Transportation planning

Administering Coordinated, Long-Term Planning for the Region

Through a contract with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, West Central Initiative administers a transportation planning program for west central Minnesota. This partnership allows for coordinated, long-range, regional transportation planning.

As part of the regional transportation planning process, we oversee studies related to transportation, provide technical assistance to communities on transportation and active transportation issues, and work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation District 4 and the West Central Minnesota Area Transportation Partnership.

View the Regional Transportation Plan

Connect with Us

Wayne T. Hurley, AICP, LCI

Director of Transportation Planning

Contact Wayne

Bianca Newell

Transportation and Sustainability Planner

Contact Bianca

Safe Routes to School

Safe Routes to School is a national program to create safe, accessible, and fun opportunities for children to walk or bike to school. With the assistance of school officials, parents, community leaders and local, state, and federal governments, the program aims to improve health, safety, and transportation.

Safe Routes to Schools includes the observation and documentation of existing conditions around the school that help to create an action plan detailing short- and long-term projects. These projects aim to empower children to walk and bike to school in a safe environment. Benefits of Safe Routes to School plans include reduced traffic congestion around schools and opportunities to teach children both pedestrian and bicyclist skills.

West Central Initiative assists communities in the planning and also provides technical assistance for the programs in the region. Community and school leaders are welcome to inquire about the program at any time.

View Safe Routes to School Plans