Abstract:
The first step in applying any tool, system or methodology is to understand what it is, how it works and what it can do. This paper is an introduction to value methodology and its application to the metropolitan transportation planning process. Mr. Lawrence D. Miles, the developer of what today is known as Value Methodology defined it as a “…disciplined, step-by-step thinking system, with its specific approaches for mind setting, problem setting, and problem solving”. The Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in conjunction with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Atlanta District has been participating in value methodology studies on various projects since 2000. The principles of value methodology were applied during the project development phase of the IH 30 Corridor in Texarkana, AR/TX. Using the results of the value methodology study, and an earlier frontage road warrant study, MPO and TxDOT staffs were able to educate the general public, the media, and local elected officials on the benefits of such a project. The result is that this project has come from plan development to fully funded and scheduled for letting in six years. In this instance value methodology was applied to a specific transportation project. However, the principles involved in value methodology are just as applicable to all facets of the planning process from public involvement to development of the Unified Planning Work Program. In June 2005 the Texarkana MPO used Value Methodology to evaluate its FYs 2006-2007 UPWP and identified eleven recommendations for implementation or further study. Some of these recommendations will have positive financial impacts while others will help streamline ongoing and future activities thus adding value to the planning process.
