Institute for Engagement & Negotiation

Community-based Research

IEN Services

Much of IEN's work is a form of community-based research, sometimes short-term with very focused goals, and sometimes more long-term interdisciplinary academic research projects. Our research takes many forms, including:

  • Situation assessments (what are the issues, challenges, opportunities)
  • Stakeholder surveys and analysis
  • Qualitative interviews
  • Focus groups
  • Stakeholder engagement (numerous forms)
  • Community workshops
  • Symposia
  • Collaborative summits
  • Technical advisory groups
  • Collaboratively developed research protocols
  • Issue briefs

Case Studies

Hamilton Bridge

In Louisa County, VA, the Hamilton Road Bridge crosses the South Anna River on Rt. 695. Built in 1929, the small bridge is part of the Green Springs National Historic Landmark District, a designation received by the area in 1974. In recent decades, the condition of the bridge has deteriorated, resulting in a reduction by VDOT in the posted weight limit to ensure safety. This reduction impacted nearby residents who use the bridge, as well as the ability of emergency vehicles to reach them. The Louisa County Board of Supervisors asked the Virginia Department of Transportation to address these issues; VDOT hired IEN in turn to engage local stakeholders. While here are differing levels of support for preserving the historic quality and character of the bridge relative to expediting repair of the bridge and minimizing costs, all community members agree that safety is a top priority. IEN has facilitated discussions between VDOT, preservation advocates, and other local interests to evaluate possible paths forward that would ensure the bridge meets safety requirements for operation while addressing other stakeholder interests. 

Urban Forestry Action Plan

IEN is partnering with the US Forest Service (USFS) to assess the implementation of the Ten-Year Urban Forestry Action Plan for the National Urban and Community Forestry Advisory Council (NUCFAC).

IEN facilitated the development of the Ten-Year Action Plan in 2015-2016 and led a five-year assessment in 2022, providing the USFS with a 5-Year Benchmark Report.  IEN continued to evaluate the Plan's implementation through its completion and identified its many successes, emerging issues and key opportunities that might inform future work in this area.