SEMPO Updates

News and Information for June 2020

A Message from the Executive Director

As we continue with the phases of re-opening our communities and economy, we are also learning more about the impacts COVID-19 has had on our transportation revenues. Our local CTA experienced a ridership decrease in the months of April and May fluctuating between 40% and 50%. Statewide passenger ridership of motor vehicles decreased an average of 29% from March 12 to June 15. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) issued a letter to Congress urging the body to take two important steps related to surface transportation infrastructure. Step 1. "Approve the 'Phase 4' emergency relief and economic recovery package due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The current draft of 'Phase 4' calls for $49.95 billion in flexible federal funding to offset what AASHTO estimates will average at least a 30 percent loss in state transportation revenues in the next 18 months." Step 2. "Boost years-long economic recovery that will be necessary once the national emergency subsides, Congress should look to pass a major transportation investment package in the form of surface transportation and water transportation re-authorization." Step 2 is reflected in the INVEST in America Act, which is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives in early July.

 - Alex McElroy

ADA Pedestrian Transportation System Condition Assessment

Since June 8th, six interns have been working in the field to collect information on the condition of our pedestrian transportation infrastructure within the public rights-of-way. Five of the six interns are enrolled in SEMO construction management courses and the sixth previously worked for the Parks and Recreation Department. Special thank you to Julia Jones, Parks and Recreation Director, and Scott Williams, Recreation Division Manager, for helping us find the last intern needed on late notice!

Impacts of COVID-19 on Transportation Revenues

On June 17, 2020, MoDOT leadership provided an update on the status of the current budget and the potential impact COVID-19 may have on future revenues. In a letter, dated April 14, 2020, sent by MoDOT Director, Patrick McKenna, to Senator Roy Blunt, he outlines that the agency is estimating a 30 percent decline in state transportation revenues in the coming 18 months. Such a decline represents $925 million in state revenues for Missouri.

Changes in Passenger Traffic Due to COVID-19

The first decline in statewide passenger traffic was noted on March 12, 2020 and peaked at -55% as compared to 2019 on April 12, 2020.

Strategic Highway Safety Plan

A draft copy of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety (MCRS) 2020 Update to the Strategic Highway Safety Plan has been distributed to members of the Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety. The new campaign is entitled "Show Me Zero" and highlights four Emphasis Areas of Safety: 1- Occupant Protection 2- Distracted Driving 3- Speed and Aggressive Driving 4- Impaired Driving. The Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety will host its next quarterly meeting in July where this draft will be reviewed.

Why There Are No Electric Planes

I found this interesting given the advancement of technology and the proliferation of electric vehicles. We are now in the process of developing technology that will electrify buses. Passenger planes seem like the next obvious challenge. 

Transportation Quote

“You can't understand a city without using its public transportation system.”

― Erol Ozan