What does the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) describe?

The Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) is a crucial document that outlines all transportation projects that are planned for implementation over a specific period, typically four to six years. It serves as a multi-year framework for funding and project scheduling, detailing projects that are ready to move into the design, development, and construction phases. The TIP is essential for ensuring that federal funding is used effectively and aligns with both regional transportation planning and the long-term goals set forth in the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP).

This focus on a defined timeframe distinguishes the TIP from broader concepts such as long-term goals or annual budgets, both of which do not specifically aim to list and prioritize immediate upcoming projects.