MPO Technical Committee
Regular MeetingFarmington, NM · September 11, 2019
Agenda
MPO TECHNICAL COMMITTEE
AGENDA
September 11, 2019
10:00 a.m.
Council Chambers
Kirtland TownHall
47 Road 6500
Kirtland, New Mexico
AGENDA
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEETING
September 11, 2019 10:00 AM
This regular meeting will be held in Council Chambers at Kirtland Town Hall, 47 Road 6500,
Kirtland, New Mexico.
ITEM PAGE
1. Call to Order: Call meeting to order
2. Minutes: Approve the minutes from the August 14, 2019 Technical Committee 31-43
Meeting.
3. MTP Update. Presentation on the development of the MTP 1
Presented by: Aaron Sussman, Planner, Bohannan Huston
4. Consider recommending adoption to the Policy Committee of the proposed 2-25
2019 Public Participation Plan (PPP) and proposed Policy Committee 2019-8
a. Review the revised draft 2019 PPP
b. Hold a public hearing on the proposed 2019 PPP
c. Consider recommending adoption to the Policy Committee of the proposed
2019 Public Participation Plan (PPP) and proposed Policy Committee Resolution
2019-8
ACTION ITEM
Presented by: Mary L. Holton, AICP
5. TIP Project Updates from Technical Committee Members: Members will 26-27
provide updates on their TIP projects.
6. Reports from NMDOT
a. Update from the Planning Bureau (Joseph Moriarty)
b. Update from District 5 (David Quintana)
7. Committee Member Discussion Item(s) 28
No additional discussion items were presented for inclusion on the Agenda
8. Information Items 29
a. MPO Quarterly
b. PPP Activities
Presented by: Mary L Holton, AICP
9. Business from Chairman, Members, and Staff
10. Public Comment on Any Issues Not on the Agenda
11. Adjournment
The public body may only take action on an item if it is
listed for action on the publicly noticed agenda.
ATTENTION PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: If you are an individual with a disability who is in need of a
reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to
attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the MPO Administrative Assistant at the
Downtown Center, 100 W Broadway, Farmington, New Mexico or at 505-599-1466 at least one week
prior to the meeting or as soon as possible. Public documents, including the agenda and minutes, can
be provided in various accessible formats. Please contact the MPO Administrative Assistant if a
summary or other type of accessible format is needed.
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
Agenda Item #3
Subject: Report on the Metropolitan Transportation Plan
(MTP) Update
Date: September 11, 2019
MONTHLY REPORT
Mr. Aaron Sussman, Planner, with Bohannan Huston (BHI) will call in monthly with a report on
the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) Update.
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FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
Agenda Item #4
Subject: Review of the Draft Public Participation Plan
Prepared by: Mary Holton, AICP, MPO Officer
Date: September 11, 2019
BACKGROUND
The current Public Participation Plan (PPP) was adopted on January 19, 2012
and amended on January 28, 2016.
The PPP must be reviewed/updated at least every five (5) years, prior to the
updating the MTP.
The draft PPP was revised purposely to address issues raised in the MPO’s
recent Quality Assurance Review (QAR) by NMDOT.
The draft has been revised to reflect changes discussed at your last meeting
and minor typographical errors.
The required 45-day public comment period for the draft PPP is from August 11
– September 26, 2019.
CURRENT WORK and ATTACHMENTS
Substantive changes in the revised PPP include:
1. Adding Kirtland as a member entity and NWNMCOG as the MPO’s
administrative agent.
2. Enlarging the MPO’s public outreach efforts by:
a. Publishing and posting public notices for draft and final documents
in English and Spanish (page 11 of the draft PPP).
b. Adding Public Comment forms at meetings and different locations
(page 15 and Appendix B of the draft PPP).
c. Adding locations for posting meeting notices, public comment forms,
and draft planning documents (page 20 of the draft PPP).
3. Adding FAST Act language to Planning Goals (pages 4-5 of the draft PPP).
Both Committees reviewed the draft PPP in August.
Copies of the revised draft PPP and PC Resolution 2019-8 are attached.
ACTION ITEM
Staff recommends that the MPO Technical Committee recommend adoption to
the Policy Committee of the 2019 Public Participation Plan (PPP) and Policy
Committee Resolution 2019-8.
APPLICABLE CITATION
23 CFR 450.316
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Public Participation Plan
Farmington Metropolitan Planning Organization
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Aztec, Bloomfield, Farmington, Kirtland,
and San Juan County, New Mexico
Farmington MPO - 100 W Broadway - Farmington, NM 87401
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Farmington MPO Public Participation Plan
Table of Contents
SECTION PAGE
Introduction 3
Meetings, Notices, Access 5
Public Involvement – Outreach Methods and Activities 10
MPO Work Products 15
Appendix A: Farmington MPO Area Map 20
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Appendix B: Locations for Posting MPO Documents 21
Appendix C: Public Review and Comment on this PPP 22
Appendix D: Language Analysis 23
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Farmington Metropolitan Planning Organization
Public Participation Plan
Introduction
Pursuant to 23 CFR 450.316, this Public Participation Plan guides the public involvement activities conducted by the
Farmington Metropolitan Planning Organization (FMPO). The plan seeks to be inclusive to all community members and to
encourage active public participation in assisting the MPO to identify and provide input on transportation issues, programs
and projects at every stage of the MPO’s planning process. Specific public involvement procedures are identified within
this Plan for various MPO activities. Every effort is made to reach and encourage participation by all persons, including
traditionally underserved populations, low-income persons, minority households, persons with Limited English Proficiency
(LEP), and persons with disabilities. Outreach methods and tools for public involvement are addressed in the Public
Involvement section of this Plan.
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Background
The Farmington MPO, initially formed in 2003, has the responsibility for the regional transportation planning for the MPO’s
planning area, which includes the cities of Aztec, Bloomfield, Farmington, the Town of Kirtland, and the urbanized area of
San Juan County, New Mexico. Federal regulations require that an MPO be designated to carry out a comprehensive,
continuing and coordinated transportation planning process for urbanized areas with a population of 50,000 or more. The
Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments (NWNMCOG) is the administrative agent for the Farmington MPO, while
the City of Farmington continues to serve as the MPO’s Fiscal Agent. The Farmington MPO planning area map is depicted
in Appendix A.
Committee Structure
As shown in Table 1, two committees provide guidance to the Farmington MPO. The Policy Committee, the governing
body for the MPO, is also the forum for cooperative decision-making on transportation related matters. Consisting of nine
(9) elected or appointed officials of local government and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), the
Policy Committee provides policy guidance and direction for the urban transportation planning process. Representatives
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of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), as well as the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) may
also be appointed ex-officio (non-voting) members of the Policy Committee.
The Technical Committee is an advisory committee to the Policy Committee. The nine (9) members of the Technical
Committee are selected from the staffs of each of the local governmental entities, Red Apple Transit, and the New Mexico
Department of Transportation (NMDOT). Representatives from the FHWA and NMDOT may also be ex-officio members
of the Technical Committee.
Table 1: Farmington MPO Committee Structure
Policy Committee Technical Committee
Voting Members
City of Aztec 1 1
City of Bloomfield 1 1
City of Farmington 3 2
Town of Kirtland 1 1
San Juan County 2 2
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New Mexico Department of Transportation 1 1
Red Apple Transit 0 1
Non-Voting
Federal Highway Administration Ex-officio1 Ex-officio1
MPO Officer Staff Ex-officio, Staff
1Policy Committee may make appointments under the Joint Powers Agreement
Planning Goals
The Farmington Metropolitan Planning Organization, in cooperation with NMDOT, shall address the seven (7) National
Planning Goals in the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, listed below, by establishing performance
targets.
Goal Area National Goal
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Safety To achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities
and serious injuries on all public roads
Infrastructure To maintain the highway infrastructure asset system
condition in a state of good repair
Congestion To achieve a significant reduction in congestion on
reduction the National Highway System
System reliability To improve the efficiency of the surface
transportation system
Freight To improve the national freight network, strengthen
movement and the ability of rural communities to access national
economic vitality and international trade markets, and support
regional economic development
Environmental To enhance the performance of the transportation
sustainability system while protecting and enhancing the natural
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Reduced project To reduce project costs, promote jobs and the
delivery delays economy, and expedite the movement of people
and goods by accelerating project completion
through eliminating delays in the project
development and delivery process, including
reducing regulatory burdens and improving
agencies' work practices
Meetings, Notices, Access
Federal and state laws set certain requirements and guidelines for public notice, public access to information, the provision
of timely information, for all citizens, including the inclusion of traditionally underserved segments of the population. The
Farmington MPO will comply with all requirements and will take specific actions to promote active public involvement in
transportation planning. These actions will include the posting of notices throughout the MPO’s planning area, and
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providing notices, meeting agendas, proposed draft documents, and final documents in other languages, as requested in
advance.
Open Meetings
Open public meetings are required where Federal-aid highway or transit projects are involved. The New Mexico Open
Meetings Act requires reasonable notice to the public of meetings where public policy is formulated, public business is
discussed, or authorized actions are taken. All meetings of the Farmington MPO Policy Committee and its advisory
committees are subject to the provisions of the New Mexico Open Meetings Act. The following specific actions will be
taken to ensure compliance with the Act:
1. The Policy Committee will meet at least quarterly, with the specific day, time and location determined by annual
resolution. The regular Policy Committee meeting locations typically rotate among the member entities.
2. The Technical Committee will meet monthly, with the specific day, time, and location determined by annual
resolution. The regular Technical Committee meeting locations also rotate among the member entities.
3. Through resolution, the Policy Committee and its advisory committees will make an annual determination of
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reasonable notice in compliance with Federal regulations.
4. Notices for special meetings of the Policy Committee and its advisory committees will be published in the
Farmington Daily-Times at least three (3) days prior to the meeting date.
5. Meeting notices will be posted at least three (3) days prior to the meeting date at the Farmington Municipal Building,
800 Municipal Drive. Meeting notices will also be posted at additional locations, including those listed in Appendix
B.
6. Notices will be available in alternative formats and languages, upon request.
7. Agendas and supporting documentation will be available for review at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of
the meeting.
Reasonable Public Access to Technical and Policy Information
Technical and policy information is used to develop plans and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
Reasonable public access to that information will be made through the following specific actions.
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1. The Farmington MPO staff will be available during business hours to discuss technical and policy information with
citizens and other interested parties.
2. Through prior arrangement, Farmington MPO staff will be available to meet with groups during and outside of normal
business hours.
3. The Farmington MPO will maintain a library of past and current transportation planning studies and materials that
will be available for review during normal business hours.
4. Copies of materials will be available for the cost of reproduction and postage.
Inspection of Records/Availability of Proposed Documents
All Farmington MPO work products are available for public inspection. Inspection and availability of Farmington MPO
documents will be as follows:
1. The Farmington MPO will follow the requirements of the Inspection of Public Records Act, 14-2-1 NMSA 1978. A
copy is available by calling the MPO office and is online at:
http://public.nmcompcomm.us/nmpublic/gateway.dll/?f=templates&fn=default.htm
9 2. Draft or proposed documents and amendments will be available to the public free of charge at the Farmington MPO
Office (100 W Broadway, Farmington), via telephone (505-599-1466), US Mail, email to/from the MPO, or can be
downloaded online from the MPO’s website.
3. Draft or proposed documents and amendments will be available for review at listed locations in Appendix B.
4. If requested from the public, documents or portions of documents will be transcribed into alternative formats or
languages.
FTA Public Participation Requirements
As a recipient of federal transit planning funds and the developer of the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), the
MPO must meet the following public participation requirements for the Program of Projects (POP):
Make available to the public information on amounts available to the recipient under this section and the program
of projects the recipient proposes to undertake.
o FTA 5303 planning funds will be made available in the annual Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP); any
funding dedicated to capital purchases or operations of the transit system will be included in the TIP.
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Develop, in consultation with interested parties, including private transportation providers, a proposed program of
projects for activities to be financed.
o On an annual basis, the MPO will consult with Red Apple Transit and the NMDOT Transit Bureau to develop
the Program of Projects (POP) as part of the annual TIP development process. Interested parties will have
an opportunity to review the TIP during its development.
Publish a proposed program of projects in a way that affected citizens, private transportation providers, and local
elected officials have the opportunity to examine the proposed program and submit comments on the proposed
program and the performance of the recipient.
o Prior to adoption of any newly developed TIP, the MPO will hold a 30-day public comment period to solicit
input on near-term transportation projects, including transit projects.
Provide an opportunity for a public hearing in which to obtain the views of citizens on the proposed program of
projects.
o The public will have the opportunity to provide comments at a public hearing at either the MPO Technical or
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Policy Committee meetings.
Ensure that the proposed program of projects provides for the coordination of public transportation services assisted
under section 5336 of this title with transportation services assisted from other United States Government sources.
o The POP will include capital and operating funding for Red Apple Transit that will be used to carry out public
transportation services.
Consider comments and views received, especially those of private transportation providers, in preparing the final
program of projects.
o Any comments received, whether from the transit provider or the public, will be reviewed by MPO staff and
brought to the attention of the MPO Policy and Technical Committees. A summary of public comments will
be included in the TIP.
Make the final program of projects available to the public.
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o Transit planning activities and projects that will be undertaken by the MPO will be included in the annual
UPWP. The UPWP and the adopted TIP will be made available to the public on the MPO website and at
the MPO office.
Environmental Justice and Title VI
The needs of those traditionally underserved will be sought and considered by the Farmington MPO.
Environmental Justice (EJ) is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color,
national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws,
regulations, and policies. The MPO will work to ensure that the transportation system considers the needs of all people
and that minorities, low-income, elderly, and the disabled do not bear a disproportionate share of the negative impacts
resulting from the transportation system.
EJ concerns and goals should be considered throughout all public engagement efforts, from project planning through
construction and operation. This includes public outreach conducted during transportation planning and during the
11 environmental reviews required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
Through its public involvement efforts, the MPO will strive to achieve the following environmental justice goals:
To avoid, minimize, or mitigate disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects,
including social and economic effects, on minority populations and low-income populations.
To ensure the full and fair participation by all potentially affected communities in the transportation decision-making
process.
To prevent the denial of, reduction in, or significant delay in the receipt of benefits by minority and low-income
populations.
Title VI states that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, denied
benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The
MPO will ensure that the input and feedback from all people will be considered in the development of MPO planning
documents and activities.
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The following actions relating to Environmental Justice and Title VI are meant to reduce the barriers for participation in the
decision-making process by low income, minority or disabled individuals.
1. When possible, public meetings will be held in locations that are convenient to low and moderate income
neighborhoods and accessible to disabled populations. Such locations include community centers, senior centers
and schools. Where possible, MPO staff will meet at the locations of businesses, neighborhood groups,
stakeholders, and other agencies.
2. Upon request, all MPO work products and documents will be made available in alternative formats, including
Braille, large type and languages other than English.
3. The following statement will be included in all MPO documents: The Farmington MPO does not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in the provision of services. This document can
be made available in alternative formats by calling the MPO Office at 599-1466 (voice) or 599-1168 (TTY).
4. The following statement will be included in all meeting announcements: If you are an individual with a disability who
is in need of a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to
attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the MPO Administrative Aide at the Downtown Center,
100 W Broadway, Farmington, New Mexico, at least one week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible. Public
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documents, including the agenda and minutes, can be provided in various accessible formats. Please contact the
MPO Officer if a summary or other type of accessible format is needed.
5. Agencies and organizations that represent low income, minority and disabled populations will be identified and
included in MPO mailings.
6. The MPO will periodically evaluate Environmental Justice actions and Title VI requirements to ensure
effectiveness of public involvement.
7. The MPO will produce a series of demographic maps illustrating income, race, health and other regional data that
will inform the public of potential EJ areas.
Public Involvement – Outreach, Methods, and Activities
The Farmington MPO will use a variety of methods to encourage public involvement amongst all community members,
including those without internet service and those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). The efficacy of these methods
and activities in keeping the public informed and encouraging participation will be evaluated continuously.
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Low-Income, Minority, Language and Special Needs Participation
Encouragement
The issue of the number of households and persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) in the community was
researched to look at the language needs in the MPO’s planning area. According to 2013-2017 American Community Survey
5-Year Estimates, the largest “Limited English speaking household” group at 890 households or 2.12%, “Other languages”
would most likely include Navajo speakers because of the proximity of the Navajo Nation to the MPO’s planning area.
Navajo is historically a spoken and not a written language. A recent internet search indicates that no newspapers are
currently published in the Navajo language and that the Navajo Nation continues to publish their public notices in the Navajo
Times in English.
The next largest “Limited English speaking household” group at 617 households (approximately 1,858 persons) or 1.47%
of all households in San Juan County speak Spanish.
13 Appendix D details language usage in San Juan County. This research provides the justification for printing required Public
Notices in English and Spanish.
To specifically address the need and Federal requirement to encourage participation in the planning, development, and
review of MPO documents by underserved populations, low-income persons, minority households, persons with Limited
English Proficiency (LEP), and persons with disabilities, the following steps shall be taken:
Public hearing notices for draft and final documents will be published in English and Spanish in the local newspaper.
All public hearing notices for draft and final documents will also be physically posted in public spaces in the Aztec
City Hall, the Bloomfield City Hall, the Farmington City Hall, the Kirtland Town Hall, the San Juan County
Administration Building, the Farmington Indian Center (to target Native Americans), the Sycamore Park Community
Center (to target Hispanics and Low Income Families and Individuals), the San Juan Center for Independence (to
target the Disabled), and the Bonnie Dallas Senior Center, the Bloomfield Senior Center, and the Aztec Senior Center
(to target the Elderly). The timing of these postings will match the timing of the public hearing notices placed in the
newspaper.
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Mailing Lists, Email Lists
Mailing lists, including email lists, maintained by MPO staff will be used to notify interested parties of upcoming meetings,
proposals, and other events. Mailing lists will include neighborhood associations, community groups, community-based
organizations, non-profit organizations, business and professional groups, environmental groups, special interest groups,
elected and appointed officials, affected agencies and interested citizens. The lists may be customized so that recipients
receive only items of particular interest. At all public meetings, workshops, outreach meetings, and consultations,
attendees will be given the opportunity to provide their email address so that they may be notified of any future notices
regarding the development of MPO plans, documents, and Requests for Proposals.
The mailing lists will be updated continuously.
Newsletter
A newsletter will be produced at least twice a year. It will be distributed to all parties on the mailing lists. Each issue will
contain staff contact information, meeting schedules, project highlights, results of technical activities, information on
policy issues and decision making activities, and current planning project status reports. The newsletter will be produced
in the spring and fall.
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MPO Website
The Farmington MPO maintains a website (www.farmingtonmpo.org). The website is continuously updated to provide the
most current information available. The Public Participation Plan is available on the MPO website. The website also
includes:
Meeting calendars, agendas, and minutes
Proposed and Final MPO work products, maps, and publications
The Metropolitan Transportation Plan and Transportation Improvement Program
Current MPO and advisory committee information
Contact information
Red Apple Transit studies and data collection activities
Safe Routes to School activities
Traffic count information
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Links to related agencies
Targeted Surveys
When appropriate, such as during the preparation of the Metropolitan Transportation Plan, the MPO may use targeted
surveys to assist in identifying the region’s transportation needs, existing services available to meet those needs,
assessing any gaps in meeting those needs, and developing strategies to address outstanding needs. Surveys will be
provided in various locations and formats, and if requested, in various languages.
Visualization Techniques
The MPO will utilize user-friendly visualization techniques for describing transportation plans, corridor studies, and other
documents. These techniques may include GIS for mapping proposed and existing projects, charts and diagrams,
surveys, and the posted presentations. The MPO will continuously seek ways to improve its visualization techniques.
All Media, including Social Media
Members of the media are critical in getting information to the public on significant transportation activities and issues. The
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MPO will maintain ongoing communication with the media through various means, including press releases, interviews,
and submitting articles to the local news media.
The Farmington Daily Times will be used as the primary print media for advertising transportation issues of interest to the
general population. Other newspaper outlets may also be utilized.
Social media provides fast and convenient ways of communication, which could prove beneficial for the MPO and its
interaction with stakeholders, interested parties, and the general public. The MPO will create and maintain a social media
presence for engaging stakeholders and the general public regarding its work.
Public Service Announcements (PSAs)
Create and run public service announcements about the MPO’s programs and its processes to inform, educate and
promote public involvement.
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National Bike Month, Take Transit Month
Use these national recognition months to promote the MPO and alternative modes of transportation. Activities may
include resolutions, public service announcements, keynote speakers, neighborhood meetings or other activities.
MPO Logo
The Farmington MPO adopted a logo that assists the public in recognizing MPO products and activities. The logo is used
on all products and publications of the Farmington MPO.
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AZTEC—BLOOMFIELD—FARMINGTON—KIRTLAND—SAN JUAN COUNTY—NEW MEXICO
Consultation with Interested Parties
When developing or updating its plans, the MPO will make every efforts to consult with a variety of organizations and
groups that are affected by or play a role in achieving an efficient transportation system. The list of interested parties shall
include, but not be limited to:
Local planning and engineering staffs
NMDOT
Local transit and paratransit providers
Northwest NM Council of Governments (also acts as Northwest Regional Planning Organization)
Bicycle and pedestrian organizations
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Disabled community
School transportation providers
Bureau of Land Management
Local economic development groups
Environmental protection agencies
Airports
Freight companies/ oil and gas industry
Local Native American tribal governments
Historic preservation organizations
Safety/emergency dispatch
Citizens Advisory Committees
To avoid potential conflict and as part of the consultation process, the MPO will review any available planning documents
that have been developed by these agencies.
Public Comment and Response to Comments
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Public comment forms will be available at meetings where specific issues are being presented at public meetings. The
comment forms may be mailed or emailed to the MPO office or be given to MPO staff at the meeting.
Oral or written comments received through the hearing process will be included as an appendix to the document under
review or will be summarized and presented to the adopting body. Public comments made to the MPO by phone or by
email will be responded to in a timely manner and the comments will be archived by the MPO.
MPO Work Products
The intensity, scope, and duration of public involvement will vary depending on the MPO work product. The following
section outlines the MPO’s basic work product types and the minimum input, review, comment and hearing opportunities
that will be offered before adoption.
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Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
The Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) is a comprehensive plan of the transportation system that looks at least 20
years into the future. The Farmington MPO adopted the current MTP on September 24, 2015. Federal law requires that
major updates occur at least every five years after it is adopted. The MTP must be prepared in accordance with 23 CFR
450.324, as amended, and the NMDOT Planning Procedures Manual, which is available upon request from the MPO staff..
The adopted MTP will be posted on the MPO website and made available at the MPO Office. Any amendments to the
MTP will follow the process described above.
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a short-term listing of projects expected to be constructed in the
immediate future. A new TIP is adopted every two (2) years. As stated in 23 CFR 450.326, the MPO, in cooperation with
NMDOT, the transit operator, and the entities, shall develop a TIP for the metropolitan planning area. The TIP shall include:
All federally funded projects with regional significance
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Project details such as project description, termini, phases of the project, and funding source and year
Financial information that demonstrates how the TIP will be implemented
The TIP development schedule and key steps in the process are provided in the NMDOT STIP Procedures Manual. The
MPO’s TIP may include additional information for the public, such as:
Priority lists of projects categorized by funding source to be used for future programming.
Locally funded projects
The NMDOT STIP Procedures Manual is available upon request from the MPO staff.
Public Participation Plan
The Public Participation Plan (PPP) will be updated in accordance to 23 CFR 450.316 at least every five years, in
conjunction with the MTP, based on the following process:
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The MPO will inform interested parties about the plan update process and will provide the draft PPP for their input.
The comment period on the updated Public Participation Plan will last at least forty-five (45) days.
The draft PPP will be made available for review at the MPO Office (100 W Broadway, Farmington), as well at
additional locations, including those listed in Appendix B.
Notices regarding the update and the public comment period will be posted in the local newspaper and on the
MPO website.
The updated Public Participation Plan will be presented to the MPO Tech Committee for review and
recommendation to the Policy Committee, prior to the Policy Committee’s adoption.
Policies and Standards
Policies and standards for supporting the multi-modal transportation needs in the region will be developed over time, often
in conjunction with the development of the MTP or other planning documents. These policies and standards will be
available for public review and comment during advertised Policy and Technical Committee meetings.
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Area Studies and Corridor Plans
From time to time, the MPO will undertake area studies and corridor plans where there is a specific need of intensive
study to determine potential transportation needs. Involving persons who might be affected directly by the study results
will be accomplished through the following process:
Notice will be sent by regular mail to those residing within or owning property within the study area and those 300
feet outside of the study area.
At least one public input meeting will be held at a location convenient to the affected persons.
The Technical Committee will forward their recommendation to the Policy Committee.
The Policy Committee will adopt the area study or corridor plan.
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Amendments to Adopted Documents
Amendments to documents such as the Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the Transportation Improvement Program
are occasionally necessary after they have been adopted. With the exception of emergency or exempt projects,
amendments will use the following process:
The MPO will announce the proposed amendment to the MTP, TIP, or other MPO planning document at a Technical
Committee meeting and through an advertisement in the local newspaper stating the availability of the amendment.
The public comment period will last a minimum of 15 days.
The TIP Amendment process will adhere to procedures outlined in the NMDOT STIP Procedures Manual.
Amendments will be reviewed by the MPO Tech Committee for a recommendation to the Policy Committee for
adoption.
20 Amendments Exempt from the Public Involvement Process
Some amendments to adopted documents are exempt from the public involvement process. These include:
Emergency projects, necessary for the safety and welfare of the citizenry;
Minor revisions or technical amendments, such as:
Minor cost changes
Minor changes in project scope or cost shares
Splitting projects
Typographical corrections
Other administrative revisions (lead agency, contingency, funding source)
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Appendix A: Farmington MPO Area Map
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Appendix B: Locations for Posting MPO Documents
The MPO will post meeting notices, public comment forms, and draft planning documents* at locations throughout the MPO’s
planning area to provide outreach to all citizens, especially targeting those persons who have been traditionally under-served.
These locations include:
Aztec City Hall*, 201 W Chaco, Aztec, NM T
Bloomfield City Hall*, 915 N First St., Bloomfield, NM
Farmington City Hall*, 800 Municipal Dr., Farmington, NM T
Kirtland Town Hall*, 47 RD 6500, Kirtland, NM T
San Juan County Administrative Building*, 100 S Oliver, Aztec, NM T
Farmington MPO Office*, 100 West Broadway, Farmington, NM T
Aztec Public Library, 319 S Ash, Aztec, NM T
Aztec Senior Center*, 101 S Park, Aztec, NM T
Bonnie Dallas Senior Center*, 109 E. La Plata St., Farmington, NM T
Bloomfield Multi-Cultural Center, 333 S 1st Street, Bloomfield, NM
Bloomfield Senior Center*, 124 Ash Ave., Bloomfield, NM 87413
22
Bloomfield Public Library, 333 S 1st Street, Bloomfield, NM
Farmington Civic Center, 200 W Arrington, Farmington, NM
Farmington Indian Center*, 100 E Elm St, Farmington, NM T
Farmington Public Library, 2101 N Farmington Ave, Farmington, NM T
Sycamore Park Community Center*, 1051 Sycamore St, Farmington, NM T
San Juan Center for Independence*, 1204 San Juan Blvd, Farmington, NM T
San Juan County Housing Authority, 7450 E. Main St., Suite C, Farmington, NM T
San Juan College, 4601 College Blvd, Farmington, NM 87402 T
San Juan College-West Campus, 69 County Road 6500, Kirtland, NM T
San Juan College-East Campus, 315 S. Ash, Aztec, NM
San Juan College-30th Street Education Center, 3401 E 30th Street, Farmington, NM T
San Juan College-S Hutton Campus, 800 S Hutton Road, Farmington, NM T
* denotes a location that will have draft planning documents available for review/T denotes Red Apple service is nearbyPlease
consult with Red Apple for specifics - Phone 505-325-3409
20
Revised Draft September 2019
Revisions indicated in Red
Appendix C: Public Review and Comment on this PPP
The Draft Farmington MPO Public Participation Plan will be opened for public review and comment on August 11, 2019,
and will end on September 26, 2019. It will be noticed in the Farmington Daily Times and at the locations listed in Appendix
B. The draft document will be available at the MPO office, the Aztec City Hall, the Bloomfield City Hall, the Farmington City
Hall, the Kirtland Town Hall, the San Juan County Administration Office, the Farmington Indian Center, the Sycamore Park
Community Center, the San Juan Center for Independence, the Bonnie Dallas Senior Center, the Bloomfield Senior Center,
and the Aztec Senior Center, and on the MPO website. Public hearings will be held on the draft document on September
11, 2019, and on September 26, 2019.
All Public Comments received on the draft document will be included in this Appendix.
23
21
Revised Draft September 2019
Revisions indicated in Red
Appendix D: Language Analysis
Language Analysis - 2019 Public Participation Plan
HOUSEHOLD LANGUAGE BY HOUSEHOLD LIMITED ENGLISH SPEAKING STATUS
Farmington MSA
Households Percent
Total Households: 41,999
English only 25,042 59.63%
Spanish: 5,481 13.05%
Limited English speaking household 617 1.47%
Not a limited English speaking household 4,864 11.58%
Other Indo-European languages: 269 0.64%
Limited English speaking household 7 0.02%
Not a limited English speaking household 264 0.63%
Asian and Pacific languages: 188 0.45%
Limited English speaking household 34 0.08%
Not a limited English speaking household 154 0.37%
24 Other languages: 11,019 26.24%
Limited English speaking household 890 2.12%
Not a limited English speaking household 10,129 24.12%
If Public Notices are in English and Spanish Only,
Estimate of Households that would be At Risk of not be informed of MPO Public Actions 931 2.22%
Notes:
Because the Other Languages Category is assumed to be predominately Navajo or other Native American Languages, due to the proximity of the
Navajo Nation, the Farmington MPO will post public notices at the Farmington Indian Center where Navajo language assistance is readily available.
Navajo is historically a spoken and not a written language. A recent internet search indicates that no newspapers are currently published in the Navajo
language and that the Navajo Nation continues to publish their public notices in the Navajo Times in English.
This table details language usage in the Farmington MSA/San Juan County. This research provides the justification for printing required
Public Notices in English and Spanish.
Estimates for household size from the 2013-2017 ACS include 3.01 persons for the Farmington MSA/San Juan County.
22
Revised Draft September 2019
Revisions indicated in Red
25
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
Agenda Item #5
Subject: Status of TIP Projects
Prepared by: MPO Staff
Date: September 11, 2019
BACKGROUND
The STIP Protocols, finalized in early 2014, require that each MPO shall
develop a process to monitor the progress and status of each project in
the first two years of the TIP. These monthly reviews help correct
inconsistencies in the TIP, STIP, the MPO’s MTP, Agreement Request Forms
(ARFs), etc. and provide for discussion among the members and NMDOT
representatives.
The Policy Committee approved the new FFY2020-2025 TIP during a
Special meeting on July 25, 2019.
The projects currently on the FFY2020-2025 TIP are listed below.
TRACKING INFORMATION (2018-2023 TIP)
Local Agreement Status (ARF) ITS/Sys ENG Certification
ROW Certification Public Involvement Certification
Design Completion 30 – 60 – 90%
Environmental Certification
Utilities Certification
Railroad Certification
Archeology Certification
PROJECTS ON FMPO FFY2020-2025 TIP
Aztec
F100091 – East Aztec Arterial Phase II
Bloomfield
F100300 – East Blanco Bridge
Farmington
F100099 – Foothills Drive Enhancement Phase II
F100100 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase I
F100101 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase II
F100132 – 20th Street Phase III
TF00001 – Red Apple Transit
San Juan County
F100021 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase III
F100240 – Glade Run Recreation Area Trails
F100290 – CR 5500 Bridge Replacement
26
F100320 – Kirtland Schools Walk Path Extension
F100330 – Glade Run Recreation Area Trails Extension
NMDOT
F100170 - NM 173
INFORMATION ITEM
This is an information item only. Committee members will have an
opportunity to provide any needed feedback/updates regarding current
TIP projects status and details.
27
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
Agenda Item #7
Subject: Committee Member Discussion Items
Date: September 11, 2019
DISCUSSION ITEMS
There were no additional discussion items provided by Technical Committee members for
inclusion in the Agenda.
28
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
Agenda Item #8
Subject: Information Items
Prepared by: MPO Staff
Date: September 11, 2019
INFORMATION ITEMS
a. MPO Quarterly. The MPO Quarterly is scheduled for September 18 and 19 in Santa Fe.
The meeting on Wednesday will be the updates from the MPOs and NMDOT along with any
other pending discussion items. There will be training on Thursday on pedestrian safety led
by FHWA on their STEP program – Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian.
b. PPP Activities. A verbal report will be provided at your meeting.
29
The minutes from the
August 14, 2019
Technical Committee meeting
are on the following pages.
30
MINUTES
FARMINGTON METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEETING
August 14, 2019
Technical Members Present: Steve Morse (Alt), City of Aztec
Jason Thomas, City of Bloomfield
Virginia King, City of Farmington
Helen Landaverde (Alt), City of Farmington
Dan Flack, Town of Kirtland
David Quintana, NMDOT District 5 (via phone)
Andrew Montoya, Red Apple Transit
Fran Fillerup, San Juan County
Technical Members Absent: Steven Saavedra, City of Aztec
Nick Porell, San Juan County
Staff Present: Mary Holton, MPO Officer
June Markle, Administrative Assistant
Staff Absent: None
Others Present: Joseph Moriarty, Liaison, NMDOT Planning Bureau
Denise Aten, Bohannan Huston (via phone)
Elif Ertemiz, Bohannan Huston
Aaron Sussman, Bohannan Huston
Michael Wright, Sites Southwest
1. CALL TO ORDER
Vice Chair Jason Thomas called the meeting to order at 10:04 a.m.
2. APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE JULY 10, 2019 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE MEETING
Mr. Fillerup moved to approve the minutes from the July 10, 2019 Technical Committee
meeting. Mr. Flack seconded the motion. The motion to approve the minutes passed
unanimously.
3. 2045 METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION PLAN (MTP) KICKOFF
Ms. Holton introduced Aaron Sussman, Planner with Bohannan Huston (BHI)
(asussman@bhinc.com) who will be the lead consultant for the 2045 MTP. Mr. Sussman
introduced the other members of the project team: Denise Aten, Planning Manager with
Bohannan Huston, Elif Ertemiz with Bohannan Huston, Michael Wright with Sites Southwest
who will be leading the public/stakeholder outreach effort, Bob Shull with EcoResource
Management Systems, Inc. who will be handling the travel demand modeling, and Toole
Design who will be conducting the bicycle, pedestrian, and complete streets analyses.
A summary of Mr. Sussman’s presentation is summarized below:
31
What Is An MTP
Revised every five years
Consider current and projected regional transportation needs
Develop a transportation vision for the region
Consider how to best utilize the federal funding available to the region.
Key MTP Components
Existing conditions
Growth projections and land use
Distribution of population and jobs
Analysis for all modes of transportation (integrate newly adopted Bike/Ped Plan into
the MTP)
Funding analysis
Project lists (update and revise list from the 2040 MTP)
Key Considerations from the 2040 MTP
Responded to higher levels of projected growth
Emphasized maintenance needs
Looked at Complete Streets
Introduced prioritization process and performance measures for the first time
(consider progress made)
Growth Projections
Population growth projected to be much higher in the previous MTP.
Revised projections now show a 7% total growth between 2010 and 2040 rather than
40%.
Changing age dynamics: increasing share of senior citizens (65 and older) from 11% to
18%. These citizens are typically not commuters and their transportation needs are
different than those in the labor force.
Traveling Modeling and 2045 Trend Scenario
2045 MTP update includes updates to travel demand model
New population and growth forecasts at subarea level (not just county level)
Travel modeling of current and projected roadway conditions
Additional Focus Areas
Integration of the new Bicycle & Pedestrian master plan
Freight: truck, air, and rail
Performance measures and progress since 2015
Review/update prioritization process (tie investments to the goals and objectives of
the plan)
Climate change analysis (requested by NMDOT)
Public/Stakeholder Outreach
Phase 1 (Fall 2019) – information gathering: public meetings across FMPO communities as well
as online outreach (project website, interactive map, questionnaire).
Phase 2 (early 2020) – regional needs and strategies and review priorities: public meeting and
focus groups.
32
Phase 3 (summer 2020) – draft MTP – public meeting and focus groups.
Role of FMPO Technical Committee
Serve as Steering Committee
Develop goals and objectives
Help identify local agency needs and priorities
Update project lists
Review draft MTP
Receive monthly updates from BHI (willing to meet individually with the entities to answer
any questions)
Role of FMPO Policy Committee
Final approval and adoption
Regular updates
Help identify local agency needs and priorities, as appropriate
Schedule
12-month update process
Plan must be completed and adopted by September 2020
Mr. Fillerup asked if BHI would be gathering projected local and state funding information
along with federal funding. Mr. Sussman said they could use the previous MTP information as a
template for determining reasonably available funding. It is understood that this number will
likely be imprecise, but he will be interested in getting an idea of how much funding may be
available.
Mr. Fillerup also asked if the 2045 MTP would be looking at significant maintenance/rehab
projects along with new projects. Mr. Sussman agreed this is a challenge. The focus on
maintenance is being prioritized and NMDOT is emphasizing asset management. Another
consideration, maintenance projects many times can introduce other roadway improvements
and provide those opportunities.
Mr. Fillerup asked if the travel demand modeling will look at setting different scenarios (i.e.:
that at a certain population counts the northern route currently shown may be needed). Mr.
Sussman explained that this level of detail has not yet been discussed. Modeling is useful as a
diagnostic tool and not just responding to growth pressures. Scenarios are definitely useful
and BHI will be looking to the Technical Committee for their input and recommendations.
33
4. FFY2019-2020 UPWP AMENDMENT #4 AND POLICY COMMITTEE (PC) RESOLUTION 2019-4
Subject: FFY2019-2020 UPWP Amendment #4 and
Policy Committee (PC) Resolution 2019-4
Prepared by: Mary Holton, AICP, MPO Officer
Date: August 14, 2019
BACKGROUND
The MPO maintains a Unified Planning Work Program, which sets forth the
tasks the MPO will undertake in a given fiscal year.
The Policy Committee approved the MPO’s two-year FFY2019-2020 UPWP on
June 28, 2018. The NMDOT approved the first amendment (administrative) in
December 2018. The Policy Committee approved the second amendment on
March 15. The MPO submitted the third amendment (administrative) to correct
a scrivener’s error on July 30, 2019.
This fourth amendment is necessary to shift the FTA FFY2017 & FFY2018
carry-over funds (second amendment) from FFY2019 to FFY2020 to assist in
paying for the preparation of the MTP.
On August 4, the required 15-day public review/comment period for
Amendment #4 to the FFY2019-2020 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP)
began. The notice was posted on the MPO’s website and in the Daily Times.
The Technical Committee will consider recommending approval of the
proposed amendment and PC Resolution on August 14, 2019.
STAFF RECOMMENTATION, APPLICABLE CITATIONS,
CONSEQUENCES OF NON-COMPLIANCE
MPO Staff recommends that the MPO Technical Committee recommend
approval of Amendment #4 to the FFY2019-20 UPWP and Policy Committee
(PC) Resolution 2019-4 to the MPO Policy Committee.
The NMDOT Policy and Procedures Manual requires the submittal of an
Amendment on a quarterly basis (March 15; June 15; September 15 (in odd-
numbered FFYs); December 15).
The following citation is applicable: § 450.308 Funding for transportation planning
and unified planning work programs. See next page for the citation.
Consequences of not following this citation: The MPO would be in violation of §
450.308. NMDOT would likely issue a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to the MPO,
which could potentially delay reimbursements.
§450.308 Funding for transportation planning and unified planning work
programs.
(a) Funds provided under 23 U.S.C. 104(d), 49 U.S.C. 5305(d), and 49
U.S.C. 5307, are available to MPOs to accomplish activities described in this
subpart. At the State's option, funds provided under 23 U.S.C. 104(b)(2) and
23 U.S.C. 505 may also be provided to MPOs for metropolitan transportation
planning. At the option of the State and operators of public transportation,
funds provided under 49 U.S.C. 5305(e) may also be provided to MPOs for
activities that support metropolitan transportation planning. In addition, an
MPO serving an urbanized area with a population over 200,000, as
34
designated by the Bureau of the Census, may at its discretion use funds sub-
allocated under 23 U.S.C. 133(d)(4) for metropolitan transportation planning
activities.
(b) An MPO shall document metropolitan transportation planning activities
performed with funds provided under title 23 U.S.C. and title 49 U.S.C.
Chapter 53 in a unified planning work program (UPWP) or simplified
statement of work in accordance with the provisions of this section and 23
CFR part 420.
(c) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, each MPO, in
cooperation with the State(s) and public transportation operator(s), shall
develop a UPWP that includes a discussion of the planning priorities facing
the MPA. The UPWP shall identify work proposed for the next 1- or 2-year
period by major activity and task (including activities that address the
planning factors in §450.306(b)), in sufficient detail to indicate who (e.g.,
MPO, State, public transportation operator, local government, or consultant)
will perform the work, the schedule for completing the work, the resulting
products, the proposed funding by activity/task, and a summary of the total
amounts and sources of Federal and matching funds.
(d) With the prior approval of the State and the FHWA and the FTA, an MPO
in an area not designated as a TMA may prepare a simplified statement of
work, in cooperation with the State(s) and the public transportation
operator(s), in lieu of a UPWP. A simplified statement of work shall include a
description of the major activities to be performed during the next 1- or 2-year
period, who (e.g., State, MPO, public transportation operator, local
government, or consultant) will perform the work, the resulting products, and
a summary of the total amounts and sources of Federal and matching funds.
If a simplified statement of work is used, it may be submitted as part of the
State's planning work program, in accordance with 23 CFR part 420.
(e) Arrangements may be made with the FHWA and the FTA to combine the
UPWP or simplified statement of work with the work program(s) for other
Federal planning funds.
(f) Administrative requirements for UPWPs and simplified statements of work
are contained in 23 CFR part 420 and FTA Circular C8100, as amended
(Program Guidance for Metropolitan Planning and State Planning and
Research Program Grants).
DISCUSSION: Ms. Holton explained that Amendment #4 to the UPWP is a formal amendment
requiring a public hearing along with a Policy Committee resolution. The additional carryover
funds that were awarded to the MPO in Amendment #2 adopted in March 2019 are being
shifted to FFY2020 to provide funding for the MTP consultant and a couple of other small
projects.
UPWP Amendment #3 was also recently processed as an administrative amendment. An earlier
five dollar calculation error of five dollars necessitated Amendment #3.
35
Ms. Holton said that the additional funding award from FTA stated the funding was good in
2019 and 2020 and the MTP project required that additional funding be moved. MPO Staff
does recommend approval of Amendment #4 and Policy Committee Resolution 2019-4.
Vice Chair Thomas opened the public hearing. No public comments were received. The public
hearing was closed.
Mr. Fillerup asked about Section 4.2 Safety Analysis and Planning and if this was only to
address performance safety targets. Ms. Holton commented that there is no requirement for a
safety plan, but with changing priorities this may be reconsidered in the future and the 2045
MTP will certainly address safety.
ACTION: Mr. Fillerup moved to recommend approval of Amendment #4 to the UPWP and
Policy Committee Resolution 2019-4. Mr. Morse seconded the motion. The motion was passed
unanimously.
5. STATUS OF TIP PROJECTS
Subject: Status of TIP Projects
Prepared by: MPO Staff
Date: August 14, 2019
BACKGROUND
The STIP Protocols, finalized in early 2014, require that each MPO shall
develop a process to monitor the progress and status of each project in
the first two years of the TIP. These monthly reviews help correct
inconsistencies in the TIP, STIP, the MPO’s MTP, Agreement Request Forms
(ARFs), etc. and provide for discussion among the members and NMDOT
representatives.
The Policy Committee approved the new FFY2020-2025 TIP during a
Special meeting on July 25, 2019.
The projects on the new FFY2020-2025 TIP are listed below.
TRACKING INFORMATION (2018-2023 TIP)
Local Agreement Status (ARF) ITS/Sys ENG Certification
ROW Certification Public Involvement Certification
Design Completion 30 – 60 – 90%
Environmental Certification
Utilities Certification
Railroad Certification
Archeology Certification
PROJECTS ON FMPO FFY2020-2025 TIP
Aztec
F100091 – East Aztec Arterial Phase II
36
Bloomfield
F100300 – East Blanco Bridge
Farmington
F100099 – Foothills Drive Enhancement Phase II
F100100 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase I
F100101 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase II
F100132 – 20th Street Phase III
TF00001 – Red Apple Transit
San Juan County
F100021 – East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension Phase III
F100240 – Glade Run Recreation Area Trails
F100290 – CR 5500 Bridge Replacement
F100320 – Kirtland Schools Walk Path Extension
F100330 – Glade Run Recreation Area Trails Extension
NMDOT
F100170 - NM 173
INFORMATION ITEM
This is an information item only. Committee members will have an
opportunity to provide any needed feedback/updates regarding current
TIP project status and details.
DISCUSSION: The Technical Committee members gave their project updates:
City of Aztec – Steve Morse
The East Aztec Arterial-Phase II is funded and easements are in progress.
City of Bloomfield – Jason Thomas
The City of Bloomfield is still working with on right-of-way with one property owner for the
East Blanco Bridge project. Once that issue has been resolved, they will begin relocating
utilities.
City of Farmington – Virginia King
Acquisition on the Foothills Drive Enhancement-Phase II is about 95% complete. That process
is hoped to be completed by August 30.
20th Street-Phase III is in the design process.
There were no updates for the East Pinon Hills Blvd Extension-Phases I and II
Red Apple Transit – Andrew Montoya
There were no updates on the Red Apple Transit.
San Juan County – Fran Fillerup
East Pinon Hills Blvd-Phase III is at 60% design in the right-of-way and appraisal step.
Glade Run Recreation Area Trails - No update.
CR 550 Bridge Replacement - This project is in the right-of-way and acquisition process.
37
Kirtland Schools Walk Path Extension - During the planning of the first phase of the walk path,
the environmental clearance was done. Mr. Fillerup said he believed this project was in the
early design phase.
Glade Run Recreation Area Trails Extension - No update.
NMDOT – District 5 – David Quintana
The HSIP project for NM 173 is ready to proceed. Before the project can begin, NMDOT will
have an encroachment hearing with Williams Gas and they are still working with the City of
Aztec to move the water lines.
6. REVIEW OF THE DRAFT PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN (PPP)
Subject: Review of the Draft Public Participation Plan
Prepared by: Mary Holton, AICP, MPO Officer
Date: August 14, 2019
BACKGROUND
The current Public Participation Plan (PPP) was adopted on January 19, 2012
and amended on January 28, 2016.
The PPP must be reviewed/updated at least every five (5) years, prior to the
updating the MTP.
The PPP has been revised purposely to address issues raised in the MPO’s
recent Quality Assurance Review (QAR) by NMDOT, specifically in Item 8 (pages
8-9 of the QAR).
CURRENT WORK and ATTACHMENTS
Substantive changes in the revised PPP include:
4. Adding Kirtland as a member entity and NWNMCOG as the MPO’s
administrative agent.
5. Enlarging the MPO’s public outreach efforts by:
a. Publishing and posting public notices for draft and final documents
in English and Spanish (page 11 of the draft PPP).
b. Adding Public Comment forms at meetings and different locations
(page 15 and Appendix B of the draft PPP).
c. Adding locations for posting meeting notices, public comment forms,
and draft planning documents (page 20 of the draft PPP).
6. Adding FAST Act language to Planning Goals (pages 4-5 of the draft PPP).
The required 45-day public review/comment period for the draft PPP is from
August 11-September 26.
Both Committees will review the draft PPP in August.
A copy of the QAR is attached; a copy of the draft PPP will be sent separately.
38
INFORMATION ITEM & APPLICABLE CITATION
The Technical Committee is asked to review the draft and provide staff with
questions and comments at this meeting.
Both Committees will consider the revised PPP for approval in September.
23 CFR 450.316
DISCUSSION: Ms. Holton reported that the 45-day public comment period was advertised on
August 11 and copies of the draft PPP were hand-distributed to each of the locations listed on
Page 20 of the draft document by August 9.
Some changes were made to address issues raised in the MPO’s Quality Assurance Review
(QAR) finalized by NMDOT’s Planning Bureau on July 15:
- Add Kirtland as a member entity and NWNMCOG as the MPO’s administrative agent;
- Enlarge the MPO’s public outreach efforts by:
o Publishing and posting public notices for draft and final documents in English
and Spanish;
o Providing Public Comment forms at meetings;
o Adding locations for posting of meeting notices, public comment forms and
draft planning documents;
- Add FAST Act language to Planning Goals
Both Committees will consider approval of the final PPP in September.
7. QUARTERLY EDUCATION: INTEGRATING RESILIENCE INTO THE TRANSPORTATION
PLANNING PROCESS
Subject: Quarterly Education: Integrating Resilience
into the Transportation Planning Process
Prepared by: Mary L Holton, AICP, MPO Officer
Date: August 14, 2019
PRESENTATION
Recent disasters, including wildfires in California, flooding in Colorado, ice storms in Atlanta,
and hurricanes from the Gulf Coast to the Northeast, have endangered the long-term
investments that Federal, state, and local governments have made in transportation
infrastructure.
Transportation agencies across the country are assessing ways to ensure that our nation's
transportation infrastructure is resilient-prepared for and able to withstand, respond to, and
quickly recover from potential disruptions.
Addressing this critical issue is included in the U.S. Department of Transportation Strategic Plan
for FY 2018-2022, which includes development of new tools to improve transportation
infrastructure durability and resilience as a priority innovation area. It also states that
infrastructure should be made resilient and durable to withstand extreme weather events.
39
Doing so will reduce future maintenance costs over the full life cycle of transportation assets.
In addition, The Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, signed into law in
December 2015, requires agencies to consider resiliency during transportation planning
processes.
FHWA is developing resources for State DOT and MPO planners on integrating resilience into the
transportation planning process. FHWA has developed a white paper and fact sheet and is
developing case studies, a Q&A document, and a handbook. FHWA also sponsored three peer
exchanges to explore approaches to incorporating resilience into the planning process with
State DOTs, MPOs and other stakeholders.
Three (3) short readings have been provided to you: “Resilience and Transportation Planning,”
“Considering Resilience in Transportation Planning: Laying the Groundwork,” and, “Building
Resilient Transportation.”
Please review the readings and be prepared to discuss the concepts and methods discussed in
the readings for inclusion into the new MTP.
DISCUSSION: Ms. Holton noted that the issue of resiliency came out of the FAST Act and
requires agencies to take resiliency and reliability into consideration during the
transportation planning process. This educational presentation (including three reports on
Pages 70 of the Agenda) is to introduce the concept of excessive weather events such as
flooding and high heat. Much of this information will be reviewed for inclusion in the MTP
chapter on climate.
In 2011, the USDOT provided funding for some small pilot projects on how to respond and deal
with climate change. A larger project then evolved from the early pilot programs in 2013-
2015 funded by FHWA.
The concept is to identify the vulnerabilities in the region and determine how best to
safeguard the infrastructure from the damage caused by these extreme weather events.
These ideas have been evolving at FHWA and NMDOT over the last decade or so and there is
now a vulnerability assessment and adaptation framework that provides the recommended
methodology. Ms. Holton has additional materials that she will provide to those interested.
The Committee discussed how the issues of extreme weather could affect planning documents
(i.e.: minimum design for bridge, erosion control, etc.). Ms. Holton thought the takeaway was
how to protect the region’s investment in transportation from extreme weather events.
8. REPORTS FROM NMDOT
Planning Bureau – Joseph Moriarty
Mr. Moriarty reported on the following items:
- STIP Funding – Local public agencies may apply for State Transportation Innovation
Council (STIC) funding. More information is available on FHWA website. New Mexico
STIC applications/proposals are due to NMDOT by August 30;
- American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has released
a summary on the proposed America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act (ATIA) which
40
would reauthorize the FAST Act (more information was provided in the 7/29/19
NMDOT Govt to Govt Update;
- The Active Transportation Programs team at NMDOT completed its FFY2020 Call for
Projects Report, summarizing the process and outcomes of the recent call for
projects. The report can be viewed on the NMDOT website and through the 7/29/19
NMDOT Govt to Govt Update. The report provides a good resource on the types of
projects that were selected;
- FHWA is offering a Value Capture Webinar Series for agencies looking for innovative
financial strategies to fund transportation projects (more information also available in
the 7/29/19 NMDOT Govt to Govt Update);
- NMDOT’s long range transportation plan update is underway. The consultant for the
update is High Street which will begin the update process with a review of the current
plans. External meetings with stakeholders will be held, but no dates have been set.
Mr. Fillerup commented that input on the state’s long range plan from stakeholders is
important especially in respect to rural vs. urban areas, the size of the facility, as well as
the limited use of funds towards maintenance. Mr. Moriarty thought these would certainly
be topics of discussion once the process is further underway.
District 5 – David Quintana
Construction on US 64 is continuing with traffic soon being rerouted over to the newly
constructed lanes shortly.
The statewide call for projects listing was submitted to the State Transportation Commission
for their approval at their meeting on August 20. The funding received was evenly distributed
among the Districts and most of the project applications submitted are expected to be
funded.
No District 5 Commissioner has not yet been named.
The maintenance crew began dredging out the bridge under US 64 in Bloomfield. Work is
expected to be completed soon.
9. COMMITTEE MEMBER DISCUSSION ITEMS
Subject: Committee Member Discussion Items
Date: August 14, 2019
DISCUSSION ITEMS
There were no additional discussion items provided by Technical Committee members for
inclusion in the Agenda.
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10. INFORMATION ITEMS
Subject: Information Items
Prepared by: MPO Staff
Date: August 14, 2019
INFORMATION ITEMS
a. MTP Update. Selection of the consultant is currently scheduled by the Farmington City
Council (Fiscal Agent) on August 13, 2019. A report will be provided to you at your
meeting.
b. FFY2020-2025 TIP Amendment Schedule. A proposed schedule has been sent to NMDOT
for their review/approval. The first amendment is tentatively slated to begin with the call
for projects in September or October 2019 for the committees’ consideration/adoption to
occur in November. A status report will be provided to you at your meeting.
c. New NM-LTAP Trainings for the Fall. Attached is a schedule of upcoming inexpensive
trainings available to entities.
d. TIP Project Updates. The MPO’s QAR Item #9 provided a recommendation that the TC
members prepare and communicate their updates to MPO staff 2-3 days in advance of the
TC meeting. MPO Staff could then compile a consolidated table for use at the meeting.
Please be prepared to discuss this at your meeting.
e. MPO Quarterly. The MPO Quarterly is scheduled for September 18 and 19 in Santa Fe. The
meeting on Wednesday will be the updates from the MPOs and NMDOT along with any
other pending discussion items. There will be training on Thursday on pedestrian safety
led by FHWA on their STEP program – Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian.
DISCUSSION: a. This item was already discussed.
b. The FFY2020-2025 TIP Amendment Schedule was approved by NMDOT. The first call for
amendments will be made on September 23.
c. A list of upcoming NM-LTAP trainings for the fall is provided on Page 73-74 of the Agenda.
d. The Quality Assurance Review (QAR) provided a recommendation for the Technical
Committee members to prepare and provide their project updates to MPO Staff on Monday
prior to the actual Wednesday meeting. Staff will compile the updates recognizing that the
members may be augmenting their update at the meeting as necessary. The Technical
Committee agreed and this new process will begin in September.
e. The MPO Quarterly is scheduled for September 18 and 19 in Santa Fe. STEP Program
training on pedestrian safety will be provided to attendees.
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11. BUSINESS FROM THE CHAIRMAN, MEMBERS AND STAFF
Vice Chair Thomas thanked Mr. Quintana for his assistance in getting the cleanout of the
bridge on US 64 started. This issue has been of great concern to the residents downstream
who have been flooded in the past. He added that the plugging of bridges and culverts tie
back to the earlier discussion on resiliency is addressing climate change issues.
Vice Chair Thomas also asked for assistance from District 5 in getting three no u-turn signs
installed on West Broadway where no turn lanes exist and traffic accidents have occurred. Mr.
Quintana said he would help and asked for an e-mail indicating the location of the desired
signage.
There was no additional business from the Chairman, Members and Staff.
12. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ANY ISSUES NOT ON THE AGENDA
There was no public comment on any issues not on the agenda.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Mr. Flack moved to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Morse seconded the motion. The motion passed
unanimously and Vice Chair Thomas adjourned the meeting at 11:04 a.m.
___________________________ ___________________________
Jason Thomas, Technical Committee June Markle, Administrative Assistant
Vice Chair
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