The Future Is Rural: A Bold Transportation Vision for the Apalachee Region

The Apalachee Regional Rural Transportation Plan (RRTP) is a long-range, strategic roadmap designed to improve transportation infrastructure and mobility across five rural counties in the Apalachee Region: Calhoun, Franklin, Gulf, Jackson, and Liberty. Developed in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT District 3) and the Apalachee Regional Planning Council (ARPC), this 20-year plan aims to address the distinct challenges facing rural communities—including aging infrastructure, limited transportation options, and increasing demands tied to economic and population growth.

The RRTP focuses on enhancing safety, system connectivity, and resilience, while also preparing the Region for future advancements in mobility through ACES technologies (automated, connected, electric, and shared vehicles). A key feature of the planning process has been its collaborative nature. Each participating county contributed input to shape the plan’s vision and priorities. A Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)—comprised of local leaders, transportation experts, and FDOT representatives—has played a guiding role and meets quarterly to refine and evaluate the evolving plan. Public engagement has also been central. A survey was launched throughout the Region to gather residents’ feedback on commuting habits, public transit needs, and non-motorized travel options. This input is being used to guide project selection and funding priorities.

The plan outlines both short- and long-term infrastructure projects, including roadway upgrades, improved intersections, expanded bicycle and pedestrian paths, and future transit services.

Examples of the numerous projects within the Apalachee Regional Rural Transportation Plan include:

Pave County Road 1 (Calhoun County) Pave County Road 1 (currently a dirt road) which serves as a critical evacuation route for residents evacuating Gulf County via Highway 20.

“Green” Infrastructure Improvements / Stormwater Improvements (Franklin County) Integrate green infrastructure on St. George Island, including swales and pervious pavement, to improve rainwater absorption and reduce rapid flooding during storm events.

SR 20 Complete Streets (Liberty County) Implement a Complete Streets project in Bristol on SR 20 to enhance safety, accessibility, and mobility for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

Install Flashing Caution Light on Highway 71 North of Wewahitchka (Gulf County) Install a flashing caution light at the intersection of Highway 71 North and Stone Mill Creek Road to improve safety. This intersection becomes congested as area employees finish their shifts.

Hwy 162 – Replace (Jackson County) Replace and widen the bridge on Highway 162 over the Chipola River. Bridge #530022.  The current narrow bridge has been the site of multiple incidents, with vehicles frequently hitting the guardrail or running off the bridge.

Freight corridors and non-motorized networks have been mapped to support economic activity and recreation, while emergency preparedness remains a key pillar, ensuring transportation routes remain functional during natural disasters or crises. A forward-looking component of the RRTP explores the potential for emerging technologies like electric vehicle infrastructure, autonomous shuttles, and connected traffic systems—even in rural environments.

Ultimately, the Apalachee RRTP is more than just a transportation document—it’s a foundation for safer travel, greater regional connectivity, stronger economic development, and resilient infrastructure for years to come. By planning smart today, the Apalachee Region is paving the way for a more connected, accessible, and innovative tomorrow.

Click here to view the Apalachee RRTP and the interactive map!