The public involvement process is not unlike a circular path which participants follow around and around in an ever smaller circle until they reach the center of the spiral – a defined alternative for a specific corridor need. To facilitate a smooth and flowing spiral, project information will be developed which clearly outlines the process and clarifies the project participants’ role within that process.

Stakeholders are those individuals, organizations, governments, etc. that will or will not benefit from implementing the preferred alternative resulting from the Alternatives Analysis process. Public involvement activities will target affected audiences, including property owners and residents, business owners, local government offices, elected officials, and the general public. The stakeholders and issues of consequence (already known) and others identified throughout project development, will be integrated into the study process. Stakeholders will be informed on an on-going basis and invited to participate in the process.

Given the public environment in which the Future Connections Study will be developed, public involvement strategies were developed to address three major objectives. These objectives are:

1. Increase public awareness and understanding about the Future Connections Study process and opportunities for public input.
2. Adequately address the issues raised by the public.
3. Provide multiple opportunities for different types of input.