Community Planning

This is What Municipal Engineering Looks Like Today

June 11, 2026

By Nolan Harvey, Director, Municipal Services, WSB

How cities are rethinking planning, design, and long-term performance to build infrastructure that lasts.

If you work in city leadership or public works, you already know this: there’s no such thing as a simple infrastructure decision anymore.

You’re juggling aging streets and utilities, limited funding, changing regulations, and weather that doesn’t behave the way it used to. At the same time, residents expect things to work—and they expect answers when they don’t.

That reality is exactly why municipal engineering has changed. And frankly, why it had to.

it’s no longer just about fixing what’s broken

Most cities didn’t get into trouble overnight, and they won’t fix everything overnight either. What’s changing is how communities think about the work.

Instead of asking, “What failed?” more cities are asking,
“What’s going to hold up for the next 20 or 30 years?”

That shift toward resilience isn’t about buzzwords. It’s about:

• Fewer late‑night emergency calls
• Fewer projects that need to be redone too soon
• Infrastructure you don’t have to worry about every time it rains hard

Resilience, at its core, is about reducing stress—for city staff and for the people you serve.

The Real Cost of a Project Isn’t the Price Tag

Every city knows this feeling: a project looks affordable on paper, but years later it’s draining staff time and maintenance dollars.

That’s why more communities are stepping back and saying,
“Let’s be honest about what this will cost us over its life.”

Thinking in terms of lifecycle cost changes the conversation:

• Replacement versus repair becomes clearer
• Budget discussions feel more defensible
• Long‑term planning stops being guesswork

It’s not about spending more money. It’s about avoiding regrets later.

Data Is Finally Catching Up to Institutional Knowledge

Public works teams have always known their systems. What’s new is having that knowledge captured, shared, and visible.

With tools like GIS and asset management, cities can:

• See patterns instead of isolated problems
• Prioritize work before things fail
• Walk into funding conversations with real evidence

It doesn’t replace experience—it supports it. And it makes decision‑making easier for everyone involved.

Green Infrastructure Isn’t a Trend — It’s a Tool

When cities use green infrastructure today, it’s not to check a box. It’s because it solves problems.

Managing stormwater. Reducing flooding. Improving water quality. Extending the life of traditional systems.

And yes—it often makes streets and neighborhoods nicer places to be. That matters too.

The best projects do double duty: they work hard and they show up well.

Streets Are Being Designed for Real Life

Cities are also rethinking how streets function.

Because streets aren’t just traffic corridors—they’re where people live, work, walk, bike, wait for buses, and run businesses.

Designing for all users:

• Improves safety
• Supports local economies
• Makes neighborhoods feel connected instead of divided

It’s not about taking something away. It’s about making streets work better for more people.

Better Projects Start With Better Listening

One of the biggest changes we see isn’t technical—it’s cultural.

Cities are involving residents earlier. Asking better questions. Being clearer about tradeoffs.

That approach doesn’t slow projects down. It usually does the opposite.
When people understand the “why,” projects move forward with less friction and more trust.

Funding Is Part of the Plan from Day One

Funding used to come after engineering. Now, it’s part of the conversation from the start.

Cities are thinking ahead:

• Is this project fundable?
• Does it align with local and state priorities?
• Are we ready if an opportunity opens up?

That alignment turns good ideas into real projects—and keeps momentum going.

What This All Comes Down To

Municipal engineering today isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s about responsibility.

Responsibility to residents.
Responsibility to future city leaders.
Responsibility to get it right—not just get it done.

Because at the end of the day, good infrastructure isn’t flashy. It’s reliable. It’s thoughtful. And it quietly supports everyday life.

Building Better Bridges: Engineering for Long Term Performance

June 9, 2026

By Paul Poytner, Vice President, Structures, WSB

Bridges are essential connections within a community’s transportation network, but for city and county staff, they are also complex assets that require consistent attention and thoughtful planning. Routine bridge safety inspections play a critical role, combining visual and hands on evaluations to assess structural conditions. By identifying corrosion, deterioration, settlement, damage, and scour early, communities can address issues before they escalate into costly repairs or disruptions. This proactive approach is essential as one in three bridges nationwide requires repair or replacement, reinforcing the importance of consistent inspection and asset awareness.

Planning across the full lifecycle of a bridge helps communities maximize performance and extend service life. While older structures were often designed for 60 to 75 years, modern bridges are built to last 75 to 100 years with midlife rehabilitation. Many bridges in use today were not designed for current traffic demands or vehicle weights, making condition-based planning increasingly important. Using inspection data and sufficiency ratings allows communities to better prioritize rehabilitation or replacement, focusing resources where they will deliver the greatest benefit over time.

Bridge performance also depends on how well surrounding infrastructure is considered. Retaining walls, adjacent roadways, and nearby structures all influence stability and durability. Incorporating vibration monitoring and pre-and-post construction surveys can help reduce risk when working near existing assets. In more complex environments, additional geotechnical investigation provides insight into subsurface conditions, helping teams avoid construction challenges and reduce costly design changes. These steps support smoother project delivery and protect both public infrastructure and surrounding properties.

Successful bridge projects rely on coordination across structural engineering, environmental considerations, materials, and construction methods. Aligning these elements early leads to more efficient, resilient outcomes that reflect both technical needs and community priorities. Emerging tools such as Building Information Modeling and digital twins are strengthening this approach by improving accuracy, enhancing collaboration, and supporting more informed planning throughout the lifecycle.

WSB partners with cities and counties to navigate the complexity of bridge projects and deliver practical, lasting solutions. From inspections and condition assessments to design, construction support, and long-term asset management, our teams bring together technical expertise and real-world experience. By aligning data, engineering, and a multidisciplinary approach, WSB helps communities deliver bridge solutions that are safe, reliable, and built to serve residents for decades to come.

Planning with Purpose: Sustainability in Today’s Communities  

May 22, 2026

By Lori Johnson, Senior Professional Community Planner I, WSB

Sustainability continues to play a growing and evolving role in how communities plan, invest, and adapt. What was once considered a long-term goal is now also part of everyday decision-making at the local level, especially as communities look ahead to the next generation of comprehensive plans. 

Across Minnesota and beyond, local governments are finding meaningful ways to integrate sustainability into their work through the intersection of environmental, economic and social considerations. This includes updating ordinances to support EV infrastructure and renewable energy, taking advantage of cost-saving energy efficiency rebates, advancing climate adaptation and resiliency strategies, and reducing vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions through long-range planning efforts like the Imagine 2050 Comprehensive Plan. 

At the same time, communities are balancing these priorities with growth, infrastructure needs, and resident expectations—making it essential to take a practical, tailored approach. Progress doesn’t have to be complex to be impactful. For some communities, it starts with policy updates or plan amendments. For others, it begins with conversations about priorities, tradeoffs, and what sustainability truly means at a local level. 

How We Can Help 

At WSB, we partner with communities to identify realistic, actionable steps that support long-term sustainability goals while reflecting each community’s unique character and vision. Whether it’s integrating new strategies into a comprehensive plan or exploring incremental changes over time, we focus on helping communities move forward in a way that fits their needs. 

How Right of Way Agents Drive Success

By Shelly Woodall, Sr Right of Way Specialist, WSB

City infrastructure projects, whether building new roads, expanding utilities, or creating public spaces, are complex undertakings. They require more than engineering and construction expertise; they demand strategic land management and strong community relationships. This is where Right of Way (ROW) agents step in as essential partners for municipalities.

ROW agents ensure that projects move forward smoothly, on time, and within budget by managing the critical processes that connect city plans to private property realities. Below, we explore the comprehensive services ROW agents provide and why they are indispensable for successful city projects.

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Relationship Development with Landowners

Every project begins with trust. ROW agents build and maintain positive relationships with property owners, fostering open communication and addressing concerns early. This proactive approach minimizes conflict and sets the stage for cooperative solutions.

Permitting

Permitting can be a maze of local, state, and federal requirements. ROW agents navigate this complexity, securing timely approvals and ensuring compliance so projects stay on schedule.

Land Acquisition

Acquiring property rights is often the linchpin of a project. ROW agents manage the entire acquisition process, from initial outreach to closing, ensuring fair transactions and adherence to all regulations.

Title Work

A clear title is non-negotiable. ROW agents coordinate title searches, resolve encumbrances, and prepare documentation to protect the city’s investment and avoid legal complications.

Appraisals

Fair compensation starts with accurate valuation. ROW agents work with certified appraisers to deliver defensible property valuations that meet legal and ethical standards.

Land Surveys

Precision matters. ROW agents coordinate land surveys to establish boundaries and identify potential issues before construction begins, preventing costly surprises later.

Negotiations

Negotiation is both an art and a science. ROW agents bring experience and tact to secure agreements that balance project needs with property owner rights, reducing delays and disputes.

Eminent Domain

When voluntary acquisition isn’t possible, ROW agents guide municipalities through the eminent domain process, ensuring compliance with the Uniform Act and state laws while maintaining transparency and fairness.

Relocation Assistance

Displacement can be disruptive. ROW agents provide relocation assistance to residents and businesses, offering guidance and resources to ease transitions and minimize hardship.

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Partner with WSB for Comprehensive ROW Solutions

At WSB, we understand that right of way services are more than transactions, they’re about building trust and delivering results. Our team of experienced ROW agents offers all these services, backed by deep regulatory knowledge and a commitment to collaboration. Whether your city is planning a roadway expansion, utility project, or trail development, WSB is here to help you navigate every step of the process with confidence.

Ready to move your project forward? Connect with WSB today and discover how our ROW expertise can turn challenges into opportunities for your community.

Advancing Tribal Climate and Transportation Goals

Rural & Tribal Assistance Pilot Program Grant Opportunity

The Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program (RTA), administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau, provides funding for early-stage activities such as feasibility studies, environmental review, preliminary engineering, and funding strategy development. It plays a crucial role in advancing Tribal climate and transportation goals.

While recent updates to the program have scaled back language around climate, sustainability, and environmental justice, tribal communities across the country may still find this program valuable for preparing transportation projects that could later qualify for larger federal funding opportunities.

Tribal Leadership in Infrastructure and Community Development

Tribal Nations across the U.S. have long demonstrated leadership in advancing infrastructure, mobility, and community development. From improving roadway safety and connectivity to planning for future growth and economic opportunity, tribal governments continue to lead efforts that strengthen both local communities and regional networks.

The RTA Program supports this leadership by funding early-stage planning activities that help tribal communities prepare for larger federal infrastructure investments. Even though the revised Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) no longer emphasizes climate or sustainability themes, the program remains a valuable tool for building capacity and positioning projects for long-term success.

Project Relevance and Eligible Activities

The RTA grant supports pre-development activities for transportation and infrastructure projects, including:

• Feasibility studies
• Project planning and design
• Environmental reviews
• Economic and cost-benefit analyses
• Revenue forecasting and funding strategies
• Legal and regulatory assessments
• Value-for-money (VFM) studies
• Public engagement and benefit evaluations

These funds help Tribes hire legal, technical, and financial advisors to prepare for larger federal infrastructure grants or financing.

Applicants may submit up to two separate project applications for consideration.

Tribal-Specific Benefits

• $20 million tribal set-aside
• No match required
• Funding available for hiring expert advisors
• Supports planning for future federal infrastructure grants
• Helps advance transportation projects that support pollution control and community health

Key Dates

• Application Portal Opens: September 8, 2025
• Deadline: October 8, 2025
• Award Ceiling: $2.5 million
• Awards Made on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

We encourage tribal governments to begin preparing early, as funding is limited and may be exhausted before the deadline. This is a powerful opportunity to build capacity, lay the groundwork for future infrastructure investments, and position your community for success in upcoming federal grant programs.

The Build America Bureau will host a webinar on August 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET to provide an overview of the amended RTA Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), including changes, eligibility, and application guidance.
Register here.

WSB is dedicated to helping your community not only navigate every stage of the infrastructure project journey, but also to secure the critical funding needed for your success. Our experienced team will work hand-in-hand with you to develop compelling grant applications, ensure you meet eligibility requirements, and position your project for maximum competitiveness—giving you the best possible chance to access limited federal dollars. From identifying funding sources to delivering effective project solutions, WSB is your trusted partner in turning opportunity into reality and driving meaningful progress for your community for years to come.

The Next 30 Years of Civil Engineering

Shaping the Future with Innovation, Insight, and Integrity

As WSB celebrates 30 years of innovation and excellence, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the transformative advancements in civil engineering and to look ahead to the exciting future of our industry. Over the past three decades, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress—from the widespread adoption of email and the internet to breakthroughs in materials science and the evolution of CAD software. These innovations have revolutionized how we design, collaborate, and deliver projects.

Future Predictions
The next 30 years promise even greater developments. As infrastructure demands grow, firms that embrace new ways of doing business by leveraging technology, optimizing project delivery methods, and investing in the next generation of engineers will be best positioned for success. Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics are beginning to transform key aspects of business across various industries. In civil engineering, the enhancements of these tools will accelerate project timelines, improve safety, and elevate creativity through seamless collaboration. Advancements in model-based design and construction management, as well as predictive analytics will continue to enable engineers to model, test, and refine infrastructure systems in a virtual environment before breaking ground, reducing risk and improving outcomes.

Technology as an Empowering Force
It’s important to emphasize that these developments will not be replacing engineers but empowering them. We look at these technologies as valuable assistants to our staff. With data becoming more accessible, engineers will have the insights needed to develop smarter, more sustainable infrastructure while maintaining the critical human expertise that drives innovation. Technology will continue to redefine safety, efficiency, and precision in an industry that once relied on hand-drawn plans and manual machine control. As these tools evolve, they will unlock new possibilities in civil engineering, shaping a future that is more connected and resilient. To stay at the forefront of these industry shifts, WSB is actively partnering with various leading technology companies to develop forward-thinking solutions for our clients. Our commitment to investing in continuous learning and technical training will continue to differentiate us as a leader in the industry.

WSB’s Commitment to the Future
Over the past 30 years, the industrialization of technology has propelled civil engineering forward. The next 30 will be defined by even greater advancements, ethical considerations, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. As we navigate the future of our industry, one thing is certain: WSB will lead our industry through this transformation.

How Cities Can Gather and Use Public Input in Decision Making

July 28, 2025

By Jennifer Edison, Senior Project Manager, WSB

Published by League of Minnesota Cities in the July-August month’s issue of the Minnesota Cities Magazine. How Cities Can Gather and Use Public Input in Decision Making – League of Minnesota Cities

In recent years, city councils across the state have been evolving their decision-making processes as they face the challenging task of balancing an increase in public expectations with the needs and priorities of the community. As cities grow, residents demand improved services, infrastructure, and transparency. Often times, competing interests make it essential for city councils to manage these expectations while making sure that community needs are met.

Public involvement can often feel like a double-edged sword, bringing both positive benefits and potential drawbacks. With the right tools, city councils can use public engagement to positively impact improvement projects while also addressing challenges that arise.

Clear communication and transparency

Effective communication of goals, priorities, and the reasoning behind decisions enhances understanding and engagement with city council actions. This could include regular updates through newsletters, social media, and public meetings. Keeping residents informed about ongoing projects, budget allocations, and upcoming initiatives helps them stay engaged and aware of the council’s activities and budget constraints. Additionally, explaining the reasons for prioritizing certain projects over others helps the public understand the complexities of project planning. This transparency fosters greater support for council decisions.

Inclusive engagement processes

Inclusive engagement guarantees diverse voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process. Consider the following options during the engagement process:

Town hall meetings. These meetings allow residents to voice their opinions, ask questions, and engage directly with council members, fostering a sense of community and allowing the council to be responsive to public concerns.

Surveys. Conducting surveys enables the council to gather community input to help inform decision making and prioritize projects that reflect community needs and preferences.

Focus groups. Organizing focus groups from different community segments provides insights into specific issues.

Performance metrics. Using performance metrics to evaluate the impact of decisions and policies. By tracking key indicators and outcomes, the council identifies successful initiatives
and assesses effectiveness.

Feedback platforms. Implementing platforms for residents to provide feedback, such as an online portal or public comment period, highlights areas for improvement and helps the
council address concerns.

Setting realistic expectations

Educating the public about the city council’s limitations and challenges helps set realistic community expectations. Public workshops allow for conversations about project complexities, helping residents understand constraints and tradeoffs. Detailed budget reports provide transparency, making residents aware of financial realities and the rationale behind decisions.

Prioritizing core needs

Identifying the core needs of the community prioritizes essential services and infrastructure. Capital improvement plans often highlight these core projects and outline long-term funding strategies. Developing these plans addresses both immediate needs and future growth, ensuring community sustainability. Regularly reviewing and updating these plans helps reflect changing circumstances and priorities.

Collaborative decision making

Collaborative decision making involves engaging various stakeholders to find common ground and gain support for projects that benefit the entire community. This approach is particularly important for projects that directly impact access or property adjacent to residential neighborhoods or business districts. One effective strategy is to develop a committee of residents, business owners, and community leaders to provide ongoing input and recommendations. Involving stakeholders in the planning process gives them a sense of ownership and helps educate the complexities of construction.

Continuous improvement

While public opinion is important, it must be balanced with expert advice and evidence-based practices. Engaging the public early and frequently is critical for identifying key stakeholders. When soliciting public feedback, it is essential to genuinely consider it. However, there will be instances where feedback cannot be implemented due to technical guidelines or best practices. Fostering a process that allows the public to feel engaged should always be seen as a positive aspect of decision making.

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan Updates

By Lori Johnson, Sr Professional Community Planner, WSB

Communities within the seven-county metro area may feel like their 2040 Comprehensive Plans were just adopted and approved by the Metropolitan Council (MC), but the reality is the deadline for their 2050 Comprehensive Plans is just a few short years away. Updating a comprehensive plan is a massive endeavor for some communities and it takes years of preparation. The Metropolitan Council has set the deadline for updating 2050 Comprehensive Plans for September 2028, so it is imperative to begin strategizing now.

The MC has developed a regional development guide titled, Imagine 2050, to help cities understand the goals of the Council during the next round of comprehensive plan updates, Imagine 2050 – Metropolitan Council. In September 2025, the Council will release System Statements to each jurisdiction. These statements, mandated by state law, are designed to assist communities in their upcoming comprehensive plan updates. The information provided by the Met Council will include crucial statistics such as projected population, households, and employment figures.

This article offers guidance on preparing for these updates, including budgeting for external assistance and meeting new requirements.

Forecasts and Community Designations

Understanding the future demographics and designations of your community is a foundational step in the planning process. Accurate forecasts can help predict growth patterns, housing needs, and infrastructure demands, which are essential for effective land use planning.

Existing Land Use

A thorough analysis of existing land use provides insights into current zoning, development patterns, and community needs. This step lays the groundwork for planning future land use and identifying areas that require attention or change.

Future Land Use

Strategic future land use planning ensures that the community evolves in a sustainable and organized manner. This involves designating areas for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational use, considering factors like population growth and environmental impact.

Staged Development Areas

Planning for staged development areas involves mapping out the phases of future development to ensure orderly growth. This approach prevents overdevelopment and ensures that infrastructure and services are expanded in a manageable and sustainable manner.

Climate and Natural Systems

Statewide Targets for Greenhouse Gas Reductions — New this year

City leaders must acknowledge statewide targets for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reductions, which aim for a 50% reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050 from a 2005 baseline. These targets are pivotal in shaping policies and initiatives for climate action.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory — New this year

A new requirement for this planning cycle is the inclusion of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. This inventory must encompass transportation, energy use, solid waste, and livestock and agriculture, if applicable. It provides a comprehensive view of the community’s carbon footprint and informs strategies for reduction.

Transportation

Transportation planning is integral to comprehensive plans. It includes evaluating current transportation systems, identifying areas for improvement, and planning for future needs. This ensures that the community remains accessible and connected.

Considerations for City Leaders

In-House vs. Consultant Assistance

City leaders must decide whether to undertake this extensive planning process in-house or hire a consultant. While in-house teams may offer familiarity with local issues, consultants bring specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and project management skills, easing the burden on city staff for such a time-consuming project.

Budgeting for the Future

It is crucial to budget for this effort early. If hiring a consultant, cities should consider the cost implications and amend future budgets accordingly. Planning for this expenditure now ensures that funds are available when needed and the project progresses smoothly.

Looking Ahead

Look out for System Statements and other documents from the Met Council, which will be available this fall. These resources will offer essential information that must be incorporated into comprehensive plans, helping city leaders through the process.

By September 2028, every jurisdiction must submit their updated plans to the Metropolitan Council for review and approval. It’s crucial to note that any changes to current comprehensive plans will not be accepted by the Met Council after this 2028 deadline. Inform potential developers of this requirement to guide development strategies proactively.

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan updates is a multifaceted task that requires strategic foresight and meticulous planning. By considering land use, climate action, transportation, and budgeting for assistance, city leaders can ensure that their plans are comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with statewide goals. Starting the preparation now sets the stage for successful plan updates by September 2028.

WSB is uniquely positioned to assist city leaders in navigating the complexities of comprehensive community planning. With our specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and robust project management skills, we can streamline the entire planning process, ensuring that all necessary components are addressed. By partnering with WSB, cities can confidently move forward, knowing that their community plans will be comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with long-term goals, keeping their communities thriving and resilient for years to come.

Benefits of Industrial Parks for Communities

October 15, 2024
By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning & Economic Development, WSB

Industrial parks serve as vital engines for economic growth and development within local communities. By concentrating manufacturing and industrial activities within a designated area, cities and towns can better manage resources, isolate transportation impacts, and promote innovation. These industrial zones facilitate the clustering of businesses, which can lead to increased utility efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the fostering of symbiotic relationships among companies. Moreover, industrial parks can attract additional investments, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies through increased demand for retail commercial services and housing.

Effective planning of industrial parks is crucial to maximize their benefits. City planners should conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to identify suitable locations, considering factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, availability of utilities, infrastructure capacity, and potential environmental impact. Zoning regulations need to be tailored to accommodate the specific requirements of industrial activities while ensuring the surrounding communities are protected from potential nuisances. Additionally, incorporating green spaces and sustainable practices can enhance the environmental and social appeal of these areas, making them more attractive to businesses, workers, and nearby neighbors.

Initiation and development of successful industrial parks requires a multi-faceted approach. Cities may consider offering incentives such as tax increment financing, abatements, or streamlined permitting processes to attract businesses. Collaborating with universities and vocational institutions can also drive innovation, attract start-up business prospects and provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the industrial sector. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in financing and managing these projects, ensuring that both public interests and private sector expertise are leveraged effectively. Moreover, community engagement is essential to address any concerns and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of the city’s residents.

WSB staff can provide valuable assistance in the planning and development of industrial parks. Our team of experts brings a wealth of experience in community planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. We offer comprehensive services, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to master planning and project management. By partnering with WSB, cities can ensure that their industrial park projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with their long-term economic and community goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each city we work with.

Amplifying Leadership by Advancing Accessibility in Engineering and Engagement

December 3, 2024
By Chhavi Dhingra, Senior Manager of Public Engagement, WSB

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on progress toward accessibility and the work ahead. 

Accessibility—ensuring everyone can participate fully in society—is not just a legal mandate but a moral imperative. People with disabilities contribute far beyond being users of infrastructure. They serve as leaders, trainers, reviewers, service providers and vendors, bringing expertise that enhances project outcomes. This year’s theme emphasizes the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. 

WSB strives to advance accessibility in every facet of our work. A landmark project with Minneapolis Public Works involved designing the city’s first—and the nation’s second—shared-use street with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant features. 

Recognizing that accessibility goes beyond structural changes to include digital tools, equitable communication, and inclusive urban planning, our Public Engagement team at WSB helps develop materials that address barriers such as low vision, hearing impairments, motor skill challenges, and neurodiverse conditions. Collaborating with digital technologists, we use tools like ArcGIS StoryMaps, Survey123, and Collector for ArcGIS to develop accessible websites, story maps, and web applications compliant with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

The ADA’s recent mandate to expand the scope for digital accessibility improvements for state and local governments highlights the importance of rethinking accessibility in a digital-first world. Additional information on ADA requirements for digital communications is available here. 

Accessibility is about creating a world where everyone can thrive, and WSB is committed to this vision by championing accessibility in both design and communication.