Focus groups talk about mobility, livability and the economy in Vermont’s western corridor

They came from different communities and from different walks of life. Yet people who participated in four separate focus groups held in April and June voiced some common themes.

They said more effective communication, coordination, and leadership is needed at all levels of government to improve mobility for people and goods, promote economic vitality and provide mode choices in the western corridor.

Most groups agreed that maintenance and upgrade of the existing transportation infrastructure is crucial in terms of Vermont’s economic health and global competitiveness. More than one group was eager to see projects in the pipeline completed as quickly as possible. They said, “Let’s pull the trigger.”

Many participants agreed that Vermont needs to streamline approval processes for developments and projects. One group suggested establishing a review panel made up of all parties involved in the permitting process, state and local, creating a more proactive partnership, between government and the private sector.

Many thought the general public, business and community leaders and political leadership need a better understanding of transportation issues and the importance of transportation to the overall health and economy of Vermont. Truckers wondered if people in communities that placed restrictions on truck travel understood that these restrictions can lead to higher prices and less efficient delivery. Others expressed frustration that funding for transportation is inadequate and communities have few options for getting money other than the property tax.

Mobility and choice of transportation modes were considered important in groups organized around the topics of economic development and livable communities. Social service providers said mobility enables people to be integrated into community life; lack of mobility leads to isolation. Transit needs to be available and at frequent intervals. Sidewalks and bicycle facilities should be put in place for people to get around by means other than cars—especially in villages and downtown areas. A common theme among the groups was the corridor needs a balanced transportation system that supports all modes of travel.

Focus groups comprised of freight interests had specific improvements they’d like to see in the western corridor. They said transportation priorities should be to bring Vermont’s rail track and bridges up to the national weight standard; preservation of rail frontage should be a priority, just as water frontage is preserved for “best and highest use”; and highway improvements should be concentrated where trucks have problems in the Western Corridor – between Rutland and Burlington, especially in Middlebury.

For a more detailed report on the focus groups, see Documents.