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WHAT IS THE TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT?

The transportation element describes the way we build the facilities where we walk, bike, ride the bus, drive, and fly. It encourages a safe and convenient transportation system to connect people to their destinations. Transportation decisions consider livability, community character and sustainability in addition to traffic management.

WHY SHOULD YOU CARE?

We meet our daily needs using some form of transportation. Many people in Lee County depend on traveling by car. Lee County forecasts that there is a $2 billion shortfall if we continue to use highway projects as an attempt to build our way out of congestion. A balanced transportation system can happen only when walking, riding a bicycle, or riding a bus is just as safe and convenient as driving a car to meet daily needs. The transportation system affects the economy, the environment, housing, health, well-being, livability, walkability, and design of the community. Transportation facilities are also Lee County’s biggest source of air pollution. Limited resources present us with choices and a challenge to make the best use of what we have.

WHAT ARE THE CHANGES?

The transportation element identifies changes in policies that define how we prioritize and spend taxpayer money to shift from depending only on cars to a more balanced transportation system with more choices. It proposes changes in how we permit and regulate development, parking, and street design, all based on the surrounding area. The element includes motor vehicles, transit, walking, and bicycling with an emphasis on safety for all users. The element supports reducing pollution and energy use by changes in the way we travel and by use of new technologies.

More Info:

Read the Livable Lee Vision Statement

Position Paper

Read the complete draft element

Evaluation & Appraisal Report (EAR)