The following outlines the basic elements of the public involvement process LFPR developed for the Idaho Transportation Department to create a public partnership and encourage public participation in a highway alignment study.

Situation

Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has long recognized the need to improve Idaho 55. In 1974, ITD produced a concept report that described the highway and set standards and design features for improvement. From the report, seven alternative routes were developed.

In 1976, these routes were introduced at a public meeting and identified in several local newspapers. In October of 1978, a location hearing was held. Based on public comments, combined with environmental and engineering considerations, ITD recommended a final alternative route. ITD officially approved the route in late February of 1979. However, the project was put on hold because of its low priority and the lack of funding.

In 1994, the project resurfaced again. ITD officials sent letters to homeowners along the highway and vicinity asking permission to do a road survey on their property. Along with a yes or no response, some property owners made comments on the highway construction. Again, after the road survey, the project was put on hold because of lack of funds. Realizing the importance of current public opinion, driven due to the TEA 21 legislation, ITD has made the project a top priority.

Objectives

• Keep the public informed about the project
• Create a public partnership
• Focus on meaningful input
• Encourage greater public participation
• Build public consensus

Target Audiences

• Citizens living along Idaho 55 from Smiths Ferry to Cascade
• Business and property owners within the project area
• Public agencies
• City and county officials
• Special interest groups