Transportation Planning Process

Each year, the Transportation Commission with the assistance of SDDOT proposes, holds public hearings about, and adopts a highway construction program for the next year. SDDOT administers the entire planning process and gathers input from various stakeholders, including MPOs, the governor, local governments, the commission, legislators and the public. The program-synonymous with the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)-is based on highway needs and funding availability.

Legislative Role in Transportation Planning

No formal legislative role. Legislators can participate in the public hearings. The Legislature has essentially given control over the SDDOT budget and transportation investment priorities to the Transportation Commission, with guidance from SDDOT.