Over the past year, a new tool has been developed to assist the HRTPO with the prioritization of transportation projects for the region. Initially created with two components (project utility and project viability), the final component of “economic vitality” was developed over the past few months by the HRPDC Economics Department, with presentations made to the HRTPO Board by Mr. Greg Grootendorst, Chief Economist. Their work involved an extensive literature review to help determine the predominant factors in the relationship between transportation and economic opportunity. Their research also revealed that the measures used should reflect the regional economy for which they are being applied, since each metropolitan area is unique. The new project prioritization resource will initially be used for the region’s 2034 Long-Range Transportation Plan to assist in determining what projects to include given limited financial resources. In a broader sense, the prioritization tool will assist Hampton Roads with creating the best transportation system possible for the region and improve its mobility and quality of life.