“DOTs across the country are looking for innovative and flexible ways to meet users’ needs in ways that cost less to build and maintain,” writes Smart Growth America. “We help DOTs put these ideas into action with our Practical Design technical assistance. Now, a version of this assistance is available for free through a new competitive opportunity.”

“Accelerating Practical Solutions is an opportunity for six state DOTs to win a one-day workshop with our expert transportation staff. The workshops will bring together DOT staff, MPOs, consultants, local governments, advocacy groups, transit agencies, and other partners working to meet and balance the changing needs of motorists, freight handlers, bicyclists, pedestrians, transit riders, and other travelers in a variety of contexts. Our staff will facilitate a discussion on best practices related to better project delivery to meet community goals and be cost-effective, and will help staff and stakeholders identify barriers and gaps in current practices.”

“Topics and issues that have come up in the past include:

• Identifying, meeting, and balancing the needs of all roadway users in a variety of contexts.
• Taking advantage of existing flexibility in design.
• Integrating transportation and land use decision-making.
• Clarification of policies, processes, programs, and methodologies related to design guidance.
• Project scoping procedures.
• Organizational culture to implement practical design.
• Examples of other transportation agencies successfully implementing practical design.”

“Applications are now open, and will be accepted until August 1, 2017.”

Learn more and apply here