The Northern Arizona Council of Governments is updating the Verde Valley Master Transportation Plan. Last updated in 2016, strong community engagement was essential to inform and educate the public and stakeholders, gather valuable input, and build consensus on the plan’s recommendations.
Public Involvement Plan - TBCo created a strategic plan for public involvement including a community assessment to understand the different cultures and backgrounds of the area’s stakeholders. Using the U.S. Census Bureau’s “American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate, and based on the data, the PIP included recommendations to provide outreach materials in both English and Spanish.
Website Development - TBCo developed a customized project website to introduce the VVMTP goals, vision and objectives to stakeholders. The site was available in multiple languages and also included interactive tools for public engagement and information about meetings and opportunities to gather input on transportation challenges, opportunities, values and priorities.
Survey Development and Collection - In coordination with NACOG, TBCo developed a survey to provide opportunities for participants to develop a community-supported plan that addressed the most important needs across the region.
Community Outreach - The master plan coverage area was geographically large, making community outreach essential to gathering input for a strong representation of stakeholders. TBCo organized and staffed one virtual public meeting, three open houses, and attended four community events. TBCo used multiple communication outlets to inform the public on these opportunities to engage with project leaders, including:
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