The role of stakeholder engagement in the development of sustainable rail infrastructure systems

Planning efforts are underway in the United States to evaluate rail passenger and freight capacity that promote goals of economic development, sustainability and livable communities. Success of such planning efforts depends on consensus and support among the key stakeholders and also the general public. This research investigates the impact of stakeholder attitudes and perception on rail infrastructure planning efforts in Missouri, a Midwestern state in the USA. It is important that stakeholders with an interest in community economic development play an active role in the development of the rail network. Ample opportunity must be provided for meaningful input, and stakeholders must be aware that their issues have been heard and understood. Data collected through surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and public meetings conducted across the state are used to develop a stakeholder engagement process. The social factors and uncertainties that affect planning for a sustainable rail network are identified and validated using qualitative and quantitative methods. The process developed provides guidance to transportation planners in the creation of a comprehensive rail plan.