Research Project
Recommendations to the Illinois Department of Transportation to Enhance Quality Public Engagement
The objective behind the research was to provide IDOT with clear recommendations on how best to improve its public engagement practices
- Principal Investigator
- Ginsburg, Robert
- Research Area(s)
- Data Development
- Policy Analysis
- Funding Source
- Illinois Department of Transportation
Abstract
As part of its on-going research program with the Urban Transportation Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) commissioned a report to study and recommend ways to improve and enhance IDOT’s public engagement practices, especially those involving underserved or disadvantaged populations. This initiative was undertaken in advance of an update to IDOT’s future Long Range Transportation Plan. The agency wished to increase the quality and quantity of public feedback received and extend its reach into disadvantaged communities. Researchers reviewed previous studies on public engagement—especially those in a transportation context—to develop a theoretical foundation and knowledge of specific instances of successful or unsuccessful public engagement. In addition, they conducted interviews with IDOT employees who had experience in carrying out public engagement and with several consultants and engagement experts. Download the "Recommendations to the Illinois Department of Transportation to Enhance Quality Public Engagement" report.