Dallas–Fort Worth High-Speed Transportation Connections Study
Strategic Communications, Stakeholder Coordination & Public Engagement
Client: North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG)
The Challenge
The Dallas–Fort Worth High-Speed Transportation Connections Study is a groundbreaking, multi-agency effort to evaluate future high-speed travel between two of Texas’ most important economic hubs. Led by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), the federally funded, $11 million study explores high-speed passenger and cargo technologies, more than 40 potential alignments, and environmental and cost implications.
Spanning the cities of Dallas, Arlington, and Fort Worth—as well as Dallas and Tarrant counties—the project has the potential to connect with other planned high-performance transportation systems across Texas. Key stakeholders include the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), TxDOT, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, DART, Trinity Metro, and multiple local jurisdictions.
With so many partners and politically sensitive topics—such as right-of-way acquisition, construction cost, and technology choices—the study demanded a communications strategy capable of balancing agency coordination, public transparency, and regional alignment.
Our Approach
Pavlik and Associates has supported the project team from the beginning of Phase 1 (Feasibility Study) and continues to serve as the public engagement and stakeholder communications lead in Phase 2 (Environmental Review / NEPA process).
We developed and now manage a comprehensive and inclusive engagement strategy designed to reach broad audiences, build consensus, and maintain momentum. Our role includes message development, stakeholder coordination, branded content, and digital outreach—all tied together under a cohesive and compelling project identity.
Highlights from Phase 1 (2020–2021):
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Organized and facilitated 150+ community meetings across the corridor
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Increased public participation tenfold, compared to traditional engagement metrics
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Developed and distributed monthly newsletters, growing the contact list to over 7,700 stakeholders
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Created the “High-Speed Update” newsletter and “The Need for Speed” campaign, both recognized with 2023 Hermes Creative Awards (Platinum and Gold)
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Effectively implemented virtual public meetings, with increased attendance, questions, and feedback
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Launched an online engagement platform to manage real-time comments, inquiries, and follow-up
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Applied a dynamic, recognizable project brand that clearly distinguished the study from typical government planning efforts
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In Phase 2, Pavlik continues to lead messaging and outreach while supporting NEPA documentation and coordination with public agencies and local governments.
The Impact
Through proactive, inclusive outreach, Pavlik has helped turn a highly technical and politically nuanced project into one the public and stakeholders can engage with. Public participation is no longer limited to a small circle—it’s active, informed, and widespread.
By balancing the needs of multiple agencies, maintaining brand consistency, and simplifying complex issues, Pavlik has helped ensure the project stays on track, builds support, and moves forward with clarity and credibility.
Services
Provided
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Stakeholder and community engagement
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Strategic message development and content creation
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Communications and media planning
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Brand development and graphic design
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Newsletter writing and design (“High-Speed Update”)
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Digital engagement platform management
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Public meeting facilitation (in-person and virtual)
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Analysis and documentation of public comments
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Social media strategy and execution
Project Partners
We support the North Central Texas Council of Governments as a communications and engagement subconsultant to HNTB, serving alongside transportation, environmental, and engineering experts across the region.