WMPO adopts a five-year strategic plan to guide transportation future in lower Cape Fear region
WIMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO) has adopted a new five-year strategic plan designed to guide transportation planning and investment across the lower Cape Fear region through 2031.
The WMPO Board approved the Strategic Plan 2026-2031 during its June 24 meeting, establishing a framework for addressing the region’s rapid growth, evolving transportation needs, technological changes, and emerging infrastructure challenges.
The plan outlines the organization’s mission to foster collaboration and strategic action while advancing a vision of safe, reliable, and seamless multimodal transportation options for residents, businesses, and visitors.
“As our region continues to grow, we have to be intentional about how we plan for the future,” WMPO Executive Director Mike Kozlosky said in a statement. “This strategic plan gives us a clear framework to work with our partners, focus on the priorities that matter most, and advance transportation solutions that improve safety, connectivity, and quality of life across the region.”
The strategic plan identifies eight key priorities that will shape WMPO’s work over the next five years: engagement and education; planning for growth and development; organizational excellence; funding; regional collaboration and partnerships; promotion of alternative transportation and connectivity; infrastructure and safety; and adaptive resiliency.
Officials said the plan balances immediate transportation needs with long-term regional goals. Priority projects include roadway and interchange improvements, traffic signal upgrades, major bridge replacements, and the development of future regional transportation connections.
Implementation of the plan will occur through WMPO’s annual work program, budgeting process, committee initiatives, and staff responsibilities. The organization will monitor progress through performance measures and regular reporting to board members and stakeholders.
WMPO leaders said the approach will help ensure the organization remains responsive as transportation demands, funding opportunities, and regional conditions continue to evolve.
The full WMPO Strategic Plan 2026-2031 is available for public review on the organization’s website.
