Coulee Connections Study to begin area phone surveys next week

July 3, 2008

LA CROSSE - The Coulee Connections Study will begin conducting telephone questionnaires among area residents next week.

The Coulee Connections Study, led by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), is examining current and future transportation needs of the La Crosse area, with safety, congestion, livable neighborhoods and environmental preservation as top priorities. The telephone surveys will help identify issues of most concern to area residents.

Interact Communications is conducting the survey on behalf of WisDOT. It will include a random sample of residents in the greater La Crosse area, including La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Stoddard and townships between. It takes approximately seven minutes to complete.

“This is the second of many steps to involve the public in this study,” said Joe Olson, WisDOT Regional Director, explaining the first step was a series of focus groups conducted among residents and businesses.

“This randomized study will help us learn the opinions and views of people throughout the area,” Olson said. “We hope people will take the time to respond to the survey if called. We need public input every step of the way to ensure the study results reflect the concerns, priorities and preferences of the people who live and work in the region. In this time of record-high gas prices, we are seeing some shifts in travel patterns. Surveys such as this ensure we are accurately reflecting public views and preferences.”

WisDOT is working with Short Elliott Hendrickson to conduct the Coulee Connections Study. The study will occur over the next couple years and will assess several transportation alternatives and modes, including congestion management, improving the existing roadway network and bike, pedestrian and mass transit opportunities.

For more information contact:
Michael Bie, Wisconsin Department of Transportation 
(608) 246-7928

Annette Mikat, Mikat Public Relations, Inc.
(608) 782-1780