Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT): The number of vehicles passing a fixed point in a day, averaged over a number of days. The number of count days included in the average varies with the intended use of the data.

Bicycle Lane, or Bike Lane - A portion of a roadway reserved for preferential or exclusive use by bicycles through striping, signing, and pavement markings at least four feet wide, not including concrete gutter pan.

Bicycle, or Multi-Purpose, Path - A path or trail reserved for exclusive use by bicycles and physically separated from motorized vehicle traffic by an open space or barrier, and at least 10 feet wide. A bicycle path may be in a separate right-of-way, such as the use of an abandoned railroad line, or in a roadway right-of-way. Bicycle paths or trails may also be open to other user groups such as walkers, joggers, or in-line skaters.

Bicycle Route - A system of routes designated along lightly traveled roads and indicated by signage. These routes are designated by the jurisdiction having authority over the roadways included in the route.

3-C process Continuing, Cooperative, Comprehensive: Generally used to define qualities of the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) planning process.

Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Program: A new categorical funding program created under ISTEA which directs funding to projects that contribute to meeting national air quality standards in non-attainment areas for ozone and carbon monoxide.

Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP): A plan developed by the NCDOT, in coordination with local partners, serving present and anticipated travel demand in and around the municipality, county, or MPO. The plan shall be based on the best information available including, but not limited to, population growth, economic conditions and prospects, and patterns of land development in and around the municipality or county, and shall provide for the safe and effective use of the transportation system.

Conformity: Ensures that transportation projects and activities will not cause new air quality violations, worsen existing conditions, or delay timely attainment of the applicable air quality standards. MPOs and states must demonstrate conformity of transportation plans and programs at least every four years, and upon any significant changes to the plan or program. 

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): A comprehensive study of the impacts of and alternatives to proposed projects; required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): A federal agency responsible for dealing with national environmental issues.

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): Division of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for administrating federal highway transportation programs.

Federal Register (FR): The federal publication where proposed rules, workshops, hearings and adopted rules are advertised for public notice.

Federal Transit Administration (FTA): Formerly UMTA; federal entity responsible for transit planning and programs.

1300 Baxter Street

PO Box 35008