The Bloomington Engagement Vehicle (BEV) is a new tool designed to help the city connect with the community. It provides an opportunity for those unable to attend a town hall or public meeting to provide feedback, learn about city projects, and ask questions. The engagement vehicle will meet residents where they are at by visiting neighborhoods, community events, and gathering places.
BEV meet the City Council’s strategic priorities of equity and inclusion and community image by helping community members connect with their city in a place they are comfortable. The vehicle says “Hi Neighbor” in English and seven of the city’s most commonly spoken foreign languages. These languages are Spanish, Somali, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, Hmong and Urdu.
Engagement vehicles are being used in many cities across the country. Bloomington’s 2009 vehicle has been repurposed from the City’s existing fleet and was designed by its in-house graphic designer. Costs for BEV are partially funded by South Loop Creative Placemaking funds.
