The TCSP Program, created under TEA-21, responds to the need to help make communities more livable. TCSP is one element of the administration's livability initiative, which is strengthening and improving coordination among current programs as well as creating new programs. While FHWA administers the program, the setting of policy and direction has been a joint effort among FHWA, the Federal Transit Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, Research and Special Programs Administration, and the Office of the Secretary. Yet the federal government cannot by itself create more livable communities. State, counties, local governments, and the private sector need to share in the decision-making as well as the costs.
Communities know their own needs best.
Through TCSP, communities are sharing their best practices so that other communities can benefit from their experience. The federal government can inform decisions and provide resources, but cannot dictate the form of future growth. TCSP has proven to be extremely popular, with applications far outpacing available funding in both FY 1999 and FY 2000. DOT is currently awaiting the outcome of the FY 2001 budget process and allocation decisions before finalizing the 2001 grants. DOT hopes that additional discretionary funds will be made available to the program in FY 2001 through 2003.