Missouri DOT seeks input on long-range transportation plan

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is soliciting public comments on an updated version of the state's long-range transportation plan.

The Long Range Transportation Plan is a federally required process that sets the state's 25-year vision for transportation.

Missouri's current plan was approved in February 2014, but new federal laws and regulations require additional content, such as safety performance measures and targets, MoDOT officials said in a press release.

In the earlier plan, MoDOT identified four goals:
• take care of the existing transportation system and services;
• keep travelers safe regardless of transportation mode;
• invest in projects that spur economic growth and create jobs; and
• provide better transportation choices for state residents.

The updated plan adds a fifth goal: improve reliability and reduce congestion on the state's transportation system.

And for the first time, the plan examines how Missouri should prepare for autonomous and connected vehicles.

"Our long range planning process is a critical time for our department to assess the needs of our system and hear directly from our customers — the citizens of Missouri — to ensure our priorities match the needs of our people," said MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna.