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POLK COUNTY–In October 1923, the road between Columbus and Tryon, which is now called Lynn Road or Highway 108, was completed after 19 months of paving and grading.

This example of improving infrastructure within Polk County shows that it takes time to undergo big changes that help citizens.

To that end, work has been ongoing for several years on the Foothills Regional Comprehensive Transportation Plan, which is a long-range (25-30 years) multi-modal plan. This plan will serve present and anticipated travel demands for Polk County and provide the safe and effective use of the transportation system.

At 5 p.m. on Monday, March 20, the Polk County Board of Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing in the R. Jay Foster Hall of Justice in the Womack Building, located at 40 Courthouse St. in Columbus, to consider the proposed Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

During this meeting, there will be a public hearing and presentation from the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the Foothills Regional Commission regarding future plans. There will also be an opportunity for public input.

Work began on the CTP in the summer of 2019 with a steering committee of local staff and stakeholders. The committee held meetings, gathered data, performed analysis, and developed a plan.

The presentation will include major county highway recommendations, modernization and intersection improvements, and recommendations for multi-use, bike and pedestrian paths.

To learn more about the Comprehensive Transportation Plan and the meeting, click here and following the links on the main page.