The George Washington region is growing rapidly and faces significant transportation challenges. The population has grown 400% since 1960 and is projected to reach 600,000 by 2035. Transportation needs through 2035 have been identified as over $10 billion, but only $2.5 billion in revenues have been identified, leaving a $7.5 billion shortfall. The region must choose between staying on its current course and facing increased congestion, or pursuing additional funding and adapting growth policies to improve transportation and sustainability. Regional cooperation on projects and scenario planning will be important to address the region's critical missing transportation links and complex issues over the coming decades.

1. THE GEORGE WASHINGTON REGION

2. Rapid Growth: Current population of more than 320,000 people

3. Fastest-growing Region in Virginia

4. 400% increase in region’s population since 1960 Region is forecasted to grow to about 600,000 persons by 2035 Region will remain the fastest growing in Virginia

5. Future growth is likely to be low density and largely suburbanTransportation Issues: Region faces significant increases in travel demand over the next 28 yearsWithout improvements to the transportation system…

6. Congestion will increase on the region’s most important transportation corridors

7. People’s mobility will be reduced

8. Region’s competitiveness may decrease

9. Current revenues are not forecasted to be sufficient to cover all future transportation needs2035 Unimproved Highway Network

10. Transportation Funding Through 2035: Over $10 Billion in Transportation Needs Identified through 2035

11. Only $2.5 Billion in Revenues Identified through 2035

12. $7.5 Billion Revenue Shortfall =

13. Many of the Region’s Highways Remain Congested

14. Fewer Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities

15. Less Transit Service and fewer TDM ProgramsFuture Policy Choices for Development and Investment: Region is at a crossroads

16. Insufficient funds to meet future transportation system needsCurrent development policies – creating sprawl – will exacerbate issuesThree distinct policy directions are available as the region moves forward… Option 1: Stay the Course

17. Option 2: Identify and Secure Additional Transportation Funding