MPOs were formed and structured to accomplish the prevailing planning tasks of the late 20th century.
Recent federal legislation and regulations coupled with technology improvements have increased the
complexity of MPO activities, requiring increased planning capacity and resources. Identifying effective
strategies for maximizing planning capacity and organizational efficiency has become a challenge for
MPOs across the country.
This research report documents how MPOs have structured their organizations and allocated staff
resources. MPO organizational structure includes administrative information like governance, host
agency relationships, budgeting, and work planning. The report also addresses staffing arrangements,
technical skills, use of consultant labor, and employee retention. Effective and unique practices are
documented through case studies interspersed in the report. The intent of this research is to help MPO
leaders evaluate their staffing and organizational structures in light of their current and anticipated
responsibilities, budget and policy environment.
The information contained in the report was gained through a national survey of MPOs, plus follow‐up
case study research. The survey gained a 35.5 percent response rate, with 133 MPOs participating. Ten
participating MPOs were selected for follow‐up case study research, which are interspersed throughout
the research report.
