The Colorado Department of Transportation is seeking public input as it establishes a master plan for statewide transportation projected through 2040.
The documents include a focus on rural transportation zones and the system for which CDOT will communicate with the public.
The Aspen Public Radio listening area fits within the Intermountain Transportation Planning Region, which is projected to have unique needs over the next 30 years. Local population is expected to grow 2.2 percent annually through the year 2040 - that a 94 percent increase in population. People 65 years of age or older make up the fastest-growing segment of the population. That means in this region better signing, lighting, and public transportation services will be needed to accommodate those who may no longer be able to drive.
While many improvement projects are listed along I-70 and Highway 82, CDOT is facing a significant funding shortage that puts a strain on completing even top-priority projects. Though resident and visitor traffic has increased rapidly over the last decades, the gas-tax rate that funds CDOT has not risen since 1993.
In order to keep the public and local elected officials informed about CDOT plans, the department holds various information sessions, and an updated website, and is especially active on twitter and Facebook.
You can see the planning documents and add your input here
