Performance Programming Process (Px3) / Montana DOT
The Montana Department of Transportation’s (MDT) Px3 process applies performance management principles to establish funding allocations across the agency’s five districts. The Px3 process provides a framework for optimizing funding and meeting short- and long-term goals. The process does not select projects. Instead it directs funding to areas of need based on the following core principles (MDT 2019):
- Performance Based - MDT allocates resources to support the most effective and efficient investments. Forecasted and actual outcomes are prepared to establish and update performance targets.
- Data-Informed - Data is collected annually and analyzed using computer-based management systems to optimize future investment levels.
- Customer Driven - Investments support long-term goals established through statewide planning, as described in TranPlanMT.
- Continuous Improvement - Management systems are adjusted and calibrated based on the latest data and trends. Processes are regularly reviewed and updated.
- Transparency and Accountability - Processes are documented to clearly explain how MDT allocates resources and tracks performance.
The Px3 process considers information from a number of planning inputs, including Montana’s long range plan (TranPlanMT), asset condition data, current programming, and the agency’s performance objectives, measures and targets. These inputs are used to determine the best allocation of funds to meet desired pavement and bridge conditions. That recommended funding is presented to the Montana Transportation Commission for approval and then combined with non-Px3 funds to develop MDT’s full program.
MDT’s 2022 TAMP indicates that the Px3 process and expected funding levels will allow the agency to achieve its desired state of good repair for NHS pavements and bridges by 2030. This performance improvement is in large part due to a continued focus on pavement preservation, an increase in funding for bridge replacement and rehabilitation, and expected distribution of funding through the Px3 process. The Px3 process is repeated every 18 months to update MDT’s capital program, as outlined in figure 1. (MDT 2019).
Source: Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). 2019. “Px3 Performance Programming Process.” MDT, Helena, MT.
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