Survey - Transportation Projects that are Important to You

11 Jul 2014

The Pioneer Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) would like the input of City and Town Officials as well as the Public in determining what type of Transportation Projects should take priority in the Region.  Please take a few minute to complete the one page survey below.   “To request a paper copy of the survey please call us at (413) 781-6045.”

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The following provides additional information on the eight categories of transportation improvement projects included as part of question 1 of the “Transportation Projects that are Important to You” survey. A short description of each category is provided as well as examples of transportation improvement projects that would fall under each category.

  1. Projects that improve the roadway surface. Roadway improvement projects seek to maintain a pavement surface that is free from defects such as ruts, cracks, and potholes.  The most common project under this category is the repaving of a street, however, other elements such as improvements to upgrade outdated traffic signal equipment, new roadway regulatory and guide signs, and updates to roadway pavements markings are all included as part of this category.
  2. Projects that enhance the movement and connectivity of pedestrians, bicycles and transit. Transportation projects must address all modes. As a result it is important to consider the ability of all roadways to accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users. Projects that would fall under this category generally reduce the dependency on the automobile and include sidewalk repairs and construction, the development of on-road bicycle lanes, and improvements for bus stops.
  3. Projects that reduce travel congestion and travel time. Changing the amount of time allocated to existing traffic signals is just one method to reduce congestion. Other examples include improving access to existing driveways, providing turn lanes when warranted to provide a safe refuge area for vehicles, and eliminating “choke points” or areas that generally restrict traffic flow due to improper geometry and spacing.
  4. Projects that promote responsible economic growth and development. Also called “smart growth” these projects serve to compliment local development particularly in downtown areas and village centers. These projects typically abut areas that have been designated by the community to support transit and a mix of uses. A example would be the construction of a new transportation center.
  5. Projects that improve safety. Safety improvement projects reduce the number and severity of collisions at an intersection or along a roadway. These improvements also seek to reduce the response time for emergency vehicles and enhancements that allow a roadway to withstand damage from storms.
  6. Projects that protect or enhance environmental resources such as wetlands, streams, wildlife, and air quality. This category includes transportation improvements such as upgrades to culverts or the use of environmentally friendly materials to protect the surrounding environment. This includes the use of green infrastructure elements and the promotion of mode shift to enhance the quality of the air we breathe.
  7. Projects that preserve existing regional assets such as parks, historic areas and farms. These projects include elements to protect open spaces, parks, agricultural land and provide access to historic and cultural resources. An example would be the construction of an off road bicycle path along an abandoned railroad corridor or utility right of way.
  8. Bridge projects repair and maintain the existing system of bridges to ensure they are adequate to safely accommodate current traffic loads.