Transportation SMPC is charged by the Michigan Department of Transportation with conducting regional transportation planning for areas outside metropolitan areas (Kalamazoo County and the Northwestern section of Calhoun County). Metropolitan area transportation planning is conducted by the Kalamazoo Area Transportation Study (KATS) and the Battle Creek Area Transportation Study (BCATS) within their respective Metropolitan Planning Areas. Economic Development SMPC will engage in economic development at the direction of its members. SMPC serves its members through community development and placemaking. Programs are in development that will help improve the condition of local economies throughout the region. SMPC and the W.E. Upjohn Institute received a grant through the US Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the development of a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS outlines the economic conditions of the region, provides a blueprint for future economic improvement, and lists several projects that could have a significant economic benefit to the region. The Upjohn Institute is headed up the creation of the CEDS and conducted the research needed to complete the document. The EDA requires an approved CEDS in place before they will consider funding project specific grants. Technical Assistance and Staffing SMPC partners with the MEDC in providing technical assistance to local units. SMPC is currently focused on becoming the District Organization for the EDA Economic Development District for our region and providing educational opportunities for public officials.