Planning is the beginning phase of project development at TxDOT. It can encompass long-range plans or short- and mid-term plans identified by Divisions, Districts, or other stakeholders such as Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO) (see ) and LGs. The process includes collaboration between agencies, organizations and the public to identify state, regional and local needs.

This chapter discusses the tasks associated with the

Planning

phase of project development as shown in .

Many factors are considered in determining the need for a project including safety-related data, pavement condition, bridge condition, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility related data, conformance with current geometric standards, performance metrics, security, trends, issues associated with demand for moving people and goods, and resiliency. TPP develops the Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan (SLRTP) and projects are evaluated on the ability to meet its current goals and objectives.

The SLRTP goals and objectives are shown in .

This chapter includes discussion on the following topics that discuss the types of planning that take place to lead to project identification and project authorization.

2.2 Long Range Planning;

2.3 Division Plans/Programs;

2.4 District Plans/Programs;

2.5 Other Plans/Programs/Studies

2.6 Project Identification; and

2.7 Project Authorization.