The premise of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 and the subsequent transportation legislation, TEA-21 and SAFETEA-LU, is the integration and coordination of all transportation modes into a seamless, uninterrupted transportation system locally, regionally and nationally. However, for a system to truly operate “intermodally,” all physical connections must be maintained and/or improved at regular intervals.
The words “multi-modal” and “intermodal”, though related in concept, are defined differently, as follows.
“Multi-mode” transportation refers to the different types of modes operating along a subject corridor or within a subject area. Comprehensive transportation planning efforts, such as the Long Range Transportation Plan can address and analyze several transportation modes at once, by that, employing a “multi-modal” planning perspective; and,
The integration/connection of transportation modes to serve people and freight is called “intermodal” transportation. For freight transportation, the “classic” definition of intermodal transportation is the transfer of goods by “container” for one transportation mode to another. However, the definition does not apply to the types of the goods movement found in York County. These types of operations are defined as product or bulk transfers of goods.
Intermodal transportation also applies to the transportation of people. For example, a person driving to a park and ride facility and then transferring onto a commuter express bus to complete his/her commuter constitutes and intermodal “person” trip.
Aviation Planning
The planning and programming aspects for airport projects differ from that of surface transportation modes. These processes do not fall within the jurisdiction of the regular YAMPO planning and programming processes. However, in the spirit of the SAFETEA-LU, it is paramount to incorporate all modes . . . more
Commuter Service Planning
Akin to public transportation/transit services, commuter services also provide a transportation “bridge” for people, especially daily commuters. However, the types of services and service solutions appear to lean more toward the innovative (ridesharing and express bus service), rather than traditional service (fixed route bus). Reflecting the national trend toward high mobility, commuting regionally . . . more
Freight Planning
Goods movement/freight planning has been at the forefront of the YAMPO Transportation Planning Process since the YAMPO IMS Plan was developed in 1996. Freight planning undertaken by the YAMPO is designed to incorporate all freight transportation modes/services. These efforts are achieved through MPO technical work, local and regional forums, and Commonwealth and National initiatives. Traditionally, the freight sector has functioned exclusive of County Government and YAMPO. It is our hope that . . . more
Transit Planning
Public transportation or “transit” provide personal mobility and freedom for people from every walk of life. Transit service bridges people, especially the elderly, the disabled and low income individuals. Public transportation service is defined as any service for which a fare is charged for transporting the public. Typical services include bus and van/paratransit, but can also branch out into . . . more
Pedestrian & Bicycle Planning
Other modes promoted by the SAFETEA-LU Act are pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Two programs sponsored by this legislation are Transportation Enhancements and Safe Routes to School.
Besides a solution that can be implemented within four to twelve years, long-term solutions must be addressed, as well. Long term solutions were developed as part of the current development of the 2009-2035 YAMPO Long Range Transportation Plan. A transportation enhancements subcommittee was formed to develop a Transportation Enhancements Needs Report for enhancement facilities and services in the County. The needs identified linear miles of missing sidewalk and linear miles of potential bike corridors within the County.
For more information on cycling, contact the Bicycle Access Council. This is a non-profit advocacy organization that serves as a forum for Pennsylvania bicyclists and as an ombudsman for bicycling issues.
It is the objective of the Bicycle Access Council to make bicycling on roads throughout the Commonwealth safe, respectable and a transportation choice by educating its members and the motoring public.
