ODOT recognizes first regional transportation planning entity

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation has designated the South Western Oklahoma Development Authority Board of Trustees as the first regional transportation planning organization in Oklahoma.

Officials said the designation is a significant milestone in regional transportation planning and recognizes the Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s (SORTPO) long-standing dedication to enhancing mobility and infrastructure across 16 counties in Southwest Oklahoma. The designation also highlights the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) commitment to facilitating regional transportation planning and public engagement in non-metropolitan areas.

Under the designation, SORTPO will oversee regional transportation planning for Beckham, Caddo, Comanche, Cotton, Custer, Grady, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Jefferson, Kiowa, McClain, Roger Mills, Stephens, Tillman and Washita counties.

The designation also allows SORTPO to identify and prioritize critical transportation improvements; develop and maintain a long-range regional transportation plan and a short-term regional transportation improvement plan; and increase public engagement and input on transportation projects

The Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Organization Policy Board, consisting of local elected officials, public agency officials, tribal government leaders, railroad sector representatives, and economic development stakeholders, will serve as the forum for regional transportation decision-making. The policy board will continue to guide regional transportation planning efforts by working closely with cities, counties, tribal governments, transit agencies, economic development organizations and other stakeholders to ensure that Southwest Oklahoma’s transportation system is safe, efficient and responsive to community needs, officials said.

Information about SORTPO and its activities is available at its website: www.sortpo.org.