Final Scope
Since the 1990s, the passage of successive legislation has placed an increasing emphasis on effectively engaging the public in all phases of transportation decision-making in order to integrate their issues, values, and preferences. Small and medium-sized communities are especially challenged with accomplishing this task as they have limited--and often declining—staffs and revenues, yet face growing transportation needs.
This study will document the experiences of state, regional, and local transportation agencies as well as other relevant entities in the application of cost-effective strategies and implementation techniques, used to involve the public in the development of transportation plans and projects. The study would also document the working definitions of both “successful” and “cost-effective,” as applied by the agencies.
Of particular interest are effective and inclusive processes, strategies, and tools (such as the use of Web sites, advertising, citizen advisory committees, and visualization techniques) that utilize affordable techniques and limited staff time. In addition, those techniques which proved to be less effective should be documented. The study would address not only traditional approaches, but also newer strategies and techniques.
Information will be gathered by means of a literature review; surveys of state, regional, and local transportation agencies, as well as other relevant entities; and selected interviews. Several case studies/profiles will be developed to highlight successful practice; to describe innovations in the field; and where information exists, to identify lessons learned and relevant gaps in information.
Consultant:
Anne C. Morris, PBS&J, Columbia, SC
TRB Staff
Donna Vlasak
phone 202/334-2974
fax 202/334-2081
email dvlasak@nas.edu
