The Capital Strategic Solutions (CSS) team has extensive experience in performing community engagement services related to transportation improvement projects, ensuring that the voices of local residents and stakeholders are heard throughout the planning, design, and implementation phases. Our approach is rooted in building trust with the community, fostering transparent communication, and addressing the specific needs of each project by tailoring our outreach strategies to fit the local context.
We specialize in developing comprehensive community engagement plans that combine traditional outreach methods with innovative digital tools. From public meetings, workshops, and charrettes to virtual town halls and social media campaigns, we utilize a wide range of platforms to maximize participation. Our team is skilled at translating technical information into clear, accessible language, helping stakeholders understand the impacts and benefits of proposed transportation improvements.
We have successfully engaged with diverse communities on various transportation projects, from roadway expansions and safety enhancements to multi-modal transit initiatives. CSS’s ability to engage marginalized communities and ensure equitable input has been a cornerstone of our work, aligning with our commitment to inclusivity in all public projects. Our most recent transportation improvement projects include:
Main Street Improvements Project, Natick, MA
The Town of Natick is working with engineering firm McFarland Johnson and Capital Strategic Solutions to study possible improvements for pedestrian and bicycle safety and mobility, as well as general wayfinding, lighting, and streetscape design along Main Street (Route 27) in Natick Center from Cottage Street to South Avenue (see map of study area below). This study aims to close the gap between Natick’s South Main Street Reconstruction Project from the Sherborn town line to Cottage Street and MassDOT’s ongoing reconstruction of North Main Street from North Avenue to the Wayland town line.
Capital Strategic Solutions has partnered with BETA and the Old Colony Planning Council to engage community stakeholders for the SS4A Regional Comprehensive Safety Action Plan | Vision Zero Plan. Our strategy includes committee meetings to translate technical information, identify challenges, and organize public workshops and meetings to gather stakeholder feedback. We ensure timely updates through monthly project webpage updates and media engagement to announce public meetings and review periods. This comprehensive outreach promotes transparency and community engagement, ensuring the Safety Action Plan meets regional safety goals.
Route 30 Reconstruction Project, Weston, MA
The Weston Route 30 Reconstruction project includes important safety and infrastructure improvements along the 3.7- mile corridor through Weston. Currently, most of the road lacks any safe passage for pedestrians and bicyclists. Modern State of Massachusetts DOT standards require safe and accessible walking and biking, in addition to driving, accommodations. Our team worked side by side with the Town of Weston to educate community members about the project; and the safety benefits for pedestrians and cyclists that travel along Route 30.
Columbian Square Improvement Project, Weymouth, MA
The Town of Weymouth improving the safety of pedestrians and vehicular traffic movements through Columbian Square; as well as to create a vibrant, walkable atmosphere spurring commerce within the historic village center. Mayor Hedlund has committed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds awarded to the Town of Weymouth for the completion of this project. Capital Strategic Solutions developed a strategic communication plan for impact mitigation for the Columbian Square Improvement Project. Our team is working closely with Green International Affiliates, and the Town of Weymouth to keep the community informed and one step ahead of the work.
Walkers Brook Drive Corridor Redesign Project, Reading, MA
The Town of Reading applied for and was awarded $250,000 in funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Housing Choice Grant Program to study the conceptual level designs in greater detail for improvements to the Walkers Brook Drive corridor and at key intersections with General Way, John Street, Village Street, and Lakeview Avenue. The Walkers Brook Drive corridor is a primary connection between the Town of Reading and the Town of Wakefield and serves as a primary connection to Lake Quannapowitt, restaurants, retail shops, employment centers, as well as regional open space assets, and it is a desirable location to improve multi-modal features. Together with Kimley-Horn, and the Town of Reading, Capital Strategic Solutions conducted a community engagement program to showcase design alternatives, gather community feedback and solidify an overall community vision for the Walkers Brook Drive Corridor.
Comprehensive Transportation and Multimodal Study, Shrewsbury, MA
The Town of Shrewsbury partnered with Kimley-Horn and Capital Strategic Solutions for a Comprehensive Transportation & Multimodal Study, also known as the Town Center Multimodal Study. This study aims to shape the future of the town’s transportation system, focusing on enhancing active transportation options while supporting local commerce, economic growth, and improving safety for all. Building on Shrewsbury’s 2030 Strategic Plan, the Town Center Visioning Study, and the Town Center Parking Study, the study will assess current conditions and propose practical strategies to boost transportation, community pride, and overall quality of life.
Our collaborative efforts with municipalities, state agencies, and private sector partners ensure that transportation projects not only meet the functional and safety needs of the community but also reflect the public’s values and vision for the future. By facilitating open dialogue, addressing concerns, and incorporating feedback, CSS consistently delivers projects that enjoy broad-based community support.
At a time when public sector resources and staffing are limited, Capital Strategic Solutions is happy to provide our clients with interim services to help bridge the gap and keep critical processes moving forward.
For more information, email info@capital-strategic-solutions.com. We look forward to hearing from you.