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Hear Every Voice: A Guide to Public Involvement at Mn/DOT

Minnesota Department of Transportation

In August 1997, Mn/DOT formed a Public Involvement Task Force for the purpose of developing a guide to public involvement, a comprehensive report that provides guidance to planners and program managers in order to achieve our vision of making the best possible transportation decisions promoting safety and enhancing the quality of life of Minnesota’s citizens. In order to involve the public in the work of the task force, market research was conducted in selected areas around the state. Citizen focus groups were conducted in the cities of Mankato, Grand Rapids, Minneapolis, and Marshall, during late January and early February, 1998. Two focus groups were held in each city. Persons identified to serve on these focus groups were selected at random and were asked to provide input on how Mn/DOT could improve the effectiveness of its current public participation techniques and strategies.

The 25-member task force met over a period of 10 months to review federal and state requirements for public involvement and best practices nationwide. Membership primarily consisted of Mn/DOT staff. Persons serving on the task force represented both the transportation planning and project development disciplines.

Public Involvement Guidelines

The following public involvement guidelines were developed to assist Mn/DOT personnel in implementing public involvement plans and activities. They reflect the mandates of ISTEA, reinforced by TEA-21, as well as public agency best practices.

1. For all Mn/DOT plans and projects, public involvement plans should be developed and tailored to the complexities of the project.
2. Solicit public involvement as early as possible.
3. When possible and appropriate, Mn/DOT employees will plan for smaller, more informal group meetings and discussion.
4. Mailing lists, including known neighborhood associations, civic and cultural groups, environmental organizations, citizen’s advisory committees, and organizations and associations with low income, minority, elderly, and disabled constituents will be kept up-to-date as appropriate.
5. Mn/DOT employees will make an effort to go where the people are.
6. Communication must be two-way, continuing, and consistent.
7. Mn/DOT is committed to being clear about the process of public involvement and how it ties into decision-making.
8. Innovative tools and media will be used to communicate to the public.
9. Varying types of incentives may be necessary given the type of project, or plan, and the people who are invited to the meeting.