The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to transportation planning by introducing new performance factors and modifying existing ones. Specifically, it would add "mobility" as a performance factor and change "congestion relief" to "congestion reduction" and "safety" to "safety improvements." Additionally, it would separate the combined factor of "integration and connectivity with other modes" into two distinct factors: "connectivity" and "integration." The bill would also require the Arizona Department of Transportation's (ADOT) Transportation Planning Division to develop methods for quantitatively measuring these performance factors and to consider new technologies and innovations in their delivery.

Furthermore, the bill would establish specific weightings for highway and transit projects, mandating that 40% of the evaluation for highway projects be based on congestion reduction and mobility, and 20% on safety improvements. For transit projects, it would set a minimum ridership requirement of 70% of the system average, which could be lowered to 50% if contracted to a private operator. The bill also prohibits the consideration of motor vehicle travel mile reduction targets and ensures that performance factors do not promote differential treatment based on race, color, or ethnicity. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the effectiveness and equity of transportation planning in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 28-501, 28-505, 28-332
Senate Engrossed Version: 28-501, 28-505, 28-332