The Impact of Regional and Urban Planning

We are covering a very different topic than we’ve done in our past podcasting, but a critical issue for Central Ohio.

We are guessing everyone experiences problems and difficulties in getting around their community – too many cars on the road, congestion, construction, and so much wasted time commuting!

We are excited to welcome our guest, Thea Ewing, Director of Transportation & Infrastructure Development, for MORPC - the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.

First we explore the role of MORPC in our community. Also, Thea gives us background on her experience and expertise in the transportation arena.

Why are we even discussing transportation? After all, many of us have been working from home for months. Why are transportation systems so important? Really, it’s not just the amount of exhaust pouring into the sky – but how it affects the success of our city.

Columbus is the perfect example of a “sprawling” community dependent on cars. In the 1960’s we built freeways through our neighborhoods. And then major thoroughfares through established suburban housing. All this growth occurring without accounting for potential mass transportation. We lost our rail system. COTA has barriers due to funding/ridership/ and street size. And we are “wed” to our cars – even as we drive alone to work every day. Are there examples of cities that are successfully changing car dependence and how did they get on the right track?

Cost is a factor in mass transportation. Here in Columbus, during the pandemic, COTA has not been charging a fee. Some feel the system should always be free, as those who are most dependent on the bus system can least afford to pay for it. Can you provide us with examples or alternative options for affordable transportation?

We have heard that “what is good for an older adult is likely good for a younger one”. For example: if a bus trip is easy, affordable, safe, and convenient for an older adult, then a young mother with a stroller or a college student with a full backpack of books, will also utilize the service. Educating citizens in “Transportation Demand Management, or TDM” is a needed step to change the culture. Thea talks about TDM and discusses the barriers we face for an easy, convenient, affordable and safe transportation system.

Let’s talk about SPEED! Thea leads some very important and critical programs for MORPC. It’s always great fun to think of our future as an outer space adventure. We find out more about the Hyperloop and High Speed Passenger Rail!

And finally, there are major corridors in our area that can be re-configured for higher transportation capacity (LinkUS Mobility Corridors Initiative).

We would love to hear from you.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.