7.2.3 Assemble Steering Committee
Depending on the type of study, one of the initial steps for corridor planning could be to assemble a Steering Committee or a team that provides direction from a technical and policy standpoint. This committee may consist of representatives from TxDOT Districts and Divisions, MPOs, active transportation stakeholders cities, transit agency, consultant team, and other agencies that could be part of the corridor planning process. It is important to make sure the group does not become too large, as a large committee may impede efficiency of the planning process. The purpose of this group is to have regularly scheduled meetings to help establish goals and objectives, make sure the project is on track, communicate any outstanding needs and information, and develop solutions. Frequency of these meetings is based on the project scope of work and the committee’s role and involvement. Not all corridor planning projects warrant a Steering Committee.
Note that the Steering Committee is different than the stakeholders. Stakeholders may include the individuals from the Steering Committee as well as residents, business owners, developers, commuters, elected officials, advocacy groups, and whoever else could be applicable or have an interest in the study.