Recap of the State of Mobility 22nd Annual Meeting

The echoes of progress reverberated through the halls of “The State of Mobility 2024” conference held by RTA, the dynamic private-public partnership driving consensus and action in North Carolina’s Research Triangle region. We left the conference not only informed but inspired by the five key focus areas outlined for the upcoming year.

It’s more than just an update; it’s a call to action for our community to move forward together.

We are not claiming to have come up with these numbers or facts or are leading these initiatives – we are simply reporting on what we heard at the conference.

Sustainable Funding for RDU Airport

Celebrating the success of last year’s letter-writing campaign, the RDU Airport reached new heights with a record-breaking 14.5 million passengers, 4 new airlines, 49 added routes, and 25 new destinations. Construction on runway 5L/23R is underway, promising enhanced connectivity and economic growth.

For years, the Raleigh-Durham Airport has been a focal point of discussion. Beyond being a substantial investment and a long-term undertaking, it serves as a catalyst for substantial regional benefits. This strategic project significantly enhances the efficiency and competitiveness of economic activities in the area, thereby amplifying the allure of Raleigh for businesses and the workforce alike. Coupled with the remaining initiatives, Raleigh is poised to emerge as a vibrant hub of seamless connectivity.

Advanced Enhanced Regional Transit System

Investing $100k from reserves to identify Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes for the airport is part of the ongoing regional Freeway, Arterial, Street, and Tactical (FAST) transit study—a follow-up to the 2020-21 initiative.

Launched in the summer of 2023 and led by NCDOT’s Integrated Mobility Division with RTA and local partners, the study aims to make freeways and boulevards “transit-ready.”

Objectives include accelerating regional BRT and FAST transit corridors linking RDU Airport and Research Triangle Park with Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill. The initiative also focuses on advancing SMART (Systematic Management of Adaptable Roadways through Technology) freeway corridors, ensuring technological readiness.

This strategic collaboration demonstrates a commitment to a comprehensive and forward-thinking regional mobility approach.

Promoted Rapid Releift Freeway Improvements

With a focus on transforming Capital Boulevard into a freeway, the intention is to improve traffic patterns and accommodate the predicted 40% increase in traffic on I-40 by 2024. Partnering with Chris Lukasino of CAMPO highlights the need for public input, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in infrastructure development.

Modernize Revenues for Highways and Streets

The roadmap includes a $1 billion investment in the S-line rail from Raleigh to Richmond, creating an RTP station and increasing the frequency of inter-city rail trips. The commitment to modernizing revenues reflects a forward-thinking approach to mobility, ensuring that our highways and streets align with the evolving needs of our growing community.

Support Mobility Innovations and Pilots:

The integration of dynamic transit priority shoulders, SMART freeways, and bike lanes on I-40 demonstrates a commitment to multimodal transportation. Our agency recognizes the importance of embracing innovation to create efficient and sustainable transit options for our community.

As a marketing agency, we understand the significance of these initiatives. The improvements in regional mobility not only enhance the daily lives of our community members but also contribute to the economic growth of the Research Triangle. The commitment to sustainability, connectivity, and innovation aligns with our agency’s vision for a vibrant and thriving community.

We take time to understand perspectives.

To stay informed and contribute to the conversation on regional mobility, visit LetsGetMoving.org. Together, let’s get moving!

If Brasco /// can support you in any efforts, please let us know: info@brasco.marketing