// SLOCOG Acronym Index (Updated April 2006) AADT Average Annual Daily Traffic  The daily traffic averaged over one full calendar year. AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials The membership of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials is composed of those Departments or Agencies of the States of the United States, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia in which the official highway responsibility for that State or Territory is lodged, and the United States Department of Transportation which is an ex-officio member.  In California the member is the Director of CalTrans. AB Assembly Bill  The identifier preceding a State Assembly bill number. ADA Americans with Disabilities Act  This National 1990 Act provides a framework and approach for ending discrimination against persons with disabilities and assuring access for all.     ADT Average Daily Traffic The average number of vehicles passing a specified point during a 24-hour period and is frequently used in relation to the “peak month” average daily traffic. AIP Airport Improvement Program Federal Aviation Administration grant program that provides funding to local airports derived federal fuel taxes for aviation and other sources. APCD Air Pollution Control District A self-governed countywide agency created under State law that adopts and enforces regulations to achieve and maintain state and federal air quality standards.  APN Assessors Parcel Number   APTA American Public Transportation Association National organization that advocates for improved transit and paratransit policies at the State and Federal levels. AVO Average Vehicle Occupancy AVO measures the ratio of person trips for all travel modes to total vehicles.  The calculation would be as follows:  (total persons in autos [drivers and passengers] + persons in transit + non-motorized trips) / total number of private vehicles. AVR Average Vehicle Ridership AVR is the ratio of private vehicle drivers and passengers to total private vehicles. (drivers + passengers) / vehicles. BR Bridge Replacement Title of program used under ISTEA; changed to Highway Bridge Program (HBP) under TEA-21. BTA Bicycle Transportation Account This is a competitive state grant program to fund bikeway facilities ($1-$5 million annually).  The applying jurisdiction must have an approved bike plan (which meets specific criteria). BT&HA Business, Transportation and Housing Agency This agency is part of the Executive Branch of California government and its Secretary is a member of the Governor’s cabinet.  It oversees programs that plan, build, and maintain California’s transportation systems; and programs that ensure efficient and fair markets for real estate industry, and that assist state and community efforts to expand the availability of affordable housing for a growing workforce.  The Agency also regulates managed health care plans as well as the banking, and financial and securities industries.  It contributes to public safety through the law enforcement activities of the California Highway Patrol and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. CAAP California Aid to Airports Program This program (a state funding program) assists establishing and improving a statewide system of safe and environmentally compatible publicly owned airports open to public use. CaLACT California Association for Coordinated Transportation, Inc. CalACT is a statewide, non-profit organization that has represented the interests of small, rural, and specialized transportation providers since 1984.  The membership is comprised of individuals and agencies from diverse facets of transportation, including operators of small and large systems, planning and government agencies, social service agencies, suppliers and consultants.  CALACT’s mission is to promote professional excellence, stimulate ideas and advocate for effective community transportation in the legislature. CALCOG California Association of Councils of Governments Statewide organization that represents the interests of Council of Governments (COG’s). Policy board of elected officials representing each member agency to address issues affecting COG’s statewide. CALTIP California Transit Insurance Pool A cooperative insurance group organized and run by transit providers statewide.  Provides group insurance for public agencies for transit vehicles. Caltrans California Department of Transportation The state agency that promotes economic vitality and enhances the quality of life for the people of California by providing for mobility of people, goods, services and information. CAP Clean Air Plan State mandated air quality improvement plan prepared and overseen by the Air Pollution Control District (APCD). CARB California Air Resources Board CARB is the Responsible State agency (Sacramento) for the preparation of the State Implementation Plan to attain clean air for all California areas. CCC California Conservation Corps; California Coastal Commission CCAT Central Coast Area Transit The single regional transit system operating as a countywide fixed route for the San Luis Obispo region.  CCSD Cambria Community Services District CCTV Closed-Circuit Television CDAC COG (Council of Governments) Directors Association of California CDAC is a statewide association of executive directors from Councils of Governments in the state of California, advising the CALCOG policy board. CEQA California Environmental Quality Act Enacted into law in 1970 to require analysis of the impact of public and private land use actions.  The basic goal of the Act is to develop and maintain a high-quality environment now and in the future.  The specific goals of CEQA are for California's public agencies to:  1) identify the significant environmental effects of their actions; and, either  2) avoid those significant environmental effects, where feasible; or  3) mitigate those significant environmental effects, where feasible. CEQA applies to "projects" proposed to be undertaken or requiring approval by State and local government agencies. "Projects" are activities which have the potential to have a physical impact on the environment and may include the enactment of zoning ordinances, the issuance of conditional use permits and the approval of tentative subdivision maps. CHP California Highway Patrol A Statewide law enforcement agency that was created in 1929 to provide uniform traffic law enforcement throughout the State of California. CIP (1) Capital Improvement Program The plan by which public physical improvements (i.e., streets, parks, public buildings, etc.) are identified and carried out. CIP (2) Community Interaction Program A service operated by Ride-On Transportation for disabled persons throughout the county offering weekend and evening scheduled transportation for social, medical, recreational and mainstream activities. CMA Congestion Management Agency Once State required, now voluntary for agencies in counties with a population under 200,000, this agency requires the development of a Congestion Management Plan, traffic model, and a trip reduction ordinance to lower regional congestion.  CMA for SLOCOG rescinded by County and Cities in 1996 with responsibility shifted into its planning and programming process. CMAQ Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality This is a Federal program begun under ISTEA that provides formula funds to states based on population in areas that have not attained Federal air quality standards.  San Luis Obispo County is not eligible to receive funds under this program because it is an air quality attainment area. CMP Congestion Management Program Once a state mandate, this program was a tool to improve the level of service of roadways and transit systems by improving the relationship between land use and transportation systems.  Mandate rescinded in 1996. COG Council of Governments A voluntary association of officials of local governments formed to cooperate on common planning issues and to solve common development problems of their area. CRCC Coast Rail Coordinating Council An association of coastal regional agencies working to improve passenger and freight rail speeds and frequencies on the Coast Rail Route between San Francisco and Los Angeles. CSAC California State Association of Counties A non-profit corporation dedicated to providing a wide range of benefits including advocacy, client services, and public/private partnerships for counties in California.  Established in 1895, CSAC provides leadership and coordination to support its 58 member counties. CSA County Service Area CSA’s are defined areas within the unincorporated county that are governed by the Board of Supervisors for the purpose of providing various services such as streets and roads, lighting, fire protection, wastewater treatment, water, recreation facilities & programs, etc. CSD Community Services District The CSD’s are defined areas within the unincorporated county area that have elected governing boards and may be empowered to provide services such as wastewater treatment, water, lighting, fire protection, recreation facilities and programs etc., however, land use authority remains with the county. CTA California Transit Association A statewide transit advocacy association combining bus and rail providers. CTAA Community Transportation Association of America A national, non-profit, technical assistance program created in 1989, for transportation providers and community-based organizations in particular and senior-related transportation programs. CTAC Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee This SLOCOG committee represents the general public, consisting of citizens appointed from each city, and the five supervisorial districts and four at large positions.  Its purpose is to review transportation issues and develop citizen recommendations on policies and implementation for consideration by SLOCOG at all meetings. CTC California Transportation Commission This State commission advises and assists the Secretary of the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency and the Legislature in formulation and evaluating state policies and plans for transportation programs and formally approves transportation projects and programs for Caltrans and regional agencies. CTIPS California Transportation Improvement Program System CTIPS is a web-based tool for managing the programming of available Federal Transportation Improvement Program funds. CTIS California Transportation Investment Strategy A GIS-based tool for analysis of planned and programmed transportation projects within the state.  The tool runs on ESRI ArcView GIS software. CTP California Transportation Plan A requirement of ISTEA, the California Transportation Plan was adopted in 1994.  This statewide long-range transportation plan focuses on transportation and economic development, transportation system safety, maintenance and enhancement, and environmental protection.  The plan: (1) recommends a commission to further address the future of transportation in California, (2) suggests a comprehensive statewide strategy for improving goods movement, and (3) determines and authorizes the State’s role in non-highway modes of transportation.  CTSA Consolidated Transportation Services Agency Ride-On’s CTSA provides low-cost transportation services for clients of social services day programs, coordinating trips for maximum efficiency, and combining resources for economies of scale.  The State of California mandated each Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to establish CTSAs in their areas. DAR Dial-a-Ride DAR provides transportation services that are operated via group rides, in that the times and origins or destinations of travel reflect each passenger’s door-to-door request.  DAR can be used for specialized services or for the general public and is more expensive to operate than fixed-route transit. DOF Department of Finance The U.S. government’s principal agency that establishes fiscal policies, prepares/enacts/administers financial plans and budget. DOT Department of Transportation A U.S. government agency that is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of highway and other transportation systems (i.e., rail, air, mass transit, and ferries).  In California, it partners with Amtrak and is involved in the support of intercity passenger rail service.  It is a leader in promoting the use of alternative modes of transportation. DSS Department of Social Services EDD Employment Development Department EDD provides direct link to job placement and referrals, unemployment insurance, disability insurance, employment and training, labor market information, payroll taxes, and many more.  The EDD website: http://www.edd.ca.gov/ EEM Environmental Enhancement & Mitigation Established by the Legislature in 1989 to provide a total of $10 million each year for grants to local, state, and federal governmental agencies and to nonprofit organizations for projects to mitigate the environmental impacts caused by new or modified state transportation facilities. Grants are awarded in three categories:  Highway Landscape and Urban Forestry (Projects designed improve air quality through the planting of trees and other suitable plants, Resource Lands (Projects for the acquisition, restoration, or enhancement of watersheds, wildlife habitat, wetlands, forests, or other natural areas), or Roadside Recreational (Projects for the acquisition and/or development of roadside recreational opportunities).  The grant applications may be received by SLOCOG, but programmed and or administration is conducted by the Department of Resources. EIR Environmental Impact Report A detailed report setting forth the environmental effects and considerations pertaining to a project as specified in the California Environmental Quality Act. EIS Environmental Impact Statement An environmental impact document prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969.  Used in combination with the term EIR for Federally-funded projects. EOC Economic Opportunity Commission A community action agency offering programs and advocacy on behalf of the San Luis Obispo low income community.   EPA Environmental Protection Agency ER Emergency Relief A program provided in the new Federal Surface Transportation program (TEA 21) which provides funding to states and localities as result of various natural disasters. EVC Economic Vitality Corporation A countywide private non-profit organization funded by private membership and public contracts.  Its mission is to stimulate the economic vitality of the region, generate jobs and attract business and industry to the region. FAA Federal Aviation Administration FAA is a branch of the USDOT.  It is an agency responsible for the civilian aviation program including air safety, airport planning and personnel training. FAH Federal-Aid Highway Adopted definition of roads that are eligible for Federal Aid under TEA 21, primarily composed of State Highways and primary urban and rural arterials. FAP Federal Aid Primary FAP is the primary classification for State Highways in the Federal Aid system, which existed prior to ISTEA, no longer in general use. FAS Federal Aid Secondary Classification of rural roads in the Federal-Aid system which existed prior to ISTEA, no  longer in general use.  FAU Federal Aid Urban Classification of urban roads in the Federal-Aid system which existed prior to ISTEA, no longer in general use.  FHWA  Federal Highway Administration (within the U.S. Department of Transportation) Coordinates highways with other modes of transportation to achieve the most effective balance of transportation systems and facilities under cohesive federal policies.  Administers highway transportation programs of the DOT under federal law (ISTEA in 1991 and TEA-21 in 1998). FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact A federally required document describing the reasons a project will not have a significant impact on the environment and therefore does not require the preparation of an EIS under NEPA. FRA Federal Railroad Administration A branch of the United State Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring railroad safety throughout the Nation.  It monitors compliance with federally mandated safety standards, and employs 400 inspectors operating out of 47 offices throughout the country. FSTIP Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program This is the Federal approval document (the same as the Federal TIP or FTIP).  Caltrans headquarters (in Sacramento) takes all the Metropolitan Planning Organizations’ (MPOs) FTIPs (by reference) and adds the information for the rural non-MPO areas.  The final result is a combined FSTIP document for the State of California. FTA Federal Transit Act or Federal Transit Administration The act that authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to provide additional assistance for the development of comprehensive and coordinated mass transportation systems, both public and private, in metropolitan and other urban areas, and for other purposes.  The administration administers the act as amended, and locally provides transit capital grants.  FTA is a branch of the national DOT. FTIP Federal Transportation Improvement Program With enactment of TEA 21, now known as the Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP), this capital improvement program includes three prioritized years of programming and categorizes all federally aided transportation projects.  Updated at least once every two years, it must be prepared in cooperation with all interested groups and the general public. FY Fiscal Year For California, the fiscal year is the accounting period beginning July 1st and ending June 30th. FFY Federal Fiscal Year For the federal budget and accounting purposes the federal fiscal year begins October 1st and ends September 30th. GC Government Code That portion of state laws which addresses the specific requirements applied to the  operation of government entities. GIS Geographic Information System (GIS) A generic name for computer programs used to integrate many kinds of data in a spatial display or map. Data can be streets, water features, gas lines, population, climate, plant or animal populations, watersheds, or just about any statistic that can be assigned to a geographic area.  Simply put, a GIS combines layers of information about a place to give you a better understanding of that place.  What layers of information you combine depends on your purpose, examples include finding the best location for a new store, analyzing environmental constraints for proposed projects, assessing land use compatibility to a proposed project and so on. HCD Housing and Community Development (State Department) HCD is responsible for:  (1) promoting and maintaining adequate housing for all Californians; (2) enforcing and promulgating health and safety standards for dwelling units; and (3) assisting government entities in the field of housing and community development. HOV High Occupancy Vehicle Typically refers to vehicles with two or more people (including the driver) including buses, vanpools, and carpools.  HOV 2+ refers to vehicles with at least one passenger (besides the driver), and HOV 3+ referes to vehicles with at least two passengers (besides the driver). HPP High Priority Project Transportation projects of various types, earmarked by Congress members, included in the new transportation act TEA-21 by act of Congress.  In ISTEA they were known as Demonstration Projects. HUD Housing and Urban Development Department (federal agency) This department develops and executes plans for housing economic development and urban development. HR House of Representatives bills The identifier preceding a Federal House of Representatives resolution number. IGR Intergovernmental Review A process required on all government agencies to manage their activities with attention  to consequences of those activities. IIP Interregional Improvement Program The document which identifies the longer vision improvements to be done to the state transportation system, and from which Caltrans selects projects to be included in the Interregional Transportation Improvement Program (IIP). IPG Intermodal Planning Group This group includes regional representatives for the U.S. Department of Transportation modal administrations (FHWA, FTA, HUD, Caltrans, and MPO’s).  This ad hoc group coordinates transportation requirements and policies among the State, MPO’s and the applicable federal districts (CA, NV, AZ, HI). IPRS Intercity Passenger Rail System That portion of the state rail network that forms the backbone of passenger service to major urban centers. ISTEA Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 Federal transportation legislation superseded by TEA 21, that reformed the nation’s transportation programming policies for the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. IS Interstate System Federal designation for that portion of all the state highways in the nation that compose a basic backbone of connectivity between the states and major urban areas.  The nearest interstate highway to San Luis Obispo is I5 in the Central Valley. ITIP Interregional Transportation Improvement Program The program which is required by STIP reform legislation (SB45) in 1997 to be developed by the State Department of Transportation (Caltrans) every two years and submitted to the California Transportation (CTC) for adoption. ITS Intelligent Transportation Systems An integrated electronic information and control system (sensor, computer, electronics, and communication technologies) and management strategies to enhance mobility, energy efficiency, and environmental protection and increase the safety and efficiency of the surface transportation systems. JARC Job Access and Reverse Commute JARC Grant program is part of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA21).  It is an operating subsidy program under the Federal Transit Administration.  The purpose of the program is to develop transportation services designed to transport welfare recipients and low-income individuals to and from jobs or training or day care centers, and to support suburban reverse commute.  This program was originally called Welfare-to-Work and later renamed and expanded to become JARC. JPA Joint Powers Agreement LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission Countywide regulatory body responsible for encouraging the orderly formation of local government agencies, preserving agricultural land resources, and discouraging urban sprawl. The commission is composed of seven regular members:  2 county, 2 city, 2 special district, and 1 public. LCC League of California Cities An association of California cities whose mission is to stimulate, encourage, and coordinate communication of ideas and information among city officials, to develop a consensus of issues and advocate those views to other governmental agencies. LCP Local Coastal Plan Prepared by coastal cities and counties submitted to State Coastal Commission; the goal is coastal access and coastal environmental protection. LOS Level-of-Service Quantitative rating of transportation system, based on:  time-distance, cost, delay-time, convenience, and safety.  Ranges from A’ to ‘F’, with ‘A’ being best and ‘F’ the worst. LOSSAN Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency SLOCOG is a member of this Rail Advisory Group. LRTP Long Range Transit Plan A 20-year plan that outlines regional goals and policies, with a vision for public transportation development at the corridor level. LTF Local Transportation Fund This funding source is one of two major sources of State funds for the funding of public transportation through regional planning and programming agencies provided by the Transportation Development Act.  Derived from ¼ percent of the state sales tax, these funds must first be used to provide transit service for “unmet” needs.  If no unmet needs exist, the funds can be used for streets and roads projects. LUE Land Use Element The component of SLO County’s General Plan addressing land use MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization (Federal provision) MPO is an organization responsible for transportation planning in an urbanized area.  It serves as the forum for cooperative decision-making by the principal elected officials of general-purpose local governments.  MPO’s must develop plans and programs that address the metropolitan area’s transportation needs and that are consistent with the overall planned development of the area.  They represent urbanized areas with a population of over 50,000 people.  One of SLOCOG’s functions by programming federal grant funds is as the designated MPO within the region. MOU Memorandum of Understanding Formal agreement documenting provisions for interagency cooperation. MOVER Motor Vehicle Emission Reduction Program Air District Grant Program - $600K funding every two years. MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission This is the transportation planning, coordinating and financing agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area, created by the State Legislature in 1970.  It functions as both the regional transportation planning agency (a state designation) and (for federal purposes) the region’s metropolitan planning organization (MPO). MTIP Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program Enacted in TEA 21, this capital improvement program is prepared by the MPO.  It must include three prioritized years of programming and categorizes all federally-aided transportation projects.  Updated at least once every two years, it must be prepared in cooperation with all interested groups and the general public. NEPA National Environmental Policy Act Federal legislation on environmental policy for the nation that provides an interdisciplinary framework for federal agencies to prevent environmental damage and contains “action-forcing” procedures to ensure that federal agency decision-makers take environmental factors into account.  See also Environmental Impact Statements (EIS). OA Obligational Authority Federal funding amount appropriated annually for ISTEA/TEA21 Assistance to states for various programs. OCSD Oceano Community Services District OLF Other Local Funds OPR Office of Planning and Research THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF PLANNING AND RESEARCH (OPR) is a part of the Governor's Office that serves the following core functions: research staff to the Governor; comprehensive statewide planning; interagency coordination; local agency planning assistance; management of state environmental review processes; small business advocacy; Innovation in Government; and California's AmeriCorps Program.  OPR has statutory responsibilities with regard to review of general plans, preparation of guidelines, provision of technical assistance, and approval of general plan extension requests, including the imposition of conditions. OWP Overall Work Program The document prepared by each MPO to identify resources, staffing responsibilities, authority, operating procedures, all proposed work tasks, products, and scheduling required to carry out the transportation planning process on an annual basis. PAED Project Approval and Environmental Determination This is the first phase of project development before capital funding is expended on a transportation project. PDT Project Development Team An interdisciplinary team of local, State and regional staff established to guide the process of developing a transportation system improvement PERS Public Employees Retirement System PIC Private Industry Council Administering agency for local (usually countywide) training and employment programs. PLACE3S Planning for Community Energy, Economic, and Environmental Sustainability It is a land-use and urban design analytical method created specifically to help communities understand how their growth and development decisions can contribute to improved sustainability. PMS Pavement Management System A technical process that provides a quantitative assessment of the condition of pavement and the steps necessary for its maintenance, rehabilitation or reconstruction. PR Project Report This is a Caltrans document approving the environmental, and preferred alternative of a specific funded street, road or highway project. PRCATS Paso Robles City Area Transit System This is the fixed-route bus system for the City of Paso Robles. PRISM Passenger Rail Improvement, Safety, and Modernization This is a legislative proposal, a program to create a new fund for operational and maintenance costs for rail operators serving the general public, commuter and intercity.  It proposes to take General Fund Revenues. PS&E Plans, Specifications and Estimates This is the second phase of project development.  It includes detailed engineering drawings and cost estimates of a construction contract, submitted by Caltrans to the FHWA so federal funds are set aside for a specific federally funded street, road, or highway project. PSR Project Study Report A scoping document required by State law for a State Highway improvement project to be included in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).  It is required to identify a range of alternatives, estimated costs, anticipated impacts, and delivery schedule.  The completed PSR is then used as a basis for conducting detailed engineering and environmental analysis prior to the “construction dollars” being allocated. PSRE Project Study Report Equivalent A streamlined version of a PSR used to provide scoping for non-State Highway projects. PSR-PDS Project Study Report – Project Development Support A much more simplified variation on the standard PSR, which is required to be used to program only the preliminary engineering and environmental review of a project vs. detailed engineering drawings. PSSR Project Scope and Summary Report Caltrans document similar to PSR, which is prepared to scope and cost state highway safety, rehabilitation and maintenance projects. PTA Public Transportation Account Formerly known as the Transportation Planning and Development Account, the name was changed in the STIP reform enacted by Senate Bill 45 (Kopp) in 1997, funds are allocated mass transportation (transit and rail) purposes. PUC  Public Utility Commission State agency whose regulations affect Transportation Development Act funding and the operations of private bus / charter (limousine) service. PY Personnel Year Used to designate staffing requirements.  One PY equals one staff person working for one year (2080 hours).  RFP Request for Proposal Formal document soliciting proposals to consultants to develop proposals for work to be accomplished, steps, tasks, schedules, and costs. RFQ Request for Qualifications Document soliciting statements of qualifications from prospective consultants to submit proposals for work to be performed (by the most qualified team/teams) including the steps, tasks, schedules, and costs involved. RIP Regional Improvement Program Federal/State program that apportions funding to the region to be programmed in the Regional Transportation Improvement Program (RTIP) for projects. RHND Regional Housing Needs Determination A State mandated effort devised to address the need for affordable housing in all communities.  San Luis Obispo County’s regional housing need is calculated by the California State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and finalized though negotiations with SLOCOG.  Each jurisdiction within San Luis Obispo County will be assigned a share of the anticipated regional housing need by the State or SLOCOG, based upon an assortment of growth factors. RHNP Regional Housing Needs Plan RHNP is a state-mandated plan that provides a consistent statewide definition of housing need and a systematic allocation of planning responsibility for projected growth based on the regional viewpoint.  It includes the existing and projected housing needs of persons at all income levels within the area significantly affected by a jurisdiction’s general plan. ROW Right-of-way (or R/W) Physical property acquired for transportation purposes. RSHA Regional State Highway Account Refers to funding allocated under provisions of State and Federal law by regional transportation planning agencies for projects by local agencies of regional significance. Annually, regional agencies are given the opportunity by the State to exchange Federal Surface Transportation Program (STP) funds authorized by Federal Law under TEA21 for State Highway Account (SHA) funds. RTA Regional Transit Authority (SLORTA) A joint powers agency consisting of the county and all cities that is directly responsible for providing regional fixed-route transit service and the Regional Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary services in the San Luis Obispo region.  It is jointly funded by the County and each of the seven incorporated cities according to an adopted funding formula. RTAC Regional Transportation Advisory Committee This SLORTA committee serves as the Appeal Committee for complaints regarding compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and as the SLORTA advisory committee.  It is composed representatives from transit providers, transit users, senior citizens, bus drivers, and social service providers. RTF Rural Transit Fund This is a transit capital replacement program administered by SLOCOG and was established through an exchange with SLORTA of the FTA Section 5311 funds for TDA funds.  RTIP Regional Transportation Improvement Program This five-year program shall be prepared and adopted by the Regional Transportation Planning Agency (RTPA) for submission to the California Transportation Commission by December 15 of each odd-numbered year, and updated every two years. See STIP. RTM Regional Traffic Model A travel demand model created as a planning tool, to evaluate potential traffic impacts resulting from urban and rural development.  SLOCOG’s regional traffic model is a TRANSCAD/GIS-based travel demand and forcasting system. RTP Regional Transportation Plan State-mandated document to be developed every three years by all MPO’s that consist of policy, action, and financial elements.  The RTP is the blueprint of transportation improvements in the region. RTPA Regional Transportation Planning Agency Created by AB 69 in 1972 to prepare regional transportation plans and designated by the governor to receive and allocate transit funds; RTPA’s can be one of a variety of statutorily created agencies.  SLOCOG is the designated RTPA for the San Luis Obispo region. RWQCB Regional Water Quality Control Board State board consisting of nine members appointed to staggered four-year terms by the governor.  Each member is appointed to represent a particular part of the water-using public.  Boards are charged with protecting all waters of the state, be they ground water, surface water, or marine waters.  Their two major areas of responsibility include regulation of all waste discharges that could affect the waters of the state, and water quality planning functions in the form of Water Quality Control Plans in each region. S Senate The identifier preceding a federal Senate bill number. SAFE Service Authority for Freeways & Expressways Regionally established agency that administers the emergency Call Box Program. SAFETEA Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act of 2003 A Bill to authorize funds for Federal-aid highways, highway safety programs, and transit programs, and for other purposes. SB Senate Bill The identifier preceding a state Senate bill number. SCAT South County Area Transit This joint powers agency manages the fixed route bus system for Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, and Oceano. SHA State Highway Account (a state funding source) The primary funding account for state/regional transportation projects derived from the state fuel tax. SHELL State Highway Extra Legal Load Designated state highways on which the largest multi-trailer semi-trucks are allowed to operate.  In San Luis Obispo County these include Highway 46, east of Highway 101, and Highway 101. SHOPP State Highway Operation and Protection Program Formerly the HSOPP, the SHOPP is administered by Caltrans and includes major projects for the safety, rehabilitation, and operational improvement of state highways costing over $750,000.  The annual allocation for this program varies.  SLOCOG San Luis Obispo Council of Governments The Council serves as the Regional Transportation Planning Agency (RTPA), Census Data Affiliate, Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), and Service Authority for Freeway Emergencies (SAFE) for the region.  Voting membership includes the cities of Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, Grover Beach, Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo, and the County of San Luis Obispo. SOV Single Occupant Vehicle A vehicle with one occupant (see HOV). SRTP Short Range Transit Plan A five to six-year transit development plan covering projected service, cost, funding, goals and objectives for the system.  It is a Federal mandate for all transit systems that receive federal capital or operating assistance funds. SSTAC Social Services Transportation Advisory Council This SLOCOG Council was formed per mandate by the Transportation Development Act (TDA) Law.  It reviews agenda  items on transit issues (including unmet transit needs requsts) and advises SLOCOG on any other major transit issues,  including the coordination and consolidation of specialized transportation services.  It is composed of regular members, representing various social service transportation interests representatives from transit providers, transit users, senior citizens, bus drivers, and social service providers.   STA State Transit Assistance (state funding program) One of two major sources for the funding of public transportation through regional planning and programming agencies provided by the Transportation Development Act.  STA provides a source of TDA funding for transportation planning and mass transportation purposes.  These funds are mainly used for transit operating assistance or matching funds for capital grants.   STIP State Transportation Improvement Program Biennially adopted funding program document, reformed in 1997 by SB 45 (Kopp), requires coordination between Caltrans in preparing the ITIP, and the Regional Transportation Planning Agencies in preparing RTIP’s, which are then submitted to the CTC adopts this program by April (odd year).  Provides schedule of projects for development over upcoming four years using with State funds.  STP Surface Transportation Program (federal funding source) Serves as the primary regional funding source from the new Federal transportation act (TEA 21) providing flexible funding for streets, rideshare, bikes, park and ride, transit, etc.  SLOCOG allocates approximately 75% of this funding for projects in the cities and urban areas based on targets to provide equity among the jurisdictions.  The remaining 25% of funding is allocated for projects on a competitive basis. TAC Transportation Advisory Committee An advisory committee to Councils of Governments or RTPAs that provides technical or community input to planning decisions. TANF Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Federal welfare reform replaces Aid to Families with Dependent Children with TANF, under which Federal block grants are distributed to states with eligible family assistance programs.  The TANF program imposes a number of eligibility restrictions, including the limitation of most individual recipient benefits to a time period of 24 consecutive months and five years in total. TCI Transit Capital Improvement State funding program for bus rehabilitation / rail projects.  With the passage of SB 45 in 1997, this program was consolidated into the ITIP and RTIP. TCM Transportation Control Measure Efforts to modify transportation, usually associated with Clean Air Plan efforts to reduce auto emissions.  Examples include operational issues such as right turn and auxiliary lanes, stop light timing, and telecommuting. TDA Transportation Development Act (LTF and STA funds and their disbursement) The principal funding source for transit in the county, providing operating funds from sales tax for local operations.  The TDA regulations, issued by the state of California, represent the basis for the annual allocation of TDA funds to eligible entities, monitoring of efficient/effective use of such funds, performance  and fiscal audits, as well as the annual unmet transit needs review. TDM Transportation Demand Management A technique used in transportation planning to improve both mobility and access consisting of managing the behavior of how, when, and where people travel. TEA Transportation Enhancement Activities Federal funding program under the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991.  This program is currently called Transportation Enhancement (TE).  See below. TEA-21 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century Federal Surface Transportation Act was enacted June 9, 1998, replacing ISTEA,  as Public Law 105-178. TEA-21 authorizes the Federal surface transportation programs for highways, highway safety, and transit for the 6-year period 1998-2003. TE Transportation Enhancement Federal funding program in TEA 21 specifically designed to augment transportation projects through such projects as landscaping, trails, lookouts, historic renovations of transportation facilities, gateways to communities, etc.  Previously funds were allocated by the State competitively; as of 1998, the regions are responsible for programming funds allocated to them on a formula basis annually.  Prior to TEA 21 known as Transportation Enhancement Activities (TEA) program.  TIF Transportation Investment Fund TIP Transportation Improvement Program TIP refers in general to the various state, regional and federal transportation capital improvement plans (STIP, RTIP, FTIP) TMA Transportation Management Area Designated by the Secretary of Transportation for all urbanized areas over 200,000 with boundaries contiguous to that of the MPO, it is a private/public partnership, focused on transportation issues in a defined area to collectively provide services and advocate improvements.  TMAs must include a congestion management system in their planning process and are responsible for project selection under the STP program.  This requirement does not apply to SLO County as its urban area (SLO) is less than 200K (approximately 50K). TMA / Transportation Management Association / TMO Transportation Management Organization A voluntary association to coordinate and provide transportation services to private members, organizations, employers, and individuals.  TMA describes Ride-On Transportation efforts to meet business/organization’s transit needs.  The TMA program is a cooperative effort with Regional Rideshare, the Employee Transportation Coordinators (public and private sector employers) and the business community. TSM Transportation Systems Management A technique used in transportation planning to improve both mobility and access, consisting of relatively low cost capital improvements to improve the operational efficiency of the transportation infrastructure. TTAC Technical Transportation Advisory Committee A SLOCOG committee consisting of Planning Directors and engineers from each of the seven cities, the county and representatives from Caltrans and the APCD that provides technical review of SLOCOG issues. UA Urbanized Area (or UZA) Places with populations of 50,000 or more (at a minimum), that encompass an entire urbanized area in a state, as designated by the U.S. Census Bureau. The Federal Highway Administration approves adjusted urbanized-area boundaries that include the census-defined Urbanized Area plus transportation centers, shopping centers, major places of employment, satellite communities and other major trip generators near the edge of the Urbanized Area, including development expected to be in place shortly.  A small UZA is a UZA with population between 50,000 and 200,000. USDOT United States Department of Transportation The Federal department that provides policy, financial and technical assistance in the areas of aviation, highways, rail, and urban mass transportation (rail, bus, ferry, etc.). USHA Urban State Highway Account Refers to funding allocated under provisions of State and Federal law by regional transportation planning agencies for projects in urban areas proposed by local agencies.  Annually, regional agencies are given the opportunity by the State to exchange Federal Surface Transportation Program (STP) funds authorized by Federal Law under TEA21 for State Highway Account (SHA) funds. UZA Urbanized Zone Area  An urbanized area by definition of the U.S. Census Bureau VMT Vehicle Miles of Travel Total vehicle miles is the composite of total mileage traveled by each vehicle over a given period of time (annual, monthly, etc.).