Transportation
Vision for Transportation
There is a progressive and efficient multi-modal transportation system that contributes to economic development and sustains a high quality of life.
10-Year Outcomes and Goals:
- Provide different modes of transportation that meet the needs of citizens, keep industry competitive, and promote sustainable economic growth.
- Provide a well-maintained, efficient passenger and freight transportation system; and one that facilitates emergency evacuations.
- Protect the region's natural assets and easily access major destination facilities.
Key Measures of Success Over 10 Years:
- Complete 90% of jurisdictional projects in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
- Reduce accidents 5% in both rural and urban areas.
- Increase transit ridership 25%.
Accomplishments During 2003:
- Passed the statewide gas tax (Nickel Package), which will complete the SR 240/I-182 to Columbia Center Interchange project; SR 12 4-lanes from Pasco to Wallula; and the Columbia Center Boulevard Railroad elevated rail crossing.
- Continue to develop the Benton County Commute Trip Reduction (CTR) program to reduce auto trips to and from major employers.
- Completed the annual Benton-Franklin-Walla Walla TIP for 2004-6. Includes all major local, regional, and state transportation improvements.
- Completed the Hillsboro interchange project in Pasco.
- The RTPO led the effort to showcase the regional freight mobility projects with Senator Jim Horn, Chairman of the key state transportation committee. The briefings included both public and private sector representatives.
- Hosted the Regional Transportation Planning Organization meeting with 8th, 9th, and 16th legislative district Senators and Representatives to discuss 2004 session and transportation issues.
- Responded and promoted RTPO views on the (6-year) Federal Transportation Reauthorization Act of 2003. The Act is still pending in congress.
- Added air service to Denver from Tri-Cities and improved connection from Salt Lake City to Washington, D.C. via Reagan National Airport.
Spring 2003 Workshop Update (PDF 21kb)