FLORENCE AREA TRANSPORTATION STUDY UNIFIED PLANNING WORK PROGRAM
Federal ID #57-6000351
Fiscal Year 2011
Funding provided by:
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
and
FLORENCE COUNTY
Visit FLATS online at:
www.florenceco.org/planning/flats.htm
florenceco.blogspot.com
Facebook – Scott Park
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 1
Table of Contents
PREFACE ....................................................................................................................... 2
Status of FY 2009 Planning Activities ...................................................................................... 2
Status of FY 2010 Planning Activities ...................................................................................... 3
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 4
Policy Committee .................................................................................................................. 5
Study Team ........................................................................................................................... 6
Planning Emphasis Factors ..................................................................................................... 7
Study Area Map ..................................................................................................................... 8
A. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................... 10
A-1 Administration ........................................................................................................... 10
A-2 Public Participation .................................................................................................... 12
A-3 Transportation Enhancement Program ....................................................................... 16
B. SURVEILLANCE ................................................................................................. 17
B-1 Mapping .................................................................................................................... 17
B-2 Air Quality Surveillance .............................................................................................. 20
B-3 Traffic Surveillance ..................................................................................................... 22
C. DOCUMENTATION AND ANALYSIS .................................................................. 25
C-1 Development and Maintenance ................................................................................. 25
C-2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data ............................................................................. 28
C-3 Public Transportation Planning ................................................................................... 30
D. TABLES AND APPENDICES .............................................................................. 32
Table 1. Budget Table – Agency Participation ................................................................. 32
Table 2. Budget Table – Funding Sources ........................................................................ 33
Appendix A. List of Acronyms ............................................................................................ 34
Appendix B. General References ...................................................................................... 34
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 2
Preface This Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) identifies the transportation planning activities
being conducted by the Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO), which serves the Urbanized Florence Area in South Carolina. The planning
activities outlined in the UPWP are to be completed during each fiscal year beginning July 1st,
and ending June 30th. Florence County Planning Department, which provides staff support for
FLATS, has prepared this document, in consultation with the South Carolina Department of
Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, and other agencies involved in transportation
planning and implementation. This document is also intended to comply with the Title VI
requirements contained in the Federal Regulations for the development of plans and programs.
Annual updates and amendments to the UPWP are performed as addressed in the Public
Participation Process Plan.
Additional information about FLATS planning activities is available at our website:
http://www.florenceco.org/planning/flats.htm or by contacting FLATS staff at the Florence
County Planning Department at (843) 676-8600.
Status of FY 2009 Planning Activities FLATS’ planning efforts in FY 2009 were primarily focused on updating the Land Use Element of
the County Comprehensive Plan. The updated Land Use Element was adopted by Florence
County Council on November 19, 2009. Throughout the process of updating the existing land
use map public input was gathered through the following ways:
• Eight meetings among municipal administration or staff,
• Thirteen public meetings throughout the County,
• Eight meetings among special interest groups,
• Eight meetings with individuals,
• Maps displayed at libraries and County office,
• Newspaper articles including an editorial, and
• County webpages, emails, blog posts, Facebook, Twitter.
Through the public outreach involved in developing the land use map, FLATS planning staff
successfully tripled in number the area groups and residents on the public contact list as
required in the FLATS Public Participation Plan that was adopted June 1, 2008. In addition to
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 3
newspaper ads and articles, and postings on county websites, e-mails and/or mail outs of
transportation related meeting or issues are sent to each individual on the contact list.
Updates were completed by FLATS planning staff to the Housing, Economic and Community
Facilities Elements and the Administrative Procedures for the Comprehensive Plan and adopted
by Planning Commission and County Council in FY2009.
FLATS planning staff prepared and submitted the FY2010 UPWP to the South Carolina
Department of Transportation during the last quarter of FY2009.
Due to recently updated national air quality standards, air quality has become a significant
focus in FY2009. Various meetings with DHEC, SC Forestry and County administration were
held to discuss potential County incentives. As a result, in an effort to improve air quality, a
rebate program for hybrid vehicle purchases and LEED home improvements was implemented.
FLATS planning staff managed and maintained these records as applications were submitted.
Staff began developing a tree preservation program meeting on a regular basis with a sub-
committee to develop appropriate language to be included in this program. FLATS planning
staff applied for and received a grant, which was utilized to have tree preservation brochures
printed for future use in going forward with this program. Staff presented an truck stop
electrification grant to be implemented at a local facility.
Staff assisted PDRTA in updating new bus stop routes. The bus stops and bus routes were
digitized in GIS before making the maps.
Staff began regular meetings with the Freight Community to discuss travel related issues.
In a stressed economy, staff began mapping foreclosures in our area to establish comparable
trends for future reference.
Status of FY 2010 Planning Activities FLATS planning staff began updating the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) with the
assistance of a third party consultant. Multi-modal travel and connectivity were the primary foci
in developing the 2035 FLATS LRTP. A Transportation Plan Advisory Committee (TPAC) was
formed to provide input in the development of this document. The TPAC included individuals
with expertise in the public transit, environmental, bicycle and pedestrian, real estate,
affordable housing, freight and ADA fields. The City of Florence’s Downtown Revitalization
Plan, Bicycle Master Plan and existing trails systems are included in this plan. The TPAC met and
numerous public input meetings were held during the year as updates were completed. A
transportation website was developed and updates posted. Notification of updates to the
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 4
website was sent to the FLATS contact lists as necessary. The draft of the updated LRTP will be
presented to the FLATS Study Team and Policy Committee by the end of FY2010.
FLATS planning staff began preparing the Transportation and Priority Investment Elements for
the Comprehensive Plan as required by State Statute during FY2010. The Transportation
Element will be prepared in relation to the adopted land use element. It will address interaction
of multi-modal forms of transportation and increase efficiency of natural resource use.
Staff has been assisting the City of Florence as requested with their Comprehensive Plan and
transportation enhancement grants.
Introduction The Florence Area Transportation Study (FLATS) is the metropolitan planning organization
(MPO) servicing a population of 85,324 (US Census 2000) from two member municipalities
within two counties. The Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) outlines the activities that the
FLATS will undertake in FY 20111 using funds from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
and Florence County. In total, FLATS is allocated a total of $200,936 ($166,600 in Planning and
Transit, PL/FTA, allocations with $34,336 in carryover funds) through bill H.R. 2847, a law
continuing SAFETEA-LU (Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A
Legacy for Users) funding through the 2010 calendar year. A total of $251,170 in planning funds
are allocated into three categories (described below) with $200,936 being federally funded and
the 20% or $50,234 local matching amount from Florence County. The overall goal for this term
is to minimize administrative costs while focusing on public participation and traffic congestion
modeling.
Three categories are included in the UPWP: (A) Program Administration, (B) Surveillance, and
(C) Documentation and Analysis. Within each category, the objectives, methodology, products
and anticipated milestones are outlined for each activity as well as the anticipated level of
staffing and funding that will be utilized. Milestone periods may be specified by quarters2. The
fourth section includes tables and appendices to this document.
1 July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2011: Based on the State and County fiscal year period; conversely, the
Federal fiscal year is October 1 – September 30 2 Quarters of the fiscal year are designated as the following periods: first: July 1 – September
30; second: October 1 – December 31; third: January 1 – March 31 and fourth: April 1 – June 30
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 5
SAFETEA-LU is the federal law that directs transportation planning actions (Titles 23 and 49,
United States Code). FLATS adopted the eight Planning Emphasis Areas described under this law
into transportation planning in the FLATS jurisdiction. The UPWP describes the specific tasks for
FLATS for FY 2011 pursuant to these PEA’s.
The FLATS program strives to include local officials, business owners and citizens input into the
decisions directing expenditures of transportation funds within the urban area of Florence,
South Carolina (map, page 5.) Any major road project or transit project that takes place in this
area utilizing federal funds must be considered and approved by the FLATS Policy Committee.
FLATS continues to coordinate with local transportation interests and long-term planning
partners including the Pee Dee Council of Governments, Pee Dee Regional Transportation
Authority, local governments within the FLATS area as well as members of the public.
Policy Committee The FLATS Policy Committee is the decision-making body that transacts the business to develop
FLATS in accordance with State and Federal laws and regulations. The FLATS Policy Committee
consists of the following voting members:
Councilman, Florence County
Representative, South Carolina House of Representatives (District 63)
Mayor, Town of Quinby
Senator, South Carolina Senate (District 31)
Council Chairman, Florence County
Commissioner, South Carolina Highway Commission (District 6)
Councilman, City of Florence
Mayor, City of Florence
The following list includes the non-voting members of the Policy Committee:
Executive Director, PDRTA
Chairman, Airport Commission
Deputy Secretary for Engineering, SCDOT
Director, Florence County/Municipal Planning Department
Chairman, Florence County Planning Commission
Division Administrator, FHWA
County Administrator, Florence County
District Highway Administrator, SCDOT
City Manager, City of Florence
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 6
Chairman, City of Florence Planning Commission
Study Team The FLATS Study Team examines projects for technical accuracy to be presented to the FLATS
Policy Committee. The Study Team consists of the following representatives from various
agencies and departments:
SCDOT:
District 5 Traffic Engineer, Florence Office
Transit Planner
Assistant Program Manager for the FLATS and Pee Dee COG
Assistant Program Manager for the FLATS and Pee Dee COG
Assistant Advance Planning Engineer
Area Planning Engineer
Statewide Intermodal Planner
Mass Transit Economic Development Manager
Enhancement Coordinator
Pee Dee Council of Regional Governments:
Assistant Executive Director and Economic Development Director
FHWA
Environmental Coordinator
Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority
Executive Director
Darlington County
Director, Planning Department
City of Florence
Director, City Urban and Planning Development
Chair, Planning Commission
Florence County:
Chairman, Planning Commission
Director, Planning Department
Development & Zoning Services Officer
Planning Services Officer, Planning Department
The recommendations provided by the FLATS Study Team are presented to the FLATS Policy
Committee for consideration. Projects approved by the FLATS Policy Committee are then listed
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 7
in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), the annually updated financial document
reporting FLATS projecting expenditures for the next three years.
Efforts are made to give the public an opportunity to have input in the transportation planning
process. A wide range of people, including agencies, community groups, individuals, and the
media, are notified of the meetings. The Florence County Planning Department provides the
staff work for FLATS and is available to assist the public with transportation questions. Please
refer to page 12, A-2 Public Participation for more information.
Planning Emphasis Factors FLATS will continue to incorporate the following Planning Emphasis Areas into the program
(U.S. Code Title 23 Section 134 (f)(1)(A-G) and Title 49 Section 5303 (b)(1)(A-G)):
1. Support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global
competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency;
2. Increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized
users;
3. Increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and non-motorized
users;
4. Increase the accessibility and mobility of people and for freight;
5. Protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the
quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and
State and local planned growth and economic development patterns;
6. Enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and
between modes, for people and freight;
7. Promote efficient system management and operation, and;
8. Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system.
Throughout this UPWP, these factors will be referenced under individual methodology as well
as matched to corresponding tasks (including a page number reference) outlined in this UPWP
in the matrix found on the next page:
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 8
Table 1. Planning Emphasis Areas Coupled to Tasks in this Plan
UPWP
Task
Planning Emphasis Area (PEA’s)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
A-1 (p.10) ◊ ◊
A-2 (p.12) ◊ ◊
A-3 (p.15) ◊ ◊
B-1 (p.17) ◊ ◊ ◊
B-2 (p.20) ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
B-3 (p.22) ◊ ◊ ◊
C-1 (p.25) ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
C-2 (p.28) ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
C-3 (p.30) ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊
Study Area Map The following map shows Darlington and Florence Counties divided within by traffic analysis
zones (TAZ’s). These zones are geographic sampling areas established from census tracks,
blocks or a grouping of these to help model traffic patterns. The FLATS area is highlighted by a
thick boundary line.
• Dark gray area represents Florence County Transportation Analysis Zones (TAZs)
• Light gray area represents Darlington County TAZs
• Thicker outline represents FLATS area
This area intentionally left blank
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 9
Note: This report was funded in part through grant[s] from the Federal Highway Administration
[and Federal Transit Administration], U.S. Department of Transportation. The views and
opinions of the authors [or agency] expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of
the U. S. Department of Transportation.
Figure 1. FLATS jurisdiction in Darlington and Florence counties divided by traffic
analysis zone.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 10
A. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
A-1 Administration Objective:
To administer the transportation planning program in the FLATS area, including coordinating all
activities of the Policy Committee and Study Team, developing narrative reports for citizens and
public/private agencies, and providing liaison activities among government agencies and the
public. Other administrative activities include preparing narrative and expenditure reports,
maintaining financial accountability including an annual report, keeping routine
correspondence, and preparing and retaining information related to billing and training.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 2 and 3
Staff will provide the FLATS Policy Committee and Study Team with the administrative work
needed to effectively operate as an MPO. In addition to this administrative work, staff will
continue to provide technical assistance to these groups in the development of the UPWP and
TIP. Staff will also work with these groups on programming and project maintenance
throughout the year. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will maintain records, including correspondence with citizens, of all FLATS activities
including committee meetings. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to provide citizens, developers, consultants and government agencies with
information on items such as traffic reviews, elements of design, development of grant
applications and public transportation. As requested, staff will be available to speak at public
meetings to provide opportunities for the public to discuss transportation related issues.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
The UPWP will be distributed to public officials to inform them of planning activities and costs
associated with FY 2011. Any changes to the Long Range Transportation Plan or TIP will also be
distributed to public officials, placed on the Florence County website, and the Florence County
Blog. First quarter; changes posted continuously as needed.
As SCDOT updates the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP), FLATS will continue
to work with them in its development. Also, in order to be consistent with growth and
development in the region and State, FLATS will continue to work with officials on various
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 11
planning projects, including the one-cent sales tax projects currently funded by the State
Infrastructure Bank. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
As in previous years, before publishing any Requests for Proposals (RFP’s) for consulting
services, SCDOT will be presented with the information for review and approval. Also, all funds
administered by SCDOT, regardless of source, will continue to be subject to the provisions of
the OMB Circular A-133, the Single Audit Act. Continuous throughout fiscal year as needed or
required.
Staff will continue to work on various safety and security issues throughout the FLATS area. To
assist with the safety of our transportation system, staff will continue to notify and remain in
contact with emergency personnel about meetings and development of documents and send
the County and City of Florence Sheriff notices of meetings. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
As a vector to continue implementing the 2004 Florence Area Bikeway Master Plan, staff will
continue to administer the Trails Committee meetings by providing the meeting place,
organizing the agenda, liaising among members, meeting with other trails groups and other
duties as appropriate. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
In order to continue improving its technical capacity, staff may attend various training sessions
and seminars on urban transportation planning in order to stay abreast of changing regulations
and transportation technologies. Staff will also continue to review transportation related
circulars and newsletters. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Recent funding changes demand close attention. The federal program for funding FLATS and
other MPO’s, SAFETEA-LU, was to expire in FY2010. SAFETEA-LU funding will continue through
the 2010 calendar year as a result of H.R. 2847. FLATS staff will continue to monitor
development of the next transportation planning funding initiative and will anticipate a
performance-based project funding allocation. In addition, FLATS staff will continue to monitor
opportunities to utilize ‘stimulus funding’ in accordance with State and Federal requirements.
Products:
Minutes from all meetings, resolutions, agreements, reports, and other records of FLATS
activities will be produced and maintained as necessary. The UPWP will be published in addition
to any other required documents. Copies of written correspondence concerning FLATS or other
transportation related activities with citizens, local governments, developers, and other
agencies will be maintained to provide a record of the yearly activities. New staff members may
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 12
be hired, furniture/computers/software for new and existing FLATS staff may be purchased,
and travel/training expenses may be incurred.
Staffing:
County Planning Department
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 3,516
Federal 80% $ 14,065
TOTAL COST $ 17,581
A-2 Public Participation Objective:
Present a system to inform and involve individuals and agencies/groups of transportation
planning efforts and the development of transportation plans in the FLATS area.
Previous Work:
The FLATS Public Participation Plan was adopted by the Policy Committee in FY2009. This plan
remained on display for public comment for 45 days. The periodic review will begin again in
FY2011 in line with a two-year cycle to ensure that the program is functioning as an effective
method for public involvement for all.
Groups and individuals interested in transportation planning continue to be added to the FLATS
mailing list for Policy Committee meetings. Additionally, several have been added to the email
list for Trails Committee meetings. The FLATS Freight Study group continues to meet and
discuss the latest freight traffic issues. Members of the FLATS staff have also attended pertinent
community meetings and met with representatives of these groups as needed.
FLATS staff has built and continue to develop the Florence County Planning Blog
(www.florenceco.blogspot.com) to facilitate information sharing. In addition, Facebook and
Twitter accounts were added to offer additional paths of communication. In preparation of the
LRTP, staff developed and continues to maintain the Florence County transportation website.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 13
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 4 and 6
One of the FLATS goals is to provide the public with information in many aspects. Staff will
initiate contact with citizens, affected public agencies, representatives of public transportation
employees, freight shippers, providers of freight transportation services, private providers of
transportation, representatives of users of public transportation, representatives of users of
pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, and
other interested parties regarding transportation planning in the FLATS area. Continuous
throughout fiscal year.
As part of this effort, staff will continue to host the Florence Area Trails Committee, which
citizens are invited to attend. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will work with SCDOT to update the public participation process to identify all required
stakeholders according to SAFETEA-LU and following legislation. Continuous throughout fiscal
year.
Due to the importance placed on public involvement in SAFETEA-LU and as public involvement
is central to good decision-making, staff will update the Public Participation Plan. The Public
Participation Plan will be updated this fiscal year and level of public participation will be
reported regularly.
As the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) is updated and amended, a report detailing this
information will be developed and provided for public comment period(s) as required by
federal law and in accordance to the Public Participation Plan. Continuous throughout fiscal
year as necessary.
FLATS will also continue to update and add documents and transportation planning information
to the Florence County websites. These websites will provide the public with an additional
means to access and comment on the transportation plans. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
FLATS will send out a newsletter explaining the MPO concept as well as other important aspects
of transportation, including project timelines. At least one new issue every fiscal year.
In addition to the newsletter, staff will mail by post, e-mail, blog or create an event on
Facebook for meeting notices and related information. In addition, FLATS staff will advertise
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 14
meetings and information through the newspaper and website. Continuous throughout fiscal
year.
A record of public involvement will continue to be maintained. Continuous throughout fiscal
year.
The Public Participation Plan directs the following actions:
• The public involvement process will be on public display in the Florence County Planning
Department for 45 days prior to its adoption. Its availability will be advertised in a local
newspaper of general circulation, posted on the Florence County website and County
Blog and notice sent to FLATS stakeholders and distribution list contacts.
• The existing mailing list for the FLATS Policy Committee meetings will be reviewed
regularly and expanded to insure that newly discovered segments of the population are
given notice of the meetings of both of these groups at least one week prior to the
meetings. Some of the groups to receive notice of the meetings will include but not be
limited to affected public agencies, representatives of transportation agency employees,
private providers of transportation, other interested parties and segments of the
community affected by transportation plans programs, and projects. The mailing list is
included as part of this plan.
• All technical and policy information used in the development of plans will be available
for public inspection upon written request to the FLATS staff. These requests can be
submitted to the following address:
Florence Area Transportation Study
Florence County Department of Planning, Engineering, Building Inspection &
Code Enforcement
518 South Irby Street
Florence, South Carolina 29501
• Before any key transportation decisions are made by the FLATS Policy Committee or
before the Policy Committee votes on a change to the Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) a public notice will be placed in a newspaper of local circulation, posted
on the County Government website and County Blog and notice sent to FLATS
stakeholders and distribution list contacts stating that the Program will be available for
public viewing and comment for at least 10 days. If proposals are made by the Policy
Committee to change significantly any part of the Program from that which the public
reviewed, then the same process will be done to allow for comments before the
Program is finalized.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 15
• Representatives from minority groups and low-income groups will be included on the
mailing lists for the FLATS Policy Committee meetings. These mailings will encourage
them to attend the meetings and give their input to the planning process.
• If there are a significant number of comments on the TIP or any of the plans being
considered for approval by the FLATS Policy Committee, a summary, analysis, and report
on the disposition of comments shall be made part of the final plan and TIP.
• This process will be coordinated with the state public involvement process to avoid
redundancies.
• From time to time, the FLATS Policy Committee will review this public participation
process, examining the numbers of people and groups that have become involved in the
planning process and the numbers of comments that are made, to insure that everyone
who so desires is allowed to offer their opinions on transportation planning issues in the
Florence metropolitan area.
• Someone will be identified who can assist FLATS staff with communicating with non-
English speaking persons. Significant population concentrations of non-English speaking
persons will be identified using 2010 Census data. If there is a FLATS project that will
have an impact on that area, staff will prepare to assist those persons.
Products:
The County Planning Department will make available any information on the planning process
that may be of interest to any persons or groups that request it. The mailing list will be updated
accordingly. The Public Participation Process will also be updated.
Staffing:
County Planning Department
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 4,019
Federal 80% $16,075
TOTAL COST $20,094
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 16
A-3 Transportation Enhancement Program
Objective:
To maintain the process for selecting enhancement projects to be included in the
Transportation Enhancement Program and to be a liaison between the grant recipients and
SCDOT.
Previous Work:
The Lucas Street Gateway project proposed by the City of Florence was approved by the FLATS
Committee for FY2007 enhancement funds. The renovation of the Red Doe Plantation
proposed by Florence County was approved for FY2008 funds and the Irby Street Gateway
project proposed by the City of Florence was approved for the FY2009 funds. All three projects
continue to be active. Allocation of FY2010 enhancement funds was postponed by the Policy
Committee (February 19, 2010) until after the completion of the LRTP.
In September of 2008, the Federal Highway Administration advised SCDOT of a required
modification to insure compliance with state and federal. A Local Public Agency (LPA)
designation was created to provide criteria to grade the ability of local governments to
administer enhancement grant funds. All enhancement projects were suspended until required
modifications were met.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 5 and 8
FLATS staff will send notices to potential applicants for the upcoming funding cycle of
enhancements. Eligible applicants that may receive enhancement funds are local governments
in the FLATS area including Florence County, Darlington County, the City of Florence and the
Town of Quinby. If projects are submitted for funding under the current enhancement cycle,
the Enhancement Committee (currently the FLATS Study Team) will meet to review the
applications and make recommendations to the Policy Committee, which will then meet to
consider the choices and make recommendations to SCDOT. The applicants will be asked to
consider projects that satisfy the full use of the available enhancement funds. Sidewalks, for
example, can be developed, especially around schools, as a large project or as a series of small,
incremental projects. As directed by the Policy Committee.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 17
Before these projects are approved by the Policy Committee, the public will have an
opportunity to review these projects in advance of decision-making and have the chance to
comment on the projects proposed. Continuous throughout the fiscal year.
After grants have been awarded, the FLATS staff will work with the applicant and SCDOT on the
items listed in the Transportation Enhancement Program guidelines. As needed throughout the
fiscal year.
Product:
The enhancement projects that are selected will be listed in the TIP. The projects that are
considered and information on these projects will be available from the FLATS staff at any time
during the planning process.
Staffing:
County Planning Department
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 2,512
Federal 80% $10,047
TOTAL COST $12,559
B. Surveillance
B-1 Mapping Objective:
To provide a visual instrument that identifies areas of study and provides a detailed tool for
planning and analysis within the FLATS area.
Previous Work:
County building permits have been spatially tracked since May 2006. In addition, FLATS staff
maintained accurate road maps and bus routes through GIS.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 18
Foreclosures have been tracked by County staff from year 2006 to present. A map of the
various areas and charts for monthly and yearly comparison has been created. This information
has been forwarded to stakeholders and posted on the Florence County blog and referenced on
Facebook and Twitter.
Staff prepared new and revised route and bus stop location maps for the local transit agency,
Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority. Staff met with PDRTA and marked locations,
utilizing Pictometry aerials, of new bus stop signs. In addition to their regular route maps, staff
created special holiday route maps.
Staff created new and updated existing GIS information as necessary for consultant as
requested for their use in creating maps for the LRTP. Furthermore, a Florence Transportation
Plan website was developed to share this information with the Study Team, Policy Committee
and stakeholders.
Staff updated the Florence County Comprehensive Plan land use element as required by State
law. The existing county-wide land use map was reviewed and land use designations updated to
reflect existing, recent development activity and expectations for future growth. FEMA flood
data was incorporated to create the flood hazard district designation, taking into consideration
insurance rate premiums if development is done in these areas. Numerous additional maps
were created to show specific existing land uses in the Florence area.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 2, 3 and 7
Staff will continue to work with the Assessor’s Office, Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Department and Engineering Division to maintain an accurate centerline and parcel map, which
is critical in the efficient and effective tracking of trend data in the FLATS area. As new roads are
proposed in the area, staff will verify the road for an accurate placement utilizing GPS and
include attribute data, such as road surface type and bridge location. This data will also be
made available to emergency personnel, transit operators and other public entities to increase
the effectiveness of the transportation system. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
In addition, as new parcels are mapped and the parcel map maintained, various other features
can be improved. These features include creating an accurate zoning layer, developing
comprehensive plan maps for existing and future land use and mapping development in the
area. There are various databases that exist within this information that must also be
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 19
maintained, including a file of major points of interest, which is useful in the location of retail
development, school, subdivisions, and industry. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Work also continues on the development of our data so that GIS becomes an integrated system
among County departments. This work will improve the quality, speed, and uniformity of our
data as well as our ability to use the data to plan for growth in the transportation network.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff is also involved in the production of maps that are used for transportation planning. Part
of this process includes the maintenance and purchase of software and licensing. As has been in
the past, this software can be used for mapping and analysis of the socioeconomic data
collected in the FLATS network. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
The staff will also continue to update accurate address information. This project will involve
updating each address in our area. By using GIS, address information will be plotted in the
center of each parcel and then verified via ground-truthing. The data can also be matched to
the building site location using aerial photography which would again be followed by ground-
truthing as verification. After completion of this project and with the integration of future data,
staff will be able to track changes by address. This information can be used for updating,
plotting, and analyzing socioeconomic data for the FLATS transportation model. This data has
already been used to assist the census in the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) project.
Through this project, the data made available to the census will help increase the accuracy of
the federal data products and lead to better transportation planning data for FLATS through the
Census Transportation Planning Package. Furthermore, census and address data may be used
together to plan future transportation needs based on various demographics. Continuous
throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to track foreclosure trends, analyze clusters and may compare to statistics
such as distance driven to work, distance from center of town, distance from public transit and
socioeconomic trends. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to assist PDRTA in updating their route maps. In addition, as new census
data is available, staff will assist PDRTA providing further GIS information to determine
locations where increased transit service may be needed for transit-dependent populations.
These populations include, but are not limited to elderly, disabilities, low income, those too
young to drive and those without access to a personal vehicle. Making transit an option for
both captive and choice ridership will hinge on land uses that make traveling by transit a viable
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 20
alternative to personal automobile use. Higher density and mixed-use development in the
downtown service area as well as around high-use bus stops will promote economic growth.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will research data and conduct studies to begin a congestion model for the FLATS area.
Congestion modeling considers locations of high traffic by integrating information such as
employment, business types, residential density and speed and TAZ’s. The completion of the
2011 Census data will have potential updates to be utilized. Upon availability of data.
Staff will continue to explore ways in which GIS can be applied to enhance stakeholder
involvement in transportation projects. One avenue to achieve this goal is by utilizing
CommunityViz GIS software to create scenarios comparing land use, natural resource
management and transportation amenities. Scenarios will be used to consider future land use
alternatives, to quantify impacts that might result from those alternatives, and to visualize their
impacts. As required.
Product:
The County Planning Department and GIS Department will maintain digital data as described
above. Staff will produce maps to be used by the planning staff for land use and trend analysis.
County-wide address and roads databases will continuously be maintained. Bus routes will be
continuously updated and altered for highest efficiency. Foreclosure statistical reports and
maps will continuously be provided to stakeholders.
Staffing:
County Planning and GIS Departments and consultant(s)
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 10,047
Federal 80% $ 40,187
TOTAL COST $ 50,234
B-2 Air Quality Surveillance Objective:
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 21
Track current Federal and State legislation and ozone levels in air quality for the FLATS area in
an effort to maintain compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Air
Quality Standards.
Previous Work:
In March of 2009, Florence County proposed a Hybrid Vehicle Rebate Program to help promote
air quality improvement initiatives and to promote public discussion and awareness of
challenges to air quality. Any Florence County resident who met the eligibility criteria of the
program could receive a rebate. Staff managed this program and as of March 2010, nine
rebates have been issued to Florence area residents.
Florence County also proposed a Home Improvement Rebate Program for limited home
improvements. This program focused on power generation (solar and wind), primary heat
source replacement from wood burning systems and green construction projects that met LEED
or EarthCraft certifications. Staff managed this program. No applications have been received
for this program as of March 2010.
In April 2009, Staff approached the local truck stop closest to the Pee Dee area monitor to
propose electrifying the facility to reduce diesel emissions. A Federal grant was available for
assistance; however, the manager of the facility was not interested.
In January 2008 Florence County applied for and received a state Community and Urban
Forestry grant to begin developing a tree preservation program. Staff brought together
stakeholders to draft a policy. Individual stakeholder meetings were also held for input.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 1, 5, 7 and 8
Staff will continue offering the hybrid and home improvement programs as funding is permitted
by Florence County Council. Continuous as available.
Staff will continue to research grants and other assistance available for diesel emission
reduction projects, retrofits, idle reduction technologies, cleaner fuel use, engine repowers,
upgrades, and for vehicle and equipment upgrades. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to develop the tree preservation program including hosting public and group
meetings with entities that would be directly affected. The initial purpose of these meetings will
be to educate on EPA’s proposal to strengthen the national ambient air quality standards for
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 22
ground-level ozone and the potential consequences should the FLATS area become non-
attainment. Other purposes for these meeting include, but are not limited to gather input on
proposed requirements within the policy and to explain benefits of preserving and/or planting
trees. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Product:
Through the efforts of public and group meetings, staff will prepare a tree preservation
program including a draft policy and public presentation material.
Should the FLATS area be declared a nonattainment area, staff will be required to demonstrate,
through regional emissions analysis, that the estimated on-road motor vehicle emissions of
projects included in the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) from which the three-year TIP is
drawn will be less than the allowable estimated on-road motor vehicle emissions listed in the
STIP.
If the FLATS area cannot show that the planned projects will allow the area to meet or be less
than the emission levels required then shall be required to modify its TIP and LRTP by removing
projects or adding other controls or programs until emission requirements are met. Failure to
comply can result in freezing of all federal funds (both FHWA and FTA) and possibly more
severe restrictions.
Staffing:
County Planning Department and consultant(s)
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 2,512
Federal 80% $ 10,047
TOTAL COST $ 12,559
B-3 Traffic Surveillance Objective:
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 23
Monitor the highway system and collect travel data such as volume and direction of traffic,
turning direction, and lane of travel. Improve efficiency, reliability, safety, security, and volume
affecting the movement of traffic including freight in the FLATS area.
Previous Work:
The annual count program information is available to the county Planning Department from
SCDOT. Staff has participated in various traffic-related meetings and continues to use the data
to complete traffic reviews for various projects.
In preparation for updating the LRTP, staff manually performed a traffic count project at the
Five-Points Intersection. The counts were taken in 15 minute intervals from 7:00 am – 9:00 am
and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Staff met with the local SCDOT engineer to request an assessment on signalization timing for
Irby Street from Third Loop Road to Lucas/State Hwy 52. Irby Street was considered as one of
the major corridors leading to the urban area and subject to significant discussion at LRTP
public meetings. Alleviation of congestion and beautification were the most discussed topics for
this road.
In preparation for the freight portion for the LRTP update, staff mailed a freight survey to local
freight and freight service companies. The freight survey was developed to address specific
usage needs of the road network, rail lines and airport. A freight stakeholder meeting was also
planned to receive specific industry input. Furthermore, staff shared an area map with local
freight and freight service companies requesting company drivers and colleagues to mark
specific problem areas that affect their business.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestone after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 2, 3 and 7
As traffic counts are continuously collected for our area by SCDOT, staff will continue to
incorporate these counts into maps and traffic reviews for projects. These traffic reviews
incorporate SCDOT traffic counts and provide information to assess levels of service and
function of roadways. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
A key requirement of SCDOT in order to receive funding through the proposed federal Freight
Improvement Program is the development of a statewide freight model and Statewide Freight
Plan. SCDOT has acquired the Transearch statewide freight database from HIS Global Insight.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 24
The steps required are also consistent with the Planning Factors identified in SAFETEA-LU and
codified in 23 USC § 134.
Because of the opportunity for MPO’s to share this data and to allow for customization at the
regional level to address similar regional freight planning needs, FLATS staff will request full
data sharing rights for this new statewide Transearch database. Staff will utilize the database as
a planning tool to analyze current and future freight flows by origin, destination, commodity,
and transport mode. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will increase collection and study data on congested areas in support of anticipated
congestion modeling capabilities. Staff will continue coordinating with the local SCDOT office to
review the timing of signalization on streets with congestion issues. Continuous throughout
fiscal year.
Implementation and testing effectiveness of updates completed from the LRTP. Upon project
completion.
Staff will continue to collect information from local freight and freight service companies
through origin/destination surveys and interviews to: identify and access existing and future
freight movement and regional infrastructure for all modes; identify regional freight needs and
challenges; facilitate a task force of stakeholders; determine freight capacity of major routes;
collect data from freight stakeholders through origin/destination surveys and interviews;
compile a comprehensive freight transportation profile including origin/destination, modal
shares, and interregional and intraregional freight flows. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Develop a comprehensive local freight movement model utilizing these objectives: identify
regional freight corridors or networks critical to freight movement in the region, focusing on
road network, and their significance to state, federal and global freight networks; map future
primary freight routes; quantify economic significance of freight in the region; quantify
environmental and social impacts related to freight movement; development freight-supported
land use guidelines; identify potential short-term and long-term freight improvement projects;
recommend potential infrastructure improvement projects to facilitate efficient movement of
goods in the region. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Other Products:
As growth occurs throughout our area and as traffic patterns change, staff will continue to
produce traffic reviews on development projects. This information will also be used to update
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 25
and provide information for the long range plan as updates are needed. In addition, these
counts will be made available as requested by the public.
Staffing:
SCDOT, County Planning Department and consultant(s)
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Costs
Local 20% $ 5,023
Federal 80% $ 20,094
TOTAL COST $ 25,117
C. Documentation and Analysis
C-1 Development and Maintenance Objective:
Maintain the FLATS program by developing the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP, this
document), Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), and the Long Range Transportation Plan in
compliance with federal regulations as they relate to metropolitan transportation planning. In
addition and as needed, staff will update Florence County’s Comprehensive Plan including the
Land use, Transportation and Priority Investment Areas elements.
Previous Work:
The LRTP was updated in FY 2010. The UPWP and TIP have continued to be updated.
A consultant was approved by the FLATS Committee to assist staff in updating the LRTP. Staff
compiled a steering group consisting of FLATS stakeholders to include environmental,
alternative transportation, freight community, realtor community, state and federal
representatives, and city and county officials. Furthermore, the LRTP was also prepared to
integrate the state requirements of Act 114.
Public workshops were held at intervals during the planning process for public input. Public
notices for workshops were placed in the local newspaper, placed on the County website, and
County blog. A transportation website specifically was developed by staff for updates to the
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 26
LRTP. In addition, FLATS stakeholders and distribution list contacts were notified via e-mail with
workshop dates. Furthermore, as new plan updates were added to the transportation website,
FLATS stakeholders and distribution list contacts were notified for their review and comment.
Staff attended a Title VI Training and Unified Certification Partnering meeting which included
information essential to the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program. This training
was hosted by SCDOT, in conjunction with the FHWA. The training was designed for sub-
recipients of Federal Highway Administration and Federal Transit Administration financial
assistance. Periodic Title VI compliance reviews to recipients of the above mentioned financial
assistance will be conducted. As a result of the training, staff has reviewed and updated the
requirements for Title VI compliance.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8
Updates to the TIP and UPWP will be presented to the FLATS Policy Committee for approval.
The methodology of updating the FLATS LRTP will be evaluated by the FLATS Study Team and
recommended to the Policy Committee prior to the end of FY2010. This plan will remain on
display for public comment for 30 days. Revisions may be needed to improve the quality of
transportation planning in our area based on new information or to update the plans based on
new regulations. TIP and UPWP will be updated as needed.
As a method of maintaining and increasing the use of the existing transportation system, staff
will work with the Florence Area Trails Committee to promote multi-modal transportation to
our current and developing network. Working with this committee will also help to increase
the accessibility and mobility of people in the FLATS area. One of the goals of this committee is
to enhance the role of bicycle and pedestrian facilities in our network. Staff will continue to
lead this committee, feature the meeting calendar on the Florence County website, and
promote use of alternative forms of transportation. Throughout this process, the accessibility
and mobility for citizens of Florence may be increased due to additional forms of community
connectivity. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
FLATS will continue to comply with the Title VI requirements contained in the federal
regulations in the development of the plans and programs (42 U.S.C. Section 2000d). In the
event that a Title VI complaint is received, FLATS will acknowledgement and log the complaint,
forward the complaint to SCDOT and address the concern appropriately. Staff may continue to
propose additional steps in the public involvement plan that will identify strategies to reach
minorities and other low-income groups in addition to ways to engage other underrepresented
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 27
populations. The staff will also continue to supply news releases of Policy Committee Meetings
to agencies that have contact with low-income and minority groups. This will include, but not
be limited to, maintaining and attempting to expand the mailing list of such agencies.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to comply with the DBE to the extent authorized by federal law. These
compliances are stated in the Civil Rights Section 12 of the FTA Master Agreement.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will also continue to work with SCDOT on the statewide plan as it relates to freight. As this
plan develops, staff can use the plan when considering future projects. Also, by identifying
freight transportation providers and including them in our mailings, participation may be
increased. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
As needed, staff may also work with consultants on network improvement studies. These
studies would involve investigating key problem areas, including intersections, and finding cost
effective ways to improve traffic conduction. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will also provide the results and communicate to the public about the comprehensive plan
update (C-1) to the Florence County Economic Development Partnership in order to help track
growth and future development trends. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Product:
Staff will produce the UPWP, TIP, and produce other documents including the long range plan
and the County’s Comprehensive Plan. Furthermore, staff will work as a team with the
consultant to update the long-range plan and cooperate with its development and completion.
Staffing:
County Planning Department and consultant(s)
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 5,023
Federal 80% $ 20,094
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 28
TOTAL COST $ 25,117
C-2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data Objective: Gather and maintain data and information to be used in transportation planning.
Previous Work: Socioeconomic and land use data has been collected and maintained. Several
databases, including zoning and land use, have been created. Information such as the
applicant’s name, address, zoning district, and type of work is included in the zoning database.
This, as well as other information, has been used to direct traffic modeling. Land use maps have
also been produced for the existing and future use of land on a parcel by parcel basis. In the
previous fiscal year, FLATS underwent a significant change in the way data was collected,
managed, and developed.
In updating the future land use element, staff planned on the need to focus on city centers for
residential to reduce sprawl, lower VMT and take advantage of the public transit facilities.
Further concentration was on-road and sidewalk improvements, and in areas where they would
potentially be needed. Sustainability, quality of life, preserving natural resources, economic
growth and utilizing our manufactured and natural infrastructure were among many aspects
considered in the process to update the land use designations for future growth expectations.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8
According to federal regulations:
The degree of consideration and analysis of the factors should be based on the scale and
complexity of many issues, including transportation system development, land use,
employment, economic development, human and natural environment, and housing and
community development. Code of Federal Regulations: Title 23, Part 450, Subpart C, Sec. 450.306 (b)
While the FLATS area (see map on page 9) covers portions of Florence and Darlington counties,
development and land use throughout both counties affects the traffic and transportation
system in the FLATS area. Although Florence County is not responsible for comprehensive
planning for Darlington County, consideration of their plan in relation to the FLATS area is
useful. However, a full examination of each of the above quoted factors throughout Florence
County will be completed through the update of the Comprehensive Plan. Through this effort,
we will also continue to work with Census data. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 29
Staff will incorporate various aspects of transportation planning into each of the elements of
the comprehensive plan as described in the federal regulation. Continuous throughout fiscal
year.
SAFETEA-LU encourages the consultation and coordination “with planning officials responsible
for other types of planning activities affected by transportation”. The efforts made on the
comprehensive plan will help to achieve this goal in our area. Furthermore, staff will continue
to meet with planning officials to be updated on the latest planning activities. Continuous
throughout fiscal year.
Staff members will also be monitoring the transportation system throughout its development
including working on projects, such as the one-cent sales tax projects, that connect the FLATS
network to other areas in the county. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
SAFETEA-LU also places emphasis on recreational travel and tourism. By identifying
socioeconomic and land use points of interest in Florence County, such as historic sites and
parks, staff will promote recreation and tourism. Continuous throughout fiscal year and
highlighted more specifically in the comprehensive plan.
Building permit and development data will also be tracked. This task will allow the comparison
of past with future growth by analyzing Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs, see map on page 9). This
data will show residential growth from new subdivisions and commercial growth from new and
altered developments. Continuous throughout fiscal year; report developed in Fourth
Quarter.
FHWA encourages and supports scenario planning. Staff will actively use scenario planning with
CommunityViz software. This type planning will be used in an effort to understand the impacts
of growth, especially the relationship between transportation and the social, environmental
and economic development of regions. This relationship is a two-way street: growth and
development affect transportation performance, while transportation affects social,
environmental, and economic development.
Scenario planning highlights the major forces that may shape the future and identifies how the
various forces might interact, rather than attempting to predict one specific outlook. As a
result, regional decision makers are prepared to recognize various forces to make more
informed decisions in the present and be better able to adjust and strategize to meet
tomorrow's needs. As required.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 30
The City of Florence, which is the center of the FLATS area, is currently writing their
comprehensive plan. FLATS staff will review major rezoning, subdivision, or other development
projects. Transportation and land use related projects funded through FLATS will coordinate
with their comprehensive plan. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Staff will increase their efforts to improve coordination between land use and freight planning
in an effort to preserve and enhance efficient and safe access and mobility for freight
transportation. These efforts can increase viable options for people to access opportunities,
goods, services, and other resources to improve the quality of their lives. Integrating land use
and transportation planning and development is just one of many assets of sustainable
communities and neighborhoods. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Product:
Data from traffic analysis zones and from building permit databases will continue to be created
to track growth. An updated land use report will be maintained.
Staffing:
County Planning Department and consultant(s)
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Sources of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 10,047
Federal 80% $ 40,187
TOTAL COST $ 50,234
C-3 Public Transportation Planning Objective:
FLATS staff will assist PDRTA with GIS mapping and related services in a way that is useful and
beneficial to their needs.
Previous Work:
County GIS department periodically and updates the centerline coverage for the County as new
roads are developed. This information is supplied to PDRTA administration for their use. As
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 31
additional information is needed to comply with their Pee Dee Regional Transit Plan, and the
PDRTA Marketing Plan, staff will provide accordingly.
Staff continues to maintain an internet mapping website, which can be used to locate
addresses, find major buildings, identify subdivisions/industries, and pinpoint other landmarks.
This website also has road information, including surface type. Staff has continuously provided
mapping updates to PDRTA in order to develop new routes and identify ridership. In FY 2009,
staff provided county-wide maps of PDRTA’s new and updated routes to better serve the
public.
Methodology (includes schedule of milestones after each work task):
Enhancement of Planning Factors 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7
The chief provider of public transportation in the Florence area is PDRTA. Staff has direct
contact with this agency on a continual basis and will keep them apprised of project activities as
well as aide in PDRTA projects such as signage and facility planning as necessary. Continuous
throughout fiscal year.
Staff will continue to assist PDRTA with GIS mapping services to include the following:
Assist PDRTA in mapping routes and locating ridership. As part of this effort, we will not only
provide updated road/centerline information, but also economic development information to
assist in the expansion of their current services. By continuing to identify and map locations of
major industries, commercial centers, and residential areas, PRDTA may be able to develop
additional commuter routes and potentially identify multi-modal transportation options.
Continuous throughout fiscal year.
Providing population maps. By providing PDRTA with maps of identified populations, they may
be able to improve service and update their fixed routes and potentially add new services, stop
locations, and even a new transfer point. Continuous throughout fiscal year as a plan is
developed.
Assigning parcel-specific addresses. As part of GIS, staff will work to assign an address to each
parcel in Florence County. This will help PDRTA locate users more efficiently. Continuous
throughout fiscal year.
Staff will also continue, as needed and requested, to work with SCDOT in the development and
implementation of the Statewide Transit Plan. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 32
As staff develops the Population, Land Use, and Community Facilities Elements of the
Comprehensive Plan as described in C-1, trends related to transit may emerge that can be used
for future transit planning. Staff may assist PDRTA with plans to locate new transit facilities or
expand existing uses. Continuous throughout fiscal year.
In addition, we continue to share requested data with and send meeting notices to PDRTA
constantly involving them in the transportation planning process. Continuous throughout fiscal
year.
Product:
Staff updates the County Road Atlas to the PDRTA annually. Reports and plans developed in
conjunction with PDRTA using GIS may also be produced.
Staffing:
County Planning and GIS Departments
Estimated Date of Activity Completion:
June 30, 2011
Financial Responsibility:
Source of Funds Ratio Cost
Local 20% $ 7,535
Federal 80% $ 30,140
TOTAL COST $ 37,675
D. Tables and Appendices
Table 1. Budget Table – Agency Participation
Task
Funding (in dollars)
Federal Florence
County Total
A-1 Administration 14,065 3,516 17,581
A-2 Public Participation 16,075 4,019 20,094
A-3 Transportation Enhancement Program 10,047 2,512 12,559
B-1 Mapping 40,187 10,047 50,234
B-2 Air Quality Surveillance 10,047 2,512 12,559
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 33
B-3 Traffic Surveillance 20,094 5,023 25,117
C-1 Development and Maintenance 20,094 5,023 25,117
C-2 Socioeconomic and Land Use Data 40,187 10,047 50,234
C-3 Public Transportation Planning 30,140 7,535 37,675
Total 200,936 50,234 251,170
Table 2. Budget Table – Funding Sources For all tasks listed in Table 1, Federal funds (80% of total) are matched entirely with (20% of
total funds) with County funds. No other funding sources are anticipated for use in the FLATS.
Federal Florence County Total
Funding Source $200,936 $50,234 $251,170
FLATS Unified Planning Work Plan FY 2011
Adopted by the Policy Committee June 7, 2010 34
Appendix A. List of Acronyms COG Council of Governments
DBE Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FLATS Florence Area Transportation Study
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
FY fiscal year
GIS Geographic Information System
GPS Global Positioning System
LRTP Long Range Transportation Plan
LUCA Local Update of Census Addresses
MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization
PDRTA Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority
PEA Planning Emphasis Area
SAFETEA-LU Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users
SCDOT South Carolina Department of Transportation
STIP State Transportation Improvement Program
TAZ Traffic Analysis Zone
TIP Transportation Improvement Program
UPWP Unified Planning Work Program
Appendix B. General References Code of Federal Regulations: Title 23, Part 450, Subpart C
SAFETEA–LU, Public Law 109–59—August 10, 2005, 109th U.S. Congress
U.S. Code Title 23, Section 134
U.S. Code Title 49, Section 5303
H.R. 2847, Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment Act; Surface Transportation Extension Act
of 2010