Approved by the Engineering Practice Policy Committee on February 24, 2025
Approved by the Public Policy and Practice Committee on March 28, 2025
Adopted by the Board of Direction on July 10, 2025

Policy

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) supports community involvement in infrastructure project development and design, and in legislative and regulatory decision making processes involving infrastructure projects, programs, and policies. ASCE encourages appropriate public involvement to inform, educate, and engage the public regarding proposed policies, plans, designs, projects, and programs. 

Civil engineers are encouraged to communicate with the public to:

  • Incorporate local understanding and context, needs, and conditions into project planning, development, and design processes.
  • Improve the decision-making process through collaboration and consensus building. 
  • Be viewed as a trusted resource to and partner with the public.
  • Allow for meaningful dialogue.

Civil engineers are encouraged to participate in and engage the public through:

  • Public meetings, hearings, presentations, social media, and individual or small groups meetings. 
  • Disclosure and discussions of the environmental, social, and economic impacts of decisions made with the affected communities. 
  • Active participation in elected or appointed legislative or regulatory bodies of government.

Issue

Civil engineers protect and enhance public health, safety, and welfare through infrastructure projects, programs, and policies. Local public engagement provides insight on local conditions, needs, and understanding to produce complete and effective infrastructure projects. Enhanced transparency and public awareness are important in identifying long-term effects of infrastructure on the health, safety, and welfare of project stakeholders. 

Rationale

Civil engineers have a responsibility to protect and enhance public health, safety, and welfare. The analysis of costs, benefits, and impacts of proposed infrastructure projects, programs, and policies is essential. Transparency and communication of these analyses to the general public will assist public officials in making better-informed decisions on infrastructure and projects. Public involvement in the decision-making process for infrastructure improves project outcomes and support. 

This policy has worldwide application
ASCE Policy Statement 139
First Approved pre-1974

Related policies
PS 417 - Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
PS 418 - The role of the Civil Engineer in Sustainable Development