The LinkUS Framework Strategy was created to ensure a consistent and replicable approach for each corridor. This includes a guiding mission statement and organizational framework that ties all corridor plans together, along with a recommended project development process and steps for implementation. It establishes a set of goals to guide the identification of mobility investments and development opportunities.
Goals
Improving mobility in Central Ohio is critical to achieving regional goals for smart and efficient future growth. The Framework Strategy is based on the following goals:
Equity
The introduction of mobility options allows for increased and equal access and opportunity for all members of the community. Mobility is critical to improving equity in the region.
Economic Development
Enhanced mobility encourages public and private investment in transportation and development. This promotes local and regional economic vibrancy.
Workforce Advancement
Increased travel choice and connectivity better links jobs with workforce, promoting economic vibrancy and equity.
Affordability
More transportation choices improves the affordability of our community by reducing transportation costs. This reduction of combined housing and transportation costs also creates a more equitable region.
Innovation
Mobility fosters innovation between our people and places, creating shared prosperity. Technological innovations in transportation make a more efficient system, promoting the region's economy and sustainability.
Sustainability
Increased mobility options lower automobile dependence to reduce carbon emissions. Coupled with compact, walkable development patters, growth can occur in the region while also preserving farmland and the natural environment.
Ingredients for Success
Unify the effort
The initiative will link mobility planning efforts throughout the region under an umbrella program that includes shared branding, robust and equitable engagement, a consistent message and alignment of priorities.
Build a system
LinkUS seeks to marry transit-oriented land use changes with mobility enhancements that will improve mobility across the region. Improvements will be made for all modes of travel: transit, bicycles, pedestrians, automobiles and freight.
Identify dedicated funding
Significant capital investments will require new ways of thinking about how to fund them. Link US partners must work together to identify feasible funding sources for construction, operations and maintenance.
Develop effective partnerships
Sustained success requires clearly identified roles and responsibilities, as well as a shared agreement on priorities, timelines, and goals. Partnerships must be formed at multiple levels, including those needed for funding, coalition building and technical implementation.
Build regional support
A broad coalition of support will be crucial to ensure future plans are adopted, funded, and successfully implemented. LinkUS will engage a wide variety of partners early, often, and in substantive ways that add to the effort’s strength and regional appeal.
Engage the community
Public engagement will be an essential part of corridor implementation. It will include a range of tools and techniques—including in-person, virtual and other alternative formats. This will be especially important in light of the COVID-19 crisis.