Use of Expert Panels in Developing Land Use Forecasts

Recommendations

The final objective of the peer exchange was to develop recommendations for action that could be taken by the USDOT to promote and support the use of expert panels to analyze transportation and land use alternatives. Participants identified 10 recommendations:

1. Develop training in the design and management of expert panels.
2. Make special effort to educate new MPOs on the benefits of expert panels.
3. Deliver TMIP seminars on use of expert panels.
4. Integrate the expert panel process into existing training, especially as it relates to NEPA.
5. Educate implementing and planning agencies regarding use of expert panels for environmental impact analyses.
6. Document and disseminate case studies and best practices for use of expert panels.
7. Provide example statements of work and/or requests for proposals (RFPs) for hiring consultant support on expert panels.
8. Work with AASHTO's Center for Environmental Excellence to encourage the use of expert panels.
9. Host and facilitate expert panel sessions at TRB annual meeting.
10. Support sessions at stakeholder meetings and conferences (e.g. AASHTO, AMPO).

At the conclusion of the peer exchange, the participants suggested developing a statement and recommendation in the form of a letter, encouraging the U.S. DOT to support the use of expert panels as a best practice to meet the terms of Executive Order 13274. Signed by President Bush on September 18, 2002, one objective of EO 13274 is to "identify and promote policies that can effectively streamline the process required to provide approvals for transportation infrastructure projects."