Transportation Planning Process

The Transportation Commission (appointed by the governor and approved by the General Assembly), in coordination with the CDOT executive director, is charged with allocation of funds and project identification, selection, prioritization and approval. CDOT provides the commission with reports, statistics, information and assistance. The CDOT executive director is required by state law to plan, develop, construct, coordinate and promote an integrated transportation system and initiate such comprehensive planning measures as he or she deems necessary. CDOT has an extensive planning process that includes local governments and other stakeholders in project selection and planning. Key priority decisions, however, rest with the Transportation Commission.

Legislative Role in Transportation Planning

Limited. The General Assembly determines statutory funding formulas and overall authority, gives some direction regarding priorities, and enacts some specific appropriations. Specific project planning and approval are delegated to the Transportation Commission.