FDOT outlines SIS 2050 multimodal unfunded needs process at TPO meeting

Laurie Kent, District 7 SIS coordinator for the Florida Department of Transportation, briefed the TPO on the SIS 2050 multimodal unfunded needs plan process and requested input from local planning organizations as part of an ongoing update.

Kent said the SIS plan lists transportation improvements needed for state-designated SIS facilities that are not yet costed or in the work program, and it serves as a long-range catalog of priorities even when funding is not available. "The SIS 2050 multimodal unfunded needs plan serves to identify transportation improvements that are needed for SIS facilities," she said. "These improvements are unconstrained by cost and are not yet included in the SIS work program, the second 5-year plan, or the cost-feasible plan."

Kent described an 18-month update timetable that began with a December kickoff; the process uses LRTPs, statewide and regional modeling, modal master plans (aviation, freight, rail, seaport, spaceport and transit), and GIS visualization to identify needs. She said FDOT aims to have a complete multimodal draft by the end of the month and will return to MPOs/TPOs for review before final senior management and Executive Board adoption.

Kent noted the plan does not guarantee funding or project endorsement but provides a long-term framework that helps FDOT and regional partners align priorities. She said FDOT will coordinate with MPOs, TPOs, regional transportation authorities and modal partners; local jurisdictions' LRTPs are an important input for identifying project needs.

Council Member Hirtak asked whether the TPO would receive a copy of the draft; Kent said she would forward it to TPO staff for distribution. The TPO did not take action on the update; Kent said staff will return with the draft for local review.