Case study on improving the effectiveness of public participation in public infrastructure megaprojects

Public participation is a critical aspect of the success of public infrastructure megaprojects (PIMs), in which ineffectiveness is a constant problem. Although studies have focused on public participation, a method that can measure and improve its effectiveness is lacking. The present study addresses this knowledge gap using a game theory model and social utility equations to measure the effectiveness of public participation in PIMs. Results indicate that the institutional arrangements and social responsibility of PIMs (SR-PIMs) determine stakeholder behaviors, which influence the effectiveness of public participation. The Shanghai Maglev construction project was used as a case study to validate the proposed model and the assumptions of the current study. A conceptual model of governance framework was proposed to enhance the effectiveness of public participation in PIMs. This study contributes to the body of knowledge concerning public participation in PIMs by measuring the effectiveness of such participation and identifying a method to improve it. The policy implication of this study for the PIM global community is that the high effectiveness of public participation entails responsible behaviors among stakeholders. That is, stakeholders should perfect institutional arrangements and cultivate SR-PIMs to reduce game space and expand social effects.