Special to 1808Delaware
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has available for review and public comment projects under consideration for inclusion in the 2024-2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). The 2024-2050 MTP covers the MORPC transportation planning area, including Delaware and Franklin counties, Bloom and Violet townships in Fairfield County, New Albany, Pataskala, and Etna Township in Licking County, and Jerome Township in Union County.
“This MTP update coincides with strong regional growth and paves the way for necessary progress. With each update, it’s critical that we adapt and align strategies to improve the quality of life in our changing communities and empower mobility for diverse residents. Our commitment to innovative solutions and sustainable infrastructure ensures a resilient and efficient transportation system,“ said MORPC Transportation Study Director Nick Gill.
The MTP will include highway, pedestrian, bikeway, and public transportation facilities, including improvements identified by the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) and the Delaware Area Transit Agency (DATA Bus). Federal funding may be sought in the future for projects included in the MTP. Additionally, the MTP will consider effects upon low-income and minority residents and will include an air quality conformity analysis. The plan is for horizon year 2050.
An interactive map is available to gather public input and can be accessed at https://www.morpc.org/2024-2050-metropolitan-transportation-plan/. This tool allows the public to submit or follow comments on projects under consideration. They can also identify locations with safety, congestion, or connectivity issues, and suggest their own ideas and projects by drawing on the map. Types of projects include:
- New roadway or widening of a roadway
- Intersection improvement
- New or modified freeway interchange
- Other roadway operations improvements such as signal coordination, lane management or access management
- Multi-use trail
- On-street bicycle facility
- New sidewalk
- New or improved transit service, such as bus or rail
“This is an opportunity for anyone who travels in Central Ohio to provide specific location-based input on the future of the transportation network. The web map allows users to zoom in, review details of potential transportation projects, leave a comment and suggest a new project all on the same screen,” remarked MORPC Associate Director of Transportation Planning Maria Schaper.
Learn more by viewing a description and image of the projects at 2024-2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan – MORPC.org or a copy of the map can be requested by calling 614-233-4157. Submit comments on the interactive map, by email to mtp@morpc.org or in writing to MORPC, 111 Liberty Street, Suite 100, Columbus, Ohio 43215, Attn: Maria Schaper, by 5 p.m. on Friday, September 8.
