Washington is exploring options for user fees or tolls to finance new road improvements and to help manage demand for congested corridors in our region. EnviroIssues helps involve the public in learning more about congestion pricing and tolling options. A pilot variable tolling project using High Occupancy Toll or HOT lanes on SR 167 is the first of its kind in Washington. The success of the pilot project – and the state’s ability to expand the use of HOT lanes – is largely dependent upon public acceptance, making public outreach an essential component of the pilot project.

The City of Sammamish is initiating an ambitious effort to create a new town center that will act as the heart of the city, providing opportunities for civic engagement and meeting the commercial and recreational needs of its rapidly growing population. EnviroIssues is developing relationships with the City of Sammamish, project advisory committee, stakeholders, and interest groups to capture their vision for the town center during the planning phase. We help Sammamish consult with its citizens, and the results are showing in creative downtown plans.

Construction during the Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall Replacement project along Seattle’s waterfront will impact virtually everyone in the region. Strategic community outreach to businesses before construction begins is important in order to help manage construction impacts. Also important is conducting outreach to low-income and minority populations who are often underrepresented. EnviroIssues has engaged businesses through a stakeholder focus
group, a detailed business survey, and distribution of timely project material. We interview neighborhood leaders to gather community concerns, attend fairs and festivals in the community, and provide translated project information.