1. Innovative Strategies for Public Involvement for TDOT
Region 2, Sweet Sixteen Winner
Anne Freeman, Planning Manager, Long Range Planning Division

2. Map of Tennessee’s Four Regions

3. TDOT Long Range Planning Organization

4. Description of Problem & Need
Historically low public participation in TDOT planning efforts
Only participation came from opponents of proposed transportation projects
Needed a wider cross-section of public involvement engaged
TDOT Office of Community Transportation Planner discussing a transportation project with a citizen at a public meeting.

5. Research Goals Design and plan community workshops
Identify innovative participation techniques
Effectively communicate transportation planning
Engage all citizens
TDOT Office of Community Transportation Planner presenting to a wide group of stakeholders.

6. Implementation Benefits
Improved relationships between communities and TDOT
Improved customer satisfaction surveys
Passage of IMPROVE Act, increasing gas tax for road improvements
Increased involvement from industry and businesses through freight advisory committees
IMPROVE Act:
Delivers 962 transportation projects across all 95 counties
Gradually increasing the gas tax over a three year period while reducing sales tax on groceries giving all Tennesseans a net tax cut, a fact confirmed by Americans for Tax Reform
Maintains Tennessee’s ranking as having the lowest taxes in the nation as a percentage of personal income
TDOT Office of Community Transportation Planner presenting at the I-65 Corridor Study Public Workshop.

7. Additional Photos – Public Involvement
TDOT Office of Community Transportation staff interacting with students attending a transportation-related workshop to encourage involvement in the transportation process.
Presenting to the Dale Hollow Rural Planning Organization and community leaders on Rural Regional Transportation Plans.

8. Thank You! Anne Freeman Anne.Freeman@tn.gov 615-253-2430