In 2023, the Thurston Regional Planning Council (TRPC) and Transportation Policy Board (TBP) laid groundwork for projects they hope to implement in the future.
TRPC updated the region's long-range transportation plan to cover the next 20-25 years. Key focus areas of the update included incorporating considerations around diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and environmental justice. The update also aimed to address changes in travel behaviors and patterns influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
TRPC adopted an updated plan to expand the county’s trail network over the next 20 years. The updated plan outlined the development of about 110 miles of new trails across 16 corridors, totaling around 170 miles. The plan aims to improve access to trails for Thurston County's growing population; projections estimate that 160,000 residents will live within half a mile of a trail by 2045.
The second phase of a TRPC transportation study recommended focusing on high-capacity options between Thurston and Pierce counties. The study also recommended enhancing existing vanpools and express bus services rather than pursuing light rail projects at this time, citing insufficient population and employment density to support rail infrastructure.
The TPB unanimously approved keeping the Log Cabin Road connectivity project in the 2045 Regional Transportation Plan. The TPB opted to sustain plans for the project until completion of the Southeast Olympia Street Connectivity Study or a future study that demonstrates the project is no longer warranted due to viable alternative transportation solutions.
The TRPC approved awarding $1,066,615 in Carbon Reduction Program funding to five projects for obligation by June 20, 2024. The CRP aims to reduce transportation emissions from on-road highway sources. Its funding may be used on various projects that reduce emissions, including transportation alternatives such as congestion mitigation and air quality.
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