NCHRP Research Report 1178: Improving Virtual Public Involvement in Transportation Agencies
Summary
Virtual public involvement (VPI), defined by the Federal Highway Administration as “the use of digital technology to engage individuals or to visualize projects or plans,” is now an essential part of public participation in transportation planning and project development. VPI has reduced participation barriers for many people while creating challenges for others. Although VPI was growing before the COVID-19 pandemic brought it into the mainstream, its rapid adoption has left agencies with limited guidance on selecting, customizing, and effectively using VPI tools.
NCHRP Research Report 1178: Improving Virtual Public Involvement in Transportation Agencies, produced by TRB’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program, presents key principles and practical tips for VPI use by both beginning and experienced public involvement practitioners, project managers, and other professionals. The report is designed to help practitioners select, create, use, and evaluate VPI tools and techniques for transportation plans and projects. It covers federal policy, guidance on planning for VPI, effective information for use in VPI, user experience design, addressing the digital divide, and preparing for and conducting effective VPI meetings. The report also includes a virtual toolbox with examples, best-practice recommendations, and practical tips for maximizing the benefits of each tool.
Citation
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2026. Improving Virtual Public Involvement in Transportation Agencies. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.