Senator Markey faces criticism over exclusive meeting with Cape Cod officials

In a recent meeting of the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), concerns were raised about the inclusivity of public participation in local transportation discussions. The meeting, held on April 25, 2022, highlighted a recent gathering led by Senator Ed Markey, which some members felt excluded certain communities from critical conversations about regional infrastructure.

During the meeting, a member expressed concern that the senator's meeting, which included state and local officials as well as the Chamber of Commerce, did not adhere to the MPO's public participation plan. This plan is designed to ensure equitable representation and engagement from all communities in the region. The member pointed out that the absence of certain demographics from the senator's meeting could foster feelings of inequity and unfairness, suggesting that it might not align with the goals of inclusive public engagement.

In response, MPO staff clarified that the senator's meeting was not an official MPO event and thus did not fall under their public participation protocols. They emphasized that the MPO regularly holds meetings open to all members of the public, including updates on significant projects like the Cape Cod Canal Bridges Transportation Improvement Program.

The discussion underscored the importance of communication and transparency as the region moves forward with transportation projects that will impact all towns in Cape Cod. Select board member Peter Meyer noted that as projects advance, it is crucial to ensure that all affected communities are kept informed and involved in the decision-making process.

Looking ahead, the MPO plans to enhance public outreach efforts, including a virtual public meeting on May 9 and an in-person meeting at the Hyannis Transportation Center. These initiatives aim to gather community feedback on the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), ensuring that residents have ample opportunity to voice their opinions.

The next MPO meeting is scheduled for May 23, 2022, where members will continue to address public engagement strategies and discuss upcoming projects. As the Cape Cod community navigates these important transportation issues, the emphasis on inclusivity and communication remains a top priority for local officials.