Issue resolution is an important part of the process for virtually any transportation project. To avoid having an issue or challenge derail or inordinately delay project progress, many planners hold a charette—a meeting focused soley on resolving a specific problem and open to members of the public and other stakeholders. Attendees are encouraged to engage in productive discussion aimed at resolving the issue being examined. Charrettes have other purposes as well. Held early in the planning process, they can provide agencies with valuable insights into stakeholders’ perceptions of the proposed action. For more on charrettes and other kinds of meetings used in public outreach, click here for an InGroup Whitepaper on Public Involvement in Transportation.
