Update process begins with public
outreach activities, formation of task force
Planning for the next long-range regional transportation framework kicked off in October with the fi rst meeting of the 2040 RTP Task Force.
The 2040 Regional Transportation Plan will look ahead 30 years to match anticipated transportation needs with expected federal, state and regional transportation dollars.
During the next year, the 2040 RTP Task Force will guide development of the plan and will integrate concepts and themes collected from the public participation process.
As part of the federal requirement for transportation funding, the region’s metropolitan planning organization (PAG) is required to update the long-range plan at least every four years. The PAG Regional Council is expected to give fi nal approval of the plan in 2009.
The RTP encompasses long-range, multimodal projects, plus projects of both the 20-year Regional Transportation Authority’s plan, which is funded by the voter-approved ½-cent excise tax, and PAG’s fi ve-year Transportation Improvement Program, which receives federal, state
and regional funds.
Public Outreach
The 2040 RTP process is in the fi rst phase of public outreach to identify values, needs and project ideas. During this phase, PAG is conducting stakeholder sessions throughout the region. Participants will join us for a two-hour session where they will be asked to comment on our transportation
vision and goals for the region (see September 2008 Regional Outlook), evaluate project ideas and transportation fi nancing alternatives and provide input on specifi c project improvements for the region and state.
During the fi rst phase of public outreach, PAG also will hold open houses, tentatively scheduled for January.
Visit www.pagnet.org and look for 2040 RTP under Quick Links. Background materials for the plan and public participation opportunities are available online. |