The objective of this handbook is to assist planners and engineers in developing a public involvement strategy for controversial access management issues. The strategies are designed to facilitate open communication with affected parties and to assure adequate public involvement at key steps in the decision process. The emphasis is on median projects and state practices, but much of the information is equally applicable to permitting decisions and regional or local practices. People will get involved in decisions that affect them, whether or not they are offered a formal opportunity. The challenge, therefore, is to involve them in a way that is productive and meaningful for them and for your agency. This is achieved through techniques that help minimize conflict, foster public trust, and safeguard projects against arbitrary or undesirable changes.
