2002 Knoxville Regional Bicycle Plan

Appendix E: Citizens Guide to Transportation Projects

Process

These are the typical steps taken in road projects:

• Needs Assessment and Definition—the initial idea by a government agency to upgrade an existing road or build a new one. Typical sources of information include traffic counts, crash statistics, or development plans which are likely to generate additional traffic.
• Phase I Engineering—the scope of the project is determined in sufficient detail to develop a cost estimate. This is the phase at which the project first appears in the TPO’s Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), usually labeled as Preliminary Engineering (PE). Public hearing usually takes place after this phase.
• Phase II Engineering—the project is designed sufficiently for bidding by contractors. Usually labeled PE—Phase II in the TIP.
• Bid Letting—project designs are sent to contractors for bids.
• Bid Award—a contractor is selected for construction.
• Construction

 

How You Can Influence Design

1. Get the Facts
   
   Call the project contact and ask if bicycle accommodations are being considered. The project contact should be listed in any meeting notices. If you do not know the project contact, call the agency who is responsible for the road—either the City, County, or State transportation agency.
   
   If bicycle accommodation is being considered for the road, ask what type—shoulders, bike lanes, etc. Find out when public hearings or other meetings are being held for this project.
   
   
2. Make the Point
   
   Write to the project contact. If bicycle accommodations are planned for the project, thank them. If not, ask for them. Support your request by listing important destinations linked with the project. Describe any existing facilities (trails, bike lanes) that link to the project. Send a copy of your letter to the head of the agency, and to your appropriate elected official.
   
   
3. Follow Up
   
   Attend public hearings about the project and encourage your cycling friends to attend. These events are typically informal “open houses” where you can see project layouts and ask questions one-on-one. Your objectives are to meet the project planners and leave a written record of your attendance and your comments.