The Transportation Public Health Link (TPH Link) is based on a conceptual framework of the transportation planning process that considers the synergy between the social, political, environmental, and economic elements that influence the health of communities.  Based on a multi-dimensional integrative problem solving approach, this process has the flexibility to account for individual determinants of health acting at different levels. In this manner, an upstream perspective is used to understand the impact of a proposed facility on quality of life. 

The TPH Link supports the inclusion of a cross-disciplinary team of professionals in the design, planning and development of proposed and rehabilitated transportation infrastructure project.  In this way, quantitative and qualitative research, performance metrics, and strategic management methodologies from multiple disciplines can be implemented to effectively evaluate the impact of a proposed facility.  This systematic approach including planning and development, continuous process improvement, impact evaluation, data analyses, and outreach and education drive the process.  As funding streams continue to shrink and the demand for accountability and improvements in operational efficiencies increase, it will be imperative for transportation to partner with nontraditional disciplines to devise strategic goals, transparency, and innovative ideas that meet the health and transportation needs of a growing population.