2024 TDM Excellence Awardee: Central Pines Regional Council
Central Pines Regional Council
2024 MPO/RPC TDM Excellence Awardee
ACT was thrilled to recognize 2024 TDM Excellence Award winner Central Pines Regional Council at the TDM Forum in Charlotte, NC this week. Read below to learn about their impact and accomplishments!
The 2024 TDM Excellence Award recipient for the MPO/RPC category is truly an industry leaer and innovator. MPOs and RPCs play an important role in the development, delivery, and coordination of TDM strategies within their region.
ACT is pleased to recognize the Central Pines Regional Council with this award for its innovative and impactful contributions to TDM. Central Pines has implemented forward-thinking strategies that address regional transportation challenges by promoting sustainable commuting options and reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips. These efforts have not only alleviated traffic congestion but also contributed to lower emissions and improved air quality, supporting broader environmental goals throughout the Central Pines region.
The Triangle Transportation Choices Program was established in 2007. The Triangle Regional 7-Year Long Range Travel Demand Management Plan set a goal of 25% reduction in growth of VMT for 2015. Since 2009, when funding for services began, the program partners have conducted marketing and outreach events/activities, provided incentives and subsidies, worked with community organizations, as well as collaborated amongst themselves to meet or exceed this goal every single year.
A hallmark of CPRC’s approach is its commitment to partnering with local governments, businesses, and transit agencies to develop tailored programs that align with the unique needs of each community.
In partnership with local governments, CPRC works to enhance regional infrastructure and integrate TDM into urban planning initiatives, making alternative transportation more feasible for residents. For example, CPRC supports the development of commuter-friendly infrastructure such as bike lanes, pedestrian pathways, and park-and-ride facilities that link suburban and urban areas. These partnerships with municipal planners are vital to making sustainable transportation options more visible and convenient, ultimately encouraging more residents to choose alternatives to driving alone.
Their REINVEST Neighborhood program was introduced in 2022 to encourage equitable residential based outreach in neighborhoods that are home to residents who are more likely to use and benefit from transportation options.
On the business front, CPRC collaborates with employers to implement workplace TDM programs that provide employees with incentives like transit passes, discounted rideshare options, and preferential parking for carpoolers. By helping companies create attractive commuting benefits, CPRC not only enhances employee satisfaction and retention but also reduces parking demand and lowers traffic congestion in commercial areas. Additionally, CPRC provides resources and guidance to help employers educate their workforce on TDM benefits, thus fostering a more widespread cultural shift toward sustainable commuting choices.
Through these partnerships, CPRC has cultivated a supportive network that actively contributes to regional TDM goals and demonstrates leadership in advancing sustainable and practical transportation solutions across the region.
Furthermore, CPRC’s successful campaigns and events have raised public awareness about TDM solutions, creating momentum for long-term positive change. These efforts exemplify CPRC’s dedication to fostering a sustainable transportation ecosystem, making it a standout candidate for a TDM Excellence Award.
The Council has achieved significant benefits for their region through their implementation of TDM strategies. Most impressive is the 87 million commute miles reduced in 2023, a nearly 50% increase since 2013 and nearly 3 times their target.
These efforts make CPRC a leader in fostering a sustainable, accessible transportation network in the region. Overall, the programs have resulted in an estimated savings of $34 million due to the societal benefits of TDM investments. Congratulations to Central Pines Regional Council for their great achievements and tremendous all around commitment to TDM.
Learn more about the TDM Excellence Awards
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2024 TDM Excellence Awards sponsored by:
