Because all metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) are federally funded, they are subject to compliance with Title VI and must address EJ. To do so, MPOs must make sure that all long-range transportation plans and transportation improvement programs comply with Title VI. Additionally, they must identify the residential, transportation, and employment patterns of minority and low-income populations, so that the needs of these populations are better met. This will also allow MPOs to better distribute the benefits and burdens of transportation investments. With regard to public involvement, MPOs must evaluate and attempt to improve their processes to help eliminate participation barriers and encourage the input of minority and low-income populations in decision making. An example of how an MPO addresses EJ can be found in the Environmental Justice Appendix in the Southern California Association of Government’s (SCAG) 2012 Regional Transportation Plan.[1]
Transit Providers are likewise subject to comply and address Title VI and EJ. Like MPOs, transit providers must enhance public involvement of minority and low-income populations, while minimizing and mitigating any disproportionately high and adverse effects. They must also ensure that new investments and changes in transit facilities, services, maintenance, and vehicle replacement provide equitable benefits and service to these populations.
[1] Environmental Justice Appendix of Regional Transportation Plan 2012-2035 Sustainable Communities Strategy Towards a Sustainable Future. December 2011 Draft.