South Central Regional Transportation Planning Commission | South Central Council of Governments

Funded by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), the South Central Regional Transportation Planning Commission (SCRTPC) plays a vital role in shaping and improving transportation infrastructure across Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. The SCRTPC serves as the governing body for transportation planning efforts within the region, ensuring that local needs are met, and strategic, long-term mobility solutions are developed.

Purpose & Responsibilities:

The SCRTPC exists to coordinate, evaluate, and guide transportation planning within Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. Its primary responsibilities include:

Developing Regional Transportation Plans (RTPs) – Identifying transportation priorities and creating strategic plans to enhance connectivity, efficiency, and safety within the region.
Assessing Local Transportation Needs – Engaging with community members, government officials, and stakeholders to determine key transportation challenges and opportunities.
Allocating Transportation Funding – Working alongside CDOT to recommend funding strategies and advocate for projects that improve roadways, transit services, and infrastructure.
Supporting Public Transit & Mobility Programs – Ensuring access to reliable, affordable transportation options, including services that support seniors, individuals with disabilities, and rural communities.
Collaboration with Local Governments & CDOT – Facilitating cooperation between municipal, county, and state agencies to align transportation initiatives with broader economic and community development goals.

The 10-Year Plan: A Vision for the Future

The SCRTPC leads the development and implementation of the CDOT 10-Year Plan, a forward-thinking strategy designed to address evolving transportation needs and strengthen infrastructure for the future. This plan:

Prioritizes key transportation projects based on safety, accessibility, economic development, and community input.
Outlines long-term funding and investment strategies to ensure the sustainability of the region’s transportation systems.
Engages local stakeholders in an inclusive planning process to align transportation improvements with community growth and environmental considerations.
Guides decision-making for future infrastructure projects to enhance regional connectivity and support economic vitality.

Through careful planning, strong partnerships, and a commitment to serving the public, the SCRTPC work together to build a safe, sustainable, and well-connected transportation network for residents and businesses throughout Huerfano and Las Animas Counties.

SCRTPC meets quarterly, alternating meeting locations between Trinidad and Walsenburg a virtual option is also available. The next meeting is July 24, 2025, starting at 9:30am, in Trinidad.

South Central Regional Transportation Planning Commission Members:

Mitchell Wardell (Chairman) - Huerfano County

Felix Lopez - Las Animas County

Ken Torres - Town of Aguilar

Kathy Kumm - Town of Cokedale

Christine Louden - Town of Branson

Howard "Bud" Broce - Town of Kim

Heather Hillis - Town of LaVeta

Aaron Williamson - City of Trinidad

Steve Ruscetti - Town of Starkville

Gary Vezzani - City of Walsenburg

Brian Blasi - South Central Council of Governments

Eric Dominguez (Transit Representative) - South Central Council of Governments

South Central Council of Governments (SCCOG) provides professional and administrative support to the South Central RPC in the execution of its responsibilities as the transportation planning organization of the South Central TPR. The SCCOG Executive Director serves as the STAC representative from the South Central TPR.