WSDOT's Community Design Assistance Branch - We are planners, architects and urban designers who provide technical assistance to improve roadway design and promote partnerships between WSDOT, local agencies, school districts, tribal nations and other groups.
Contact: Community Design Assistance for no cost mediation and faciliation support.
Plan and Policy Development Assistance
We draw from research and experience to assist communtities in development of plans, policies, zoning codes, and ordinances that support efficient transportation and livable communities. We offer assistance with development of transportation elements of comprehensive plans in the areas of street design and standards, non-motorized transportation policies, and transportation supportive land use policies.
Mediation Services
WSDOT Community Design Assistance staff offer free mediation services to local agencies. Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that aims to assist disputants in reaching an agreement. In mediation, settlement negotiation is facilitated by an independent third party, or mediator, in a voluntary, non-binding and confidential process. We assist with construction, real estate, property, and other issues.
Transportation Design Charrettes
Transportation design charrettes or workshops create a forum for the public together with a professional team of transportation designers, planners, traffic engineers to develop a common vision for a corridor or other transportation project. Typically, charettes last two days, and include focus groups, walkability audits and community design sessions. Emphasis is on community participation, interactive design, and informative presentations.
Additional Resources