Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

B2−3: Media Outreach Program for Construction and Maintenance Work Zones

DESCRIPTION:

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has implemented a practice of using the media (faxes, radio, TV, newspapers) to notify the public of upcoming and ongoing construction and maintenance projects. This media campaign informs the public of road closures and other ongoing construction or research activities that are expected to cause traffic delays.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

This practice was the result of a comprehensive traffic management effort on a major Interstate project in the State. Keeping the public informed of construction activities resulted in less complaints and inquiries by the media and public. It also helped to build good will for the Department. It is believed that the information provided also increased safety for the travelers as well as workers.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

By adopting this practice, MDOT has realized a decrease in negative comments from the media and complaints from the traveling public. The traveling public did not mind waiting in a traffic delay as much if the specific activity causing the delay was known. This information was verified through public surveys on active construction projects.

MOST APPLICABLE LOCATION(S)/PROJECT(S):

The practice is used for all projects. For more complex projects, and for projects located in high population areas or heavily traveled areas, the media campaign effort is increased.

STATE(S) WHERE UTILIZED:

Mississippi

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Donna Lum, Public Affairs Director, Mississippi DOT
Telephone: (601) 359−7017