We have just recently introduced the concept of CSS into our department (in 2003). We do not yet have a "program", although we have approximately 11-12 projects that we are using CSS principles on currently. These projects are at different stages and only one project has incorporated CSS principles from the very beginning of the project. We are working to develop TDOT's training for CSS for the entire department and have sent several of our employees from many areas within the department to other CSS training programs.
CSS Contact:
Ed Cole Chief of Environment and Planning Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Suite 700 505 Deaderick Street Nashville, TN 37243-0349
TDOT has made a commitment to the public through announcements on projects from TDOT’s Commissioner to use the CSS process in approximately 8 projects - but has integrated CSS into many other projects, especially those with a commitment to a thorough public involvement.
Other Public Involvement Techniques:
Our CSS projects are utilizing Resource Teams of stakeholders for each project. These projects will be a source of information and feedback to the public for involvement in the projects. We are also using newsletters, web sites, questionnaires, and even workshops in our public involvement. We are using non-traditional methods such as traveling kiosks and going to elementary schools in order to get particular populations involved.
CSS Training:
Staff from our project management office, planning, design, community relations, and Environment and Planning offices have been trained through a one-time training opportunity from FHWA by the University of Kentucky (UK). On a specific project, training was provided by UK for the citizens on the project resource team as well as team-building training.
In the future, we hope to first train designers and planners, then to train a cross-section of everyone within the department that deal with projects in some form or another (maintenance to engineers to community relations). There have been fewer than 50 trained currently including staff from TDOT, FHWA, and consultants. We hope to train many more in the future. We also hope to train consultants through our program with the University of Kentucky.
