N.D. Cent. Code § 24-01-04.1
Metropolitan planning organizations shall develop, in cooperation with the state and public transit operators, transportation plans and programs for metropolitan areas which encourage and promote the safe and efficient management, operation, and development of surface transportation systems that will serve the mobility needs of people and freight and foster economic growth and development within and through urbanized areas of this state while minimizing transportation-related fuel consumption, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The plans and programs for each metropolitan area must provide for the development and integrated management and operation of transportation systems and facilities, including pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities that will function as an intermodal transportation system for the metropolitan area. A metropolitan planning organization is a political subdivision for purposes of chapter 54-52.
N.D.C.C. § 24-01-04.1