Best Practice

BEST PRACTICE:

H1−1: Public Information/Public Relations Program (Newsletters)

DESCRIPTION:

This program is directed at the project level. The program involves making the status of local construction projects known to the community and local businesses through the issuance of weekly newsletters or construction alerts, as they are frequently called. In addition, pre construction public information meetings and monthly traffic management meetings may be held. The newsletters are sent to the media, business, local residents, and others who request to be included. The newsletters normally give the project status, lane restrictions, ramp closures, recommended detour routes, access to area businesses, and any other work zone traffic restrictions in effect.

REASON(S) FOR ADOPTING:

A need exists to provide current information to a wide range of people. In addition to providing roadway closure information, the newsletters include a list of several places people can call for additional information. The names and phone numbers are listed of the resident engineer, community relations firm, and Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) district office.

PRIMARY BENEFIT(S):

Local citizens are kept informed and made aware of where they can call for additional information. This promotes direct communication between the contractor and residents. Motorists can plan trips to avoid the work areas affected and reduce congestion. The high quality of the newsletters gives them "reach" when copies are shared among friends.

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

Generally freeways or very large projects in urban areas, although some rural uses have been tried.

STATE(S) WHERE UTILIZED:

Arizona

SOURCE/CONTACT(S):

Dennis Alvarez, Asst. District Engineer, Arizona DOT
Telephone: (520) 620−5412

Mark Bonan, Public Relations, District Construction, Valley Project Information
Telephone: (602) 712−8965

Karen King, Transportation Safety Engineer, FHWA Arizona Division Office
Telephone: (602) 379−3645 ext. 125
E−mail: Karen.King@fhwa.dot.gov