Community Assessment is a process to determine the extent of direct, secondary, and cumulative impacts to the social structure of the community as a result of a proposed transportation project. The Department will actively solicit input and interaction from all affected communities in the development of the improvement alternatives resulting in a consensus for a preferred alternative. The Department's Public Involvement Plan promotes awareness and understanding through interaction with the community. The Department uses various techniques to inform interested parties of the project and solicit input. These techniques include newsletters, public workshops, opinion surveys, media announcements, this website, informative letters, and a formal Public Hearing.