Planning Organization Adopts 25-Year Transportation Plan

The Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization recently adopted the 2035 Transportation Conformity Analysis and Determination Report. This report demonstrates that the financially constrained Long Range Transportation Plans in the Metrolina/Charlotte Region meet national ambient air quality standards.

This report also accomplishes the intent of the North Carolina State Implementation Plan or air quality plan for the region. This report was prepared by the Cabarrus-Rowan MPO for the seven ozone non-attainment counties in the region and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Federal law requires a conformity determination every four years.

The MPO also adopted an update to a multi-year long range plan for transportation improvements in the Cabarrus-Rowan area. This plan contains $2.4 billion in improvements over the next 25 years with the majority of this funding coming through the NCDOT's Transportation Improvement Program. Major roadway projects scheduled for completion as part of this plan include the Yadkin River Bridge, I-85 widening in Cabarrus and southern Rowan, widening of N.C. 49, N.C. 3 and U.S. 70.

The Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization plans for regional transportation needs including highway, transit, bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

Priority goals of the planning process include:

- Promoting the safe and efficient management, operation and development of transportation system;

- Serving the mobility needs of people and freight;

- Getting public participation and partnership;

- Fostering economic growth and development; and

- Minimizing the negative effects of transportation, including air quality.

Additional information is available at www.crmpo.org

Membership of the MPO includes Cabarrus and Rowan counties, as well as Concord, Kannapolis, Salisbury, Mount Pleasant, Harrisburg, Landis, China Grove, Spencer, Rockwell, Granite Quarry, Cleveland, Midland, Faith and East Spencer.