36A South

The public is an important partner in the development of any proposed transportation improvement. You, as a resident, commuter or frequent traveler in the project study can assist TxDOT in the decision-making process for the project. The Public Involvement process recognizes the need for public input in the identification of the need and purpose for a project; the various constraints to be considered; and the analysis of alternatives. TxDOT is committed to providing meaningful opportunities for public participation. Public participation and public meetings serve multiple purposes in the NEPA process.

The benefits of meaningful public participation:

• Transparency – public involvement allows the public to better understand and participate in TxDOT's decision-making process.
• Improved NEPA process – the public brings a diverse perspective to the NEPA process and can often identify additional issues and alternatives for TxDOT to consider.
• Trust and mutual understanding- the public may trust TxDOT’s decision-making process more if they understand it, feel that they had an opportunity to be heard and believe that TxDOT took their concerns seriously.
• Improved decisions – TxDOT makes better informed decisions if we consider information that the public presents to us in our decision-making process.
• Fewer surprises – early and effect public involvement identifies issues early, rather than discovering them late in the project development process.

TxDOT is committed to going beyond what is required and intends to involve the public by providing for early, continuous, transparent, and effective access to information and decision-making. Public involvement is an integral part of project development. The type and extent of public involvement varies according to the type, complexity and level of public concern of the proposed project. TxDOT uses the terms public involvement and public participation interchangeably.

Public involvement opportunities

Public involvement activities are generally dependent upon the type or complexity of an individual project, as well as the level of public interest a project may generate. The level of public involvement will reflect TxDOT policy. Public involvement efforts include, but are not limited to, notices and opportunities to comment, public meetings and public hearings. Required public involvement must be completed prior to the final environmental decision.

A vital part of public involvement is the Project Coordination Plan (PCP) with the Public Involvement Plan (PIP). The PCP provides a comprehensive outline for all of the public involvement activities.

TxDOT is developing a draft PCP/PIP for 36A North, which will be made available for public review.