Data Compilation, Analysis & Strategy Development
Create the Statewide Transportation Data Library
The update to the plan started in late 2003 with several concurrent activities primarily involving data collection and analysis. Special subject research and modal plan update efforts are taking place to fill the gaps in the current data and customer input readily available for this update.
Examples of the modal efforts include the long-range plan for:
The research efforts are topics that apply across modes and jurisdictional boundaries, such as but not limited to:
- statewide safety needs
- congestion relief analysis
- local roadway needs
- habitat corridors and species diversity
- freight customer interviews
- and economic development
April 22, 2004, Data Library Presentation (pdf 361kb) to Transportation Commission.
Analyze Statewide Trends & System Conditions
Identifying and understanding major trends and their implications to Washington economy and demands on the transportation system are critical to developing the Washington Transportation Plan update. The statewide transportation system includes all modes of travel and related facilities and services, regardless of ownership. The condition assessment being conducted for this plan update is a summary that will include information such as:
- the number of lane miles of federal, tribal, state, and local roadways
- the location of airports and rail lines
- the condition or health of the facilities for each mode of transportation.
In addition, background papers are being compiled on our state's financial options, examining the relationship between growth management and transportation, and a summary of state and federal planning requirements.
Identify Key Strategic Issues & Develop Effective Strategies
The focus of this update is organized into nine key strategic issue areas. Each fundamental issue relates in some way to all modes of the transportation system and its facilities and services. Understanding the interrelationships between these issues is essential to creating a plan that has an appropriate positive contribution to our state. This step in the process involves identifying the needs at the regional level with specific modal needs that have statewide significance. Strategies for addressing gaps and needs will be developed for each of the nine issue areas.
Share What We've Learned
Throughout Phase 1; information is shared on the Department's web page as well as at workshops and meetings on various topics throughout the state. In addition, on October 19, 2004 the Washington State Transportation Commission hosted an event that is a milestone in the update process.
This meeting of a variety of interests and transportation service and facility providers will provide an opportunity for a broader discussion of the data, the trends, the issues, and gaps and proposed strategies. This opportunity for review will also provide input to the Transportation Commission for Phase 2.