In the past, transportation projects were typically developed by technical experts and presented to the public once many decisions had already been made. Over time, the public has become increasingly interested in influencing the details of transportation projects. People who are affected wish to be more closely involved in project development—from early planning through detailed design and construction. Transportation officials seek innovative ways to solve transportation problems and, at the same time, respond to social, economic and environmental goals. Achieving this balance has required a shift toward greater collaboration with the public. Transportation professionals must be prepared to respond to this shift as they develop and deliver projects or maintain facilities.
The CSS approach to project development is to simultaneously engage stakeholders and interdisciplinary teams to resolve transportation problems together. It is not only a better way to solve the problem, it often produces a better solution.
The CSS approach assumes that all projects have a context that should inform the development of solutions. An understanding of the landscape and the community is essential. The context sensitive way plans for and responds to the unique needs and qualities of individual communities. At each step, inclusiveness, flexibility, and creativity fuel development of fresh solutions and increase the prospects for success. In the end, stakeholders are generally more satisfied with both the process and the outcome.
CSS processes build consensus among all stakeholders. Consensus is commonly defined as the point at which all stakeholders recognize that an outcome is best for the community as a whole-–even if it does not completely serve individual interests.