New Public Participation Plan Adopted by MORPC - MORPC

News | Mar 9, 2021

MORPC Matters: Inclusive engagement leads to better community planning

Transportation

September 13, 2021

The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission has adopted a new version of its Public Participation Plan, which lays out how MORPC – as the federally designated metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for the Columbus urbanized area – reaches out to members of the public for their input throughout the transportation planning process.

Following a 45-day public comment period, the plan was recommended for approval by the Community Advisory Committee and Transportation Advisory Committee. It was adopted by the Transportation Policy Committee through Resolution T-10-21 on September 9, 2021.

“The Public Participation Plan is designed to provide the public opportunity to participate in, review, and comment on the formulation of transportation policies and plans, such as the Metropolitan Transportation Plan, Transportation Improvement Program and other transportation programs.”

Thea Ewing, MORPC Director of Transportation & Infrastructure Development

As an MPO, MORPC conducts a continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive transportation planning process. The transportation planning area for the MORPC MPO includes: Delaware and Franklin counties; Bloom and Violet townships in Fairfield County; New Albany, Pataskala and Etna Township in Licking County; and Jerome Township in Union County.

MORPC’s plan includes a structured committee process, a project-specific process, and a public outreach and information dissemination effort tailored to meet specific needs.

“The updated Public Participation Plan includes changes to ensure that we are taking advantage of new technology options and reaching many segments of the population for their feedback."

Níel Jurist, MORPC Director of Communications & Engagement

This process provides a set of procedures to be consistently and comprehensively applied to incorporate the public’s involvement, including the planning and development of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) and Delaware County Transit programs and projects. The public participation process satisfies Section 5307 public involvement requirements for the Program of Projects.

The 2021 Public Participation Plan can be viewed here.