Board hires consultant to start Transportation System Plan 2050; public raises concerns about consultant approach

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to begin work on the Transportation System Plan (TSP 2050), the statutory transportation element of the county comprehensive plan. The board authorized staff to hire a consultant and begin outreach, data collection and a five‑year rolling evaluation to identify roadway needs and funding gaps.

Jesse Gutierrez, director of Transportation and County Engineer, briefed the board on the plan’s scope: a data‑driven analysis of current roadway status, population and growth projections, traffic generators, funding analysis and a phased implementation plan. Gutierrez said the process will include open houses in each supervisor district, quarterly meetings with the Transportation Advisory Board and extensive outreach to cities, HOAs, developers and other stakeholders. Staff expect to bring a recommendation to the county Transportation Advisory Board about a year from now.

A public commenter, Marissa Hamilton, opposed the consultant team cited in the agenda packet. She alleged the consultants used in Phoenix had supported “road diets,” changes to parking and policies she associated with Transportation Demand Management (TDM). Hamilton urged supervisors to closely oversee the consultant work and to prioritize traditional road widening where needed.

Supervisor Stewart noted interest from Queen Creek residents and asked about the timeline; Gutierrez said outreach and data collection would begin immediately and a recommendation to the Transportation Advisory Board is expected in about a year.

Vice Chair Brophy McGee moved approval of item 94 to start the plan; Supervisor Lesko seconded. The board approved the motion unanimously.