ABSTRACT
This chapter examines strategies for land managers and community leaders to encourage collaboration in planning, supporting and using alternative transportation systems. Many of the documented strategies have covered cases in the United States although the chapter incorporates international references where available. First, the chapter focuses on communities close enough to protected lands to participate in planning local transportation systems. Some communities act as gateways to the protected lands, offering lodging, food, and supplies visitors need. Then the chapter explores the characteristics of gateway and inholding communities as well as techniques and considerations for engaging local stakeholders. Case studies have shown the importance of community support for generating ridership and visitor use of alternative transportation systems. The extra effort required for a stakeholder-driven planning process can pay off with local support and encouragement of sound transportation choices among locals and visitors. A robust collaborative process emerges from strong communication, demonstrated mutual respect and openness to teaching and learning from all stakeholders.
