News

Here is a brief weekly update from the RTA business coalition — the voice of the regional business community on transportation.

RSVP for FAST study briefing this Thursday
I hope you are able to attend our online briefing on Thursday, July 16, to hear preliminary findings from the regional FAST study being coordinated by RTA in partnership with GoTriangle and NCDOT. Lead consultant VHB and study team members Stantec and Catalyst Design are doing outstanding work, and will provide a first look at how we could connect the Triangle with a high-quality Freeway And Street-based Transit network that would complement and leverage other upcoming investments. RSVP here for the webinar briefing; there is no cost to attend.

540 keeps moving forward
We know that a number of projects have been delayed this year, due to a host of funding and situational challenges facing NCDOT. Fortunately, construction for the newest section of 540 – our highest organizational priority for several years until it went under construction around January 1st – is doing quite well. This week’s blog provides some data points that highlight the fantastic work on this project by NC Turnpike and their various consultant partners, including RTA members Summit Design and Engineering Services, WSP, HDR, and Gannett Fleming.

NCDOT reform package becomes law
In a prior weekly briefing, we highlighted the reform package passed by strong bipartisan majorities in the legislature. On July 6, the package became official when the Governor allowed the bill to become law without his signature. Maintenance is clearly in a better spot, and the governance improvements also look promising from both a financial, funding, and project development standpoint. As noted previously, this legislation lays the groundwork for additional investments in our statewide transportation system, including a potential bond referendum this fall.

Your membership in the RTA provides sustained regional business leadership that gets our region moving faster. Thank you for your support!

Let’s get moving,

Joe

Joe Milazzo II, PE
RTA Executive Director