From November 2003 to January 2004, the Department of Transportation, Department of Commerce and Department of Environment and Natural Resources co-sponsored a series of public meetings (regional forums) throughout North Carolina to share the Strategic Highway Corridors initiative with stakeholders and gather their reactions in order to share input with management and the Board of Transportation. The major objectives for the public forums were as follows:

• Educate stakeholders about the overall Strategic Highway Corridors initiative
• Gather stakeholders' reactions, input, ideas, and critical issues about Strategic Highway Corridors initiative
• Educate stakeholders about next steps and timeframes in the planning process

Nine public forums were held throughout North Carolina in both urban and rural areas and in the three geographic areas in the State (West, Central, East): Bryson City, Wilkesboro, Asheville, Huntersville, Southern Pines, Greensboro, Jacksonville, Wilson, and Williamston. This outreach approach was structured to ensure that both broad statewide and unique regional perspectives would be heard. Each forum lasted approximately two and a half hours and a variety of techniques were used to publicize these forums, including email, brochures, and announcements via newsletters and listserves.

Since the Strategic Highway Corridors initiative represents a new planning direction, NCDOT initially chose to engage those stakeholders who have a vested interest in the initiativeual planning aspects (versus those with an interest in project specific details). Targeted stakeholders included local, regional, state, and federal agencies; economic development and environmental organizations; freight industry representatives; political leadership organizations; and other advocacy groups. Approximately 250 people attended the forums, with an average of 25-28 attending each session.

Comments received at the forums covered a broad perspective. Most everyone agreed that the initiative was a more organized, efficient, and effective way to plan for the major corridors in the state. Participants felt that the approach promotes a greater sense of connectivity within regions and across the state, while improving safety along these roads and aiding in economic development. They also felt coordination and communication with local jurisdictions was essential to see success of the effort, specifically in regards to land use planning. Local officials wanted to make sure that the character of their communities and local access are maintained, while having the services of a nearby high-speed facility.

The Strategic Highway Corridors concept was initially developed using a statewide and regional tier structure. The size of activity center that connected the corridors, and whether a corridor was more statewide (e.g., US 74) or regional in nature (e.g., NC 73) determined the tier of the facility. Participants at the forums suggested that the Department re-examine the structure and expand the definition of an activity center, to include such areas that are home to major hospitals, major tourist destinations, and UNC System Universities. The Department responded to these suggestions by designating all the selected corridors as "strategic" and enhancing the activity center definition.

Download the SHC Regional Forums Report (1.1 MB).

Download the SHC Regional Forums Comments (601 KB).