Public projects, including ones undertaken by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (“NJDOT”), can have significant public impacts. Construction of even a simple NJDOT project can involve areas of public concern such as temporary disruptions of existing travel patterns and environmental impacts.Because of the varied interests that can be impacted by NJDOT projects, it is necessary to solicit public comment and to keep the public informed as the design and construction of the project progresses. To ensure adequate dissemination of information and to encourage public input, it is frequently necessary for the sponsor of a project to engage a project facilitator. The role of a public facilitator is multifaceted and includes disseminating critical project information by publishing public notices, devising a public information center and organizing public meetings. At various steps in the project schedule a project facilitator arranges various opportunities for the project sponsor and NJDOT to solicit public comments on the benefits associated with the project, the design of the project, alternative analysis and societal impacts. Utilizing various modes of communication the public facilitator is able to generate the depth of public involvement that is necessary to cause transportation projects to reflect societal needs and perspectives.William J. Wolf, of Bathgate Wegener & Wolf, P.C. has many years of experience guiding project sponsors through NJDOT project development that included public dissemination of project information associated with the role of project facilitator. Mr. Wolf’s many years of experience with NJDOT projects has given him broad insights into the dissemination of information associated with the role of a project facilitator for NJDOT projects. If a project is being undertaken that can benefit from the broad dissemination of information to facilitate public education and comment Mr. Wolf can be contacted at 732-363-0666 or wwolf@bathweg.com.
Mr. Wolf is a Senior Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, he has been designated as a Super Lawyer and AV Preeminent® for many years and he was selected to be listed in the Best Attorneys of America. Mr. Wolf has been certified, by the American Institute of Appellate Practice, as an appellate specialist.
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