The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is gearing up for the release of a new long-range transportation plan for the state, and a major milestone toward achieving that was launched this week through an opening of public commentary.
Specifically, that commentary will focus on the Public and Stakeholder Participation plan (PSPP) portion of their overarching long-range transportation plan (SLRTP). This plan outlines how MDOT will inform the public during the SLRTP’s development and identifies the opportunities for public engagement during the process.
Given that MDOT wants this new plan to cover Michigan’s efforts in transportation for the next 25 years, it’s an important way for residents to get involved in the state’s future direction. Currently, the plan calls for the use of innovative technology to help MDOT reach more Michigan residents. An attitudes and perceptions survey will eventually be released to sample Michigan residents’ desires, while scenario planning is undertaken to give the public realistic contexts for present transportation situations and their future evolution. Mostly, MDOT seeks targeted public engagement and specifically wants to involve tribal governments, traditionally marginalized communities and vulnerable environmental justice populations.
Diversity, the state’s plan insists, will be key going forward. Comments on such will be taken through Nov. 30.