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Regional benchmarks

Measuring our progress

Between 2000 and 2030, the seven-county metropolitan area is projected to grow by nearly 1 million people. The purpose of the 2030 Regional Development Framework, adopted in 2004, is to provide a plan for how the Metropolitan Council—in partnership with local communities and others—can guide our region’s growth and shape our future.

The Council’s strategies are organized around four policies:

• Accommodating growth in a flexible, connected and efficient manner.
• Slowing the growth in traffic congestion and improving mobility.
• Encouraging expanded choices in housing locations and types.
• Working to conserve, protect and enhance the region’s vital natural resources.

 

Many of the goals and objectives established in the Regional Development Framework are ambitious. Our success will hinge on the efforts not only of the Metropolitan Council, but also those of local communities and our other regional partners.  They will also require the commitment of additional resources – particularly in the areas of highways and transit – in the coming years.

To measure the progress of our region toward achieving the Framework goals, the Council established a series of benchmarks and directed staff to provide annual updates.  This report is the fourth such update. 

See the benchmarks

1. Accommodating growth
2. Improving transportation
3. Encouraging expanded choices in housing locations and types.
4. Working to conserve, protect and enhance the region’s vital natural resources.