The scenarios will be tested in the U.S. EPA's "Smart Growth Index Model." The model is a new tool that will enable transportation computer models to account for development and land use densities in estimating traffic and emission impacts, and predict land-related outcomes like valuation. The Hudson Valley studies are among the model's first tests. The results of the modeling will then be further evaluated by the study participants.

The studies aim to identify preferred scenarios that will indicate directions for zoning changes, inter-municipal agreements and transportation projects that will support the desired land use plan.

The four corridors under study are:

· Route 9, Town of Phillipsburg in Putnam County.

· Route 303, Towns of Orangeburg and Clarkstown in Rockland County (see www.route 303.net)

· Routes 35 and 202 City of Peekskill and Towns of Cortlandt and Yorktown in Westchester (study also encompasses Route 6 and the Bear Mtn Parkway)

· Routes 9A and 119, Village of Elmsford, Towns of Greenburgh and Mount Pleasant in Westchester.



NYMTC reports strong support and participation in the studies by local officials.



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