plan process
 

DRAFT Goal: Economic Strength

Promote economic vitality through enhanced mobility.

Central Oklahoma is the crossroads of two major interstates that connect the region to the nation’s borders – I-35 and I-40, the Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific Railroads, and Will Rogers World Airport. Seamless connections among these and other transportation facilities is the foundation of commerce, economic growth, access to jobs, and personal mobility.

Strategies

1. Improve the efficiency of the existing transportation system.

Time is money. Roadway design, maintenance, signalization, signage, and technology help improve traffic flow, reduce accidents, bottlenecks, and congestion. Efficient public transportation must be reliable, on time, and frequent.

 

2. Improve accessibility to regional employment centers.

The transportation system should provide the opportunity for all people to gain access to jobs through a variety of travel options. Among other modes of travel, public transportation that serves large employment centers will enhance the region’s economic vitality.

 

3. Encourage mixed use development.

Travel can be significantly reduced through development that meets residential, employment, retail and/or service needs at a single or nearby location. Mixed use development reduces sprawl, reduces costs associated with public infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, etc.), and can lessen congestion and air pollution.

 

—4. Improve freight transportation by increasing options for goods movement.

Freight is transported in various ways—truck, rail, water, air or pipeline. Most freight transportation begins and ends with a truck, which underscores the need for an efficient roadway network. Where multiple modes are involved, commerce is dependent upon an integrated transportation system and adequate intermodal facilities for seamless transfers.

 

—Challenges to consider:

  • How do we encourage land use policies that function effectively?

  • How do we accurately forecast economic conditions and future growth?

  • How do we plan for desired improvements with limited financial resources?

  • How do we reconcile long-term planning with immediate needs and trends?