What is the Columbia Area Transportation Study Organization (CATSO)?

What is CATSO?

The Columbia Area Transportation Study Organization (CATSO) is the official group responsible for transportation planning in the Columbia area. As the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), CATSO coordinates how our city and surrounding areas plan for roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transit.

CATSO comprises officials from the City of Columbia, Boone County, and the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).

Why is CATSO Important?

CATSO is essential because it makes Columbia eligible for federal funding that supports vital transportation projects. It also decides which projects, such as sidewalks, bike lanes, road repairs, or public transit improvements, get prioritized. CATSO's choices directly affect how safe and accessible our streets are for people walking, biking, or taking the bus.

Beyond safety, CATSO’s plans influence Columbia's growth by shaping whether neighborhoods become more walkable and connected or more spread out and car-dependent. Since CATSO meetings are open to the public, community members can speak up and push for transportation decisions that better serve everyone.

Who Makes Up CATSO?

CATSO is made up of two main groups. The Coordinating Committee makes the final decisions on transportation plans and funding. This committee includes officials from the City of Columbia, Boone County, and the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The Technical Committee comprises planners, engineers, and staff who research, develop, and review transportation projects before making recommendations to the Coordinating Committee.

Together, these groups shape how Columbia’s transportation system is planned, funded, and built. Because public input only happens when people attend meetings or submit comments, it is crucial for the community to stay involved and speak up.

How Is Local Motion Involved with CATSO?

Local Motion advocates for a safer and more accessible transportation system in Columbia by staying engaged with CATSO’s decision-making process. Since there are no regular community members on CATSO’s committees, it is vital that the public speaks up when important transportation decisions are being made.

Local Motion actively bridges that gap by advocating for transportation equity and keeping the community informed about opportunities to engage. When opportunities arise to attend meetings or submit public comments, Local Motion alerts the public and encourages people to make their voices heard.

By staying involved and pushing for safer streets, better transit, and more accessible infrastructure, Local Motion ensures that Columbia’s transportation system works for everyone.

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