Public comment open on Cape Cod MPO freight corridor updates

The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to several roadways’ classifications and freight corridor designations.

The proposed updates affect roads in Barnstable, Bourne, Chatham, Dennis, Falmouth, Harwich, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro and Wellfleet, according to a community announcement.

The changes aim to ensure federal funds are effectively allocated to support safe and efficient travel, according to the announcement.

The proposed updates include adding Scenic Highway and Sandwich Road in Bourne to the list of critical urban and rural freight corridors. Additionally, the freight corridor designation on Route 6 in Truro would be modified to match updates to the urban area boundaries.

These designations would be incorporated into the statewide Freight Plan, which is currently under development, and would allow these corridors to be eligible for National Highway Freight Program funds. The designations would not impact regulations related to truck traffic on these or any other roadways in the region.

Public comments will be accepted through Feb. 16. A virtual public meeting of the Cape Cod MPO is scheduled for 1 p.m. Feb. 23, to hear additional public comments and vote on potential endorsement of these designations.