H-GAC to Host Language Access Plan Public Meeting

HOUSTON, TX – The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC), which is also home to the eight-county Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), is updating its Language Access Plan (LAP). The LAP details how the organization provides access to information and the public participation process in multiple languages. The update process includes a 30-day public comment period on the draft plan where participants can submit comments.

“It’s important that we hear from folks throughout the eight-county MPO area to know how we can better provide information about our work and projects as well as make informed decisions about how we include everyone in the public participation process,” said Craig Raborn, director of the MPO at H-GAC.

In addition to the public comment period, there will also be a public meeting to present the plan and provide a way to give your feedback and ask questions in person.

Public Comment Period and Ways to Comment

Dates: July 22 – August 21, 2024
Comments can be submitted in five different ways:

1. Online – Comment Form
2. Email – [email protected]
3. Phone – 713-993-2418
4. Postal Mail – Attn: Ayo Jibowu
                                Houston-Galveston Area Council
                                3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 120
                                Houston, TX 77027
5. Attend a Virtual Public Meeting –
                                Virtual Language Access Plan Public Meeting
                                Thursday, August 8, 2024
                                5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
                                Register for the Zoom public meeting.

Why Language Access Matters

As a diverse region, it is important to ensure everyone can understand and use H-GAC's programs and information. The updated LAP will help guide H-GAC in providing information in the language people need and will understand so they can participate in our area’s transportation planning activities.

Accommodations

The public meeting will be conducted in English.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, H-GAC provides reasonable accommodations for persons attending H-GAC functions. Requests from individuals who need special accommodations should be received by H-GAC staff 24 hours in advance. Requests for language interpreters or other special communication needs should be made at least two working days before a function. To request accommodations or an interpreter, contact Ayo Jibowo at 713-993-2418.

To learn more about H-GAC’s Language Access Plan or to submit your online comment, visit: h-gac.com/go/LAP.