Improving Virtual Public Involvement in Transportation Agencies 2026

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April 29th, 2026

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.

Improving Virtual Public Involvement in Transportation Agencies 2026