CASE STUDY
North Carolina: Approach to Rural Transportation Investments The state of North Carolina has recently focused on adjusting scoring and prioritization methods to better address rural needs in transportation project funding and planning. Despite the prevalence of urban growth, the state has made efforts to incorporate rural county priorities into the decision-making process, ensuring a more equitable
The updated scoring methods reflect a commitment to rural transportation needs alongside urban development. The involvement of rural planning organizations enhances inclusivity in the project prioritization process. The revised funding model emphasizes a balanced approach, considering statewide, regional, and local needs. Efforts to measure rural benefits underscore the importance of accessibility and connectivity. North Carolina's focus on collaboration and adaptability highlights the significance of sustained stakeholder engagement and ongoing training efforts. Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2023. Access to Jobs, Economic Opportunities, and Education in Rural Areas. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. | doi.org/10.17226/27229
distribution of funds. South Dakota could similarly adapt this framework by establishing a more inclusive prioritization process that integrates the voices of rural planning organizations (RPOs) and local officials. By revising funding distribution and leveraging human resources, South Dakota can improve its transportation project prioritization approach and ensure better access to rural areas. Efforts to capture rural benefits through data‑driven metrics and involving RPOs could enhance the effectiveness of South Dakota's transportation planning and funding allocation. South Dakota could also learn from North Carolina's approach to addressing staffing turnover and continually seek ways to improve the process, ensuring sustained support and commitment at all levels of the transportation planning process.
Visit the link below to learn more: doi.org/10.17226/27229
Key Takeaways » Updated scoring system » Committed to rural urban transportation needs » Inclusivity in the project prioritization process
» Emphasized a balanced approach, considering statewide, regional, and local needs » Underscored the importance of accessibility and connectivity
74 | Roads
South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development
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