Acting as the Regional Transportation Planning Agency, MCOG programs or allocates various types of state and federal transportation funds to Caltrans, the County of Mendocino and the four incorporated Cities of Ukiah, Fort Bragg, Willits, and Point Arena. All federal Economic Stimulus funds that are available for transportation projects in Mendocino County are expected to flow through MCOG. In addition to supporting projects within its five member jurisdictions, MCOG helps support transportation activities of the Mendocino Transit Authority, North Coast Railroad Authority, local airports, and on state highways, among others.

MCOG is responsible for preparing the Regional Transportation Plan, and funded projects are to be consistent with the Plan. Projects involve planning, capital improvements, rehabilitation and maintenance, public transit fleet replacement, and intermodal transit facilities.

Two county supervisors, a county elected official, and one council member from each of the four incorporated cities make up Board membership. A representative of Caltrans serves on the Policy Advisory Committee with the seven directors.

Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG) was formed as a joint powers agreement in 1972, as mandated by state law, the Transportation Development Act (TDA). MCOG is a political subdivision of the State of California.

MCOG serves as the Service Authority for Freeway Emergencies (SAFE) of Mendocino County, administering the call box program. MCOG also is involved with housing and economic development.

Photos by Janet Orth