Metro seeks public comment on updated Regional Travel Options Strategic Plan
Metro invites comments on the updated Regional Travel Options (RTO) Strategic Plan. The comment period begins Tuesday, February 21 and runs through 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 21.
The RTO program encompasses the work of regional partners, including cities, counties, transit agencies, Transportation Management Associations and non-profit organizations.
These partners' programs improve air quality and reduce car traffic by helping people drive less and use travel options, such as walking, biking, taking transit, vanpooling or carpooling. Reducing the number of cars on the road cuts vehicle emissions, decreases congestion, extends the life cycle of existing roadways and promotes healthier communities.
Components of the RTO program include a coordinated marketing and outreach effort; an employer outreach program; a regional rideshare program; a grant program to support and catalyze partner's efforts across the region; and measurement and evaluation of RTO program investments and projects.
The program is guided by a five-year strategic plan developed in partnership with stakeholders. The program is funded primarily by grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation allocated by the Regional Flexible Funds Program.
RTO is currently in the process of updating its five-year strategic plan with help from Nelson\Nygaard and stakeholders. The updated strategic plan will:
• make efficient use of existing roads and transit investments
• streamline services to save money
• achieve greater outcomes with current funding
• apply triple bottom line framework to align with Metro goals
• reduce administrative burden on Metro and its grantees
The draft version of the RTO Strategic Plan is available online at the link below. For paper copies, call 503-797-1757.
Comments can by submitted by mail to Metro, RTO, Planning and Development, 600 NE Grand Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97232, or by email at Pamela.Blackhorse@oregonmetro.gov. The hearing impaired may call TDD 503-797-1804. Comments will be accepted through Wednesday, March 21.
The Metro Council is scheduled to consider the 2012-2017 RTO Strategic Plan the document in April 2012. Prior to the Council’s consideration, the public comment report will be submitted to Joint Policy Advisory Committee on Transportation (JPACT) on April 12, 2012 for consideration. JPACT will discuss comments received during the comment period at this meeting.
Download a copy of the updated RTO Strategic Plan at
www.oregonmetro.gov/index.cfm/go/by.web/id=454
Learn more about the Regional Travel Options program at
www.oregonmetro.gov/index.cfm/go/by.web/id=454