In the Possibilities Are the Solutions: Assessment and Implications of the Public-Involvement Process During the Environmental Impact Study of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge

Abstract

The Woodrow Wilson Bridge is an essential part of the Washington, D.C., and Interstate transportation systems. The bridge provides the only Potomac River crossing for the southern half of the greater Washington region. Because of substantial local and regional growth, travel demand across the drawbridge has grown to more than twice the design capacity of the structure. To address these mobility challenges, FHWA initiated the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Improvement Study in 1988 as a cooperative effort among affected jurisdictions, agencies, and the public. Given the complexities of the project and time-critical nature to reach a decision on a preferred alternative, public involvement was a key feature of the environmental study process. The essential elements of the publicparticipation and outreach process are highlighted. An assessment of the outreach process was conducted once the environmental study was completed. A randomized, statistically based telephone survey was conducted to measure the effectiveness of the public-involvement program, to guide public-involvement programs for the next phase of this project and for future projects, and to help gauge attitudes toward public involvement of those with a vested interest in the project. Results of the survey and implications for the design of public-participation programs are presented.