Wisconsin seeks transportation plan input

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The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is seeking the public’s input with regard to efforts to craft Connect 2050, its new 30-year transportation plan.

The Connect 2050 project team has formed a public survey at Connect2050Survey.com that provides residents with an opportunity to weigh in on future transportation initiatives. The survey can be taken through September and participants are asked to prioritize and provide comments on six areas – economic vitality; safety and security; quality of life and natural environment; system integration and connectivity; system management; and funding and project costs.

“Transportation impacts nearly every aspect of your life,” WisDOT Secretary-designee Craig Thompson said. “The time it takes you to travel to work, school or vacation, the cost of the products you buy, and your ability to get around without driving, all depend on a safe, effective transportation system. These factors affect your quality of life and we want you to be involved in planning Wisconsin’s transportation future.”

WisDOT officials estimate the state’s airports will serve 15 million passengers and local businesses annually by 2030 while noting Wisconsin’s population is expected to grow by almost 800,000 people, reflecting a 13.5 percent rise, between 2013 and 2040.

Additionally, officials said Wisconsin possesses the nation’s 12th most reliable interstate travel, adding that reliable travel times are essential for trucking, farming, tourism and manufacturing industries.