2030 Plan Improvements
New Computer Model and Improved Alternatives Analysis
The computerized transportation model operated by WATS was expanded to include a mode choice model with a transit network and route system. This new model was used to provide a forecast of transit use and travel demand on the transportation network for each five-year period from 2005 to 2030. The new model allowed WATS staff to analyze the impact of different alternatives. Several transit alternatives were run looking at changes in route frequencies.
Deficiency/Improvement Correlation
The 2030 Plan does not address more deficiencies than previous plans but it does require each improvement proposed to address a deficiency. The congestion deficiencies were identified using a more precise method of evaluating congestion with freeways held to a higher standard. Two additional transit service indicators were analyzed for this plan; transit level of service and households without access to personal vehicles. The pavement deficiencies were expanded to include every agency but the Michigan Department of Transportation. The following types of deficiencies are identified and addressed with improvements in the 2030 Plan:
For the 2030 Plan, the WATS staff made fifteen public presentations at different times of the day and at various locations around the county. Staff produced 40 notebooks that were placed at local communities, transportation agencies and public libraries for the public to review the deficiencies, proposed funded improvements, unfunded needs, the environmental justice analysis and the public involvement opportunities. There were more review locations and more meetings than for the development of the 2025 Plan. The Agency website was used extensively for the 2030 plan to disseminate information and to collect comments.
Unfunded Improvements
This plan also identifies more improvements that cannot be funded than previous (2025, 2020 and the 2015) Plans. The 2030 plan identified nearly a billion dollars in unfunded improvements.
Improved Financial Analysis
Although this Plan projected
more categories of federal, state and local funds than in previous plans many
funding sources were not included in the forecast. Each improvement identified
the amount of funding and also had to identify the categories of funding to
be used. Staff analyzed each improvement and the funding sources for eligibility
in addition to constraining the entire plan within the financial forecast.
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