1.2.2 Project Development Stage (PDS)

The PDS describes the position of a project in its life cycle. The three main PDSs are:
  • Planning
    • A broad study that helps identify the needs and goals of future transportation. A process that involves alternatives analysis, where alternatives are considered, analyzed, compared, and selected. In the context of this manual, planning includes both the planning and programming of a project
  • Preliminary Schematics
    • The middle stage, where project information becomes more detailed and developed into a plan. In the context of this manual, preliminary design, environmental, right of way (ROW), and utilities are grouped into preliminary schematics.
  • Final/Approved Schematics and Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E)
    • The end stage when all project details and plans are developed for construction or implementation.
The PDS can be considered multi-stage if it includes a combination of Planning, Preliminary Schematics, or Final/Approved PS&E. The PDS is one factor to determine which analysis tool will be used for a project. For more information about the PDS, see
Chapter 4, Section 2
. See for an example of how to fill out this section.