The purpose of the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) is a federally-required document with the purpose of identifying the multi-modal/intermodal transportation needs of the region, the project investments and initiatives to meet the identified needs, as well as the funding anticipated to be available to address those needs over the next 25-year planning period. A Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) must update their LRTP every four years.
Currently, 2050 Connections is the LRTP for the Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization (CMMPO). 2050 Connections was recently endorsed by the CMMPO in July 2023. As part of the development of 2050 Connections, the CMMPO reaffirmed its future transportation-related vision for the region:
The CMMPO believes that a safe, efficient and well-maintained multi-modal transportation system, along with sensible land use planning and economic development, is an essential component of sustainable public policy aimed at improving people’s lives.
The CMMPO envisions Central Massachusetts in 2050 as a growing region of 40 well-connected, livable communities with congestion reduction, better multi-modal mobility and improved air quality. Healthy, creative transportation methods that integrate active travel modes using technology will safely and efficiently move people between homes, jobs, and services and move goods between places of manufacturing and retail distribution.
In order to implement the CMMPO’s new long-term vision, the following regional transportation-related goals were also reaffirmed:
- Reduce Congestion and Improve Mobility for All Modes
- Improve the Safety and Security of the Region
- Achieve a State of Good Repair
- Increase Transportation Options and Promote Healthy Modes
- Reduce Greenhouse Gas and Promote Sustainable Practices
- Equitable Transportation for All Populations
- Improve Economic Vitality and Freight Movement
