Transportation Management Associations

Employers, developers, and government agencies wrestling with how to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution as well as how to improve access to employment areas may find the development of a Transportation Management Associations (TMA) as a viable way to coordinate efforts of various stakeholders.  A TMA is a membership organization formed to provide a forum for employers, developers, building owners, local government representatives, and others to work together to collectively establish policies, programs, and services to address local transportation needs and air quality issues within a specified geographical area.  The funding mechanism, geographic area, membership, mission, and services are tailored to meet the specific needs of the geographic area.  TMAs are typically located in areas where there are large concentrations of employers; however they can be located in rural, suburban, urban, corridor specific, or business park areas. 

Because the services provided by a TMA are specific to the needs of the member stakeholders and geographic area, the provided services can vary between area TMAs.  The focus of the TMA’s mission may also change over time based on the growth and development of the surrounding area.  Possible TMA services could include: shuttle services; parking management programs; telecommuting/teleconferencing centers; rideshare matching services; transportation advocates; emergency ride home programs; Employee Transportation Coordinator training; and promotion and incentive programs for using alternative commute modes to name a few.

Three TMAs currently operate within North Central Texas. The Central Dallas Association operates a TMA, Downtown Dallas, Inc. in the Dallas central business district; Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. functions as the TMA for the Fort Worth central business district, and; the Legacy TMA will soon operate in the City of Plano inside the area circumscribed by Sam Rayburn Tollway/SH 121 to the north, Preston Road/SH 289 to the east, and Spring Creek Parkway to the south and west.  Candidate TMA locations have also been recommended through corridor and feasibility studies. These locations have been identified based on employment densities in future years and the location and magnitude of traffic congestion. Candidate locations can be further evaluated during the environmental process.

Staff Contact: Dora Kelly