Maximizing Transportation Efficiency Act

This legislation, titled the "Maximizing Transportation Efficiency Act," seeks to improve the efficiency of the nation's transportation infrastructure and reduce congestion by expanding the use of transportation demand management (TDM) strategies. It formally defines TDM as the use of strategies to inform and encourage travelers to maximize system efficiency, leading to improved mobility, reduced congestion, and better air quality. The bill emphasizes TDM's potential to provide greater access to jobs and services, particularly in rural communities which often face limited transportation options and higher costs. To achieve these goals, the bill integrates TDM strategies into several existing federal programs, including the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program and various infrastructure project assistance grants. Furthermore, it establishes a $20,000,000 annual set-aside for grants specifically for developing and implementing TDM strategies in rural areas, targeting improved mobility and access to jobs. The bill also creates another $20,000,000 annual set-aside for small projects under the Congestion Relief Program, removing previous population thresholds to broaden eligibility for congestion relief initiatives.