Microsoft HoloLens visualization
Mixed reality was used at public meetings, allowing residents to walk through 3D models before construction began.
Client
Texas Department of Transportation
Location
El Paso District
Practices
Priorities
Master planning with mixed reality visualization and community-driven engagement
US 67 is a major international freight route starting at the Mexico border. With increased traffic and rising crash rates, TxDOT's El Paso District partnered with CDM Smith to develop a corridor master plan outlining projects to end all fatalities on Texas roadways by 2050.
Eight-hour corridor bus tour
At kickoff, the team organized a bus tour of the 142-mile corridor to let stakeholders hear each other’s needs and pain points.
Keeping the public engaged and informed
One-on-one interviews were held with various interest groups, including a strong contingent of bicycle and pedestrian advocates.
Multiple channels of public engagement
Mailing lists, virtual meetings, downloadables, and online crowdsourcing helped create an ongoing public dialogue.
The diverse communities along the corridor caused TxDOT to take a unique approach to public involvement. Most travelers coming off the street had never heard of mixed reality, but it had an immediate impact on their understanding of proposed designs, creating a blueprint for the future that addressed safety while improving travel for communities along the roadway.
“We got a great response on the HoloLens,” said Rebecca Reyes, TxDOT Project Manager. “It’s an out-of-the-box way to get people involved, from local business owners to the younger generation. You can’t really walk 50 people through an intersection, so it’s a great way to help people understand, ‘Okay what does it look like to put a crosswalk here,’ and sell the ideas to them.”