Utah Administrative Code Topic - Transportation Commission
The Utah Administrative Code (UAC) related to the Transportation Commission is primarily found within Title R940 - Transportation Commission, Administration.
The Utah Transportation Commission is a vital body that works in cooperation with the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and municipal planning organizations (MPOs). Its primary role is to decide how available transportation funds are spent by prioritizing transportation projects within the state. This involves making crucial decisions about highway projects, transit projects, and active transportation initiatives.
Here's a breakdown of the key areas typically covered in UAC Title R940 concerning the Transportation Commission:
R940-1 - Establishment of Toll Rates: This rule outlines the process and criteria by which the Transportation Commission establishes or modifies toll rates on state tollways.
R940-2 - Approval of Tollway Development Agreements: This chapter details the Commission's role in approving agreements related to the development and operation of tollways, often involving public-private partnerships. It specifies what information the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) must provide to the Commission for approval.
R940-3 - State Infrastructure Bank Fund: This rule likely outlines the administration and use of the State Infrastructure Bank fund, which is a revolving fund used to finance transportation projects through loans or other financial assistance. The Commission would have oversight of how these funds are allocated.
R940-4 - Airports of Regional Significance: This may contain criteria or procedures for identifying and supporting airports that are deemed regionally significant.
R940-5 - Approval of Highway Facilities on Sovereign Lands: Regulations concerning the Commission's approval process for constructing highway facilities on lands where the state holds sovereign title.
R940-6 - Prioritization of New Transportation Capacity Projects: This is a core function of the Commission. This rule describes the methodology and criteria the Commission uses to prioritize and allocate funding for new transportation capacity projects, which can include highway expansion, new transit lines, or significant active transportation (pedestrian/bicycle) infrastructure. It defines terms like "transportation investment fund (TIF)" and "transit transportation investment fund (TTIF)" projects and the factors considered in project selection.
R940-7 - Marda Dillree Corridor Preservation Fund: Regulations for the use and administration of this specific fund, likely dedicated to preserving future transportation corridors.
R940-10 - Guidelines for Development Participation in Transportation Reinvestment Zones: Rules for how private development can participate in and contribute to transportation infrastructure within designated reinvestment zones.
R940-11 - Guidelines for Partnering with Local Governments: Outlines the framework and procedures for UDOT and the Commission to partner with local governments on transportation projects.
Key Roles and Functions of the Utah Transportation Commission (as reflected in the rules):
Funding Allocation and Prioritization: This is the most significant responsibility. The Commission evaluates and prioritizes transportation projects across the state based on needs, available funding, and strategic goals.
Oversight of Specific Funds: Manages and directs the use of various dedicated transportation funds, such as the Transportation Investment Fund (TIF) and the State Infrastructure Bank.
Approval of Major Agreements: Approves significant contracts and agreements related to transportation infrastructure, particularly for tollways and public-private partnerships.
Policy and Strategic Direction: While UDOT handles day-to-day operations, the Commission provides high-level policy guidance and strategic direction for the state's transportation future.
Public Accountability: Through its established rules, the Commission ensures transparency in its decision-making processes for prioritizing projects and allocating funds.
In essence, Utah Administrative Code Title R940 provides the formal structure and specific procedures for the Utah Transportation Commission to fulfill its critical role in planning, funding, and guiding the development of Utah's transportation system.
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