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Best Practice

Main Guidebook > Find a Practice > Best Practice Categories > Project Development/Design

BEST PRACTICE:

E4−2: Involvement of Affected Communities and Businesses in the Project Development Process

DESCRIPTION:

This practice is used on an individual project basis and has been in effect for several years. Maricopa County Department of Transportation's (MCDOT) public involvement process is housed within the MCDOT RightRoads Program for public outreach and managed in−house by the MCDOT Community Relations team since the program's inception in 2000. Public input meetings are conducted at critical milestones during the project development process with all identified project stakeholders including the local neighborhood and business groups to obtain their input into the planning, design and construction of projects. In some of these meetings workgroups are organized to discuss specific issues and develop recommendations that are and evaluated by the project team. These meetings give local citizens a feeling of ownership in the project, help to establish the project nee, and aid in the development of a safe and efficient roadway for the long term.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

Consensus−building and early issue identification: the purpose of these meetings was to get the communities' feel for the project and better understand their needs. Information is obtained early and eliminates surprises that may otherwise not be brought out until the end of the design process or even during construction. Improved community relations are also one of the reasons for adopting the process. The participation of stakeholder public and multi−agency involvement aids in the development of a consistent roadway and the resolution of conflicting agency requirements; facilitates ultimate regional traffic flow; and preserves the interests and rights of area residents and adjacent development. Gaining consensus among the agencies and impacted public stakeholders is critical to the success of public works projects.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

A better overall public works project: Consensus –building: Some citizens find it easier to bring out and discuss their opposition and at the same time come to an understanding as to the desires of their neighbors within the open house public meeting format. In a sense, they are brought on board as decision makers. It makes the county's job easier and facilitates conflict resolution. Early issue identification and analysis of political sensitivities can prevent untimely design modifications, minimize future change orders and costly schedule delays.

The greater and longer lasting benefit is that of public trust−building. This includes the fostering of a real and earned public perception of government professionalism, stewardship, integrity and transparency; a confident foundation for good continued citizen relations; and the laying of firm groundwork for a positive public outlook on future MCDOT undertakings.

MOST APPLICABLE LOCATION(S)/PROJECT(S):

All major new and reconstruction roadway projects.

STATE(S) WHERE USED:

Arizona

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Roberta Crowe, Public Information Officer, Maricopa County
Phone: (602) 506−8003
E−mail: Robertacrowe@mail.maricopa.gov
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