Chapter 4: Public Involvement

Anchor: #i1004525

Section 1: Overview

Definition

Public involvement is an ongoing aspect of the project planning process that encourages and solicits public input and provides the opportunity for the public to become fully informed about project development.

Anchor: #i1004543

Governing Authority

TxDOT policy regarding public involvement procedures is based on:

For detailed information on these regulations, see Chapter 1.

Anchor: #i1004578

Public Involvement is Necessary

Public involvement is an integral part of project development. Every project programmed by TxDOT has been afforded some level of public involvement. The level of public involvement is dependent upon a number of social, economic, and environmental factors, along with the type and complexity of the project. Early in the planning process projects are programmed and included in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) and Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). In many instances, needed improvements are identified by local elected officials and communicated to representative districts. Local elected officials are an extension of the public and their actions are considered to be in the interest of public needs. Additionally, meetings to discuss the recommended projects included in the STIP/TIP are advertised allowing any interested citizen to provide input in the project planning and programming process. In some instances these meetings can be considered adequate public involvement for minor projects constructed in existing right of way and/or general maintenance projects.

Depending on the type and complexity of the project, public concerns, associated social, economic, and environmental factors, additional public involvement may be required. Public involvement efforts may include meetings with affected property owners (MAPOs), public meetings, opportunities for a public hearing, or public hearings. To determine exactly what type of public involvement to initiate based on your project characteristics, see Types of Public Involvement Procedures, Section 2.

NOTE: Funding sources have no bearing on public involvement choices.

Anchor: #i1004603

Responsibility for Public Involvement

The district is responsible for initiating and conducting the applicable/appropriate public involvement procedures for a project. While consultants may assist, a TxDOT employee should always host and direct the meeting or hearing. The type and extent of public involvement varies according to the type and complexity of the proposed project. Public involvement practices should be in compliance with Executive Order 13166: Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency.

The district maintains a list of interested individuals and groups to be notified of public involvement activities related to a proposed project.

Anchor: #i1004618

Public Involvement Considerations

Public involvement considerations are:

types of public involvement procedures
public involvement following project approvals
notices and media releases
example forms.