SCJ worked with OCOG, the Regional Transportation Planning Organization for Okanogan County, to update its Coordinated Public Transit and Human Services Transportation Plan. This plan aims to improve transportation access for those with special transportation needs, including senior citizens, youth, those with disabilities, and low-income individuals. SCJ organized inclusive public outreach to inform the plan’s priorities to understand where there are current gaps in the public transit system and proposed recommendations to address those gaps.
The plan calls for increasing service opportunities throughout the County, especially for rural residents. It recommends adding more long-distance trips to larger nearby communities such as Wenatchee and Spokane to assist people with accessing medical appointments, shopping, airports, and connections to other transit systems. It also recommends improvements to infrastructure to ensure those walking and biking can access transit systems safely and confidently. By outlining these goals, OCOG is eligible for increased funding opportunities to help ensure Okanogan County residents’ long-term mobility.