Both trends mean higher levels of congestion and more wear on the existing road system. The region's roads and bridges are deteriorating at an increasing rate, while basic maintenance and preservation is being deferred because of inadequate funding. Changing demographics mean that a larger percentage of the population is elderly and in need of transportation assistance, including transit services. The changing commercial structure, in particular the advent of e-commerce, affects road usage. The regional planning process needs to recognize these changes to our infrastructure use.
Increased support is needed for an adequate and well-maintained transportation infrastructure.