Perhaps it’s a pesky pothole that has caused problems for years.
Maybe, it’s a maddening commute that could be eased by an added lane of travel.
Or it could be a lacking stretch of sidewalk that makes a stroll through town treacherous.
Any and all of these issues make commuters cringe, and anyone who regularly sits behind the wheel of a vehicle has something to complain about in terms of transportation. Right now is the time to make those complaints heard.
Western North Carolina residents will get a chance to provide input on what transportation projects they would like to see included in the next North Carolina Department of Transportation’s 10-Year transportation plan for 2023-2032.
With a goal of increasing safety, reducing congestion and promoting economic growth, the NC Department of Transportation uses data and local input to determine which projects get funded in the 10-year plan based on a specific formula created by the Strategic Transportation Investments law. It allows NCDOT to use its funding more efficiently to enhance North Carolina’s infrastructure while supporting economic growth, job creation and a higher quality of life.
A statewide 30-day public comment period to submit project ideas will be held between Jan. 27 and Feb. 28. The best way to submit big-picture comments about the future of transportation is through the NCDOT’s STIP web page at www.ncdot.gov.
For regional and local transportation issues, and smaller-scale ideas, there will be an open house held at the NCDOT Division 14 headquarters. The open house will be held Feb. 4-6 at 253 Webster Road in Sylva. Residents who can’t attend the open house can still be part of the process by contacting Steve Williams of the Division 14 office by email at sjwilliams@ncdot.gov.
Since the NCDOT implemented the STIP system, which was put in place by the NC General Assembly, the data driven formula has driven transportation funds primarily to large urban centers and major highway projects. In order for small rural areas to get their piece of the funding pie, it’s critical that citizens make their voice heard regarding important projects in the mountains.
Attend the open house, submit online comments or send an email with concerns to the appropriate outlet, but be vocal. Otherwise, the commute is only going to get more maddening over the next 10 years.