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Northeast Ohio Unveils Long-Range Transportation Plan to 2050

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. eils-long-range-transportation-plan-to-2050.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 8:23 GMT by WHBF Davenport
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Cleveland, OH - February 9th, 2026 - The Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Council (NOACC) today unveiled its Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), a sweeping vision for the region's transportation infrastructure and services extending through the year 2050. The plan, available for public review and comment, aims to address the challenges and opportunities presented by projected population growth, a dynamically evolving economy, and an increasing focus on environmental sustainability.

For months, NOACC has been diligently gathering data, conducting analyses, and hosting preliminary discussions with stakeholders - including local governments, transit agencies, businesses, and community groups - to formulate this crucial document. The LRTP isn't simply about building more roads and bridges; it's a holistic strategy designed to enhance mobility, improve accessibility for all residents, prioritize safety, and significantly reduce the environmental footprint of Northeast Ohio's transportation system.

"This plan is a roadmap for the future," said [Hypothetical NOACC Spokesperson Name and Title], speaking at a press conference earlier today. "Northeast Ohio is poised for growth, and a robust, modern transportation network is essential to support that growth and ensure a high quality of life for everyone. We've looked beyond immediate needs to anticipate future demands and incorporate innovative solutions."

Key Focus Areas of the LRTP

The LRTP identifies several key areas requiring significant investment and strategic planning. These include:

• Modernizing Public Transit: Recognizing the growing need for efficient and accessible public transportation, the plan proposes expansions to existing bus and rail networks, including potential extensions of the RTA's rapid transit system and increased frequency of service. A particular focus is placed on improving connections between counties and facilitating "last mile" solutions to help residents reach transit hubs.
• Highway Infrastructure Improvements: While emphasizing a shift toward multi-modal transportation, the LRTP acknowledges the continued importance of the highway system. The plan calls for targeted improvements to existing roadways, including bridge repairs, pavement rehabilitation, and the implementation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion. The plan leans heavily on managed lanes and dynamic pricing to improve utilization.
• Active Transportation Network Expansion: A core tenet of the LRTP is promoting active transportation options like biking and walking. The plan envisions a significantly expanded network of protected bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and multi-use trails, connecting communities and providing safe, healthy alternatives to driving. The goal is to make Northeast Ohio a more walkable and bikeable region.
• Freight Transportation Optimization: Northeast Ohio's strategic location as a major logistics hub necessitates a focus on freight transportation. The LRTP explores strategies to improve the efficiency of freight movement, including upgrades to rail infrastructure, expansion of port facilities, and the development of dedicated truck routes.
• Embracing Emerging Technologies: The plan acknowledges the transformative potential of emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and smart city technologies. It calls for pilot programs to test and evaluate these technologies, and for the development of infrastructure that can support their widespread adoption. Investments in EV charging infrastructure are a key component of this area.

Public Input is Crucial

NOACC is actively seeking public input on the LRTP. Online surveys and virtual town hall meetings are scheduled throughout February and March, providing residents with opportunities to learn more about the plan and share their thoughts. In-person meetings will be held in each of the eight counties served by NOACC - Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, Summit, and Wayne. A complete schedule of meetings and online resources can be found at [ https://www.noacc.org/long-range-transportation-plan/ ].

"We want this plan to reflect the needs and priorities of the community," added the NOACC spokesperson. "Public input is essential to ensuring that the LRTP truly serves the best interests of Northeast Ohio."

NOACC's Role in Regional Transportation

As the region's metropolitan planning organization (MPO), NOACC plays a vital role in coordinating transportation planning efforts across Northeast Ohio. The organization works collaboratively with local governments, state and federal agencies, and transportation providers to develop and implement transportation plans and programs. The LRTP is the culmination of this collaborative process, providing a long-term vision for a more sustainable, equitable, and efficient transportation system in the region. The implementation of the LRTP will require ongoing funding, collaboration, and a commitment to innovation. The future of Northeast Ohio's transportation is now in the hands of its citizens and leaders.