Mediating conflicts in creating the built environment

This blog will address the use of  mediation for conflict resolution in creating (planning, approving, designing, building and operating) the built environment. Mediation is defined as use of a neutral to help facilitate resolution of conflicts and coming to an agreement by negotiation or consensus building. The particular “built environment” will focus mainly on infrastructure – including energy, water, waste and transportation.  Issues include: how to conduct the mediation; when in the dispute process to mediate; should lawyers participate and attend; how and when to use experts; techniques and lessons learned.