Prerequisites to the Initial Project Notification include completion of a preliminary schematic or other general representation of the proposed project layout. The TxDOT Project Design Engineer has been appointed and, if applicable, a TxDOT Design Consultant has been retained. A list of potentially impacted utilities is compiled, right of way mapping has begun, and TxDOT is ready to begin design of the facility. This activity in “The Process” will typically take the form of a project specific letter of information prepared for distribution to all known utilities and other concerned parties. The purpose of the Initial Project Notification is to advise utilities of the general characteristics of an upcoming TxDOT project and to provide an illustration of the project footprint for mark-up of utility facility locations, which occupy the project area. The notification will also introduce the Responsible Party and other TxDOT contacts for the project and request the submittal of utility block maps, as-built plans or system drawings to indicate utility facility locations and other features. The Initial Project Notification will announce the time and location of the Preliminary Design Meeting (Process Activity III) below and should be sent out no less than two weeks before to ensure full attendance and to allow adequate time for compiling requested information by the utilities.