The document outlines 15 tips for using emerging technologies like the internet and websites to engage the public in transportation and development planning processes. It recommends developing an integrated public involvement plan that uses both traditional and online methods. Key tips include thinking of the web as a system rather than just a site, tailoring content for different communities, and ensuring transparency, record keeping, and accountability of online public comments. The goals are to create a more informed and involved public that can help decision makers through new 24/7 engagement opportunities.

1. 15 Tips for Using Emerging Technologies in Public Involvement AMPO Annual Conference San Antonio, TX – October 14, 2004 Dan Bevarly, Director of Business Development [email_address]

7. 15 Tips for Using the Web to Engage Citizens in the Public Planning Process Many Needs, One System AMPO 2004 Annual Conference

13. 11. Allow for creation of an electronic trail and record of who touches data and when. The Web can create accountability and tracking. 12. Create “Institutional Memory,” or an electronic record, for future decision makers. A “Best Practice” library that can be easily accessed enables education and training of new staff, consultants, and constituencies. Electronic Security and Public Involvement AMPO 2004 Annual Conference

14. 13. When decision is made to engage, commit all the way. Understand that the expectation of citizens that they have easy access, and a right, to electronic means for public involvement leads to a trend that leads to a preference in most cases. 14. Growing broadband availability provides opportunity to incorporate visuals as a part of the public involvement process. 55% of adult Internet users have high speed access (39% at home – a 60% increase since 03/03). More than half (52%) of college educated people age 35 and younger have broadband connections at home. 15. Finally, involve the media. Not only is access to public information more readily and easily available, the Internet enables better communication and information with media. Future Benefits of Technologies Supporting Public Involvement Processes – Planners with Vision AMPO 2004 Annual Conference

16. Thank You 2004 Dan Bevarly Sr. Director of Business Development [email_address] www.publiccomment.com 2009 Dan Bevarly Bevarly Communications [email_address] www.aheadofideas.com