Problem

The City of New Plymouth needed a comprehensive transportation plan to address its aging infrastructure and prepare for future population growth. The existing roadways required a detailed assessment to determine current conditions, prioritize improvements, and provide a clear strategy for future investment. Without a structured plan, the city would face challenges in managing road maintenance, mitigating traffic congestion, and securing funding for necessary upgrades.

Solution

HECO Engineers conducted an in-depth evaluation of the city’s transportation infrastructure by developing an inventory of existing facilities and creating a GIS-based street surface rating map. This map, along with a Global Positioning System (GPS) road inventory survey, provided the city with a comprehensive assessment of road conditions and a condition rating for each street.

The GIS database developed by HECO enables the city’s Public Works department to track road improvements and associated costs effectively. It also allows for easy annual updates to the roadwork plan, matching potential funding sources with needed improvements. In addition, HECO studied historical population census data, forecasted future traffic volumes on major streets, and evaluated the existing transportation system. Based on these findings, recommendations were made for mitigating traffic congestion, improving connectivity, and planning for future bicycle, pedestrian, and public transportation developments.

This master plan identified key investment projects to be included in the city’s 5-year and 20-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), ensuring that the city’s transportation system will meet future demands.

Results

The Transportation Master Plan provided New Plymouth with a comprehensive, data-driven approach to managing and improving its transportation infrastructure. The city now has a clear plan for prioritizing projects over the next 5 and 20 years, supported by GIS data that allows for efficient tracking and updates. With this plan, the city is better positioned to secure funding and justify the necessary improvements to the community. The plan also addresses future traffic growth, ensuring that New Plymouth can accommodate its population and infrastructure needs for decades to come.

Strategic Transportation Planning for Long-Term Success

HECO Engineers’ Transportation Master Plan equips the City of New Plymouth with a strategic framework for managing its transportation infrastructure, from immediate road improvements to long-term traffic forecasting and congestion mitigation. With HECO’s guidance, the city is prepared for future growth, ensuring a safer and more efficient transportation system.

 If your community needs a customized transportation master plan, contact HECO Engineers for a free 30-minute consultation.