Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Greater Philadelphia region, established by an Interstate Compact between Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Overview of Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) is the federally designated Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Greater Philadelphia region. Established by an Interstate Compact between the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of New Jersey, DVRPC serves as an advisory agency for local governments and authorities. With over 50 years of service, DVRPC focuses on increasing mobility choices, protecting natural resources, and fostering opportunities in the Greater Philadelphia region.
DVRPC's Data and Research Programs
DVRPC's Data Center centralizes access to planning-related data and applications. It supports informed, data-driven decision-making processes. Notably, the Permanent Bike Count Program collects bicycle volume data through 16 counters placed along Circuit Trails, while the Cyclical Bike Count Program gathers data over seven days at 150 locations every three years. These programs ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information about regional biking patterns.
DVRPC's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is a prioritized list of transportation projects for a four-year period, agreed upon regionally and revised every two years. It includes projects intended to use federal, state, or local funds considered regionally significant. Adoption of TIP by the DVRPC Board is mandatory, ensuring that these projects align with the region's strategic goals and transportation needs.
DVRPC's Livable and Healthy Communities Initiatives
DVRPC's Livable Communities programs support the implementation of the Long Range Plan by prioritizing existing infrastructure and open space preservation. The Safe Routes to Transit projects assist municipalities in securing funding during the early stages of development. Additionally, the Healthy Communities Task Force regularly discusses how public health intersects with urban planning, ensuring health considerations are integrated into regional development strategies.
Public Participation and Outreach by DVRPC
DVRPC's Public Participation Task Force facilitates ongoing community and stakeholder engagement in regional planning. It supports the implementation of public outreach strategies, ensuring that the planning process is transparent and inclusive. Additionally, the Office of Marketing and Commuter Services works with local employers and commuters to promote better commuting options through the Mobility Alternatives Program, which educates on alternate commute choices.