Also, WSTC members have been meeting with the RTPOs and MPOs at least annually. Meetings were held to determine the needs of elected officials and other stakeholders in an effort to balance statewide, regional, and local issues. The 20-year WTP is published for review and comment, and then is adopted by the transportation commission. Under state law, most cities and counties are required to develop comprehensive plans. The RTPOs may establish planning guidelines for the transportation element of those local plans.
State law requires each RTPO to develop a regional TIP, similar to the process for MPOs.
Where an RTPO includes a metropolitan planning area, the organization must be the same for both to assure all issues are coordinated and discussed by RTPO and MPO members. Rural transportation is supported by federal, state and local funds. Federal funds are distributed to regions. Most state funds, from a variety of sources and programs, are distributed by two organizations, the County Road Administration Board and the Transportation Improvement Board. In addition to programs administered through grants, almost half of the gas tax revenues are distributed directly back to cities and counties for roadway programs.