The Washington State Department of Transportation recently released an update on its Cascadia Program, an effort to address population growth and existing infrastructure constraints in the Cascadia megaregion. The region stretches from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Portland, Ore., and is expected to grow by 3.4 million people through 2050.
The goal is to ensure the reliable movement of people and goods into the future. It includes the Interstate 5 Master Plan and the Cascadia High-Speed Rail projects, both in the initial planning phases.
The I-5 Master Plan is identifying current and future needs and gaps in the corridor with the goal of prioritizing improvements that will reduce congestion, improve safety, and preserve vital infrastructure. The High-Speed Rail Project is identifying potential routes and conceptual service options as well as governance and financing models.
The department invites residents, business owners and others who travel Cascadia to participate in a survey now through Nov. 13 on the region’s transportation needs. Feedback will be used to shape the Cascadia Program and create a more reliable and connected transportation network.
The work of the program depends heavily on collaborative input, Cascadia Program Administrator Ben Tripousis said. He said this is an exciting time for the region, but uniquely challenging.