Frequently Asked Questions | Altoona Needs Study
What is a needs study?
A project need is a detailed explanation of the specific transportation problems or deficiencies which have generated the search for improvements.

Project needs are typically based on technical information and analyses, such as measures of traffic flow, congestion and travel demand, as well as other factors, such as economic development and safety improvements. Needs are framed in terms of problems and roadway deficiencies, not solutions. Problem statements will generally describe a particular situation where an expected level of performance has not been achieved. The statements will list important factors causing this unacceptable performance.

Needs must be defined for every transportation project. The level of detail varies given the complexity and type of project and the extent of the study area. This information is critical in helping establish the purpose, type, size and location of a proposed transportation improvement.

The needs study is the document prepared by PennDOT which will present the project needs statements and the data and analysis supporting these needs. Throughout the project development, it is important to build consensus at key points in the process. Perhaps the most critical point is project needs. A well-organized, carefully conceived project need methodology can guide the project sponsor towards a clear identification of transportation needs. The aim of this process is to provide project sponsors, resource agencies and the public with a thorough analysis of needs so that consensus can be reached by all parties on this key issue.

The Five Phases of Transportation Project Development
Every transportation project passes through five phases of project development. These phases are summarized below, with an emphasis on the relationship of each phase to the development of project needs.


Planning Phase – PennDOT works with the Blair County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) to perform transportation planning in both urban and rural areas. This process identifies existing or potential problems and assesses how perceived transportation needs may be satisfied within the framework of the region's long-range planning goals. The end product of this phase is the adoption of the region’s Long Range Transportation Plan (20 year range) and the short term (4 year) Transportation Improvement Program.

Prioritization & Programming - PennDOT, The State Transportation Commission and the Blair County MPO rank proposed projects within the region’s Long Range Plan and Transportation Improvement Program and allot funding based on priority. In this phase, PennDOT District 9-0 will evaluate and review planning data, assess available resources and prioritize projects based on both needs and financial constraints.

In these early phases, a preliminary needs assessment is undertaken. The extent of this analysis varies by the project type and size of the project. If an analysis has clearly documented needs and if agency and public involvement has been adequate, an opportunity may exist to streamline the needs process.

Preliminary Design – Encompasses environmental and engineering studies and public and agency involvement procedures. As the project progresses into preliminary design, project need may be further developed, formally defined, and refined.

Final Design – Involves the development of detailed working drawings, specifications, and estimates for approved transportation projects.

Construction – A contractor selected by the Department constructs the improvement alternative.