By 1812Blockhouse
The Richland County Regional Planning Commission (RCRPC) has released the draft 2025-2050 Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), and now is your chance to shape the future of transportation in Richland County. Public feedback is open from March 15 to April 15, and your input is crucial in determining which projects move forward to enhance roads, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and public transit.
The plan will guide transportation improvements for the next 25 years, and your feedback can ensure it reflects the needs of the area. You can review the draft plan and share your thoughts through multiple channels:
- Visit a public review location (see locations below)
- Access the plan online and submit comments
- Attend public meetings and engagement sessions
This is your opportunity to make an impact. Your insights will help determine which projects receive funding and how transportation evolves in the coming decades.
A Vision for the Future of Transportation
The Looking Forward 2050 LRTP is a forward-thinking vision to meet Richland County’s growing mobility, safety, and infrastructure needs. Developed through collaboration between the RCRPC, the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), and local stakeholders, the plan ensures that transportation improvements align with the region’s economic development goals while prioritizing sustainability and accessibility.
The plan is structured around three key phases:
- Short-term (2025-2030) – Immediate improvements such as road safety upgrades and new sidewalks.
- Mid-term (2031-2040) – Expansion projects, including roadway widening and public transit enhancements.
- Long-term (2041-2050) – Future-focused initiatives preparing for population growth and technological advancements.
Key Components of the Plan
1. The Needs Plan The LRTP assesses and identifies all essential transportation projects, prioritizing those necessary to support long-term development. This list includes input from TAC members, existing commitments from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), and newly proposed projects ranked based on strategic criteria.
2. The Cost-Constrained Plan Funding plays a crucial role in determining which projects move forward. With an estimated $10.9 million available for 2025-2030, $19.1 million for 2031-2040, and $20.3 million for 2041-2050, the plan takes a balanced approach, ensuring high-priority projects receive the necessary investment while staying within budget constraints.
3. Public Engagement and Equity Considerations Community input is at the heart of the LRTP. The RCRPC has conducted extensive outreach to ensure the plan reflects the needs of all residents, particularly historically underserved populations. Additionally, the plan incorporates measures to address environmental and social impacts, fostering an equitable and sustainable transportation system.
Where to View the Draft Plan and Submit Comments
The draft LRTP is available for public review at the following locations:
- Main Branch Library – 43 W. Third Street, Mansfield
- Bellville Branch Library – 97 W Bell Street, Bellville
- Plymouth Branch Library – 29 W Broadway Street, Plymouth
- Richland County Regional Planning Commission – 19 N Main Street, Mansfield
- Online: www.rcrpc.org/regional-transportation-plan
To directly view the draft plan: Click Here
How to Submit Feedback
The RCRPC encourages the public to submit comments through multiple channels:
- In-person at review locations
- Via email through the RCRPC website
- At public meetings and forums (dates and locations to be announced)
The Future of Richland County Transportation
As the region prepares for the next 25 years, innovative funding strategies will be critical to bridging the gap between project needs and available resources. The LRTP explores opportunities for federal grants, public-private partnerships, and local funding mechanisms to ensure Richland County remains resilient and capable of meeting future transportation challenges.
By prioritizing safety, mobility, sustainability, and equity, the Looking Forward 2050 LRTP represents a shared vision for a connected and thriving community. Residents and stakeholders are strongly encouraged to participate in shaping this vision by reviewing the draft plan and providing feedback before the April 15 deadline.
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