Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
The Whatcom Council of Governments, as the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) for Whatcom County, is required to prepare a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) every year in conjunction with the WCOG members and the Washington State Department of Transportation. The TIP provides a comprehensive six-year listing of transportation improvements within the county that are on the regional transportation network as defined by the Whatcom Transportation Plan. It also includes projects utilizing federal transportation funds regardless of their location.
The TIP projects are separated into 3 distinct groups. Projects with start dates within the first 4 years, with secured funding and located within the Metropolitan Planning Area are in the “MPO” section. Similarly, projects with start dates within the first 4 years, with secured funding and located outside the Metropolitan Planning Area are in the “non-MPO” section. Finally, project without secured funding, regardless of location and start date, are in the “Unfunded” section.
The TIP serves as a schedule of accountability to the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. Their annual review and certification of the TIP ensures the continuation of federal financial assistance for transportation improvements in Whatcom County.
This document is updated at least every two years and incorporated into the State
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Placement on the STIP is required for
any transportation project that receives federal funding.
For more information, contact Ron Cubellis at (360) 676-6974.