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Search the Noteworthy Practices database Legislative Symposium - New JerseyOriginal publication: SHSP Implementation Process Model, Supplement Number 1 – Case Studies; FHWA-SA-10-025; 2010 (PDF, 1MB)Publication Year: 2010Key Accomplishments
To enlist the support of New Jersey legislators for safety initiatives, the State’s metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), with support of New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, organized and facilitated a Statewide legislative symposium. The half-day event was designed to educate legislators about New Jersey’s safety needs and market the SHSP. The symposium agenda included presentations by NJDOT on pedestrian and bicycle safety initiatives, by the State Police on aggressive driving programs, by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) on impaired driving, and by the New Jersey Safety Council on young drivers. Legislators also were asked to discuss pending legislation relevant to transportation safety. To encourage participation in advance of the symposium, legislators were sent information about New Jersey’s SHSP and initiatives being pursued through the State’s Transportation Safety Policy Advisory Council. It was critical that no lobbying for specific legislation be conducted during the symposium, as it is prohibited for agencies receiving Federal funding. However, with increased information about New Jersey’s safety needs, legislators were better educated about the kinds of approaches they could pursue legislatively to further the State’s safety agenda. All costs, including staff time for preparation and meeting space, were underwritten by the MPOs. ResultsGiven the success of the event and the positive response from legislators, New Jersey intends to conduct this symposium again in the future. Contact: Publication Year: 2010 |