Background:

Greater Morgantown is a unique and thriving community that boasts a major university, world-renowned research and development facilities, two major health care facilities, companies listed in the Fortune 500, major government offices, excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, convenience to major urban areas, and cultural resources all in the perspective of a small town.

A major transportation study was completed in 1998, the results of which detailed a systems plan for transportation that depended on the construction of a major outer loop to serve expected growth in the north side of the study area, which consists of all jurisdictions within the confines of Monongalia County.

After the 2000 Census, Morgantown was designated as an MSA and a Metropolitan Planning Organization was formed. The primary goal of this young organization is to update the LRTP cooperatively with the community and to communicate through one voice to the State that transportation is a priority.

GUIDING PHILOSOPHY:

The residents of Greater Morgantown are committed to improving traffic conditions for local residents and commuters. In this vein, the MPO hopes to provide a variety of tools through this planning process that will allow for more travel options and choices. The terrain of the region, especially in downtown Morgantown, does not allow many opportunities for the traditional grid development patterns enjoyed by many communities. This plan update should strive for creativity and innovation in its recommendations.

The MPO is placing emphasis on the relationship between transportation options and land use patterns. A priority of the MPO is to limit the amount of urban sprawl that is generated as a result of this plan, as well as negative impacts that would affect not only the environment but the unique quality of life that local residents enjoy. The recommendations developed through this plan update should incorporate Smart Growth Principles, and submissions should incorporate narrative on the firm's credentials for not only traditional MPO transportation planning but also land use and transit experience.

For more information please visit the Morgantown MPO web site.

Related Link: Go to the Morgantown MPO web site

For more information contact:

Chester Parsons
Morgantown - Monongalia County MPO
180 Hart Field Road
Morgantown
WV 26505
USA

Phone: 3042919571
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://www.plantogether.org