American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What landmark legislation was the first federal transportation law to mandate planning?

1. Transportation Equity Act

2. Surface Transportation Assistance Act

3. Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)

4. Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act

The correct answer is: Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)

The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) is recognized as the first federal transportation legislation that mandated a comprehensive planning process for transportation project funding. Enacted in 1991, ISTEA represented a pivotal shift in federal transportation policy by emphasizing the need for metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) to develop long-range transportation plans. It established criteria that required coordination among various modes of transportation, addressing the interconnectedness of highway, transit, and non-motorized transport systems. One of the notable aspects of ISTEA was its focus on multiple objectives beyond simply constructing and maintaining highways. It aimed to promote more efficient use of existing infrastructure, enhance public transit, and support environmentally sustainable practices. This legislation also introduced funding flexibility, allowing states and localities to allocate federal transportation dollars to different projects based on their specific needs and priorities. By mandating a planning process that incorporated public input and consideration of various factors—including environmental impacts and land use—ISTEA set the stage for more holistic approaches to transportation planning at the federal, state, and local levels. This comprehensive framework facilitated a shift towards integrated transportation solutions, making it a landmark piece of legislation in the field.