The Cape Cod Regional Transportation Plan Virtual Public Meeting held on July 11, 2023, focused on addressing key transportation issues affecting the region, particularly concerning traffic management and multimodal infrastructure improvements.

One of the primary concerns raised was the potential increase in traffic due to larger bridges facilitating faster transit onto Cape Cod. Participants expressed worries that this could lead to more development off-Cape, resulting in higher commuter traffic, especially in the Bourne and Sandwich areas. The discussion highlighted the need for careful planning to manage this anticipated growth effectively.

Another significant topic was the evaluation of existing bike routes, specifically referencing Figure 23 of the Regional Transportation Plan. Concerns were voiced about the safety and comfort of cyclists on designated bike routes, such as Route 151, which is characterized by high-speed traffic and heavy vehicle volume. Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring that improvements to these routes include adequate infrastructure for cyclists, such as separated bike lanes or shared-use paths, to enhance safety and accessibility.

The meeting also touched on the Massachusetts Department of Transportation's (MassDOT) approach to balancing pavement preservation with modernization efforts. Attendees were encouraged to advocate for multimodal accessibility in future road improvements, particularly in light of recent projects that did not incorporate necessary bike infrastructure.

Additionally, questions were raised about specific projects, including the Mashpee Rotary and its inclusion in the Route 28 multimodal accommodation improvements. While it was confirmed that the project would be part of the Route 28 improvements, the exact timeline for its implementation remains uncertain.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further comments and suggestions from attendees, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping the region's transportation future. Overall, the discussions underscored the need for strategic planning to address the challenges posed by increased traffic and to promote safer, more accessible transportation options for all residents and visitors to Cape Cod.