What is AMATS?

AMATS is the acronym for Anchorage Metro Area Transportation Solutions, the federally recognized Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). AMATS was created as a multiagency team that works together to plan and fund the transportation system in the Anchorage Bowl and Chugiak/Eagle River areas when federal funds are being used. These federal funds are generated from gasoline taxes paid by the motoring public. The State of Alaska Legislature authorizes appropriations and general obligation bonds.  Additional funding is generated by local municipal bonds, as well.

Primary Functions of AMATS:

• PLAN Anchorage’s long-term transportation system needs for all modes of transportation.  The AMATS 2035 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)  illustrates the travel system envisioned to accommodate the community in the next 20 years.
• FUND implementation of the planning phases for long-term needs, by prioritizing projects and products through the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP indicates where financial resources are directed and at what level, then schedules those resources to be used in accepted phases.
• COORDINATE with the federal, state and local agencies that have a role and responsibility for transportation planning and development, including environmental concerns.

Next Scheduled AMATS Meeting:

Announcements

2035 Metropolitan Transportation Plan

The AMATS Policy Committee on May 3, 2012 met and approved the 2035 Metropolitan Transportation Plan. This Plan guides almost $4 billion in transportation network improvements between 2012 and 2035—from new road connections, additional buses, sidewalks, bike lanes, trails to better streets and improved intersections. Everyone uses these—whether we ride our bikes, walk to school, take a bus to work, drive a truck to supply the local grocery store, or head out of town for the weekend.  Click here for the 2035 MTP page. 

TIP Amendment

Major Amendment #3 to the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is available for public comment.  Download the amendment here.