The Regional Transportation Plan looks at transportation and funding needs today and 20 or more years into the future, identifying transportation solutions and financial strategies. It guides the investment of regional transportation resources in the region’s roadway, bus, pedestrian, bicycle, aviation, freight and rail facilities over the next 20 to 30 years. The RTP is required by federal law and is developed according to regional planning principles and federal guidelines requiring that the RTP:
- demonstrate financial feasibility
- meet federal air quality requirements
- maintain a horizon year of at least 20 years into the future
- be updated at least every three years
The first such long-range plan for the PAG region was completed in 1981 and was subsequently amended or updated in 1986, 1992, 1993, 1998, 2001 and 2004. These updates usually include new demographic data and respond to changes in the region’s transportation system needs and resources.
The current long-range transportation plan horizon is the year 2040. The 2040 RTP included updated growth projections, adjusted proposed project costs, revised expected revenues, and broad public participation in the planning process. This Plan was adopted by the PAG Regional Council on July 1, 2010.
Long-range planning is guided by a vision statement and set of goals developed through extensive public involvement. PAG’s Regional Council adopted the vision and goals on March 26, 2003. Long-range plans are updated frequently to include new demographic data and to respond to changes in the region’s transportation system needs and resources.
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