2013 Annual Report Providing Premier Transportation Planning

THE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AGENCY FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY 2013 ANNUAL REPORT PROVIDING PREMIER TRANSPORTATION PLANNING

We hope you found this 2013 Annual Report insightful as we move into another year of embarking upon transportation projects and assessing the needs of our citizens and visitors. At the Miami-Dade MPO, our goal is to sustain and improve the county’s transportation infrastructure. We are bound by excellence and vow to continue to work towards Providing Premier Transportation Planning – that is our commitment.

Miami-Dade MPO Governing Board Voting Members Rebeca Sosa, Chairwoman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Vice Chairman

Bruno A. Barreiro, Miami-Dade County Perla T. Hantman, Miami-Dade Public Schools Jeff Porter, City of Homestead Lynda Bell, Miami-Dade County Carlos Hernandez, City of Hialeah Lucie M. Tondreau, City of North Miami Esteban Bovo, Jr., Miami-Dade County Sally A. Heyman, Miami-Dade County Javier D. Souto, Miami-Dade County Jose “Pepe” Diaz, Miami-Dade County Barbara J. Jordan, Miami-Dade County Francis Suarez, City of Miami Audrey M. Edmonson, Miami-Dade County Philip Levine, City of Miami Beach Xavier L. Suarez, Miami-Dade County Maurice Ferré, Miami-Dade Expressway Authority Jean Monestime, Miami-Dade County Juan C. Zapata, Miami-Dade County Dennis C. Moss, Miami-Dade County

Non-Voting Members Miami-Dade MPO FDOT District VI Irma San Roman, Executive Director Gus Pego, P.E., Secretary Harold Desdunes, P.E.

A special thanks to our transportation partners in the creation of this report

The Miami-Dade MPO has set a policy that assures that no person shall on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, family, or religious status, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, and the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination or retaliation under any program or activity. It is the policy of the Miami-Dade MPO to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request this document in accessible format please call (305) 375-1881. If you are interested in participating in the transportation planning process, please contact the Miami-Dade MPO at (305) 375-4507, [email protected], or www.miamidade.gov/mpo. The preparation of this report has been funded in part from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), the State Planning and Research Program (Section 505 of Title 23, U.S. Code), and Miami-Dade County, Florida. The contents of this report do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of the U. S. Department of Transportation. “Looking forward to a better and brighter transportation future”

Photo courtesy of Arquitectonica

The Miami-Dade MPO is in charge of planning International Airport (MIA) and PortMiami. Thanks The PortMiami Feasibility Study, completed this MIA also was near the top of the year’s agenda From solidifying the County’s status as the Gateway past year, provides an analysis of several exciting MIAMI-DADE MPO for Miami-Dade County’s transportation system in large part to these twin economic engines, the as the MPO signed on to the Federal Aviation of the Americas to conducting a host of planning – including roadways, public transportation, and County contributes almost a sixth of the entire state of public transportation options to connect the port Administration’s “NextGen” initiative to upgrade activities that will improve multimodal mobility CHAIRWOMAN’S MESSAGE bicycle and pedestrian mobility – to ensure that the Florida’s gross domestic product, while its ideal weather, with downtown Miami, including a light rail system U.S. airports from ground-based to satellite-based throughout the County, the MPO last year helped build As the Miami-Dade travel needs of the County’s residents, visitors, and beautiful scenery and unique cultural charm attract and streetcars. This study couldn’t come at a better air traffic management. This will alleviate future a solid roadmap to continued progress. As we build Metropolitan Planning commuters are met. We’re proud of the progress we more than 14 million visitors every year from all over time for PortMiami, which is poised to become delays at MIA as the airport prepares to meet on these achievements in 2014 and beyond, Miami- Organization’s (MPO) have made in cooperation with our transportation the world. A well planned, integrated transportation one of the world’s premier seaports thanks to two the challenge of the anticipated growth in traffic Dade County can look forward to a better and brighter Chairwoman, and on partners over the past year, and we would like to system that provides multimodal connectivity to transformational projects now in progress: the volumes in both passenger and cargo operations. transportation future. behalf of the MPO take this opportunity to highlight some of our major these two important international gateways is critical PortMiami tunnel – which will link the seaport to I-395 Combined with the spectacular success and Governing Board, it is accomplishments of 2013 in the following pages. to supporting this tremendous visitor traffic and to dramatically improve traffic flow – and the dredging popularity of the Metrorail extension to the my pleasure to present maintaining the County’s economic vitality, and MIA of the port’s channel to accommodate supersized post- airport, which completed its first year of service in to you the MPO’s 2013 Miami-Dade County is one of the world’s busiest and PortMiami both figured prominently in the MPO’s Panamax cargo ships upon completion of the Panama 2013, this latest advance is helping usher in a new Rebeca Sosa Annual Report. transportation hubs, as home to both Miami planning efforts in 2013. Canal expansion now underway. era at MIA. Miami-Dade MPO Governing Board Chairwoman

Page 1 Page 2 “The 2040 LRTP allows us better insight on future transportation needs for the area”

THE 2040 LONG RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN As Miami-Dade County looks ahead to the year has been busy preparing for and developing its which was adopted in 2009. Using more accurate then held a series of public workshops to kick system. The multi-agency 2040 LRTP Steering 2040, the future looks bright in many ways. 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), also estimates of future population, employment, off the 2040 LRTP update process and gather Committee was also active throughout 2013 The area’s diversity, location, and quality of life called “Mobility Options 2040”. The 2040 LRTP is and travel behavior, the 2040 LRTP update feedback from the general public. Those who with meetings held on a monthly basis to discuss contribute to its global appeal. High levels of an effort by the MPO to establish goals, priorities, will better assess future needs for the area. were unable to make it to the public workshops and guide the process. Other important aspects foreign investment have helped its economy and strategies for improving Miami-Dade County’s It will also incorporate passenger and goods were offered the opportunity to attend a virtual directly related to the 2040 LRTP process are rebound quickly from the recent recession. It is transportation system to meet the needs created mobility management elements such as express meeting online, which was open to the public the individual plan updates for the Bicycle/ also nearly finished improving major parts of its by future growth and development. Addressing lanes networks, higher transit use, more non- for forty-five straight days. The 2040 LRTP Pedestrian, Freight, and Congestion Management transportation system to accommodate additional all modes of transportation, it determines how motorized options, and greater investment website remains a source of information about programs. These updates are parallel processes growth expected to come along with megaships future funding should be invested based on opportunities for the private sector. The 2040 the update, and allows visitors to watch the that will ultimately feed into the 2040 LRTP. Once through the new Panama Canal in 2015. The MPO technical analysis and public opinion. The 2040 LRTP update began in early 2013 with the video presentation from the previous public completed, they will each serve as guides to is now in the process of planning for the twenty- LRTP is expected to be completed by fall 2014, completion of two studies designed to gather meetings and leave feedback on how they promote a comprehensive transportation network five years beyond 2015. Over the past year, it and will replace the MPO’s current 2035 LRTP, information needed for the process. The MPO would like to improve their local transportation that is efficient, safe, and interconnected.

Page 3 Page 4 IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS “A cooperative effort can help make transportation improvements a reality”

Unified Planning Work Program Transportation Improvement Program The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) The UPWP contains eight categories of planning second year of the current UPWP total just over Updated on a yearly basis, the Transportation a project is implemented. The TIP is an integral The TIP includes a description, an anticipated dictates all the transportation planning activities initiatives known as “Work Elements.” They cover $5.4 million. Improvement Program (TIP) depicts which planned part of the short range planning process. In order schedule, and an estimated cost for each that will be managed by the MPO over a two- topics such as Administration, Data Collection, improvement projects will be allocated over the for a transportation project to be eligible for of the projects in addition to an “unfunded year period, and describes how these planning Transportation Improvement Program, Long next five years utilizing either federal, state, and/ federal funding, it must be included in the local needs” section that lists important projects for Range Transportation Planning, Special Project or local funding. The projects are advanced from TIP. Approved in May 2013, the MPO’s current studies will be funded. The planning studies UPWP FUNDING which there are currently not enough funds in outlined in the UPWP are then carried out in a Planning, Regional Planning, Public Participation, the MPO’s Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), TIP prioritizes project funding through fiscal year the budget. The “InteracTIP” tool, available on 2013 cooperative effort between the various regional and Systems Planning. Within each Work and are prioritized in the TIP according to local 2018. It includes over $7 billion in programmed the MPO’s website, allows users to also view and local transportation agencies involved. Element, specific studies and activities are  Federal $4,377,571 needs and the policy goals of the MPO. The TIP funds for intermodal, highway, transit, aviation, TIP projects based on geographic locations  State $221,053 They help further refine the comprehensive and identified for funding. Adopted in mid-2012, the  Local $826,929 is the method by which planned transportation seaport, and non-motorized improvements so they easily see on a map what is being multimodal transportation plans that lead to current UPWP allocates funding for planning Total $5,425,553 projects are placed into action. It is the final step in Miami-Dade County. Projects in the TIP are planned for different parts of the county over future improvements in Miami-Dade County. efforts through June of 2014. Funds for the in the transportation planning process before grouped by mode and transportation agency. the next few years.

Page 5 Page 6 ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMS “We bring a friendly greeting to your neighborhood with beautification projects”

Municipal Grant Program Transportation Alternatives Program Miami Women’s Club The Start of Administered each year on a competitive basis, the $40,000. Each municipality is responsible for The MPO’s Transportation Alternatives Program were selected for TAP funding in 2013: Municipal Grant Program (MGP) provides funding financing at least twenty percent of their proposed (TAP) provides federal funding for smaller-scale • Miami-Dade County - Brickell Station Park to municipalities in Miami-Dade County for use budget. The remaining eighty percent can then be improvements that promote alternative modes of • City of Miami - Traffic Calming and Pedestrian towards their individual transportation planning covered by the MGP award. Five new studies were transportation such as walking or bicycling. Eligible Safety Improvements Something New needs. The MGP Committee reviews all proposals applicants include any type of local government – Overtown Greenway along NW 11th Street selected for MGP funding in 2013: and makes award recommendations to the MPO • Town of Cutler Bay - Master Plan Update agency responsible for transportation facilities – Miami Women’s Club Baywalk Governing Board for approval. Each proposal is • City of Doral - Transit Mobility Plan or recreational areas. The funding legislature for – Health Walk along NW 17th Street evaluated based on specific selection criteria to • Town of Miami Lakes - Greenways and Trails the TAP, known as MAP-21, consolidated several • City of Miami Gardens - Betty T. Ferguson determine how well it aligns with countywide Master Plan funding programs into one single funding source. Recreation Complex NW 191st Street Project and local planning initiatives, improves mobility, • Village of Pinecrest - US-1 Corridor Bicycle/ TAP funds are dedicated to small projects involving • City of Miami Lakes - Bicycle and Pedestrian or promotes intermodal transportation efforts. Pedestrian Mobility Plan non-motorized transportation, safety initiatives, Improvements The MGP usually funds four or five studies per • City of South Miami - Intermodal Transportation education, beautification, or other community • City of Hialeah - Guardrail Improvements for year with the average recipient receiving about Plan improvement activities. The following projects West 28th Avenue

Page 7 Page 8 STUDIES AND PROJECTS “Our improvements help build a better community”

Baywalk Mobility Plan Study City of Coral Gables Trolley Master Plan With funding by the Municipal Grant Program, are: Connectivity, Identity, Safety, and Recreation. Margaret Pace Park In an effort to expand the success of its trolley The study conducted surveys to determine this mobility plan focuses on the 7-mile segment The Plan seeks to connect the different districts service along Ponce de Leon Boulevard, the City travel patterns and preferences for existing of Biscayne Bay between Albert Pallot Park and that currently constitute the Miami Baywalk of Coral Gables initiated this study with funding and potential passengers. It then proposed Alice Wainwright Park. It assesses the potential area. It recommends strategies for branding by the Municipal Grant Program to determine several recommendations for enhancing for creating a continuous, world class public that include cohesive signage and using local the feasibility and benefits of establishing similar the trolley system as a whole. These include space by linking this entire waterfront area. public art pieces to exhibit cultural charm. It also service in other parts of the city. The current operating a new 1.1-mile loop around the Known as the “Miami Baywalk”, this effort would outlines the importance of making the area safe trolley service is a fare-free, local circulator downtown area, connecting to a proposed help further the City of Miami’s commitment to and comfortable so that people are attracted to that makes numerous stops on its 4-mile route extension of the University of Miami’s “Hurry providing access to Biscayne Bay for residents, its public spaces for social and recreational usage. between the Douglas Road Metrorail Station Cane Shuttle” in the vicinity of Merrick Park, visitors, and businesses alike. Serving as a road The creation of a permanent continuous Baywalk and West Flagler Street. It provides connections and improving the passenger experience with map for making Miami Baywalk a reality, the will be an important step towards fulfilling a firm between Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) services and technology-related upgrades such as real- four major goals of the Baywalk Mobility Plan commitment to provide public access for all. popular destinations in Downtown Coral Gables. time information availability.

Page 9 Page 10 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) Transit Options to PortMiami Feasibility Study

well as entire State of Florida, becomes a prime source of drive-in passengers. 5. Ports like PortMiami have invested heavily in new parking facilities to meet the “Future growth brings demand. 6. Ports have begun to see parking as a major source of revenue, not dependent on the Cruise lines. As a result, some of the highest parking rates can now be found in many cruise ports. At PortMiami the daily rate of $20/day is significantly higher than at Miami International Airport (MIA) and yet the demand continues to increase. challenges to meet 7. Cruise lines have recently discovered this revenue source and are negotiating hard to obtain a participation in the parking revenue. At PortMiami, this has already happened.

In general, although the size of the air-sea market has decreased, the drive-in market in the demands and South Florida has increased dramatically. When combined with $20.00 per day parking, the fundamentals are there to switch passengers from passenger-only vehicles to a Tri- Rail, Metrorail with a direct port connection. In places like San Francisco, people are even using the City’s light rail trolley along the Embarcadero to get to the cruise terminal. As such, the recently completed PortMiami 2035 Master Plan includes the construction of a transit connection and central Port terminal station to expedite the expectations of the arrival/departure of cruise passengers and Port employees to the center of the Port. 1.3.2 Parking

Given the projected growth of passengers, the limited amount of land at the Port and the disperse nature of the ports’ current cruise terminals, there is a need to convert community” passengers driving to the cruise to using mass transit, as well as consolidating the parking into a more efficient and centrally located and connected central facility. Signage Program for the Miami Health District Transit Options to PortMiami Feasibility Study The Health District is the second largest that will assist with finding places of interests PortMiami, known as the “Cruise Capital of the analyzing transit options, this study examined employment area in Miami-Dade County. or transit stops. Because these new signs will all World”, welcomes millions of cruise passengers various premium modes and routes for making Building on earlier work that identified the need share a common and recognizable design theme, every year. This study examines various transit this important connection, including Metromover, for signage improvements in Miami’s Health regardless of their size, they will help to create a connections between PortMiami and downtown Metrorail, light rail, and commuter rail. The study District, this study provides an implementation stronger and better defined sense of place within Miami that would provide residents and tourists recommended a 1.9-mile Metromover Shuttle plan, which includes specific locations and the Health District. In addition to improving the an alternative to driving when accessing the Port. between the Historic Overtown/Lyric Theatre wording for new signs. The program covers three condition of existing signs and making navigation Transit service to PortMiami would also expand Metrorail Station to PortMiami with a connection different scales of signage, the largest being the easier at all levels, this identifiable signage Miami-Dade’s intermodal capabilities and provide to the Freedom Tower Metromover Station. In freeway-level. Next is the local street-level for program will help brand the District for visitors to benefits in the process such as traffic reduction, addition, the study proposed extending any future vehicles traveling within the District, and finally, immediately recognize they are in a unique and air quality improvement, and additional room for light rail service in the downtown Miami area to small scale bicycle and pedestrian-level signage important part of Miami-Dade County. growth instead of parking lots. In the process of serve the Port.

Page 11 Page 12 Figure 3: PortMiami - Terminal and Parking Plan

4 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) “Helping to provide better connections to transit, bicycling, and walking”

Miami Gardens Bicycle and Downtown Miami Intermodal Pedestrian Mobility Plan Terminal Feasibility Study The City of Miami Gardens, located on the pedestrian facilities and bicycle paths. This will Downtown Miami is a hub of economic activity same block as the Stephen P. Clark Government northern edge of the county, is the third largest help to create healthy, livable environments that is expected to become even more significant Center, at the southeast corner of NW 2nd Avenue municipality in Miami-Dade and home to several that support all modes of transportation and with projected growth on the horizon. This study and NW 3rd Street. A partial street closure and large commercial activity centers including the encourage increased community interaction. examined the feasibility of different candidate sites redesign was proposed for NW 1st Street in front SunLife Stadium. In an effort to enhance non- The newly finished Bicycle and Mobility Plan for establishing a downtown terminal facility that of the Government Center to make it a safer motorized transportation mobility and accessibility utilizes various data sources and levels of will serve Miami-Dade’s multimodal transportation pedestrian, ‘transit only’ block. This study also throughout Miami Gardens, this mobility plan analysis to develop customized and context- needs in the future. For the preferred site, developed detailed site plans that incorporate the outlines improvement strategies for its bicycle and sensitive recommendations for improvement. conceptual alternatives were developed for a architectural functionality and aesthetics of the pedestrian facilities. With funding by the Municipal This includes measures ranging from facility that would integrate access for bicycles, proposed facility. This will serve as the first step Grant Program, the City of Miami Gardens explored construction of new bicycle lanes, installation pedestrians, automobiles, buses, and planned in making the vision of this proposed intermodal connecting their neighborhoods with its public of wayfinding signs to improve pedestrian passenger rail systems (Tri-Rail Coastal Link and terminal into a reality, and also guide the adjacent spaces, businesses, and activity centers using urban crosswalk facilities, and promotion of new All Aboard Florida). This study selected the most All Aboard Florida Miami Terminal development in design concepts that promote safe and accessible safety-related educational initiatives. appropriate location to be integrated into the the future.

Page 13 Page 14 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) “Enhancing transit ridership and service fosters economic growth opportunities”

Connecting NW 25th Street to the NW 27th Avenue Enhanced Bus Service Homestead Extension of Florida’s Turnpike This study is part of a larger effort to make transit necessary tasks: cost estimates, environmental Planning for the transport of freight and cargo which is an access road that runs parallel to the improvements to key corridors identified in the analysis, and operating plans for the new stations along Miami-Dade’s roadways is an important HEFT. Traffic will travel north along this roadway NW 25th Street Viaduct People’s Transportation Plan (PTP). It specifically and buses that would be a part of this limited- role of the MPO. It not only provides economic to the NW 41st Street interchange where a flyover focuses on NW 27th Avenue, and explores the stop, rapid service. In addition to fewer stops, growth opportunities, but also ensures that freight will be constructed to provide a direct connection immediate goal of enhancing transit service the EBS would take advantage of traffic signal and trade operations and daily commuters are to the HEFT. To then accommodate southbound and ridership through the implementation of technology and queue-jumper lanes, which able to travel safely together. The purpose of this traffic from the HEFT on to eastbound NW 25th enhanced bus service (EBS), with a long term allow buses to take priority over other vehicles at study was to explore options for connecting NW Street, it is being recommended to construct an goal of eventually implementing rail transit intersections to increase bus speeds. This study 25th Street to the Homestead Extension of the extension of NW 122nd Avenue from the NW service. The segment of NW 27th Avenue under also designed conceptual plans for a new transit Florida’s Turnpike (HEFT) so that freight traffic can 41st Street interchange down to NW 25th Street. consideration for improvements is a significant terminal and park-and-ride facility at the northern more easily access the surrounding warehouse These two suggested movements for northbound north-south corridor in Miami-Dade County end of the corridor. This new facility would serve area in Doral and the NW 25th Street Viaduct into and southbound traffic on to the HEFT from NW that runs from Miami International Airport to as a transfer point between Broward County Miami International Airport (MIA). After reviewing 25th Street will ultimately provide safe, efficient the Broward County line near NW 215th Street. Transit and Miami-Dade Transit bus routes, and multiple alternatives, it was determined that the travel patterns for both freight and commuters, In developing the framework for implementing would also support transit-oriented development most efficient way to move westbound traffic on to while adhering to the Turnpike’s limited access transit improvements, this study carried out several for the areas surrounding the terminal. northbound HEFT is by utilizing NW 117th Avenue, roadway guidelines.

Page 15 Page 16 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) “Maximizing technology allows for easy access to information while improving safety”

Congestion Management Process Strategies BiKE Miami-Dade The MPO’s Congestion Management Process Boulevard (NW 36th/41st Street), and Kendall The MPO’s new Bicycle Knowledge Explorer, planner that can be used to plan a specific trip in (CMP) is designed to monitor the state of Miami- Drive (SW 88th Street) for evaluation. Because known as “BiKE Miami-Dade”, is a planning advance. It is also a database of information that Dade’s transportation system. It identifies overly these three roadways exhibit different traffic tool on the MPO website that allows users to is important for cyclists to know in general. After congested areas in need of improvements, which patterns and vary in size, the resulting strategies gather information about certain areas and continued use of the tool, a person can become are then added to the county’s long- and short- for improvements will vary. The study’s preplan their trips by creating customized more familiarized with the information it offers range planning efforts. The aim of this study is recommendations range from a series of non- routes based on their needs, preferences, as it relates to places they are most likely to ride. to select three roadway corridors highlighted signalized left turn lanes along Old Cutler Road to and skill level. The tool can also be used on a Knowledge of details like typical traffic conditions by the CMP, and apply congestion management more advanced solutions for reducing congestion mobile device such as a smart phone or tablet and the presence of different types of bicycle strategies leading to recommendations for like transit improvements along Kendall Drive, facilitating use when cyclists are out and facilities in the area will allow riders to have a specific improvements to each of them. Of the and a large-scale realignment and turn signal about and their plans should change, or if they better and safer biking experience, even if they seven potential candidates initially considered, redesign to better incorporate freight traffic along encounter unexpected obstacles along the way. don’t use BiKE Miami-Dade to specifically plan the study team chose Old Cutler Road, Doral Doral Boulevard. BiKE Miami-Dade is first and foremost a route every trip.

Page 17 Page 18 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) “We encourage a creative approach to foster better understanding”

Computerized Techniques The MPO is structured to provide its Governing and members of the general public. The MPO Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Committee Freight Transportation Advisory Committee Board with the most beneficial and accurate completed a series of short videos about these (BPAC) reviews bikeways and pedestrian A true multimedia (FTAC) advises on multimodal freight PortMiami Gantry Crane information available when making decisions committees to better explain their roles in the mobility planning recommendations, and transportation, and includes members from about the future of Miami-Dade County’s planning process and the types of issues they coordinates the education, enforcement, and private sector freight firms involved in break- experience transportation system. One of the ways this is encounter. These videos are now incorporated encouragement of bicycle and pedestrian- bulk, marine cargo, logistics, local distribution, accomplished is through the use of specialized into the MPO website, along with meeting related initiatives. air cargo, terminal, rail freight, warehouse, and advisory committees that review proposed materials, presentations, and other documents over-the-road operations. plans, policies, projects, and initiatives to about each committee, to provide visitors a true Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee evaluate the benefits and potential drawbacks multimedia experience. The videos showcase (CTAC) evaluates the recommendations Transportation Aesthetics Review Committee of each before they are adopted or funded. the Transportation Planning Council (TPC), the generated during the development of the (TARC) performs the architectural and The advisory committees have a wide Transportation Planning Technical Advisory MPO’s transportation plans, and ensures aesthetics review of major bridges and variety of members that, depending on the Committee (TPTAC), and the four citizen advisory that proposed transportation projects are transportation projects, and evaluates their committee, range from transportation agency committees that include representation from the responsive to the community’s perceived needs potential impacts on the community before representatives to local business leaders general public as follows: and goals. contracts are finalized.

Page 19 Page 20 STUDIES AND PROJECTS (continued) “Coordination and feedback provides vital information to our planning process”

Safe Routes to Schools Initiatives Origin-Destination Surveys for Central Garage Arterial Grid Network Analysis Phase II The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program was During 2013, ten schools were studied for SRTS This report is part of a data collection series of access and egress, origin-destination patterns, This study examines Miami-Dade County’s the fact that current traffic levels in Miami-Dade developed to create a safer and more favorable improvements. The resulting recommendations that is taking place over a five-year span, and travel patterns, trip purpose, and information on network of arterial roadways to identify exceed the capacity of many arterial roadways environment for students to walk and bike to and focused primarily on the street network within will provide information on ridership patterns demographic characteristics of current transit opportunities for increasing capacity and despite a recent reduction in traffic volumes and from their respective schools within Miami-Dade a half-mile of each school, where they are likely for the entire transit system. In April of 2013, an riders. Combined with the prior survey results, this efficiency. It uses a systemwide approach to vehicle miles traveled. This has caused the need County. Schools are ranked based on priorities to have the greatest benefit. The most common on-board survey was conducted for 22 local bus information will help transportation planners and develop long-term and effective strategies for for a re-evaluation of the county’s roadway grid to determine which schools would benefit the SRTS recommendations include improvements to routes served by the MDT Central Division Garage. decision-makers understand and determine how addressing traffic congestion on priority roadway system to identify opportunities for enhancing most from improvements to unsafe conditions for sidewalks, crosswalks, school crossing signs, and These surveys were intended to obtain further to best allocate resources based on existing needs corridors. Carried out as an update to a similar network connectivity, and thus reducing student pedestrians. school flashers. insight on ridership characteristics, such as mode and projected growth. study from 2006, this analysis takes into account congestion on these specific arterial roadways.

Page 21 Page 22 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY “We take advantage of technology to increase efficiency, performance, and provide education”

Supporting the FAA “NextGen” Initiative MPO Hosted Webinar Series for a Second Year Increasing The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Next system, the MPO signed up with this National Throughout 2013, the MPO continued to host Miami-Dade. Webinar discussions included: • Getting Better Data for Better Decisions: Generation Air Transportation System, called effort that promotes NextGen technology. This will a monthly series of webinars on bicycle and • Best Practices in Pedestrian Wayfinding Improving Performance Measures and NextGen, will alleviate delays at the nations most increase efficiency, performance, and accuracy for pedestrian topics. Presented by the Association of • Driving Deaths Down: Proven Countermeasures Outcomes community congested and delay-prone airports. NextGen passenger and cargo operations at MIA as volumes Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP), each that Work • Integrating Spatial Data to Develop Community for both are expected to increase in the future. is the transformation of the National Airspace webinar included national and regional experts • Bicycle Parking and Transit Priorities System from a ground-based system of air traffic speaking on a variety • Economic Benefits of Walkable and Bike Friendly • Using Photo Enforcement to Improve Pedestrian control to a satellite-based system of air traffic of subjects designed to awareness Communities Safety management, utilizing a portfolio of policy, help educate the general procedures, and 21st-century technology. To public and planning • What’s in there for me: Mining National Data for • Is There Safety in Numbers for Cyclists and support the Miami-Dade Aviation Department’s professionals alike on Information on Walking and Bicycling Pedestrians? (MDAD) efforts in upgrading Miami ways to improve walking • From Paint to Preform: Getting the Most from • Integrating Equity in Bicycle and Pedestrian International Airport’s (MIA) air traffic control and cycling conditions in Pavement Markings Planning

Page 23 Page 24 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY (continued) “Proud to be champions of sustainability while encouraging a healthier lifestyle”

“Bike305” Bike to Work Day Southeast Regional Bike Safety Summit Bike Safety Month Proclamation On March 5, 2013, Miami-Dade County residents furthered the MPO’s relationship with the Dutch The MPO’s Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator experts, and others throughout the bicycle The MPO was on hand to support the The Miami-Dade MPO has studied many aspects were encouraged to leave their cars behind and government and encouraged Miami-Dade presented at the Southeast Regional Bike Safety community to identify innovative ideas for “Proclamation for Bicycle Safety Month” at the of bicycle safety over the years. It has also played ride bikes to work to reap the health benefits of County to be more bike-friendly. Along with local Summit in Tampa on April 11, 2013. The Summit, improving bicycle safety in communities. The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) Meeting on a major role in implementing bicycle facility cycling, save money on gas, and reduce traffic planners, advocates, engineers, and business hosted by U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood Summit began with an expo, tour, and rally for May 21, 2013. The BCC designated the month of improvements and education initiatives to improve congestion. MPO staff, along with the Consul people, Nelson Vails, the first African-American and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bicycle safety, followed by a series of interactive May 2013 as “Bicycle Safety Month” in Miami-Dade cycling conditions throughout the county. As General of the Netherlands, was on hand to to win an Olympic Medal in Cycling, joined the (NHTSA) Administrator David Strickland, brought panel discussions including a discussion on County, and encouraged all residents and visitors a result, the MPO was able to supply pertinent support the first annual “Bike305” Bike to Work “Bike305” Bike to Work Day cycling team, which together federal, state, and local officials, planners, “Planning and Built Environment” of which MPO to show mutual respect for each other by being information on bicycling safety and best practices, Day at the University Metrorail Station. This event also included seven Municipal Mayors. designers, engineers, law enforcement, safety staff provided expertise. aware of cyclists and by cycling safely on our roads. and help raise awareness for this important effort.

Page 25 Page 26 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY (continued) “Our outreach efforts promote safety and a healthier lifestyle that build a stronger community”

Consortium for a Healthier Miami-Dade Reconnecting America’s Peer Exchange MPO Staff Speaks at CIASF Event The Consortium for a Healthier Miami-Dade is a Consortium partners share the common belief The Miami-Dade MPO hosted other financing mechanisms such as tax- The Commercial Industrial Association provided an avenue to educate the group group of 161 organizations that work together to that through collaboration and prevention- Reconnecting America’s “Financing increment financing for TOD. It also provided of South Florida (CIASF) is a non-profit about the main functions of the MPO, promote healthy lifestyles and communities. On focused initiatives, Miami-Dade County Transit Oriented Development (TOD) an opportunity for HUD/EPA Sustainable organization of business leaders involved and more specifically, its role in freight May 24, 2013, Co-Chair Marisel Losa presented residents can live longer, happier, and healthier and Infill Supportive Infrastructure Peer Communities Partnership grantees to share in the development, design, construction, transportation planning. Coordination a special recognition award to the Miami-Dade lives. Consortium initiatives are guided by the Exchange”. The event provided technical case studies, best practices, and lessons learned sales, and leasing of industrial and and feedback from groups like the CIASF MPO Bicycle/Pedestrian Coordinator for his goals and objectives established in “Healthy expertise from national practitioners from their own regions. Southeast Florida is commercial real estate in south Florida. The is vital to the planning process in that it work as the Chair of the Health and the Built People 2020,” the nationwide blueprint on transportation funding strategies part of this partnership through the “Seven50” CIASF publishes annual reports on office provides insight from a private-sector Environment Committee at the Consortium’s designed to serve as a framework for improving including value capture, public-private project, being led by the South Florida and and industrial market conditions in Miami- perspective on issues related to the annual seminar. the health of all people in the United States. partnerships (P3), joint development, and Treasure Coast Regional Planning Councils. Dade County. Participation at their event freight and shipping industry.

Page 27 Page 28 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY (continued) “Providing better transportation choices to help meet everyone’s needs”

FDOT Secretary Addresses MPO Governing Board “On the Move...” Transportation Guide A major transportation partner in Miami- discuss their individual concerns. Mr. Prasad The transportation system in Miami-Dade County Move…” is designed to be user-friendly, with Working with our Dade County, the MPO works closely with highlighted the FDOT’s major projects in can often be confusing to traverse and understand up-to-date information on all transportation the Florida Department of Transportation Miami-Dade County, and also discussed the for residents and visitors alike. As such, the MPO modes within Miami-Dade County, from (FDOT) on a variety of different planning Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise’s two projects: plays an active role in educating the general highways and toll lanes to transit routes and transportation partners initiatives. FDOT Secretary, Ananth Prasad, direct connection ramps from the Homestead public regarding the transportation resources bicycle trails. The MPO’s pocket transportation addressed the MPO Governing Board by Extension of Florida’s Turnpike (HEFT) to the available to them. To help accomplish this goal, guide provides a variety of emergency and providing them with an update on the SR 836 Express Lanes direct and the Killian the MPO publishes its citizens’ pocket guide to non-emergency contact numbers, and is also FDOT’s recent progress. This afforded Parkway northbound partial interchange at transportation called “On the Move…” translated and distributed in Spanish and the Board members the opportunity to HEFT milepost 19.4. Released in 2013, the 4th edition of “On the Creole to reach a broader audience.

Page 29 Page 30 MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE COMMUNITY (continued) “Continuously planning to bring improvements to our communities”

Snake Creek Trail Grand Opening Peer Exchange on Freight Movement and Megaregions A little over a year from its groundbreaking in first studied in 2005 by the Miami-Dade County MPO staff presented at the “Connected Places: The event was co-sponsored by the Federal July 2012, the Snake Creek Trail in Miami Gardens Park, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department Freight Movement and Megaregions Peer Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Federal opened for use. The Grand Opening for the 3.4- (PROS) and the MPO as the “Snake Creek: Bike Exchange” in Atlanta, Georgia. The Peer Exchange Transit Administration (FTA) Transportation mile long, 10-foot wide paved non-motorized, Trail Planning and Feasibility Study.” The purpose provided a unique opportunity to discuss the Planning Capacity Building Program, the Atlanta shared-use trail extension took place on October of the study was to assess the development of many freight-related projects occurring here in our Regional Commission, the Center for Quality 16, 2013. Its completion creates a longer, a non-motorized trail and linear park within the megaregion of South Florida, and also learn about Growth and Regional Development (CQGRD) at continuous greenway by connecting to another Snake Creek Canal (C-9) right-of-way, between the what is taking place in other sister megaregions Georgia Institute of Technology, and the Metro 1.6-mile trail in North Miami Beach. The trail was Florida’s Turnpike and NE Miami Gardens Drive. throughout the United States. Atlanta Chamber.

Page 31 Page 32 REGIONAL INITIATIVES “Valuing our natural resources while building an integrated regional transportation system”

2040 Regional Transportation Plan Improvements for the Region As sizeable and significant as Miami-Dade County is 2040 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP), with the time a Regional Non-Motorized and Transit Systems Regional Freight - The MPO is also collaborating and stakeholder feedback to determine regional (SFVP). Vanpooling allows groups to share a on its own, it is important to remember that it is also Miami-Dade MPO serving as the lead agency. Master Plan will be developed and included in the with its neighbors in Broward and Palm Beach freight needs and deficiencies. Similar to the 2040 ride to and from work in a van provided by the a part of the larger Southeast Florida Metropolitan overall 2040 RTP. to produce “Cargo 2040: The Southeast Florida RTP process, it will then identify and prioritize SFVP. It provides a more comfortable, affordable, Area that includes substantial population and The Plan will identify the most significant Regional Freight Plan.” Freight and cargo regional improvement projects and strategies to and environmentally-friendly commute for area employment in neighboring Broward and Palm transportation investments needed to meet The 2040 RTP will be consistent with and movements are a vital part of any economy. In better meet future freight demand throughout residents. Covering Miami-Dade, Broward, and Beach Counties. The Miami-Dade MPO understands growing travel demands throughout the three- build on each county’s individual Long Range order to compete in the national and global the three county region. Cargo 2040 is expected Palm Beach counties, the SFVP currently has 230 that transportation in a contiguous urbanized county region. Important elements of the 2040 RTP Transportation Plan (LRTP). Given that the 2040 RTP marketplace, the region must have an efficient to be completed by mid-2014. active vanpools that average about six persons area is a regional issue as people and goods move include: coordination of projects crossing county has a much broader outlook than the local LRTPs, it and effective transportation system that per van and 67 miles per roundtrip. Nearly half of from place to place with little regard for political lines, performance of regional travel demand will focus upon the regionally significant corridors incorporates airport, seaport, rail, and roadway Vanpool Program - In addition to planning efforts, all vanpool commutes take place between Miami- boundaries. As a result, the Miami-Dade, Broward, modeling estimations, coordination of funding as identified and adopted by the respective three connectivity to move anticipated freight volumes. the Miami-Dade MPO promotes initiatives Dade and Broward counties. Vanpools help reduce and Palm Beach MPOs jointly funded jointly assumptions, prioritization of regional projects, MPO Governing Boards. The 2040 RTP is expected Still in its early stages, the update of this Plan will that are currently and actively improving regional traffic by keeping around 1,200 single-occupancy funded the preparation of the Southeast Florida and public engagement. In addition, for the first to be completed in early 2015. examine commodity flows, economic impacts, mobility, such as the South Florida Vanpool Program vehicles off of our roadways on a daily basis.

Page 33 Page 34 THE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AGENCY FOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY 2013 ANNUAL REPORT PROVIDING PREMIER TRANSPORTATION PLANNING

Miami-Dade MPO Governing Board Voting Members Rebeca Sosa, Chairwoman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Vice Chairman

Non-Voting Members Miami-Dade MPO FDOT District VI Irma San Roman, Executive Director Gus Pego, P.E., Secretary Harold Desdunes, P.E.

A special thanks to our transportation partners in the creation of this report