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TRENDS AFFECTING CALTRANS

This report identifies major trends affecting California and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The major trends, which override all others and influence the central themes amplified throughout this report, are as follows: Demographics - California's population will continue to grow. Non-anglos will constitute a majority. People will live longer. There will be more vehicles per household. Sociopolitical Attitudes - Aging, more conservative, ecology-conscious "baby boomers," born between 1946 and 1965, will dominate political attitudes. Frustrated by government inaction, they will use the initiative process more. Land Use and Development - Businesses and residents now concentrated in coastal and city areas will continue to migrate to suburbs and inland valleys and hills. Financial resources - Although more resources will be available to improve transportation facilities and services in the future, Caltrans will be required both to coordinate more activities with local government agencies and to plan activities more carefully while maintaining stringent cost controls and accountability. Technology - There will be no major breakthroughs, but homes will evolve into workplaces through electronics, and "Smart Cars" will get safer and more efficient. Natural Resources and the Environment - The greenhouse effect will be a major public issue. Energy costs will continue to rise in spurts. There will be greater competition for scarce water resources. Air quality will continue to worsen. The Economy - California will continue its rate of economic growth and maintain its position as a key player on the Pacific Rim. The economy will continue its shift from manufacturing to services and information-based businesses. Air transport's importance will increase. Stakeholders - Individuals and groups having an interest in the outcome of transportation decisions will continue to provide input in an attempt to sway policy. Caltrans - The importance of maintenance and rehabilitation will grow. Many engineers will retire over the next decade. Authority will be decentralized and delegated. Project delays will be reversed. Computers will redefine work tasks.

Media Info

  • Features: Figures;
  • Pagination: 30 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00602540
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS, STATEDOT
  • Created Date: Dec 31 1990 12:00AM