Federal programs for transportation development require comprehensive regional planning before individual projects can be approved. The Federal Highway Act of 1962 and the Mass Transportation Act of 1964 mandate the establishment of effective regional planning authorities for continuous and cooperative planning. The improvement in planning involves new techniques and organizations for political agreement. Research opportunities exist in program design and execution for comprehensive planning efforts. The concept of program design in transportation planning is described, with a focus on the National Capital Region's efforts in 1965. Enhancing planning scope, technique, and communication with decision-makers is crucial. Developing planning systems for transportation involves operations research, system analysis, and citizen involvement. Similar circumstances and opportunities exist in most metropolitan areas worldwide.