b'MVRPC Meeting with the Darke County CommunityInvestment CorporationExecutive Director Brian O. Martin attended a meeting on August 16, 2023 of the Darke County Community Investment Corporation (CIC) hosted by Director Mike Bowers, Darke County Commissioners, and board members. The meeting was an opportunity for MVRPC staff to witness Darke County elected officials and business leaders collaborating to plan for Darke Countys future growth. Mr. Martin presented about MVRPC, who we are, our roles and responsibilities, the Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO), and the importance of working with MVRPC and ODOT to plan and advance projects in Darke County and the RTPO counties of Preble and Shelby. Darke County is seeking funding from the State for the Versailles Bypass project. The agency is supporting this project. MVRPC will also support Darke County with Regional Environment and Economic Development projects, Community and Regional Planning, commute resources, and trail development. Director Bowers emphasized the significance of long-term planning and expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations with MVRPC, RTPO counties, Darke County and local jurisdictions.RTPO Steering Committee Continued Work Toward theDevelopment of 2050 Regional Transportation PlanThroughout 2023, the Regional Transportation Planning Organization (RTPO) Steering Committee met to develop the 2050 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). A key milestone in this endeavor is the development of a transportation plan, a vital step towards achieving official RTPO designation by the Governor. This plan outlines an integrated vision for the regions transportation infrastructure, incorporating roadway, transit, bikeway/pedestrian, and transportation alternative projects. Reflecting the shared values of diverse regional stakeholders - including local elected officials, planners, engineers, business leaders, special interest groups, and the general public - the 2050 RTP Plan will address current and projected land use patterns, regional demographics, and economic, environmental, and traffic trends. The adoption of this plan is anticipated in 2024. The RTPO Steering Committee has been engaged in the following key activitiesand discussions that shaped the 2050 RTP Plan: Project Review and Future Planning: This included a comprehensive recap of progress, discussions on draft goalsand objectives, and the identification of future projects. Special attention was given to unique rural challenges, such as buggy traffic and supporting RTPO area projects such as the I-70 widening. Public and Environmental Engagement: Efforts focused on public participation, which included expanding contact lists and conducting outreach to vulnerable populations and those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). An environmental resources overview ensured that sustainability and environmental justice were integral to the planning process. Safety and Infrastructure Analysis: Safety analyses identified priority locations for solutions, while workshops andreviews of bikeway infrastructure summarized current conditions and future needs. The fiscal constraint analysis ensured the financial feasibility and sustainability of proposed projects. Online Resources and Communication: The launch and updates of the RTPOs dedicated website, rtpo.mvrpc.org,enhanced public access to information and resources, fostering greater community engagement and transparency. MVRPC remains committed to cultivating partnerships that drive sustainable and equitable solutions across the entire Miami Valley Region. Learn more at rtpo.mvrpc.org11'