Problem Space

As local government resources are contracting and challenges ranging from economic inequality to infrastructure are compounding, cities must design new and more effective responses. Cities are increasingly looking for ways to implement promising innovations that will have a significant impact in the lives of their residents, especially those with low incomes.

Proposed Intervention

Funded by Living Cities and the Citi Foundation, the Engagement Lab led Cohort II of the Accelerator program. This 18-month program focused on civic methods to incorporate public participation into government processes in a way that’s meaningful and impactful. Cities included in City Accelerator initiative include: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Baltimore, New Orleans, and Seattle. Cities participating in each cohort will outline the progress that they intend to make in advancing innovative practice over the duration of the cohort, and then will use a number of program elements to accelerate progress on their work, including: an innovation guidebook that highlights how leading practices can be concretely adapted, periodic convenings to learn from other cities and leading practitioners, coaching, technical assistance, and implementation resources to advance strategy and overcome barriers.

Social Impact

The roadmap has been used by government organizations around the United States to aid in public engagement planning. Chart the Course, the board game that is part of the Roadmap, was played in the White House in 2015 by Obama staff interested in enhancing their public engagement capacity.