Enhancing the FLATS area to a more pedestrian/bicycle friendly area will assist in improving traffic flow and potentially mitigate congestion. The FLATS area’s population, employment and housing continue to expand creating the need to plan for and implement transportation infrastructure and services. The ability for the FLATS Study Area to remain livable and sustainable, as well as economically competitive is highly dependent on the quality of our transportation systems and availability of services. The FLATS MPO ensures that transportation plans address environmental impacts or mitigation activities involving conservation of natural resources, historic preservation and land use development activities as well as other provisions necessary to comply with the local, state and federal regulations, laws and policies. FLATS will continue to incorporate the eight Planning Emphasis Areas (PEAs) listed below as directed by MAP‐21 into the program (U.S. Code Title 23 Section 134 (h)(1)(A‐H) and Title 49 Section 5303 (h)(1)(A‐H)). A. Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency; B. Increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and non‐motorized users; C. Increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and non‐motorized users; D. Increase the accessibility and mobility of people and freight; E. Protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and economic development patterns;
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F. Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for people and freight; G. Promote efficient system management and operation, and; H. Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system. Throughout the UPWP for FY2014, the above referenced PEAs are associated with the function and coordination of the multi‐modal transportation planning process. The main concern of transportation planning coordination is the development of goals, objectives, and policies. The following table indicates the PEAs that FLATS staff will continue to focus on as objectives are fulfilled for each section of the UPWP. Table 1: Planning Emphasis Areas (PEA’s) UPWP Task 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 A. Program Administration A‐1 Administration X X A‐2 Public Participation X X A‐3 Transportation Enhancement Program X X B. Surveillance B‐1 Mapping X X X B‐2 Air Quality Surveillance X X X B‐3 Traffic Surveillance X X X C. Documentation and Analysis C‐1 Development and Maintenance X X X X X C‐2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data X X X X X C‐3 Public Transportation Planning X X X X X
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Funding Funding for the transportation program of the Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is shown below by activity and source. Table 2: Proposed Funding Sources – FY2013 PERCENTAGE FHWA LOCAL TOTAL WORK TASK SHARE Administration 7% 8,881 2,220 11,101 Public Participation 8% 10,150 2,537 12,687 Transportation Enhancement Program 5% 6,343 1,586 7,929 Mapping 20% 25,374 6,343 31,717 Air Quality Surveillance 5% 6,343 1,586 7,929 Traffic Surveillance 10% 12,686 3,172 15,858 Development and Maintenance 10% 12,686 3,172 15,858 Socioeconomic and Land Use Date 20% 25,374 6,343 31,717 Public Transportation Planning 15% 19,030 4,758 23,788 100% 126,867 31,717 158,584 TOTAL
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A. Program Administration
A‐1 Administration
Objective: Administer the transportation planning program in the FLATS area. Coordinate and conduct the transportation planning activities of the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regulations and requirements. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Organized Policy Committee and Study Team Committee meetings and presented items for discussion accordingly; Attended SCAPA annual meetings and MPO conferences; Completed the final draft of the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), administered the 30‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee. The Policy Committee approved at their July 23, 2012 meeting; Developed the FY2013 UPWP, submitted to FHWA and SCDOT for review, administered the public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the amendments to the FY2010‐2015 TIP, administered the appropriate public comment period and presented to the FLATS Study Team and Policy Committee; Submitted approved FY2010‐2015 TIP to SCDOT. Was advised by FHWA that I did not need to submit a copy to them; Prepared and presented the revised study area boundary map as a result of the 2010 Census to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the Resolutions of Support for the two new urbanized areas and for the Policy Committee and presented to their Council; Prepared the amendments to the Bylaws as a result of the 2010 Census to include a representative for the two new urbanized areas and the new study area boundary and presented to the Policy Committee at their February 25, 2013 meeting. Amendments were approved by the Policy Committee; Presented the required documents due to SCDOT by March, 2013 as a result of the 2010 Census to the Study Team and Policy Committee. The Policy Committee approved the documents at their February 25, 2013 meeting. The documents included the 2010 Study Area Boundary Map, the three executed Resolutions and the amended Bylaws; Provided documents to SCDOT as a result of the 2010 Census on February 25, 2013. In addition, GIS data for the new study area boundary was provided to SCDOT; Prepared the FY2014 UPWP and submitted DRAFT to SCDOT, FHWA and FTA for review. Administered the 10‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the FY2014‐2019 TIP as advised by the SCDOT, administered public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee;
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Prepared amendments necessary to the Public Participation Process as a result of MAP‐ 21 and the new study area boundary, administered the 45‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the FY2011 Annual Federal Obligation Report. Submitted the document to SCDOT and FHWA; Prepared the FY2013 Annual Report and submitted to SCDOT; Began ten‐year update to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Completed revisions to required Federal documents and reports; Participated in several webinars regarding MAP‐21; Participated in an FTA webcast regarding New Starts; Participated in an FHWA webinar titled “50 Ways to Lose Your Money”; Participated in an FHWA webinar titled “TIFIA Federal Credit Assistance Program Overview”; Participated in an FHWA web conference titled “Invest 1.0 System Planning Module”; Attended various conferences and workshops and participated in webinars in order to enhance transportation planning techniques; Made presentations at public meetings and workshops; Organized and hosted quarterly meetings for the Florence Trails Committee. Prepared a study on one area in Florence where sidewalks are needed for pedestrian safety. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Prepare amendments to the 2014‐2019 TIP as required by SCDOT; Prepare the FY2015 UPWP; Prepare the FY2014 Annual Report; Prepare the FY2012 Federal Obligation Projects Report; Provide the administrative support and supervision needed to administer the plans and programs identified in the UPWP; Continue updating Federal documents as required; Continue updating the elements of the Florence County Comprehensive Plan for the ten‐year update requirement; Provide staff support to the MPO; Provide administrative work and technical assistance to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Update and maintain all Federal required documents and reports; Provide and maintain correspondence presented to citizens, developers, consultants and government agencies as requested; Attend seminars, conferences and workshops as required for MPOs; Advertise public notices for meetings and FLATS activities as guided by the Public Participation Process (PPP); Update the FLATS webpage as necessary (www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/); Amend TIP as advised by SCDOT on updates to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP);
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Work with officials on various planning projects, including the one‐cent sales tax projects currently funded by the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB); Present SCDOT all Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for consulting services for their approval before publishing. All funds administered by SCDOT, regardless of source, will be subject to the provisions of the OMB Circular A‐133, the Single Audit Act; Administer and prepare documentation for the Florence Trails Committee meetings; Comply with Title VI/Environmental Justice regulations; Review and implement goals from each element of the Comprehensive Plan; Educate the public and governing officials on the importance of creating a more livable, sustainable community.
Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
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Cost $ 2,220 $ 8,881 $ 11,101
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A‐2 Public Participation
Objective: Educate the public regarding the importance of their input during the transportation planning and decision‐making process and provide avenues of easy access for their input. Implement and improve the Public Participation Plan (PPP). Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Prepared amendments necessary to the Public Participation Process as a result of MAP‐ 21 and the new study area boundary, administered the 45‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Administered appropriate public comment period for all federal documents presented to the Policy Committee during the three meetings held during this fiscal year; Advertised required 30‐day notice for each of the three Policy Committee meetings; Staff updated the FLATS documents as amended at various public locations; Updated the FLATS Contact list of groups and individuals with new stakeholders; As transportation related issues arise and committee meetings are scheduled, notified the FLATS Contact list individuals in addition to governing bodies and various committees for each urbanized area; Prepared and distributed the fifth edition of the FLATS Newsletter; Implemented public notification procedures as outlined in the PPP; Provided FLATS transportation information on the Florence County Planning Blog (www.florenceco.blogspot.com); Updated the Florence County website as FLATS documents were amended; Prepared and updated FLATS documents at various public locations; Maintained records of public attendance and public comments for FLATS meetings and FLATS documents. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Administer the required public comment period for all federal documents as they are updated; Advertise all committee meetings in a timely manner as required; Work with SCDOT to update the public participation process to identify all required stakeholders according to MAP‐21; Conduct public meetings to increase awareness, involve the public and seek public comments; Administer the Florence Area Trails Committee, which citizens are invited to attend; Continue to include representatives from the following on the FLATS contact lists to inform of transportation planning in the FLATS area: o Minority and low‐income groups; o Public and private transportation; o Users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle facilities; o Elderly and disabled; Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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o Other citizens or stakeholders interested in transportation planning. Ensure that someone will be identified to assist non‐English speaking persons when necessary; Maintain and update FLATS webpage; Prepare the sixth edition of the FLATS Newsletter for distribution; Provide FLATS transportation information on the Florence County Planning Blog (www.florenceco.blogspot.com); Maintain contact with the FLATS Freight Study group to discuss the latest freight traffic issues; Maintain a record of public involvement.
Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
Cost $ 2,537 $ 10,150 $ 12,687
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A‐3 Transportation Enhancement Program
Objective: Maintain the process for selecting enhancement projects to be included in the TIP and to be the liaison between the grant recipients and SCDOT. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Assisted SCDOT to insure that a Local Public Agency (LPA) is designated and approved by them to administer each enhancement project. The LPA is the administrator for each enhancement project; Coordinated with the LPA for each project to obtain status updates and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Verified that each project is on track to meet its completion date; The current Transportation Enhancement Projects and status are: o The City of Florence is the LPA for the Lucas Street Gateway project. SCDOT has approved this project and construction is moving forward; o Florence County is the LPA for the Red Doe Plantation project. SCDOT has approved an extension for this project to be re‐scoped. The bids received to complete this project were more than the allocated funds. The project is currently still in the re‐scoping process; o The City of Florence was initially the LPA for the NoName Creek Greenway project. SCDOT has concurred, per the city’s request to take over as the LPA. An easement for the trail sections on the Wal‐Mart property is needed in order to move forward with the project. FLATS staff received an enhancement application that was caught in the middle between SAFETEA‐LU and the enactment of MAP‐21. SCDOT advised staff to present the project to the Policy Committee and if approved, they will present to the Transportation Commission to see if it can still be funded. If not, it will need to be presented under the new Transportation Alternatives Program. Staff presented this application from Francis Marion University to the Policy Committee during their February 25, 2013 meeting. The Policy Committee approved presenting the application to SCDOT. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Implement new MPO Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Guidelines as required by the new Federal Surface Transportation Bill, MAP‐21; Prepare documentation as Transportation Alternatives Program project applications are received to present to SCDOT. As TAP applications are approved, staff will provide the information to the Study Team and Policy Committee and include in the TIP; Ensure the specifics for all proposed projects are posted and available for public comment; Liaison between the applicant and SCDOT on each project; Maintain quarterly status record of active enhancement projects; Advise and assist all FLATS area government agencies regarding the new TAP;
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Confirm that projects are on track to meet the completion date. Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 1,586 Federal 80% $ 6,343 TOTAL COST $ 7,929
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B. Surveillance
B‐1 Mapping Objective: Provide a visual instrument that identifies areas of study and provides a detailed tool for planning and analysis within the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Obtained digital data as available from SCDOT for Guideshare projects and Capital Sales Tax widening projects and prepared digital date with the new right‐of‐way data for internal use; Maintained digital data for all projects and responsibilities; Presented requests to amend the Land Use map for the Comprehensive Plan to Planning Commission and County Council; Made appropriate revisions to the land use map upon approval of amendment requests; Met with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss mapping needs that FLATS staff can assist with; Completed a new web application for Emergency management Services (EMS) that plots dispatch calls on a mobile which enables mapping service in ArcGIS online. The new tool will empower both EMS decision makers and staff to select the best possible response route and team when managing an emergency; Began a digital roads layer project to verify that address ranges within the file are highly accurate and also that the road surface types are identified correctly; Began a project to collect and estimate additional data on the GIS Roads layer within the FLATS area. This includes estimating speed limits and surface types that have not been added yet and the location of all stop signs, traffic signals and yield signs; Staff devoted several hours per day reviewing and correcting the address point data information; Developed a downtown Florence website. Redevelopment of the downtown is underway. In conjunction with existing economic development efforts within the downtown, the new site will help the community and potential clients to visualize and navigate within downtown Florence, which is in the FLATS area; Staff reviewed plats of new subdivisions and digitized new parcels to better track growth in the FLATS area; Provided digital data, as requested, to law enforcement, E911 Dispatch, fire departments and emergency management personnel to assist in improving safety and security activities; Staff has developed new interactive mapping services to improve functionality for field point data collection and real‐time reporting. Tools are used in both ArcMap and via the web that improve vehicle routing and provide multi‐year aerials services;
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Staff continues to make necessary upgrades to desktop and server levels to improve GIS data editing workflows and improved functionality for web and mobile based application used for transportation planning; FLATS GIS staff created an ArcGIS JAVA Script application for emergency management staff to update a point file for hazardous material locations and sites that would or could be impacted by hazards within the County. This new data and information will assist with emergency evacuation notifications and routes to the citizens, businesses and visitors of Florence County. This application of mapped points is now a comprehensive tool used in Emergency Management to route natural or man‐made disasters; Staff started development of an oversized wall map to provide a visual resource for staff and citizens visiting the office. The map provides a street index and associated grid of all streets throughout Florence County. Staff continues to maintain and update county‐ wide addresses and road databases; Maintained monthly foreclosure tracking; Tracked County building permits and maintained accurate road maps; Tracked quarterly foreclosures for the area.
Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Assist PDRTA in updating their route maps; Continue to meet with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss mapping needs from FLATS staff; Assist PDRTA by providing further Geographic Information Systems (GIS) information to determine locations where increased transit service may be needed for transit‐ dependent populations; Provide a new road Atlas to PDRTA, emergency personnel and other public entities as updates are completed; Work with the Assessor’s Office, GIS and Engineering Departments to maintain an accurate centerline and parcel map; Update the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map as amendments are approved by Planning Commission and County Council; Verify accurate placement of new roads proposed for the area. Notify emergency personnel, law enforcement, transit operators and other public entities of updates; Continue to explore ways in which GIS can provide data to FLATS staff to incorporate the eight Planning Emphasis Areas criteria in transportation planning; Continue working to develop county‐wide accessible GIS database; Produce maps to analyze socioeconomic data in the FLATS network; Utilize scenario planning software to compare land uses; Explore ways in which GIS can be applied to enhance stakeholder involvement in transportation projects; Continue to update accurate address information; Track foreclosure statistics and maintain for future reference and trend analysis; Develop a traffic congestion model for the FLATS area and retain a consultant for assistance.
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Staffing: County Planning and GIS Departments Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
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Cost $ 6,343 $ 25,374 $ 31,717
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B‐2 Air Quality Surveillance
Objective: Remain compliant with the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ground‐level ozone by proactively researching and administering projects that would have a positive impact on air quality for the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Remained current on the requirements of MAP‐21 and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for air quality and its impact on the planning process; Researching and training regarding new requirement of MAP‐21; Coordinated with DHEC regarding air quality monitoring; Researching the development of projects to enhance air quality in the FLATS area. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Incorporate procedures as required by EPA, DHEC, SCDOT, FHWA and other state and federal agencies to determine the conformity of transportation plans, projects and programs; Educate the public and governing officials on the importance of air quality attainment in the FLATS area; Educate our community on EPA’s proposal to strengthen the NAAQS and the potential consequences should the FLATS area become non‐attainment; Coordinate with DHEC regarding air quality monitoring; Attend conferences, workshops and participate in webinars; Remain current on the mandated requirements that will have to be addressed if the FLATS area is labeled non‐attainment; Research grants and other assistance available for diesel emission reduction projects, retrofits, idle reduction technologies, cleaner fuel use, engine repowers and vehicle/equipment upgrades; Organize stakeholder meetings with entities that would be affected by a tree preservation program; Organize public meetings to educate the importance of a tree preservation program, explain the benefits of preserving and/or planting trees and obtain additional public input; Prepare a Tree Preservation Policy; Should the FLATS area be classified as non‐attainment, additional procedures and guidelines will be required for FLATS projects to be eligible for Federal funding. Staff will work with DHEC, SCDOT and FHWA to insure the appropriate requirements will be satisfied as outlined in the South Carolina Conformity SIP.
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Staffing: County Planning and Engineering Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
FY2014
Cost $ 1,586 $ 6,343 $ 7,929
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B‐3 Traffic Surveillance
Objective: Monitor current traffic characteristics and travel patterns to improve efficiency, reliability, safety, security, and volume affecting the movement of traffic in the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Provided Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) information to citizens, county agencies and officials as requested; Attended the SCDOT public hearing for the FLATS Guideshare project, S. Cashua Drive. The S. Cashua Drive project was selected and prioritized in accordance with South Carolina General Assembly Act 114 enacted on June 2007 and listed Transportation Improvement Plan; Several S. Cashua Drive business owners, who will have to relocate as a result of this widening project, requested a meeting with SCDOT representatives to discuss potential alternative designs. Staff attended meeting with SCDOT; Provided information to citizens as requested regarding the proposed widening of S. Cashua Drive. Public comments were forwarded to SCDOT for their consideration during the Preliminary Design phase; Attended the SCDOT public hearing for US‐51 Pamplico Highway Capital Sales Tax widening project; Participated in various traffic‐related meetings and continued to use the data to complete traffic reviews for various projects. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Research and identify areas of improvement to be included in the next Long Range Transportation Plan; Research areas of concern regarding safety, security, freight and traffic congestion and coordinate with the appropriate County or State agency; Analyze SCDOT traffic count data for our area to determine changing patterns particularly as existing transportation planning documents are updated; Request traffic studies from SCDOT in areas of high congestion to ensure effective and safe traffic conditions; Provide AADT count data as requested; Incorporate SCDOT traffic counts for our area into maps and traffic reviews for projects; Identify potential roadway improvements and enhancement projects for information in the next update of the LRTP; Survey the public to identify hazardous roads, highways and intersections; Coordinate with the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), SCDOT and other agencies to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA); Coordinate to improve the interconnectivity of streets (grid network); Provide recommendations to increase safety measures in new developments;
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Protect existing corridors with access control measures and interconnectivity between developments; Contact emergency management and law enforcement personnel about safety and security issues in the FLATS area; Collect data on congested areas in support of anticipated congestion modeling capabilities; Coordinate with the local SCDOT office to review the timing of signalization on streets with congestion issues; Explore SCDOT’s Transearch statewide freight database as a potential planning tool to analyze current and future freight flows in the FLATS area; Collect problem location areas from local freight service companies through origin/destination surveys and interviews; Develop a comprehensive local freight movement model. Staffing: County Planning and GIS Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 3,172 Federal 80% $ 12,686 TOTAL COST $ 15,858
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C. Documentation and Analysis
C‐1 Development and Maintenance
Objective: Comply with federal regulations by amending FLATS documents and all obligations that apply to metropolitan transportation planning. Review and update the Florence County Comprehensive Plan when applicable. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Completed the following FLATS documents, administered the appropriate public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee: Final draft of the 2035 LRTP; FY2013 UPWP; FY2010‐2015 TIP amendments; Amendments to the FLATS Bylaws; Amendments to the FLATS Public Participation Process; FY2014‐2019 TIP; FY2014 UPWP. Prepared the FY2011 Annual Federal Obligation Report. Submitted the document to SCDOT and FHWA; Prepared the FY2013 Annual Report and submitted to SCDOT; Began ten‐year update to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Prepared and maintained quarterly PL fund reports for SCDOT. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Amend the 2014‐2019 TIP as required by SCDOT; Prepare the FY2015 UPWP; Prepare the FY2014 Annual Report; Prepare the FY2012 Federal Obligation Projects Report; Prepare and maintain FLATS federal documents; Prepare and submit quarterly PL funding reports to SCDOT; Continue updates to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Maintain minutes for the Policy Committee and Study Team meetings; Maintain minutes for the Florence Area Trails Committee quarterly meetings; Comply with the Title VI requirements contained in the federal regulations in the development of the plans and programs (42 U.S.C. Section 2000d); Comply with the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program to the extent authorized by federal law as stated in the Civil Rights Section 12 of the FTA Master Agreement. Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
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Cost $ 3,172 $ 12,686 $ 15,858
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C‐2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data
Objective: Monitor growth trends based on building permit and employment data. Maintain and update databases for use in transportation planning. Coordinate land use and transportation planning in an effort to facilitate a healthy, sustainable community. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Documented information for E. Palmetto Street regarding abandoned or dilapidated signs. Sent letters out to parcel owners where signage was located to have removed or repaired and confirm with FLATS staff; Began preparing a list of resurfacing and intersection projects within the FLATS area where 20% of annual Guideshare funds will be allocated as required by the Transportation Highway Commission; Began project examining the corridors into the City to potentially establish Corridor Entrance Overlay Districts. The purpose of this District would be to improve the aesthetics such as building design and façade, visual character and to provide for and promote orderly development and redevelopment (E. Palmetto Street; W. Palmetto Street; S. Irby Street; and N. Irby Street); Began project researching the main three I‐95 interchanges that promote entrances into Florence for intersection improvements (I‐95 & US76; I‐95 and I‐20; I‐95 and US52); Maintained zoning, land use and project development databases. This information is used to direct traffic modeling; The land use map was amended as a few requests were received and approved by the governing officials to amend; Incorporated various aspects of transportation planning into each of the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Hire a consultant to prepare a study on the E. Palmetto Street corridor (East entrance into the City) after the abandoned or dilapidated sign issue has been resolved to move forward with developing an Entrance Overlay District for this corridor; Potentially hire a consultant to prepare studies on the targeted corridors into the City for Entrance Overlay Districts; Potentially hire a consultant to prepare studies on the targeted I‐95 interchange improvements; Research areas within the FLATS area and develop a list of projects that could potentially be funded through the TAP; Maintain databases from traffic analysis zones and building permits to track growth; Continue to work on the improvement of GIS layers to provide land use analysis at the parcel level; Integrate scenario planning to analyze the impact of growth and the affect between transportation, social, environmental and economic development;
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Continue to research additional corridors to include as an Entrance Overlay District for the City of Florence; Update governing bodies on the latest planning activities that may be affected by transportation; Continue to maintain existing and future land use maps on a parcel by parcel basis. Amend the existing land use maps as amendments are approved by governing officials; Continue to maintain a database of Planning Commission items. This data base contains parcel numbers that can easily be related back to the digital parcel layer; Monitor the transportation system throughout its development that connect the FLATS network to other areas in the county; Identify socioeconomic and land use points of interest, such as historic sites and parks to support recreation and tourism; Coordinate land use and freight planning to preserve and enhance efficient and safe access and mobility for freight transportation; Continue tracking foreclosures in the FLATS area and compile data that may be useful in comparing trends.
Staffing: County Planning, Engineering and GIS Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
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Cost $ 6,343 $ 25,374 $ 31,717
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C‐3 Public Transportation Planning
Objective: Support and assist Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) and evaluate transit options to enhance planning for new multi‐modal initiatives and projects. Also support and assist the three additional agencies within the FLATS Study Area Boundary who receive Small Urban Transit Funding. These agencies are The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Began meeting with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss needs that FLATS staff can assist with; Included PDRTA’s Small Urban Transit Funding for FFY2013 in the FLATS FY2010‐2015 TIP and presented to the FLATS Policy Committee during their February 25, 2013 meeting for approval. The following information was provided: o Program 5307 ‐ $195,000 Capital; $500,000 Operations; $290,000 Preventative Maintenance. On March 21, 2013, per the SCDOT STIP Revision #41, the Capital funds for Program 5307 were amended to $485,000. Included The Florence Senior Citizens Association’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $10,000 Purchase of Service Contract. Included The Florence County DSN Board’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for the Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $45,000 for Vehicle. Included The Darlington County Council on Aging’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $45,000 for Vehicle; o Program 5317 ‐ $25,500 for Operations. Provided updated road/centerline information as new roads were developed or changes to existing roads to PDRTA; Provided updates to the County Road Atlas to PDRTA; Provided mapping updates to PDRTA in order to develop new routes and identify ridership;
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Maintained and provided information to PDRTA regarding an internet mapping website, which can be used to locate addresses, find major buildings, identify subdivisions/industries, and pinpoint other landmarks. This information will also assist PDRTA to identify ridership for new routes. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Continue quarterly meetings with PDRTA to assist in their transportation needs; Continue to support and assist The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging as needed; Continue communication with PDRTA, The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging to insure that all grants awarded for Small Urban Transit Programs are included in the FLATS TIP and presented to the Policy Committee for approval; Advise PDRTA of project activities as well as aide in projects such as signage and facility planning; Provide GIS mapping services to PDRTA as requested; Assist PDRTA in mapping routes and locating ridership by providing updated road/centerline information and economic development information to assist in the expansion of their current services; Provide population maps to PDRTA of identified populations for potential new services and stop locations; Confirm that each parcel in Florence County has been assigned an accurate address in an effort to help PDRTA locate users more efficiently; Provide an updated County Road Atlas to the PDRTA annually; Share requested data and advise PDRTA of meetings that involves them in the transportation planning process; Continue to update bus route and stop signage location maps to PDRTA as requested. Staffing: County Planning and GIS Departments Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 4,758 Federal 80% $ 19,030 TOTAL COST $ 23,788
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Appendix A. List of Acronyms
AADT DBE DHEC DSN EPA FEMA FLATS FHWA FTA FY GIS GPS LPA LRTP LUCA MAP‐21 MPO NAAQS NEPA PBID PDCOG PDRTA PEA PL PPP RFP RPWP SAFETEA‐LU SCAPA SCDOT SIB STIP TAP TAZ TIP UPWP
Average Annual Daily Traffic Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Department of Health and Environmental Control Disabilities and Special Needs Environmental Protection Agency Federal Emergency Management Agency Florence Area Transportation Study Federal Highway Administration Federal Transit Administration Fiscal Year Geographic Information System Global Positioning System Local Public Agency Long Range Transportation Plan Local Update of Census Addresses Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act Metropolitan Planning Organization National Ambient Air Quality Standards National Environmental Protection Act Planning and Building Inspection Department Pee Dee Council of Governments Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority Planning Emphasis Area Planning Public Participation Process Request for Proposal Rural Planning Work Program Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users South Carolina American Planning Association South Carolina Department of Transportation State Infrastructure Bank State Transportation Improvement Program Transportation Alternatives Program Traffic Analysis Zone Transportation Improvement Program Unified Planning Work Program
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Appendix B. General References
MAP‐21, Public Law 112–141 (H.R. 4348) — July 6, 2012, 112th U.S. Congress U.S. Code Title 23, Section 134 U.S. Code Title 49, Section 5303 H.R. 2847, Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act; Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010
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SCDOT Certification
South Carolina
Department of Transportation
CERTIFICATION OF THE FLORENCE AREA TRANSPORTATION STUDY PLANNING PROCESS Be it known to all that the below signees do hereby endorse and certify the planning process for the Florence Area Transportation Study and further certify that this Planning Process addresses the major issues facing the area and is being conducted in accordance with the requirements of: 23 U.S.C. 134, and the applicable regulations; Section 174 and 176 (c) and (d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7504, 7506 (c) and (d); Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Title VI assurance executed by each State under 23 U.S.C. 324 and 29 U.S.C. 794; Section 1003 (b) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (Pub. L. 102‐240) regarding the involvement of disadvantaged business enterprise in FHWA and FTA funded planning projects and provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and US DOT regulations “Transportation for Individuals with Disabilities” (49 CFR Parts 27, 37, and 38). ______________________________ __________________________________ CHAIRMAN, POLICY COMMITTEE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR ENGINEERING FLORENCE AREA SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT TRANSPORTATION STUDY OF TRANSPORTATION DATE: _________________________ DATE: ______________________________ Post Office Box 191 Columbia, South Carolina 292020191 Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
Phone: TTY:
(803) 737-2314 (803) 737-3870
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
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SCDOT LPA Agreement
LOCAL PROJECT AGREEMENT (LPA) COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCUREMENT OF CONSULTING SERVICES
The following process is intended to comply with LPA requirements by ensuring eligibility of planning activities utilizing Federal‐Aid funds. Planning activities by definition do not include findings required by National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), preliminary engineering, the acquisition of real property, or the management/oversight of construction projects. Federal funds may include PL, SPR, STP, NHPP, CMAQ or any other Federal‐Aid Program funds. In the event that the MPO, COG or sub‐ recipient intends to procure consulting services utilizing federal funds to complete tasks outlined in the approved Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) or Rural Planning Work Program (RPWP), the following steps must be adhered to in sequence in order to ensure federal participation in the project: STEP 1 Ensure that the project is included in the UPWP or RPWP Submit a draft scope of work in sufficient detail to determine that all work elements are eligible under Title 23 USC Submit a draft advertisement that will be used in South Carolina Business Opportunities (SCBO) Submit an internal estimate of the project cost Receive a notice to proceed from SCDOT to advertise the request for proposal STEP 2 Include the SCDOT and FHWA as non‐voting members of the selection committee Submit a recommendation to SCDOT for approval of the selected firm(s) with documentation of the evaluation process Submit a copy of the negotiation process Receive notice to proceed from SCDOT STEP 3 Submit a copy of the draft agreement Receive final notice from SCDOT to execute agreement and initiate project I hereby acknowledge that all procurement activities will follow the above described steps. Any deviation for this process will jeopardize federal reimbursement for the project. ________ __________________________________________ DATE MPO/COG PLANNING AGENCY DIRECTOR If applicable: ________ __________________________________________ DATE SUB‐RECIPIENT
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FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION and
FLORENCE COUNTY www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/ florenceco.blogspot.com Public Comment Period 5/17/13 through 5/27/13 ( )
FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
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Table of Contents INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 2 FLATS COMMITTEE MEMBERS............................................................................. 4 PLANNING EMPHASIS AND ISSUES ...................................................................... 6 FUNDING ............................................................................................................ 8 A. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................ 9 B. SURVEILLANCE ............................................................................................. 16 C. DOCUMENTATION AND ANALYSIS ................................................................ 23 APPENDIX A. LIST OF ACRONYMS ...................................................................... 29 APPENDIX B. GENERAL REFERENCES ................................................................. 30 SCDOT CERTIFICATION ...................................................................................... 31 SCDOT LPA AGREEMENT ................................................................................... 32
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Introduction This Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) identifies the transportation planning activities being conducted by the Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which serves the Urbanized Florence Area in South Carolina. The FLATS MPO study area boundary includes the City of Florence, Town of Quinby, City of Darlington, Town of Timmonsville and the northwestern unincorporated area of Florence and Darlington counties. The FLATS MPO serves a population of approximately 124,316 (US Census 2010). Florence County Planning, GIS and Engineering staff completes the activities outlined in the UPWP during each fiscal year between July 1st and June 30th. Planning staff prepared this document, in consultation with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and other agencies involved in transportation planning and implementation. This document is written in compliance with the Title VI requirements contained in the Federal Regulations for the development of plans and programs. The FLATS MPO is allocated a total of $158,584 ($147,968 in Planning and Transit, PL/FTA, allocations and $10,616 in carryover funds). The planning funds are appropriated under the enactment of the Moving Ahead For Progress In The 21st Century Act (MAP‐21; Public Law 112‐ 141; Bill H.R. 4348). The MAP‐21 law promotes investment in transportation infrastructure as a boost to the US economy. Planning funds are allocated into the three categories as shown in Table 1 with 80% being federally funded and a 20% local match from Florence County. For this term, the goals are: to minimize administrative costs, increase public participation and the utilization of traffic congestion modeling. The Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA‐ LU) (pub. 109‐59, August 10, 2005) mandates changes in the metropolitan planning process. FLATS has adopted the eight Planning Emphasis Areas (PEAs) described under this law into our planning process. Increased participation from stakeholders, operational improvements, protection of existing corridors and improvements to bicycling, walking and transit facilities are all given great emphasis. The FLATS planning process emphasizes the importance of connectivity and managing access to our corridors. The PEAs are explained in the Planning Emphasis and Issues section of this document. The UPWP describes the specific tasks for FLATS for FY 2014 pursuant to these PEAs. MAP‐21 directs transportation planning actions (Titles 23 and 49, United States Code). MAP‐21 states that the metropolitan transportation planning process shall provide for the establishment and use of a performance‐based approach to transportation decision‐making to support the nation goals described in section 150(b) of Title 23 and in section 5301(c) of Title 49. The FLATS MPO shall establish performance targets that address the performance measures described in section 150(c) of Title 23, where applicable, to use in tracking progress towards
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attainment of critical outcomes for the FLATS region. Selection of performance targets shall be coordinated with the SCDOT to ensure consistency, to the maximum extent practicable. The FLATS program is designed to solicit and include input from local officials, business owners and citizens into the decisions directing expenditures of transportation funds within the urban area of Florence, South Carolina. Federal Funds must be considered and approved by the FLATS Policy Committee for major road or transit projects that take place within the FLATS area. FLATS continues its mission to coordinate with local transportation interests and long‐term planning partners including the Pee Dee Council of Governments (PDCOG), Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA), local governments within the FLATS area as well as members of the public. The FLATS 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) was approved by the Policy Committee on July 12, 2012. The approved 2035 LRTP is incorporated on the FLATS website. FLATS MPO’s selection and prioritization process in developing the Long Range Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Plan in addition to other required Federal documents are in accordance with South Carolina General Assembly Act 114 enacted on June 2007. The FY2014 UPWP is supported by the 2035 LRTP. To further guide the FLATS planning process, the vision and goals of the 2035 LRTP are grouped according to the SAFETEA‐LU eight planning factors. The essence of the 2035 LRTP elements represent the collective vision for a safe, multimodal and interconnected transportation system that supports continued economic development without compromising the natural historic and social resources vital to the FLATS area’s sustainability. Annual updates and amendments to the UPWP are performed as addressed in the Public Participation Process plan. Additional information about FLATS planning activities is available on the Florence County website at: http://www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/ or by contacting FLATS staff at the Florence County Planning Department at (843) 676‐8600. This report was funded in part through grant[s] from the Federal Highway Administration [and Federal Transit Administration], U.W. Department of Transportation. The views and opinions of the authors [or agency] expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the U.S. Department of Transportation.
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FLATS Committee Members
The FLATS Policy Committee is the decision‐making body that transacts the business to develop FLATS in accordance with State and Federal laws and regulations. The FLATS Policy Committee consists of the following voting and non‐voting members: Policy Committee (Voting) Mayor, City of Florence Councilman, City of Florence Mayor, Town of Quinby Chairman, Florence County Council Councilman, Florence County Senator, South Carolina Senate (District 31) Representative, South Carolina House of Representatives (District 63) Commissioner, South Carolina Transportation Commission (District 7) Chairman, County Transportation Committee Policy Committee (Non‐Voting) City Manager, City of Florence Administrator, Florence County Director, Florence County Planning and Building Inspection Department (PBID) Deputy Secretary of Transportation, SCDOT District Engineering Administrator, SCDOT (District 5) Chairman, Florence County Planning Commission Executive Director, PDRTA Chairman, Florence Airport Commission Division Administrator, FHWA Chairman, City of Florence Planning Commission The FLATS Study Team is established by the Policy Committee to provide recommendations on technical methods, procedures and standards that are used in the development of transportation plans and programs. The FLATS Study Team consists of the following members: Study Team Statewide Programs Manager, SCDOT, Office of Public Transit Regional Planning Manager, SCDOT, Office of Public Transit Area Planning Engineer, SCDOT District 5 Traffic Engineer, SCDOT Program Manager, Pee Dee Regional Production Group, SCDOT Assistant Program Managers (2), Pee Dee Regional Production Group, SCDOT Manager, SCDOT Enhancement Program Coordinators (2), SCDOT Enhancement Program Environmental Engineer, FHWA
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Director, Planning, Research and Development, City of Florence Chairman, Florence County Planning Commission Planner, Pee Dee Regional Council of Governments Executive Director, Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority Chairman, City of Florence Planning Commission Director, Darlington County Planning Department Councilmember, City of Darlington Councilmember, Town of Timmonsville Director, Florence County PBID Planning Services Officer, Florence County PBID
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Planning Emphasis and Issues Changes in the economy will always present challenges for the Florence Area Transportation Study. There are several key planning issues to continually address for improvements. Implementation of safety measures in the transportation planning process is at the top of the list. The FLATS planning process focuses on a multi‐modal transportation network that can be financially justified, maintain its current attainment air quality status, increase public involvement in the planning process and strive for a livable, sustainable community. A focus on operational improvements and the protection of existing corridors through access management offers relatively low cost projects that can significantly improve congestion and safety on community streets and roads. The 2010 Census for the FLATS area was recently released. The population increased approximately 5% in the FLATS area. As a result, the FLATS study area boundary expanded. Increased planning to reduce/mitigate congestion will be mandatory and greater demographic data development of the entire MPO area will be needed as a result of this growth. Air quality issues will be more closely monitored and there will be an emphasis on GIS/GPS activities. FLATS works closely with the City of Florence Parks and Beautification Department in enhancing its current Florence Trail System. Enhancing the FLATS area to a more pedestrian/bicycle friendly area will assist in improving traffic flow and potentially mitigate congestion. The FLATS area’s population, employment and housing continue to expand creating the need to plan for and implement transportation infrastructure and services. The ability for the FLATS Study Area to remain livable and sustainable, as well as economically competitive is highly dependent on the quality of our transportation systems and availability of services. The FLATS MPO ensures that transportation plans address environmental impacts or mitigation activities involving conservation of natural resources, historic preservation and land use development activities as well as other provisions necessary to comply with the local, state and federal regulations, laws and policies. FLATS will continue to incorporate the eight Planning Emphasis Areas (PEAs) listed below as directed by MAP‐21 into the program (U.S. Code Title 23 Section 134 (h)(1)(A‐H) and Title 49 Section 5303 (h)(1)(A‐H)). A. Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency; B. Increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and non‐motorized users; C. Increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and non‐motorized users; D. Increase the accessibility and mobility of people and freight; E. Protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and economic development patterns;
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F. Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for people and freight; G. Promote efficient system management and operation, and; H. Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system. Throughout the UPWP for FY2014, the above referenced PEAs are associated with the function and coordination of the multi‐modal transportation planning process. The main concern of transportation planning coordination is the development of goals, objectives, and policies. The following table indicates the PEAs that FLATS staff will continue to focus on as objectives are fulfilled for each section of the UPWP. Table 1: Planning Emphasis Areas (PEA’s) UPWP Task 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 A. Program Administration A‐1 Administration X X A‐2 Public Participation X X A‐3 Transportation Enhancement Program X X B. Surveillance B‐1 Mapping X X X B‐2 Air Quality Surveillance X X X B‐3 Traffic Surveillance X X X C. Documentation and Analysis C‐1 Development and Maintenance X X X X X C‐2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data X X X X X C‐3 Public Transportation Planning X X X X X
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Funding Funding for the transportation program of the Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is shown below by activity and source. Table 2: Proposed Funding Sources – FY2013 PERCENTAGE FHWA LOCAL TOTAL WORK TASK SHARE Administration 7% 8,881 2,220 11,101 Public Participation 8% 10,150 2,537 12,687 Transportation Enhancement Program 5% 6,343 1,586 7,929 Mapping 20% 25,374 6,343 31,717 Air Quality Surveillance 5% 6,343 1,586 7,929 Traffic Surveillance 10% 12,686 3,172 15,858 Development and Maintenance 10% 12,686 3,172 15,858 Socioeconomic and Land Use Date 20% 25,374 6,343 31,717 Public Transportation Planning 15% 19,030 4,758 23,788 100% 126,867 31,717 158,584 TOTAL
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A. Program Administration
A‐1 Administration
Objective: Administer the transportation planning program in the FLATS area. Coordinate and conduct the transportation planning activities of the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regulations and requirements. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Organized Policy Committee and Study Team Committee meetings and presented items for discussion accordingly; Attended SCAPA annual meetings and MPO conferences; Completed the final draft of the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), administered the 30‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee. The Policy Committee approved at their July 23, 2012 meeting; Developed the FY2013 UPWP, submitted to FHWA and SCDOT for review, administered the public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the amendments to the FY2010‐2015 TIP, administered the appropriate public comment period and presented to the FLATS Study Team and Policy Committee; Submitted approved FY2010‐2015 TIP to SCDOT. Was advised by FHWA that I did not need to submit a copy to them; Prepared and presented the revised study area boundary map as a result of the 2010 Census to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the Resolutions of Support for the two new urbanized areas and for the Policy Committee and presented to their Council; Prepared the amendments to the Bylaws as a result of the 2010 Census to include a representative for the two new urbanized areas and the new study area boundary and presented to the Policy Committee at their February 25, 2013 meeting. Amendments were approved by the Policy Committee; Presented the required documents due to SCDOT by March, 2013 as a result of the 2010 Census to the Study Team and Policy Committee. The Policy Committee approved the documents at their February 25, 2013 meeting. The documents included the 2010 Study Area Boundary Map, the three executed Resolutions and the amended Bylaws; Provided documents to SCDOT as a result of the 2010 Census on February 25, 2013. In addition, GIS data for the new study area boundary was provided to SCDOT; Prepared the FY2014 UPWP and submitted DRAFT to SCDOT, FHWA and FTA for review. Administered the 10‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the FY2014‐2019 TIP as advised by the SCDOT, administered public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee;
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Prepared amendments necessary to the Public Participation Process as a result of MAP‐ 21 and the new study area boundary, administered the 45‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Prepared the FY2011 Annual Federal Obligation Report. Submitted the document to SCDOT and FHWA; Prepared the FY2013 Annual Report and submitted to SCDOT; Began ten‐year update to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Completed revisions to required Federal documents and reports; Participated in several webinars regarding MAP‐21; Participated in an FTA webcast regarding New Starts; Participated in an FHWA webinar titled “50 Ways to Lose Your Money”; Participated in an FHWA webinar titled “TIFIA Federal Credit Assistance Program Overview”; Participated in an FHWA web conference titled “Invest 1.0 System Planning Module”; Attended various conferences and workshops and participated in webinars in order to enhance transportation planning techniques; Made presentations at public meetings and workshops; Organized and hosted quarterly meetings for the Florence Trails Committee. Prepared a study on one area in Florence where sidewalks are needed for pedestrian safety. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Prepare amendments to the 2014‐2019 TIP as required by SCDOT; Prepare the FY2015 UPWP; Prepare the FY2014 Annual Report; Prepare the FY2012 Federal Obligation Projects Report; Provide the administrative support and supervision needed to administer the plans and programs identified in the UPWP; Continue updating Federal documents as required; Continue updating the elements of the Florence County Comprehensive Plan for the ten‐year update requirement; Provide staff support to the MPO; Provide administrative work and technical assistance to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Update and maintain all Federal required documents and reports; Provide and maintain correspondence presented to citizens, developers, consultants and government agencies as requested; Attend seminars, conferences and workshops as required for MPOs; Advertise public notices for meetings and FLATS activities as guided by the Public Participation Process (PPP); Update the FLATS webpage as necessary (www.florenceco.org/offices/planning/flats/); Amend TIP as advised by SCDOT on updates to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP);
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Work with officials on various planning projects, including the one‐cent sales tax projects currently funded by the State Infrastructure Bank (SIB); Present SCDOT all Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for consulting services for their approval before publishing. All funds administered by SCDOT, regardless of source, will be subject to the provisions of the OMB Circular A‐133, the Single Audit Act; Administer and prepare documentation for the Florence Trails Committee meetings; Comply with Title VI/Environmental Justice regulations; Review and implement goals from each element of the Comprehensive Plan; Educate the public and governing officials on the importance of creating a more livable, sustainable community.
Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
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Cost $ 2,220 $ 8,881 $ 11,101
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FY2014
A‐2 Public Participation
Objective: Educate the public regarding the importance of their input during the transportation planning and decision‐making process and provide avenues of easy access for their input. Implement and improve the Public Participation Plan (PPP). Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Prepared amendments necessary to the Public Participation Process as a result of MAP‐ 21 and the new study area boundary, administered the 45‐day public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Administered appropriate public comment period for all federal documents presented to the Policy Committee during the three meetings held during this fiscal year; Advertised required 30‐day notice for each of the three Policy Committee meetings; Staff updated the FLATS documents as amended at various public locations; Updated the FLATS Contact list of groups and individuals with new stakeholders; As transportation related issues arise and committee meetings are scheduled, notified the FLATS Contact list individuals in addition to governing bodies and various committees for each urbanized area; Prepared and distributed the fifth edition of the FLATS Newsletter; Implemented public notification procedures as outlined in the PPP; Provided FLATS transportation information on the Florence County Planning Blog (www.florenceco.blogspot.com); Updated the Florence County website as FLATS documents were amended; Prepared and updated FLATS documents at various public locations; Maintained records of public attendance and public comments for FLATS meetings and FLATS documents. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Administer the required public comment period for all federal documents as they are updated; Advertise all committee meetings in a timely manner as required; Work with SCDOT to update the public participation process to identify all required stakeholders according to MAP‐21; Conduct public meetings to increase awareness, involve the public and seek public comments; Administer the Florence Area Trails Committee, which citizens are invited to attend; Continue to include representatives from the following on the FLATS contact lists to inform of transportation planning in the FLATS area: o Minority and low‐income groups; o Public and private transportation; o Users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle facilities; o Elderly and disabled; Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FY2014
o Other citizens or stakeholders interested in transportation planning. Ensure that someone will be identified to assist non‐English speaking persons when necessary; Maintain and update FLATS webpage; Prepare the sixth edition of the FLATS Newsletter for distribution; Provide FLATS transportation information on the Florence County Planning Blog (www.florenceco.blogspot.com); Maintain contact with the FLATS Freight Study group to discuss the latest freight traffic issues; Maintain a record of public involvement.
Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
Cost $ 2,537 $ 10,150 $ 12,687
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
A‐3 Transportation Enhancement Program
Objective: Maintain the process for selecting enhancement projects to be included in the TIP and to be the liaison between the grant recipients and SCDOT. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Assisted SCDOT to insure that a Local Public Agency (LPA) is designated and approved by them to administer each enhancement project. The LPA is the administrator for each enhancement project; Coordinated with the LPA for each project to obtain status updates and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee; Verified that each project is on track to meet its completion date; The current Transportation Enhancement Projects and status are: o The City of Florence is the LPA for the Lucas Street Gateway project. SCDOT has approved this project and construction is moving forward; o Florence County is the LPA for the Red Doe Plantation project. SCDOT has approved an extension for this project to be re‐scoped. The bids received to complete this project were more than the allocated funds. The project is currently still in the re‐scoping process; o The City of Florence was initially the LPA for the NoName Creek Greenway project. SCDOT has concurred, per the city’s request to take over as the LPA. An easement for the trail sections on the Wal‐Mart property is needed in order to move forward with the project. FLATS staff received an enhancement application that was caught in the middle between SAFETEA‐LU and the enactment of MAP‐21. SCDOT advised staff to present the project to the Policy Committee and if approved, they will present to the Transportation Commission to see if it can still be funded. If not, it will need to be presented under the new Transportation Alternatives Program. Staff presented this application from Francis Marion University to the Policy Committee during their February 25, 2013 meeting. The Policy Committee approved presenting the application to SCDOT. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Implement new MPO Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Guidelines as required by the new Federal Surface Transportation Bill, MAP‐21; Prepare documentation as Transportation Alternatives Program project applications are received to present to SCDOT. As TAP applications are approved, staff will provide the information to the Study Team and Policy Committee and include in the TIP; Ensure the specifics for all proposed projects are posted and available for public comment; Liaison between the applicant and SCDOT on each project; Maintain quarterly status record of active enhancement projects; Advise and assist all FLATS area government agencies regarding the new TAP;
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Confirm that projects are on track to meet the completion date. Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 1,586 Federal 80% $ 6,343 TOTAL COST $ 7,929
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
B. Surveillance
B‐1 Mapping Objective: Provide a visual instrument that identifies areas of study and provides a detailed tool for planning and analysis within the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Obtained digital data as available from SCDOT for Guideshare projects and Capital Sales Tax widening projects and prepared digital date with the new right‐of‐way data for internal use; Maintained digital data for all projects and responsibilities; Presented requests to amend the Land Use map for the Comprehensive Plan to Planning Commission and County Council; Made appropriate revisions to the land use map upon approval of amendment requests; Met with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss mapping needs that FLATS staff can assist with; Completed a new web application for Emergency management Services (EMS) that plots dispatch calls on a mobile which enables mapping service in ArcGIS online. The new tool will empower both EMS decision makers and staff to select the best possible response route and team when managing an emergency; Began a digital roads layer project to verify that address ranges within the file are highly accurate and also that the road surface types are identified correctly; Began a project to collect and estimate additional data on the GIS Roads layer within the FLATS area. This includes estimating speed limits and surface types that have not been added yet and the location of all stop signs, traffic signals and yield signs; Staff devoted several hours per day reviewing and correcting the address point data information; Developed a downtown Florence website. Redevelopment of the downtown is underway. In conjunction with existing economic development efforts within the downtown, the new site will help the community and potential clients to visualize and navigate within downtown Florence, which is in the FLATS area; Staff reviewed plats of new subdivisions and digitized new parcels to better track growth in the FLATS area; Provided digital data, as requested, to law enforcement, E911 Dispatch, fire departments and emergency management personnel to assist in improving safety and security activities; Staff has developed new interactive mapping services to improve functionality for field point data collection and real‐time reporting. Tools are used in both ArcMap and via the web that improve vehicle routing and provide multi‐year aerials services;
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Staff continues to make necessary upgrades to desktop and server levels to improve GIS data editing workflows and improved functionality for web and mobile based application used for transportation planning; FLATS GIS staff created an ArcGIS JAVA Script application for emergency management staff to update a point file for hazardous material locations and sites that would or could be impacted by hazards within the County. This new data and information will assist with emergency evacuation notifications and routes to the citizens, businesses and visitors of Florence County. This application of mapped points is now a comprehensive tool used in Emergency Management to route natural or man‐made disasters; Staff started development of an oversized wall map to provide a visual resource for staff and citizens visiting the office. The map provides a street index and associated grid of all streets throughout Florence County. Staff continues to maintain and update county‐ wide addresses and road databases; Maintained monthly foreclosure tracking; Tracked County building permits and maintained accurate road maps; Tracked quarterly foreclosures for the area.
Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Assist PDRTA in updating their route maps; Continue to meet with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss mapping needs from FLATS staff; Assist PDRTA by providing further Geographic Information Systems (GIS) information to determine locations where increased transit service may be needed for transit‐ dependent populations; Provide a new road Atlas to PDRTA, emergency personnel and other public entities as updates are completed; Work with the Assessor’s Office, GIS and Engineering Departments to maintain an accurate centerline and parcel map; Update the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map as amendments are approved by Planning Commission and County Council; Verify accurate placement of new roads proposed for the area. Notify emergency personnel, law enforcement, transit operators and other public entities of updates; Continue to explore ways in which GIS can provide data to FLATS staff to incorporate the eight Planning Emphasis Areas criteria in transportation planning; Continue working to develop county‐wide accessible GIS database; Produce maps to analyze socioeconomic data in the FLATS network; Utilize scenario planning software to compare land uses; Explore ways in which GIS can be applied to enhance stakeholder involvement in transportation projects; Continue to update accurate address information; Track foreclosure statistics and maintain for future reference and trend analysis; Develop a traffic congestion model for the FLATS area and retain a consultant for assistance.
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
Staffing: County Planning and GIS Departments Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
FY2014
Cost $ 6,343 $ 25,374 $ 31,717
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
B‐2 Air Quality Surveillance
Objective: Remain compliant with the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for ground‐level ozone by proactively researching and administering projects that would have a positive impact on air quality for the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Remained current on the requirements of MAP‐21 and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for air quality and its impact on the planning process; Researching and training regarding new requirement of MAP‐21; Coordinated with DHEC regarding air quality monitoring; Researching the development of projects to enhance air quality in the FLATS area. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Incorporate procedures as required by EPA, DHEC, SCDOT, FHWA and other state and federal agencies to determine the conformity of transportation plans, projects and programs; Educate the public and governing officials on the importance of air quality attainment in the FLATS area; Educate our community on EPA’s proposal to strengthen the NAAQS and the potential consequences should the FLATS area become non‐attainment; Coordinate with DHEC regarding air quality monitoring; Attend conferences, workshops and participate in webinars; Remain current on the mandated requirements that will have to be addressed if the FLATS area is labeled non‐attainment; Research grants and other assistance available for diesel emission reduction projects, retrofits, idle reduction technologies, cleaner fuel use, engine repowers and vehicle/equipment upgrades; Organize stakeholder meetings with entities that would be affected by a tree preservation program; Organize public meetings to educate the importance of a tree preservation program, explain the benefits of preserving and/or planting trees and obtain additional public input; Prepare a Tree Preservation Policy; Should the FLATS area be classified as non‐attainment, additional procedures and guidelines will be required for FLATS projects to be eligible for Federal funding. Staff will work with DHEC, SCDOT and FHWA to insure the appropriate requirements will be satisfied as outlined in the South Carolina Conformity SIP.
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
Staffing: County Planning and Engineering Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
FY2014
Cost $ 1,586 $ 6,343 $ 7,929
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
B‐3 Traffic Surveillance
Objective: Monitor current traffic characteristics and travel patterns to improve efficiency, reliability, safety, security, and volume affecting the movement of traffic in the FLATS area. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Provided Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) information to citizens, county agencies and officials as requested; Attended the SCDOT public hearing for the FLATS Guideshare project, S. Cashua Drive. The S. Cashua Drive project was selected and prioritized in accordance with South Carolina General Assembly Act 114 enacted on June 2007 and listed Transportation Improvement Plan; Several S. Cashua Drive business owners, who will have to relocate as a result of this widening project, requested a meeting with SCDOT representatives to discuss potential alternative designs. Staff attended meeting with SCDOT; Provided information to citizens as requested regarding the proposed widening of S. Cashua Drive. Public comments were forwarded to SCDOT for their consideration during the Preliminary Design phase; Attended the SCDOT public hearing for US‐51 Pamplico Highway Capital Sales Tax widening project; Participated in various traffic‐related meetings and continued to use the data to complete traffic reviews for various projects. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Research and identify areas of improvement to be included in the next Long Range Transportation Plan; Research areas of concern regarding safety, security, freight and traffic congestion and coordinate with the appropriate County or State agency; Analyze SCDOT traffic count data for our area to determine changing patterns particularly as existing transportation planning documents are updated; Request traffic studies from SCDOT in areas of high congestion to ensure effective and safe traffic conditions; Provide AADT count data as requested; Incorporate SCDOT traffic counts for our area into maps and traffic reviews for projects; Identify potential roadway improvements and enhancement projects for information in the next update of the LRTP; Survey the public to identify hazardous roads, highways and intersections; Coordinate with the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), SCDOT and other agencies to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA); Coordinate to improve the interconnectivity of streets (grid network); Provide recommendations to increase safety measures in new developments;
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Protect existing corridors with access control measures and interconnectivity between developments; Contact emergency management and law enforcement personnel about safety and security issues in the FLATS area; Collect data on congested areas in support of anticipated congestion modeling capabilities; Coordinate with the local SCDOT office to review the timing of signalization on streets with congestion issues; Explore SCDOT’s Transearch statewide freight database as a potential planning tool to analyze current and future freight flows in the FLATS area; Collect problem location areas from local freight service companies through origin/destination surveys and interviews; Develop a comprehensive local freight movement model. Staffing: County Planning and GIS Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 3,172 Federal 80% $ 12,686 TOTAL COST $ 15,858
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
C. Documentation and Analysis
C‐1 Development and Maintenance
Objective: Comply with federal regulations by amending FLATS documents and all obligations that apply to metropolitan transportation planning. Review and update the Florence County Comprehensive Plan when applicable. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Completed the following FLATS documents, administered the appropriate public comment period and presented to the Study Team and Policy Committee: Final draft of the 2035 LRTP; FY2013 UPWP; FY2010‐2015 TIP amendments; Amendments to the FLATS Bylaws; Amendments to the FLATS Public Participation Process; FY2014‐2019 TIP; FY2014 UPWP. Prepared the FY2011 Annual Federal Obligation Report. Submitted the document to SCDOT and FHWA; Prepared the FY2013 Annual Report and submitted to SCDOT; Began ten‐year update to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Prepared and maintained quarterly PL fund reports for SCDOT. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Amend the 2014‐2019 TIP as required by SCDOT; Prepare the FY2015 UPWP; Prepare the FY2014 Annual Report; Prepare the FY2012 Federal Obligation Projects Report; Prepare and maintain FLATS federal documents; Prepare and submit quarterly PL funding reports to SCDOT; Continue updates to the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Maintain minutes for the Policy Committee and Study Team meetings; Maintain minutes for the Florence Area Trails Committee quarterly meetings; Comply with the Title VI requirements contained in the federal regulations in the development of the plans and programs (42 U.S.C. Section 2000d); Comply with the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program to the extent authorized by federal law as stated in the Civil Rights Section 12 of the FTA Master Agreement. Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
Staffing: County Planning Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
FY2014
Cost $ 3,172 $ 12,686 $ 15,858
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
C‐2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data
Objective: Monitor growth trends based on building permit and employment data. Maintain and update databases for use in transportation planning. Coordinate land use and transportation planning in an effort to facilitate a healthy, sustainable community. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Documented information for E. Palmetto Street regarding abandoned or dilapidated signs. Sent letters out to parcel owners where signage was located to have removed or repaired and confirm with FLATS staff; Began preparing a list of resurfacing and intersection projects within the FLATS area where 20% of annual Guideshare funds will be allocated as required by the Transportation Highway Commission; Began project examining the corridors into the City to potentially establish Corridor Entrance Overlay Districts. The purpose of this District would be to improve the aesthetics such as building design and façade, visual character and to provide for and promote orderly development and redevelopment (E. Palmetto Street; W. Palmetto Street; S. Irby Street; and N. Irby Street); Began project researching the main three I‐95 interchanges that promote entrances into Florence for intersection improvements (I‐95 & US76; I‐95 and I‐20; I‐95 and US52); Maintained zoning, land use and project development databases. This information is used to direct traffic modeling; The land use map was amended as a few requests were received and approved by the governing officials to amend; Incorporated various aspects of transportation planning into each of the elements of the Comprehensive Plan; Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Hire a consultant to prepare a study on the E. Palmetto Street corridor (East entrance into the City) after the abandoned or dilapidated sign issue has been resolved to move forward with developing an Entrance Overlay District for this corridor; Potentially hire a consultant to prepare studies on the targeted corridors into the City for Entrance Overlay Districts; Potentially hire a consultant to prepare studies on the targeted I‐95 interchange improvements; Research areas within the FLATS area and develop a list of projects that could potentially be funded through the TAP; Maintain databases from traffic analysis zones and building permits to track growth; Continue to work on the improvement of GIS layers to provide land use analysis at the parcel level; Integrate scenario planning to analyze the impact of growth and the affect between transportation, social, environmental and economic development;
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Continue to research additional corridors to include as an Entrance Overlay District for the City of Florence; Update governing bodies on the latest planning activities that may be affected by transportation; Continue to maintain existing and future land use maps on a parcel by parcel basis. Amend the existing land use maps as amendments are approved by governing officials; Continue to maintain a database of Planning Commission items. This data base contains parcel numbers that can easily be related back to the digital parcel layer; Monitor the transportation system throughout its development that connect the FLATS network to other areas in the county; Identify socioeconomic and land use points of interest, such as historic sites and parks to support recreation and tourism; Coordinate land use and freight planning to preserve and enhance efficient and safe access and mobility for freight transportation; Continue tracking foreclosures in the FLATS area and compile data that may be useful in comparing trends.
Staffing: County Planning, Engineering and GIS Department Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Local 20% Federal 80% TOTAL COST
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
Cost $ 6,343 $ 25,374 $ 31,717
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FY2014
C‐3 Public Transportation Planning
Objective: Support and assist Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority (PDRTA) and evaluate transit options to enhance planning for new multi‐modal initiatives and projects. Also support and assist the three additional agencies within the FLATS Study Area Boundary who receive Small Urban Transit Funding. These agencies are The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging. Previous Responsibilities and Projects: Began meeting with PDRTA on a quarterly basis to discuss needs that FLATS staff can assist with; Included PDRTA’s Small Urban Transit Funding for FFY2013 in the FLATS FY2010‐2015 TIP and presented to the FLATS Policy Committee during their February 25, 2013 meeting for approval. The following information was provided: o Program 5307 ‐ $195,000 Capital; $500,000 Operations; $290,000 Preventative Maintenance. On March 21, 2013, per the SCDOT STIP Revision #41, the Capital funds for Program 5307 were amended to $485,000. Included The Florence Senior Citizens Association’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $10,000 Purchase of Service Contract. Included The Florence County DSN Board’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for the Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $45,000 for Vehicle. Included The Darlington County Council on Aging’s Office of Public Transit Allocation for Small Urban Transit Funding for the FFY2013 apportionment in the FLATS FY2014‐2019 TIP. This recommendation was approved by the SCDOT Commission on March 21, 2012. The FY2014‐2019 TIP was presented to the Policy Committee for approval on June 10, 2013. The following information was provided: o Program 5310 ‐ $45,000 for Vehicle; o Program 5317 ‐ $25,500 for Operations. Provided updated road/centerline information as new roads were developed or changes to existing roads to PDRTA; Provided updates to the County Road Atlas to PDRTA; Provided mapping updates to PDRTA in order to develop new routes and identify ridership;
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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FLATS Unified Planning Work Program
FY2014
Maintained and provided information to PDRTA regarding an internet mapping website, which can be used to locate addresses, find major buildings, identify subdivisions/industries, and pinpoint other landmarks. This information will also assist PDRTA to identify ridership for new routes. Anticipated Responsibilities and Projects: Continue quarterly meetings with PDRTA to assist in their transportation needs; Continue to support and assist The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging as needed; Continue communication with PDRTA, The Florence Senior Citizens Association, The Florence County DSN Board and The Darlington County Council on Aging to insure that all grants awarded for Small Urban Transit Programs are included in the FLATS TIP and presented to the Policy Committee for approval; Advise PDRTA of project activities as well as aide in projects such as signage and facility planning; Provide GIS mapping services to PDRTA as requested; Assist PDRTA in mapping routes and locating ridership by providing updated road/centerline information and economic development information to assist in the expansion of their current services; Provide population maps to PDRTA of identified populations for potential new services and stop locations; Confirm that each parcel in Florence County has been assigned an accurate address in an effort to help PDRTA locate users more efficiently; Provide an updated County Road Atlas to the PDRTA annually; Share requested data and advise PDRTA of meetings that involves them in the transportation planning process; Continue to update bus route and stop signage location maps to PDRTA as requested. Staffing: County Planning and GIS Departments Estimated Date of Activity Completion: June 30, 2014 Financial Responsibility: Source of Funds Ratio Cost Local 20% $ 4,758 Federal 80% $ 19,030 TOTAL COST $ 23,788
Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
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Appendix A. List of Acronyms
AADT DBE DHEC DSN EPA FEMA FLATS FHWA FTA FY GIS GPS LPA LRTP LUCA MAP‐21 MPO NAAQS NEPA PBID PDCOG PDRTA PEA PL PPP RFP RPWP SAFETEA‐LU SCAPA SCDOT SIB STIP TAP TAZ TIP UPWP
Average Annual Daily Traffic Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Department of Health and Environmental Control Disabilities and Special Needs Environmental Protection Agency Federal Emergency Management Agency Florence Area Transportation Study Federal Highway Administration Federal Transit Administration Fiscal Year Geographic Information System Global Positioning System Local Public Agency Long Range Transportation Plan Local Update of Census Addresses Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act Metropolitan Planning Organization National Ambient Air Quality Standards National Environmental Protection Act Planning and Building Inspection Department Pee Dee Council of Governments Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority Planning Emphasis Area Planning Public Participation Process Request for Proposal Rural Planning Work Program Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users South Carolina American Planning Association South Carolina Department of Transportation State Infrastructure Bank State Transportation Improvement Program Transportation Alternatives Program Traffic Analysis Zone Transportation Improvement Program Unified Planning Work Program
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Appendix B. General References
MAP‐21, Public Law 112–141 (H.R. 4348) — July 6, 2012, 112th U.S. Congress U.S. Code Title 23, Section 134 U.S. Code Title 49, Section 5303 H.R. 2847, Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act; Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2010
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SCDOT Certification
South Carolina
Department of Transportation
CERTIFICATION OF THE FLORENCE AREA TRANSPORTATION STUDY PLANNING PROCESS Be it known to all that the below signees do hereby endorse and certify the planning process for the Florence Area Transportation Study and further certify that this Planning Process addresses the major issues facing the area and is being conducted in accordance with the requirements of: 23 U.S.C. 134, and the applicable regulations; Section 174 and 176 (c) and (d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7504, 7506 (c) and (d); Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Title VI assurance executed by each State under 23 U.S.C. 324 and 29 U.S.C. 794; Section 1003 (b) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (Pub. L. 102‐240) regarding the involvement of disadvantaged business enterprise in FHWA and FTA funded planning projects and provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act and US DOT regulations “Transportation for Individuals with Disabilities” (49 CFR Parts 27, 37, and 38). ______________________________ __________________________________ CHAIRMAN, POLICY COMMITTEE DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR ENGINEERING FLORENCE AREA SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT TRANSPORTATION STUDY OF TRANSPORTATION DATE: _________________________ DATE: ______________________________ Post Office Box 191 Columbia, South Carolina 292020191 Adopted by FLATS Policy Committee
Phone: TTY:
(803) 737-2314 (803) 737-3870
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER
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SCDOT LPA Agreement
LOCAL PROJECT AGREEMENT (LPA) COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCUREMENT OF CONSULTING SERVICES
The following process is intended to comply with LPA requirements by ensuring eligibility of planning activities utilizing Federal‐Aid funds. Planning activities by definition do not include findings required by National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), preliminary engineering, the acquisition of real property, or the management/oversight of construction projects. Federal funds may include PL, SPR, STP, NHPP, CMAQ or any other Federal‐Aid Program funds. In the event that the MPO, COG or sub‐ recipient intends to procure consulting services utilizing federal funds to complete tasks outlined in the approved Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) or Rural Planning Work Program (RPWP), the following steps must be adhered to in sequence in order to ensure federal participation in the project: STEP 1 Ensure that the project is included in the UPWP or RPWP Submit a draft scope of work in sufficient detail to determine that all work elements are eligible under Title 23 USC Submit a draft advertisement that will be used in South Carolina Business Opportunities (SCBO) Submit an internal estimate of the project cost Receive a notice to proceed from SCDOT to advertise the request for proposal STEP 2 Include the SCDOT and FHWA as non‐voting members of the selection committee Submit a recommendation to SCDOT for approval of the selected firm(s) with documentation of the evaluation process Submit a copy of the negotiation process Receive notice to proceed from SCDOT STEP 3 Submit a copy of the draft agreement Receive final notice from SCDOT to execute agreement and initiate project I hereby acknowledge that all procurement activities will follow the above described steps. Any deviation for this process will jeopardize federal reimbursement for the project. ________ __________________________________________ DATE MPO/COG PLANNING AGENCY DIRECTOR If applicable: ________ __________________________________________ DATE SUB‐RECIPIENT
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