Loading...
5.1. SR 03-17-2008ITEM: s.> ver MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: Lori Johnson, City Administrator DATE: March 17, 2008 SUBJECT: Presentation from Tinklen6erg Group on TH 10!169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Activities Representatives from the Tinklenberg Group will be at Monday's meeting to make a brief presentation on the Highway 10/169 Corridor Coalition workplan, priority projects, and other activities the Coalition plans to focus on in 2008. This item was originally scheduled fox February 4, 2008, but inclement weather postponed the discussion to this evening. A copy of the approved workplan for 2008, which includes the communication and membership plans, is attached for your review. S:\Council\Lori\2008\Cotridox Coalition Update 03 17 08.doc O ~ o ~' ~, o ~`'~ o v) a Coalition Goal ~ Improve the safety and mobility along TH10/169 through a collaborative approach to planning and funding transportation projects January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group City of Dayton Citv of Elk River City of Ramsey Curre lition Members • Anoka County • Sherburne County • City of Andover • City of Anoka • City of Coon Rapids January 2008 • Village Bank • NAU Companies • Firestone Tire/Unaclad • Community Resource Partnership • Strauss Management Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group 2008 Work Plan Highlights - Priority Project • Additional/Third Lane on Highway 10 from Egret Blvd. to Hanson Blvd • Mn/DOT has earmarked $9.4 million over a three-year period to design and construct additional lane in both directions • Cost estimates to construct at optimal design standards total $12.5 - ~ 13 million. January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group ~~ Priority Project/Third Lane Efforts • Work with Mn/DOT to determine bus shoulder lanes, phasing of bridge construction over the railroad, and other design standards • Determine how additional costs will be fund - Local matching funds, federal appropriations request, other sources • Ensure no funds are lost due to timing constraints for using state dollars - Assist Mn/DOT to design project within budget January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Priority Project,/Third Lane Efforts • Facilitate discussions to identify matching funds • Engage influential policy leaders as spokespersons and advocates for the project • Utilize communication strategies designed to increase awareness of project opportunities, funding needs and public support January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group s Additional Corridor Priorities • Access management improvements - City of Ramsey: Sunfish Lake and Ramsey Boulevards - City of Anoka: Fairoak and Thurston Avenues • Future river crossing in Anoka County • TH169 bypass of Elk River and multi-jurisdictional boundaries/authority within Mn/DOT January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Additional Corridor Priorities • Support Northstar Commuter Rail and plans for commuter rail stations along the corridor • Increase awareness of transit needs • Build awareness among the business community January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Communication Plan Objectives • Create a stronger sense of value to Coalition membership • Enhance active participation among member agencies in the Coalition • Raise awareness among the general public of the need for transportation improvements and funding for projects January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group i ~ External Communication Plan Tasks • Create and submit quarterly press releases • Partner with area Chambers of Commerce • Pursue a billboard along TH10 to inform motorists of key Coalition messages January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group m m u n ication Plan Tasks Discuss objectives with agencies outside the itan area Produce materials on behalf of the Coalition to effectively communicate key messages Meet with various business leaders to retain and seek new active community partner members January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Internal Communication Plan Tasks • Present at each member agency council or board meeting • Distribute working documents to all councils and boards • Email newsflash updates to Coalition members every Thursday afternoon January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Internal Communication Plan Tasks • Members forward electronic communications to contacts as a cost effective means to reach a larger audience • Provide overall coordination and collaboration among agencies • Communicate with planning staff regarding the development of transportation plans • Provide updates as needed and/or requested to various leaders, committees and individuals as directed January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Membership Plan Strategies • Focus on retention activities • Recruit select prospective businesses to become members, versus many random targets • Continue to offer community partner benefits January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group State and Federal Funding Approach • Work to obtain the remaining necessary funds to design the TH10 Third Lane project most responsibly • Facilitate Coalition discussions surrounding projects for 2009 Reauthorization funding • Explore public, private and non-traditional funding packages • Communicate needs to Minnesota's regional, state and federal elected officials January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group How r Agencies Can Help Advocate for Coalition priorities to your community, local press and with other elected officials Attend Coalition meetings and events Assist to recruit new businesses to join the Coalition Use your current communication vehicles to publicize Coalition efforts in acost-effective manner January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group Discussion • Questions? January 2008 Prepared by The Tinklenberg Group TH1O/169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Work Plan ~ Communications Plan Membership Plan ~" The Tnklenberg Group ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Executive Summary The Trunk Highway 10/169 Corridor Coalition is a group made up of counties, cities, and businesses along the TH10 and TH169 corridors between Coon Rapids and Elk River. The Coalition's main objective is to advance transportation related improvements along the corridor though collaborative planning efforts and with a "corridor-wide" approach. Each year the Coalition reviews the activities, priorities and lessons learned from the previous year to refine its work plan, marketing plan and membership plan. The following sections provide a brief overview of those working documents; the full plans may be referenced for a complete description. Work Plan The Work Plan identifies key strategies and activities designed to advance progress relative to needed transportation improvements in the TH10/169 corridor. More specifically, it lays out how the Coalition shall operate, how projects will be identified and prioritized, and how the group will work collectively to identify and pursue funding for • projects. 2008 Project Priorities Each year the Coalition reviews the status of projects planned within the corridor, and prioritizes its efforts and focus according. A critical milestone is the completion of the Hanson Boulevard interchange in 2007; the interchange is a major accomplishment in terms of providing the corridor the ability to continue expansion and access improvements that will enhance safety and mobility along the corridor. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has earmarked $9.4 million over athree- year period to design and construct an additional lane in both directions on TH10 between Egret Boulevard and Hanson Boulevard. Cost estimates to construct the added capacity at optimal design standards total $12.5 - $13 million. Optimal design standards would include phased bridge construction north of Egret Boulevard to accommodate travel needs during construction, bus shoulders and other elements. Secondarily, the coalition will work to secure support and funding for phase 2 of this project, extending the additional lane in both directions to Round Lake Boulevard. The additional lane on TH10 is currently the highest priority for the Coalition; however the group also supports numerous other projects and plans along the corridor such as access management improvements, bypass and river crossing projects, commuter rail and other modes of transit, transit facilities and other efficiencies that enhance the overall function of the area's transportation system. • TH10/169 Corridor Coalifion The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Executive Summary 1 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition • Communications Plan The plan focuses on increasing the awareness and understanding of project needs among local policy leaders and influential state and federal decision makers, and strives to address ways in which the Coalition will support funding applications and opportunities for transportation related improvements on behalf of its members. Key elements focus on both internal and external efforts to enhance Coalition visibility and effectiveness. In 2008 the primary objectives involve engaging policy leaders from member agencies in ways that actively support priority projects, and to provide them with the tools to effectively communicate the need and impacts these improvements will have not only with respect to the agency or community they represent, but to the region as a whole. Enlisting these individuals as advocates will assist in the Coalition's ability to directly influence project timing and funding. Another objective is to demonstrate member benefits at a higher level than in the past, by providing valuable and regular communication regarding projects, upcoming events, legislative updates and funding opportunities. Membership Plan The current membership of the Coalition is made up of both public and private sector representatives. One of the most important aspects of membership is ensuring that the Coalition is regarded as a trusted and valued source of information, and a vehicle to reach key decision-makers regarding transportation improvements by its members. Outreach activities in the way of new member recruitment, retention of existing members, and increasing the level of membership benefits overall, are ongoing priorities of the Coalition. TIi10/169 Corridor Coalition DRAFT 2008 Executive Summary The Tinklenberg Group January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Work Plan The following Work Plan identifies key strategies and activities designed to advance progress relative to needed transportation improvements in the TH10/169 corridor between Coon Rapids and Elk River. Much of the work identified in the Plan focuses on increasing the awareness and understanding of project needs among local policy leaders and influential state and federal decision makers. The Plan also addresses how the Coalition will support funding applications and opportunities for transportation related improvements on behalf of its members during the 2008 calendar year. The Work Plan is designed to compliment the 2008 Communications Plan, and highlights project priorities for the upcoming federal funding cycle, preparation for the 2009 Reauthorization Bill, as well as state and local opportunities for matching dollars. It also identified areas where the coalition will support various efforts underway among member agencies as they relate to individual projects and studies planned and/or underway. • The Coalition has established and maintained strong working relationships with its members, governmental agencies and elected officials, and made significant efforts to engage community business leaders. These efforts will continue and have become even more critical given the current environment for funding major transportation improvements. This year's Coalition efforts will focus on projects that are doable, provides the greatest benefit to users, and have the strongest support in terms of priority. I. Management Management and facilitation of the Coalition remains a key element to achieving results. Staff will continue to identifying and implement strategies that will initiate participation, provide consistent and accurate information, and maintain the interest of members is critical to the overall success of the project. The following section describes in detail how these tasks will be accomplished. A. Meeting coordination and facilitation • Coordinate meeting locations and make appropriate arrangements and accommodations for members. • Maintain accurate accounts of meetings, including conversations in the form of minutes, recordings, etc. to log activities and serve as reference for clarification and documentation. • Facilitate committee discussions in such a way that members have an opportunity to provide input, share comments and concerns, and raise questions, while keeping the • group focused and on task. TH10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinklen6erg Group DRAFT 2008 Work Plan 1 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition • Coordinate and facilitate an annual strategic planning workshop in November for committee members to revisit project goals, needs, accomplishments and next steps to assist in prioritizing activities and project elements. Facilitate discussion among members based on individual community issues and needs; incorporate needs into real projects while recognizing corridor-wide impacts and necessary phasing of improvements. • Research agenda topics and develop appropriate meeting materials that focus on moving project priorities ahead. • Develop presentations, supplemental materials and enlist experts in various fields to speak to the group when appropriate, and relative to agenda subject matter, to ensure meeting productivity, effective use of time and quality meeting content. • Make contacts between meetings as needed. Hold additional meetings when necessary as issues arise and require attention; keep members informed via a-mail lists, etc. • Provide follow up materials to members including minutes and requested information in the form of research, contact information, and other various needs on a timely and consistent basis. • Revisit timelines and activities regularly to ensure that the committee is on task and short-term successes are realized. • Maintain membership mailing list including regular review and updates to the list to ensure its effectiveness and accuracy, and maximize advocacy opportunities. • Review due structure on an annual basis and develop a list of deliverables based on priorities and member needs. B. Working Group coordination and facilitation In 2005 the Coalition formed a Working Group consisting of staff from each of the member agencies. The Working Group is a separate forum for sharing information as it relates to each community's and/or agency's specific planning activities and priorities relative to transportation and economic development projects. The intent is for the group to meet bi- monthly during the off-months of the regular Coalition Board meetings, and supplement the Coalition objectives to advance projects along the corridor in a timely and cooperative manner. More specifically the group is tasked with: corridor. • Assist in establishing a working schedule of specific project related activities. • Input relative to agenda topics and items that should receive attention and be discussed at Coalition Board meetings. • Utilize the group to enhance development and agreement on strategies to move project along in the corridor, build consensus. • Assist in identifying issues as they arise relative to transportation plans/projects underway such as scheduling, funding, and other relevant issues. • Sharing information regarding adopted plans and working documents relative to transportation and development project specific to or that could impact the TH10 TH10/169 Corridor Coalition DRAFT 2008 Work Plan The Tinklenherg Group January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition II. Facilitate identification of project priorities Identifying project priorities will be facilitated through the Coalition and its members based on the Coalition's vision, goals, and the short and long-term strategies identified to achieve the corridor vision. Priorities should directly coincide with small successes identified as part of various projects, which are intended to build support and momentum among committee members, policy leaders, the general public and other stakeholders. Previously, the Hanson Boulevard interchange was a high priority for the Coalition; this project was completed in 2007. The Minnesota Department of Transportation has earmarked $9.4 million over athree-year period to design and construct an additional lane in both directions on TH10 between Egret Boulevard and Hanson Boulevard (Priority Project Phase 1). Cost estimates to construct the added capacity at optimal design standards total $12.5 - $13 million. Optimal design standards would include phased bridge construction north of Egret Boulevard and maintaining four-lanes of traffic to accommodate travel needs during construction, inclusion of bus shoulders, wider traffic lanes other elements associated with preferable engineering standards. A. Priority oroiect In light of allocated funding for the project, the Coalition will focus its efforts heavily on the following tasks: Work with Mn/DOT to determine elements of the project to include such as bus shoulder lanes, phasing of bridge construction over the railroad, and other design standards. • Based on consensus for project design elements, determine how additional costs will be funded, e.g. local matching funds, federal appropriations request, and other sources. • Assist Mn/DOT in their efforts to design the project within a budget determined; do so in a manner that ensures no funds are lost due to timing constraints for using state dollars. • Facilitate discussions designed to identify matching funds among members. • Engage influential policy leaders as spokespersons and advocates for the project. • Utilize communication strategies designed to increase awareness of project opportunities, funding needs and public support. B. Additional priority oroiects While the additional lane on TH10 is of the most immediate and highest priority for the Coalition, the group also supports the following priorities (in random order): • Work with Mn/DOT and officials at the local, state and federal level to extend the TH10 additional lane project from Hanson Blvd. to Round Lake Blvd. (Priority Project • Phase 2) TH10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinkfenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Work Pfan 3 January 2008 ~ TH7 0/7 69 Corridor Coalition • Continue to advance planning activities related to access management improvements in the City of Ramsey, and the Sunfish Lake and Ramsey Boulevard interchanges. • Continue planning activities related to access improvements at Armstrong Boulevard. • Continue to advance planning activities related to access improvements at Fairoak and Thurston Avenues in the City of Anoka. • Continue discussions regarding a future Mississippi River crossing in Anoka County. • Consider implications and opportunities associated with TH169 bypass of Elk River and multi-jurisdictional boundaries/authority within Mn/DOT (e.g. Metro Division and District 3). • Support implementation of Northstar commuter rail and development plans for commuter rail stations within member communities along the corridor. • Work toward increasing the awareness of transit needs including circulator, fixed route and express bus service; capitalize on success of the Northstar Commuter Coach and Ramsey Star Express bus services to encourage increased usage and modified travel behavior of commuters. • Help build awareness among members of the business community who depend on the efficient movement of goods and services along the corridor to be vocal and engaged in the Coalition; assist in shifting a stronger focus on the shipping industry and transportation impacts overall along the corridor. C. Multimodal aooroach Approaching projects from a corridor perspective increases the opportunity for involvement and participation from a broader base. Project needs focus primarily on the expansion of the TH10 roadway, access managements and improvements, and right-of-way preservation activities; however, planning efforts should take advantage of additional transportation elements such as transit and transit facilities, pedestrian/bicycle trails, movement of freight, development and redevelopment opportunities and technology. Examples include: • Highway improvements supporting Northstar Commuter Rail • Various types of bus service including circulator routes designed to enhance local and regional modal connections • Park-and-ride lots and bus shoulder lanes • Transit facilities of all modes • Trail connections • Traffic management and technology improvements which would enhance capacity and flow along the corridor • Support the implementation of alternative commuting patterns including vanpools/carpools as travel demand management strategies • Incorporate Anoka County Transportation Management Organization (TMO) resources in communication and discussions where applicable; encourage community partners to get involved. III. Project funding The packaging of financial resources from public, private and non-traditional sources is essential to project success due to ever increasing demands on limited available regional, TH10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Work Plan 4 January 2008 • TH70/169 Corridor Coalition state and federal funding. Working with regional, state and federal transportation programs, funding requests and application processes, and communicating project needs to Minnesota's regional, state and federal elected officials is an important element of this Work Plan. Given the opportunity for construction of an additional lane on TH10 between Egret Boulevard and Hanson Boulevard, and then on to Round Lake Boulevard, the Coalition will focus the majority of its effort on obtaining the remaining funds to design the project most responsibly. This includes accommodating transit and other safety elements to the highest degree possible. The following activities will be necessary in order for the Coalition to successfully identify and secure funding to meet the Coalition's objectives: • Increase awareness at the local, regional, state and federal level relative to corridor projects and needs. • Coordinate and facilitate regular meetings with local and state legislative representatives. • Coordinate events in Washington D.C. as much as possible, particularly during annual events including the National Association of Counties Legislative Conference, and Transportation Alliance Fly-In. • Schedule events locally that would allow congressional leaders and other elected officials to learn more about project priorities, funding needs, etc. along the TH10 corridor. • Review current and proposed regional, state and federal transportation plans and programs and assess both the threats to and opportunities for new funding for the corridor. • Work with the Minnesota Department of Transportation to ensure the process for allocation and distribution of funds is communicated and understood among members. • Identify the potential for innovative and non-traditional program funding including private financing for construction and operations. • Identify options for the Coalition to leverage current and planned investments, planning activities, in-kind contributions as matching funds for new funding requests. • Provide regular updates with all elected officials. Establish, coordinate and participate in meetings with state legislative leaders and elected officials as appropriate. Coordinate special events as corridor improvements occur. • Work with members of the Coalition to develop an investment strategy for the corridor on an improvement-by-improvement basis consistent with the overall Coalition goals for the corridor. • Assist in the preparation of federal funding requests or the provision of information that will support corridor improvements on an annual basis and as directed by members of the Board. Create necessary materials and respond to the Transportation Appropriations Committee information requests for targeted funding when appropriate and as directed by members of the Board. • Facilitate joint funding applications among communities for submittal relative to specific projects as directed by members of the Board. TH10/769 Corridor Coalition DRAFT 2008 Work Plan The Tinklenberg Group January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Communications Plan Developing a communication strategy that effectively supports and expresses the vision and goals of the TH10/169 Corridor Coalition is a critical factor in generating interest, awareness, understanding and participation among agencies, businesses and users of the TH10/169 corridors. Clearly articulating transportation needs, project information and how members and other interested parties can make a difference in advancing transportation improvements is an area the Coalition will focus its efforts in 2008. Philosophy Providing accurate, timely and consistent information will ensure that stakeholders, including the general public, key policy leaders, the business community, the media and others, are aware of transportation project developments, status, and needs, as well as accomplishments the Coalition has had in recent years. Businesses and residents along the TH10/169 Corridor have become increasingly more interested and involved in transportation planning efforts, particularly in areas where communities have made individual efforts to • engage the public relative to specific projects along the TH10/169 corridor. Individuals are beginning to see the need and understand why communities are planning now for improvements that may not happen for several years; building on these realizations in ways that helps stakeholders become more vocal and in the appropriate arenas is a responsibility of the Coalition. Heightening the visibility of the Coalition and priority projects can assist in influencing funding for transportation, allocation of funds and overall project schedules. II. 2008 Focus Goals: Improve the safety and mobility along TH10/169 through Anoka and Sherburne Counties through a collaborative approach to planning and funding transportation projects. • Assist Mn/DOT in its effort to design, fund and construct a third lane on TH10/169 between Egret Boulevard and Hanson Boulevard. Communication objectives: Create a stronger sense of value to Coalition membership. • Enhance active participation among member agencies in the Coalition. • Raise awareness among the general public of the need for transportation improvements and funding for projects; give them specific, simple examples of ways they can help. III. Strategies ~ Serve as a vehicle for members to collectively identify areas and/or issues relative to • policies, processes and the like, that deter or impede continued progress for transportation improvements along the corridor; advocate for change through the TN10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Communicafions Plan f January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition development of strategies that can address such matters and implement communication tools designed to facilitate resolution. ~ Proactively seek continued public/private sector input and involvement in an effort to influence decision-making regarding transportation improvements in the corridor. ~ Provide a forum that will enable private citizens and businesses along the corridor to reach an understanding of the issues involved in transportation improvement projects and provide input that will assist agencies and elected officials shape future direction and project decision-making. ~ Communicate with elected officials at the local, regional, state and federal levels in an effort to illustrate collaborative planning efforts, consensus for projects and the need and efficient use of transportation funding. -~ Utilize communication materials such as handouts, FAQ packets, PowerPoint presentations, etc. that clearly reflect the goals of the Coalition, the value of a strong membership and Coalition accomplishments and progress. ~ Identify and communicate with the appropriate media to increase project awareness, build trust within the community and Coalition members, and provide accurate and consistent project information and updates regarding Coalition progress and achievements ~ Continue to provide information in terms of short- and long-term strategies designed to address safety and mobility along the corridor - 5, 10 and 20 years into the future. -> Utilize a multimodal approach in communication materials and presentations to ensure • the public understands the needs for an integrated network of services. -~ Incorporate real numbers and data into communication materials to include projected population growth, safety issues, economic development and land use changes, environmental concerns, and other relevant statistics that will help clearly illustrate the dyer need for improvements, and the importance of planning now for the future. ~ Materials should provide a concise understanding and translation of the transportation improvements and the impact to the traveling public and communities in terms of safety, mobility, economic development and quality of life. IV. External Communication External communication involves reaching out to policy leaders, businesses, the TH10/169 traveling public and other stakeholders with interest in the corridor. The intent is to enhance their overall understanding of safety, mobility and funding needs along the corridor through education and increasing the Coalition's visibility; more specifically, convey information in a way that motivates an action toward the Coalition's goals and objectives, and help influence the advancement of transportation improvements. While congressional representatives and local legislators are aware of congestion issues along the corridor, many are not equipped with the data necessary to effectively advocate for moving projects ahead; providing them with specific information in terms of needs, project plans, and local support may help stimulate their involvement and advocacy. Engaging County Commissioners and City Council Coalition members to deliver this information is one example of how the Coalition can solicit their active support. • TH10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Communications Plan 2 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition Also essential to a thoughtful external communication is the ability to demonstrate that concerns and suggestions of the business community and traveling public are valued as part of the planning and decision-making process. Providing them with an outlet to voice their ideas and comments will encourage a broader discussion among the general public to become involved, particularly if they believe it will make a difference and potentially influence the development process. All external communication shall seek to achieve the Coalition's strategic objectives and will be developed and delivered with a focus on the receiving audience in both content and context. Tasks: • Create and submit quarterly press releases to local papers including the Anoka County Union, Blaine/Spring Lake Park Life, Coon Rapids Herald, Elk River Star News and when possible, the Star Tribune Metro North and Pioneer Press. • Partner with area Chambers of Commerce to include Coalition news and information as part of their communication distributions to members. • Research and pursue the potential of securing a billboard along TH10 as a means to inform motorists of key Coalition messages; work with members to identify the appropriate message and content of the billboard. • Meet and discuss Coalition objectives with agencies outside the metropolitan area in an effort to engage them in the Coalition including Mn/DOT District 3 representatives. • Produce materials on behalf of the Coalition designed to support needs such as hand outs, press releases, fact sheets, exhibits, maps, and other illustrations that effectively communicate key information and/or messages. • Meet with various business leaders to retain and seek new community partner members; encourage active participation in the Coalition and importance of private sector perspectives. V. Internal Communication Internal communication involves providing consistent and useful information to Coalition members, as well as to their respective city councils, county boards and project staff, in an effort to maintain interest and active participation; soliciting feedback and listening to member needs and concerns is also an important element of internal communication. The focus in 2008 will be to enhance active participation among member agencies, and demonstrate a higher level of value in membership overall. Tasks: • Develop a presentation to present at each member agency council or board meeting during the months of January and February; the presentation will include Coalition priorities and activities for the year, provide an overview of upcoming local and federal funding opportunities (e.g. the importance of the Reauthorization Bill in 2009) • and to offer specific examples of how individuals can be engaged and effective as part of the Coalition. TH10/T 69 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Communications Plan 3 January 2008 ~ TH10/7 69 Corridor Coalition • Organize materials in the form of a bound packet for distribution to members and their respective councils and boards with all relevant work plans included; create an executive summary as part of the materials for easy review and reinforcement of key activities. • Email newsflash updates to Coalition members every Thursday afternoon. • Develop a secondary list representing a broader audience that includes business representatives, interested citizens and other stakeholders upon identification and level of interest to receive email newsflash updates. • Request that agencies with internal distribution lists forward electronic communications provided on behalf of the Coalition to those contacts as a cost effective means to reach a larger audience. • Provide necessary support in terms of developing correspondence, conducting research, coordinating and facilitating working group meetings, providing follow up and overall collaboration among agency representatives. • Communicate with planning staff regarding the development of transportation plans, etc. in an effort to identify opportunities that will enhance project coordination, maximize resources and ensure overall collaboration. • Provide updates as needed and/or requested to various leaders, committees and individuals as directed. TH10/i69 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Communications Plan 4 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition 2008 Membership Plan A strong foundation of membership in the TH10/t69 Corridor Coalition requires participation from local, regional and state levels of government. Input from the general public and private sector is also necessary to understand and incorporate varying perspectives into the transportation planning and decision-making process. In 2005 the TH10/169 Corridor Coalition expanded membership to the business community along TH10/169 as community partners. A number of local business owners have joined the Coalition during this time and interest among the business community has increased as a whole as a result of Coalition efforts. While this trend is extremely positive, 2008 will involve working with a select few prospective businesses to become members, versus many random targets. Efforts will also be directed at implementing ways to more actively engage elected officials from member agencies, and more effectively demonstrate the value of the Coalition. Community Partner Member Benefits Businesses with a membership in the Coalition have contributed financially to the organization and in some cases been fairly active in the meetings and functions of the groups; however, the majority have become members as testimony to their interest in seeing change and movement with regard to transportation improvements along the corridor and been inactive otherwise. Each community partner has a different expectation in terms of the benefit they receive from Coalition efforts; regardless, all community partner members are offered the same opportunities. Examples of member benefits include the following: • Business logo inclusion on all materials distributed as part of external communication. • Recipient of Emails updates, newsletters, brochures, and other methods of communication relative to Coalition activities. • Invited to Coalition Board meetings and other member events. • Notice of events relative to community projects, celebrations, and other public meetings along the corridor. • Provided direct contact and access to local policy and decision makers through the Coalition. Access to staff to obtain a better understanding of the project development process, upcoming projects, studies and planning activities, and funding discussions. Provided a forum and vehicle to voice their thoughts and concerns directly to those who are involved in planning activities. II. Recruitment Activities • Meet with community leaders along the corridor to promote Coalition activities and the value of coalition membership. TH10/169 Corridor Coalifion The Tinklen6erg Group DRAFT 2008 Membership Plan 1 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition • Identify potential partnerships with appropriate agencies, foundations, business groups to advance Coalition objectives. • Conduct meetings and determine which entities have the interest and resources to assist with Coalition objectives; bring interested parties together with Coalition members and facilitate direct dialogue between various groups. • Meet and discuss Coalition objectives in an effort to engage agencies from areas outside the metropolitan area along the corridor including Mn/DOT District 3 representatives. • Identify opportunities to engage other agencies and planning units in discussions surrounding transportation improvements along the TH10 Corridor to minimize the disconnect in planning efforts and bring groups together as partners. • Maximize opportunities that broaden the framework and visibility of the Coalition beyond transportation such as connections between colleges and educational institutions along the corridor. • Facilitate informational sessions bringing together potential Coalition partners to establish a consistent base level of knowledge of transportation programs, funding sources, project time lines and development activities. • When possible, meet with business leaders representing communities along the corridor to elicit their involvement and support. • Work with Coalition members to identify additional target groups to include in communication efforts such as special interest and community groups, and representatives from the business community. • Identify and enlist existing members with established relationships among these groups/individuals to meet and discuss member opportunities/benefits and to assist in recruitment activities. • Provide support to members by setting up meetings and providing materials such as correspondence, FAQ packets and other presentation materials that will assist in communicating Coalition efforts and recruiting new members. • Follow up with phone calls to encourage involvement, answer questions and provide additional information. III. Retention Activities Retention should focus on members feeling their involvement and participation is of benefit and value to their organization and needs. Key to ensuring this is the ability to communicate and engage the appropriate individuals in a way that supports cooperation and collective decision-making that will produce desired outcomes. It is important to clearly identify and understand agency and project objectives, goals, responsibilities, capabilities and limitations, in order to develop astep-by-step approach to moving projects and plans forward. This involves facilitation, coordination and collaboration among city, county, regional and state planning staff relative to transportation planning efforts and project implementation. Tasks associated with retention activities include: • Ensuring productive use of time at Coalition meetings; produce concise and . informative updates and appropriate materials for members; stay on task with activities and plans. TH10/169 Corridor Coalition The Tinklenberg Group DRAFT 2008 Membership Plan 2 January 2008 ~ TH10/169 Corridor Coalition • Assisting in the identification and coordination of presentations at various community events designed to provide project updates on Coalition activities to maintain visibility and share successes. • Utilizing communication materials such as handouts, FAQ packets, PowerPoint presentations, etc. that clearly reflect the goals of the Coalition, the value of strong membership, ways in which to participate and make a difference, and examples of Coalition accomplishments and progress. CJ • TH90/169 Corridor Coalition DRAFT 2008 Membership Plan January