A new project selection process, the secondary program planning process, was also developed between the counties and the state, and has been customized to meet the needs of the counties in each district. In prioritizing projects, each county in a district has one vote and the state has two votes. Proposed projects are ranked at the district level based on how each district has defined its goals. As with the long-range plan, there are many avenues for public involvement concerning the STIP, most of which can include local elected officials. The state's three MPOs include representatives of rural developing areas within the MPO boundaries.
County commissioners are members of the decision making body within the MPOs.
Additionally, under the state's new Performance Programming Process, projects can be proposed by anyone for any part of the system. Transit planning is coordinated with the Montana Department of Health and Human Services. MDT assists transit agencies in developing plans, including obtaining public comment and funding. Rural transportation is funded by federal, local and state programs. Federal funds are matched with state, not local, funds.