TPO workshop debates setting local PM3 targets; staff recommends polling before May vote

Mike Conger, TPO staff, told the TPO Technical Committee workshop that staff recommends the MPO set local targets for the Federal Highway PM3 system-performance measures covering 2026 through 2029, and proposed a staff poll to gather member preference before a May meeting.

"These measures are specific to the National Highway System," Conger said, noting the metrics apply to principal arterials and interstates in the urban area such as Kingston Pike and Alcoa Highway. He said TDOT will set statewide targets but the MPO has 180 days after TDOT to either support those statewide numbers or adopt local ones.

Why it matters: staff argued a regional target helps the MPO track local conditions and report progress in the mobility plan and TIP rather than simply deferring to a statewide number that can obscure local trends. Conger said there is no formal penalty for missing targets, but local targets create a clearer basis for discussion about investments and local priorities.

Key measures discussed: Conger reviewed four PM3 subparts that staff recommends the MPO…