nm3clol-public/Cumberland_Plateau_Planning_District_Commission/VDOT-Public-Involvement-Plan/README.md

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title: VDOT-Public-Involvement-Plan
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Public Involvement 
Your Guide to Participating in the Transportation Planning and Programming Process





Americans with
Disabilities Act

VDOT and DRPT encourage

full citizen participation and

provide accommodations for

persons with disabilities in the

public involvement processes

by:

u Holding meetings in a

fully accessible facility

u Providing documents 

in alternate formats 

upon request

u Considering accessible

presentation 

alternatives such as 

videos with real-time 

captioning, the use of

interpreters, or the 

provision of documents 

in Braille

We Need Your Voice
In Transportation Decisions

The Commonwealth of Virginia believes in
the importance of an informed public and
the value of input from all citizens. This input
is especially important regarding decisions
affecting roadways and transit systems. An
open exchange of information among 
transportation users and government officials
leads to better decision making. With
increasing demands on limited public
resources, transportation projects cannot 
proceed without public support through
open and inclusive planning and 
programming processes.

This guide is meant to inform you of the processes and your role in them, and also
to educate you as to how you can become involved. Only through direct public
participation by all stakeholders can we create a transportation network that will
serve all citizens and carry Virginia into the future.

You Can Make A Difference

All citizens are affected by transportation decisions. Whether you drive, ride, walk
or bike to get around, transportation systems impact your daily life. By voicing
your ideas at Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Department of
Rail and Public Transit (DRPT) meetings and through other means outlined in this
document, you can help change transportation in Virginia for the better.  

Public Involvement in Action

Here is an example of citizen participation that helped guide transporta-
tion plans to suit the individuality of a region:

When citizens of Aldie, Middleburg and
Upperville disagreed with plans to 
correct traffic problems on Route 50 in
their downtown areas, they organized 
to discuss alternatives. The result was 
the Route 50 Corridor Coalition and the
Route 50 Traffic Calming Task Force.
Comprised of local citizens, community
groups, business people, elected 
officials, designers, and VDOT staff, the
groups created a new traffic design for
the project based on traffic calming 
techniques. In the end, the award-
winning roadway was beneficial for all those involved.

1

Americans with
Disabilities Act

VDOT and DRPT encourage
full citizen participation and
provide accommodations for
persons with disabilities in the
public involvement processes
by:

Holding meetings in a
fully accessible facility

© Providing documents
in alternate formats
upon request

© Considering accessible
presentation
alternatives such as
videos with real-time
captioning, the use of
interpreters, or the
provision of documents
in Braille

We Need Your Voice
In Transportation Decisions

The Commonwealth of Virginia believes in
the importance of an informed public and
the value of input from all citizens. This input
is especially important regarding decisions
affecting roadways and transit systems. An
open exchange of information among
transportation users and government officials
leads to better decision making. With
increasing demands on limited public
resources, transportation projects cannot,
proceed without public support through
open and inclusive planning and
programming processes.

This guide is meant to inform you of the processes and your role in them, and also
to educate you as to how you can become involved. Only through direct public
participation by all stakeholders can we create a transportation network that will
serve all citizens and carry Virginia into the future.

You Can Make A Difference

All citizens are affected by transportation decisions. Whether you drive, ride, walk
or bike to get around, transportation systems impact your daily life. By voicing
your ideas at Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Department of
Rail and Public Transit (DRPT) meetings and through other means outlined in this
document, you can help change transportation in Virginia for the better.

Public Involvement in Action

Here is an example of citizen participation that helped guide transporta-
tion plans to suit the individuality of a region:

When citizens of Aldie, Middleburg and
Upperville disagreed with plans to
correct traffic problems on Route 50 in
their downtown areas, they organized
to discuss alternatives. The result was
the Route 50 Corridor Coalition and the
Route 50 Traffic Calming Task Force.
Comprised of local citizens, community
groups, business people, elected
officials, designers, and VDOT staff, the
groups created a new traffic design for
‘the project based on traffic calming
techniques. In the end, the award-
winning roadway was beneficial for all those involved





Public Involvement 
Goals and Objectives

Our goal is to provide all citizens with ongoing opportunities to participate in the
transportation project development process, which includes planning, program-
ming, design, right of way acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance
of roadways. 

Transportation planning is the process of defining problems and opportunities,
identifying potential courses of action, evaluating the alternatives, gathering public
input, and recommending a set of specific improvements. 

Transportation programming entails deciding when specific project stages should
be funded, or programmed, within budgetary constraints.  

Our goals for public participation during planning and programming are to:

u Identify improvements to the transportation system that will help citizens meet 
their mobility needs  

u Identify and document community support or concerns with planned 
transportation improvements, and carry that information forward for 
consideration in project development decisions

u Prioritize proposed improvements and recommend which should be 
programmed and moved forward in the project development process

The primary objectives of this public involvement guide are to:

u Educate citizens about the planning and programming processes
u Explain where in those processes the public can participate
u Explain how the public’s input will be used

Take a Look Around

Consider the roads and streets around your home, neighborhood, city and state.
Do they seem more congested than before? Do you worry about urban sprawl or
air quality? Do you want to see more opportunities for multi-modal transportation
in your area? VDOT and DRPT work to ensure that roadways, rail and transit 
efficiently move people and goods. We need your comments to determine where
to concentrate our efforts. By attending meetings, writing letters, speaking to your
local officials and VDOT or DRPT representatives, and keeping current with 
information, you can help plan for Virginia’s future.

The Stages of 
Road Building

1.  Planning and

Programming 

(6-24 months)

2.  Design

(15-24 months)

3.  Environmental Studies

(9-36 months)

4.  Purchase of Right of 

Way (6-21 months)

5.  Construction

(12-36 months)

The length of time between

the conception of a trans-

portation improvement and

its completion can take

between two and 10 years,

or longer. The planning and

programming processes 

discussed in this guide are

just a part of the develop-

ment of transportation 

projects from conception to

completion.

The public participation

opportunities outlined in

this brochure are not the

only ways for citizens of

the Commonwealth to

influence VDOT’s and

DRPT’s actions. Each

VDOT construction project

offers public involvement

opportunities so that 

citizens may voice their

opinions throughout a

roadway’s development.

2

Public Involvement
Goals and Objectives

Our goal is to provide all citizens with ongoing opportunities to participate in the
transportation project development process, which includes planning, program-
ming, design, right of way acquisition, construction, operation, and maintenance
‘of roadways.

Transportation planning is the process of defining problems and opportunities,
identifying potential courses of action, evaluating the alternatives, gathering public
input, and recommending a set of specific improvements.

Transportation programming entails deciding when specific project stages should
be funded, or programmed, within budgetary constraints.

Our goals for public participation during planning and programming are to:

Identify improvements to the transportation system that will help citizens meet
their mobility needs

Identify and document community support or concerns with planned
transportation improvements, and carry that information forward for
consideration in project development decisions

‘Prioritize proposed improvements and recommend which should be
programmed and moved forward in the project development process

The primary objectives of this public involvement quide are to:

@ Educate citizens about the planning and programming processes
© Explain where in those processes the public can participate
© Explain how the public's input will be used

Take a Look Around

Consider the roads and streets around your home, neighborhood, city and state.
Do they seem more congested than before? Do you worry about urban sprawl or
air quality? Do you want to see more opportunities for multi-modal transportation
in your area? VDOT and DRPT work to ensure that roadways, rail and transit
efficiently move people and goods. We need your comments to determine where
to concentrate our efforts. By attending meetings, writing letters, speaking to your
local officials and VDOT or DRPT representatives, and keeping current with
information, you can help plan for Virginia's future.

The Stages of
Road Building

1. Planning and
Programming
(6-24 months)

2. Design
(15-24 months)

3. Environmental Studies
(9-36 months)

4. Purchase of Right of
Way (6-21 months)

5. Construction
(12-36 months)

The length of time between
the conception of a trans-
portation improvement and
its completion can take
between two and 10 years,
or longer. The planning and
programming processes
discussed in this guide are
just a part of the develop-
ment of transportation
projects from conception to
completion.

The public participation
opportunities outlined in
this brochure are not the
only ways for citizens of
the Commonwealth to
influence VDOT's and
DRPT's actions. Each
VDOT construction project
offers public involvement
opportunities so that
citizens may voice their
opinions throughout a
roadway's development.




Metropolitan
Planning
Organization (MPO):

An MPO is a federally required

planning body responsible for

the transportation planning

and project selection in its

region; the governor 

designates an MPO in every

urbanized area with a 

population of over 50,000. 

Urbanized areas containing

MPOs in Virginia include:

Blacksburg

Bristol

Charlottesville

Danville

Fredericksburg

Hampton Roads 

Harrisonburg

Kingsport 

Lynchburg

Tri-Cities

Richmond

Roanoke

Washington-Metro Area

Winchester

The Details: Planning

Citizens play an essential role in the development of transportation plans by help-
ing identify community goals and objectives, establishing a common vision, identi-
fying transportation problems and potential solutions, and helping decision-mak-
ers set priorities. Important products of the transportation planning process are
the Statewide Transportation Plan, the State Highway Plan and the State Rail Plan.
These, along with small urban area studies and corridor and feasibility 
studies, help guide transportation improvements needed for the future.  

The Statewide Transportation Plan 
The Statewide Transportation Plan (VTrans) represents the Commonwealth’s
commitment to uniting all modes of transportation in Virginia (highways,
bike and pedestrian facilities, rail and public transportation, ports and avia-
tion) into a coordinated planning effort spearheaded by the Virginia
Secretary of Transportation. Updated every five years, the plan sets forth
transportation policies, strategies, and programs to guide Virginia's trans-
portation agencies (VDOT, DRPT, Virginia Department of Aviation, and
Virginia Port Authority) for the future. The VTrans public involvement process
includes stakeholder and citizen meetings, special interest group meetings,
surveys, brochures, videos, an e-mail address, a toll-free number and a 
Web site. For more information, visit www.vtrans.org.

The State Highway Plan
The State Highway Plan, a long-range plan updated every five years, outlines
recommended improvements to the interstate and primary road systems.
Several components are combined in developing the plan, including MPO
plans from urbanized areas, small urban area transportation studies, and 
corridor studies. Analysis used in the development of the State Highway Plan
serves as a foundation for identifying highway needs in the Statewide
Transportation Plan.  

There are several key opportunities during the development of the State
Highway Plan for citizens to get involved. VDOT holds annual public 
information meetings in each of VDOT’s nine construction districts to seek
public input on identifying State Highway Plan goals and objectives and
transportation issues, or to receive comments on draft highway recommen-
dations on the interstate and primary road systems. VDOT’s Web site lets the
public review recommendations and provide feedback on the State Highway
Plan. In addition, the draft and final versions of the State Highway Plan will
be made available on the Web site and at VDOT district offices for citizens to
review and respond.3

Metropolitan
Planning
Organization (MPO):

‘An MPO is a federally required
planning body responsible for
the transportation planning
and project selection in its
region; the governor
designates an MPO in every
urbanized area with a
population of over 50,000.

Urbanized areas containing
MPOs in Virginia include:

Blacksburg
Bristol

Charlottesville

Danville

Fredericksburg

Hampton Roads
Harrisonburg

Kingsport

Lynchburg

Tri-Cities

Richmond

Roanoke
Washington-Metro Area
Winchester

The Details: Planning

Citizens play an essential role in the development of transportation plans by help-
ing identify community goals and objectives, establishing a common vision, identi-
fying transportation problems and potential solutions, and helping decision-mmak-
ers set priorities. Important products of the transportation planning process are
the Statewide Transportation Plan, the State Highway Plan and the State Rail Plan.
These, along with small urban area studies and corridor and feasibility

studies, help guide transportation improvements needed for the future.

The Statewide Transportation Plan

The Statewide Transportation Plan (VTrans) represents the Commonwealth's
commitment to uniting all modes of transportation in Virginia (highways,
bike and pedestrian facilities, rail and public transportation, ports and avia~
tion) into a coordinated planning effort spearheaded by the Virginia
Secretary of Transportation. Updated every five years, the plan sets forth
transportation policies, strategies, and programs to guide Virginia's trans-
portation agencies (VDOT, DRPT, Virginia Department of Aviation, and
Virginia Port Authority) for the future. The VIrans public involvement process
includes stakeholder and citizen meetings, special interest group meetings,
surveys, brochures, videos, an e-mail address, a toll-free number and a
Web site. For more information, visit www.vtrans.org.

The State Highway Plan

The State Highway Plan, a long-range plan updated every five years, outlines
recommended improvements to the interstate and primary road systems.
Several components are combined in developing the plan, including MPO
plans from urbanized areas, small urban area transportation studies, and
corridor studies. Analysis used in the development of the State Highway Plan
serves as a foundation for identifying highway needs in the Statewide
Transportation Plan.

There are several key opportunities during the development of the State
Highway Plan for citizens to get involved. VDOT holds annual public
information meetings in each of VDOT's nine construction districts to seek
public input on identifying State Highway Plan goals and objectives and
transportation issues, or to receive comments on draft highway recommen-
dations on the interstate and primary road systems. VDOT's Web site lets the
public review recommendations and provide feedback on the State Highway
Pian. In addition, the draft and final versions of the State Highway Plan will
be made available on the Web site and at VDOT district offices for citizens to
review and respond.




Small Urban Area Transportation Studies
VDOT conducts small urban area transportation studies in urban areas with
populations between 2,500 and 49,999. Long-range transportation plans
are developed in partnership with local officials to address travel issues and
identify transportation needs in these areas for the next 20 years.
Recommendations (i.e. projects) from small urban area transportation studies
are incorporated into the State Highway Plan. 

Public information meetings are held for each small urban area transporta-
tion study to give citizens a chance to comment on the recommendations.
Small urban area transportation studies are available on VDOT’s Web site,
where citizens are encouraged to comment on the plan. All comments will
be considered by VDOT and localities during plan development and prior to
plan adoption. More information about the studies is available at 
www.vdoturbanplans.com.

Corridor and Feasibility Studies 
Corridor studies are conducted by VDOT and DRPT for significant transporta-
tion projects, such as major highway or transit improvements. These studies
seek to identify the mix of transportation improvements that would be most
effective in moving people and goods in specific travel corridors and balanc-
ing those improvements with available funding and community concerns. 

Feasibility studies are performed on a proposed strategy to determine the
degree to which: 

u The design or location is economically justified 
u An alternative is considered preferable from an environmental or social 

perspective
u Eventual construction and operation can be financed and managed

At least one public meeting is held in a study area to allow citizens to 
comment on the proposed alternatives. Information on most of the corridor
and feasibility studies is available through VDOT's and DRPT’s Web sites.
Recommendations from corridor and feasibility studies can be incorporated
into the State Highway Plan, State Rail Plan or related documents such as
the Rail, Public Transportation and Travel Demand Management Needs
Assessment.

Virginia State Rail Plan
DRPT prepares short- and long-term need assessments for rail, public trans-
portation and travel demand management. The DRPT Virginia State Rail
Plan’s principle purpose is to convey the magnitude of rail needs in the state
and set forth policies, goals and objectives that guide freight and passenger
service through 2025. It is built upon the Rail Needs Assessment. Public
involvement for the plan is provided through the public involvement process
for the Statewide Transportation Plan.

Virginia Public Transportation and TDM Plan
The DRPT Virginia Public Transportation and Transportation Demand
Management Plan conveys critical information about public transportation
and transportation demand management issues, needs, choices, costs, and
benefits within a larger public policy context. It is designed to set forth a
framework through which public transportation and demand management
services in Virginia will be implemented long term. 

Public Involvement

Planning
versus 
Programming

Early public involvement in

planning helps us determine

solutions needed to address

transportation issues. 

Public involvement for pro-

gramming helps us decide

where to concentrate the

state and federal funding

VDOT and DRPT receive.

4

Small Urban Area Transportation Studies

VDOT conducts small urban area transportation studies in urban areas with
populations between 2,500 and 49,999, Long-range transportation plans
are developed in partnership with local officials to address travel issues and
identify transportation needs in these areas for the next 20 years.
Recommendations (ie. projects) from small urban area transportation studies
are incorporated into the State Highway Plan.

Public information meetings are held for each small urban area transporta-
tion study to give citizens a chance to comment on the recommendations.
‘Small urban area transportation studies are available on VDOT's Web site,
where citizens are encouraged to comment on the plan. All comments will
be considered by VDOT and localities during plan development and prior to
plan adoption. More information about the studies is available at
‘wwww.vdoturbanplans.com.

Corridor and Feasibility Studies

Corridor studies are conducted by VDOT and DRPT for significant transporta-
tion projects, such as major highway or transit improvements. These studies

seek to identify the mix of transportation improvements that would be most
effective in moving people and goods in specific travel corridors and balanc-
ing those improvements with available funding and community concerns.

Feasibility studies are performed on a proposed strategy to determine the
degree to which

@ The design or location is economically justified

# Analternative is considered preferable from an environmental or social
perspective

@ Eventual construction and operation can be financed and managed

‘At least one public meeting is held in a study area to allow citizens to
comment on the proposed alternatives. Information on most of the corridor
and feasibility studies is available through VDOT's and DRPT’s Web sites.
Recommendations from corridor and feasibility studies can be incorporated
into the State Highway Plan, State Rail Plan or related documents such as
the Rail, Public Transportation and Travel Demand Management Needs
Assessment.

Virginia State Rail Plan

DRPT prepares short- and long-term need assessments for rail, public trans-
portation and travel demand management. The DRPT Virginia State Rail
Plan's principle purpose is to convey the magnitude of rail needs in the state
and set forth policies, goals and objectives that guide freight and passenger
service through 2025. Itis built upon the Rail Needs Assessment. Public
involvement for the plan is provided through the public involvement process
for the Statewide Transportation Plan.

Virginia Public Transportation and TDM Plan

The DRPT Virginia Public Transportation and Transportation Demand
Management Plan conveys critical information about public transportation
and transportation demand management issues, needs, choices, costs, and
benefits within a larger public policy context. Its designed to set forth a
framework through which public transportation and demand management
services in Virginia will be implemented long term.

Public Involvement

Planning
versus
Programming

Early public involvement in
planning helps us determine
solutions needed to address
transportation issues.

Public involvement for pro-
‘gramming helps us decide
where to concentrate the
state and federal funding
VDOT and DRPT receive.





The Details: Programming

The programming process represents the public’s final opportunity to comment on
a project before funding determinations are made. This public participation is
paramount in today’s tight financial environment where VDOT and DRPT must
make decisions with limited resources. By participating at the programming stage,
citizens can help determine where those resources are focused.  

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is a federal 
programming document used to commit federal funds to projects for the next
three years. The program includes projects identified in the Commonwealth’s
14 MPO area Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs), as well as all road-
way and transit projects outside MPO areas that will receive federal funding.
The MPOs are required to carry out separate public involvement processes for
their TIPs. VDOT and DRPT conduct public involvement processes for those
roadway and transit projects outside MPO areas.

The Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) is a state document, updated annu-
ally, that earmarks funds for transportation projects proposed for construction,
development or study in the next six fiscal years. All projects in the SYIP that
are eligible for federal funding are included in the STIP. The public involvement
process for the STIP and SYIP occur concurrently and include the following:

u Public information meetings are held annually in nine regions across the 
Commonwealth to give citizens a key opportunity to comment on what 
transportation improvements should be programmed next. The public 
input received at these meetings is used in the development of a 
tentative SYIP.

u A public hearing is held by the CTB in the spring each year for comment 
on the tentative SYIP. The tentative program undergoes a 45-day review 
period, where copies of the program are available for public review 
online at VDOT’s Web site, on DRPT’s Web site and at main VDOT and 
DRPT offices.

Commonwealth
Transportation
Board (CTB)

The CTB guides the work of

VDOT and DRPT, much like a

board of directors. The board

is comprised of 17 members

who are appointed by the

governor and confirmed by

the General Assembly. The

CTB is a policy board, 

meaning that it declares the

policies and regulations used

by VDOT and DRPT. It meets

on the third Thursday of most

months to discuss the 

location of routes, the

approval of construction con-

tracts, the creation of traffic

regulations, the naming of

highways, and the allocation

of the Transportation Trust

Fund. For more information

on the CTB, their meeting

schedule, and the guidelines

for offering comments at 

CTB meetings, visit 

www.virginiadot.org/ or call

804-786-3090.

5

Commonwealth
Transportation
Board (CTB)

The CTB guides the work of
VOT and DRPT, much like a
board of directors. The board
is comprised of 17 members
who are appointed by the
governor and confirmed by
the General Assembly. The
CTB is a policy board,
meaning that it declares the
policies and regulations used
by VDOT and DRPT. It meets
on the third Thursday of most
months to discuss the
location of routes, the
approval of construction con-
tracts, the creation of traffic
regulations, the naming of
highways, and the allocation
of the Transportation Trust
Fund. For more information
on the CTB, their meeting
schedule, and the guidelines
for offering comments at
CTB meetings, visit

www virginiadot.org/ or call
804-786-3090.

The Details: Programming

The programming process represents the public’s final opportunity to comment on
a project before funding determinations are made. This public participation is
paramount in today’s tight financial environment where VDOT and DRPT must
make decisions with limited resources. By participating at the programming stage,
citizens can help determine where those resources are focused

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program

The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) is a federal
programming document used to commit federal funds to projects for the next
‘three years. The program includes projects identified in the Commonwealth's
14 MPO area Transportation Improvement Programs (TIPs), as well as all road-
way and transit projects outside MPO areas that will receive federal funding.
‘The MPOs are required to carry out separate public involvement processes for
their TIPs. VDOT and DRPT conduct public involvement processes for those
roadway and transit projects outside MPO areas.

The Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP) is a state document, updated annu-
ally, that earmarks funds for transportation projects proposed for construction,
development or study in the next six fiscal years. All projects in the SYIP that
are eligible for federal funding are included in the STIP. The public involvement
pprocess for the STIP and SYIP occur concurrently and include the following

© Public information meetings are held annually in nine regions across the
Commonwealth to give citizens a key opportunity to comment on what
transportation improvements should be programmed next. The public
input received at these meetings is used in the development of a
tentative SYIP.

@ A public hearing is held by the CTB in the spring each year for comment
on the tentative SYIP. The tentative program undergoes a 45-day review
period, where copies of the program are available for public review
online at VDOT's Web site, on DRPT's Web site and at main VDOT and
DRPT offices.




DRPT and the Six-Year Program
Every winter, usually in December, DRPT advertises through newspapers the
availability of federal and state funding for public transportation, transportation
demand management, and human service agency program grants. Local officials
with existing or new programs may apply for the grants online at DRPT’s 
Web site. The applications are reviewed and selected under the CTB public
involvement process, and grants are awarded for the fiscal year that begins in
July of the following year. The tentative allocations of the available federal and
state funds to support the DRPT projects are included in the SYIP. Those pro-
grams or projects eligible for federal funds also are included in the STIP.

County Secondary Six-Year Plan
State law requires the development and publication of separate programs for
the secondary system of state highways in each county, known as the
Secondary Six-Year Plan. Secondary roads are state maintained roads generally
numbered 600 and above.

The process of developing Secondary Six-Year Plans is a partnership between
VDOT and local governments. The process begins when the VDOT resident
engineers recommend projects to their respective counties for inclusion in the
county Secondary Six-Year Plan. These secondary projects can come from 
current VDOT improvement programs, citizen requests, requests by the county,
and needs identified by VDOT. The board of supervisors establishes project 
priorities and VDOT residency staff prepares a draft Secondary Six-Year Plan.  

Public hearings are generally conducted between October and December to 
collect citizens’ comments on secondary road needs and the draft program.
Following the public hearings, the board of supervisors formally establishes proj-
ect priorities by adopting a resolution approving the project list and budget for
the upcoming fiscal year. Once the Secondary Six-Year Plan is completed for each
county and administrative determinations are made regarding the type of fund-
ing applicable to each project, the program becomes a component of the STIP.

Transportation Enhancement Program  
The Transportation Enhancement Program is a federal program administered
by VDOT that provides funds to communities for projects that strengthen the
cultural, aesthetic, or environmental value of the transportation system.
Transportation enhancement projects are selected through a competitive
process, and the funds are provided through reimbursement, not grants. Any
local government, state agency, group or individual may initiate a transporta-
tion enhancement project. Prior to submission, all projects require formal
endorsement by a local jurisdiction or public agency and an advertised public
hearing. The public is encouraged to provide comments during public hearing
workshops and to VDOT as part of the transportation enhancement 
application package. Selected transportation enhancement projects are 
incorporated into the STIP.

VDOT and DRPT
Don’t Do It Alone

Transportation plans and 

programs result from a 

collaborative effort between

many players and partners.

Roadway, transit and bicycle

and pedestrian needs are 

balanced with funding 

constraints and political and 

citizen influence. Working

together, citizens, politicians

and transportation officials

can create solutions to the

issues facing the 

transportation system.

6

DRPT and the Six-Year Program

Every winter, usually in December, DRPT advertises through newspapers the
availability of federal and state funding for public transportation, transportation
demand management, and human service agency program grants. Local officials
with existing or new programs may apply for the grants online at DRPT's

Web site. The applications are reviewed and selected under the CTB public
involvement process, and grants are awarded for the fiscal year that begins in
July of the following year. The tentative allocations of the available federal and
state funds to support the DRPT projects are included in the SYIP. Those pro-
grams or projects eligible for federal funds also are included in the STIP.

County Secondary Six-Year Plan

State law requires the development and publication of separate programs for
the secondary system of state highways in each county, known as the
Secondary Six-Year Plan. Secondary roads are state maintained roads generally
numbered 600 and above.

The process of developing Secondary Six-Year Plans is a partnership between
VDOT and local governments. The process begins when the VDOT resident
engineers recommend projects to their respective counties for inclusion in the
county Secondary Six-Year Plan. These secondary projects can come from
current VDOT improvement programs, citizen requests, requests by the county,
and needs identified by VDOT. The board of supervisors establishes project
priorities and VDOT residency staff prepares a draft Secondary Six-Year Plan.

Public hearings are generally conducted between October and December to
collect citizens’ comments on secondary road needs and the draft program.
Following the public hearings, the board of supervisors formally establishes proj-
ect priorities by adopting a resolution approving the project list and budget for
‘the upcoming fiscal year. Once the Secondary Six-Year Plan is completed for each
county and administrative determinations are made regarding the type of fund-
ing applicable to each project, the program becomes a component of the STIP.

Transportation Enhancement Program

The Transportation Enhancement Program is a federal program administered
by VDOT that provides funds to communities for projects that strengthen the
cultural, aesthetic, or environmental value of the transportation system.
Transportation enhancement projects are selected through a competitive
process, and the funds are provided through reimbursement, not grants. Any
local government, state agency, group or individual may initiate a transporta-
tion enhancement project. Prior to submission, all projects require formal
endorsement by a local jurisdiction or public agency and an advertised public
hearing, The public is encouraged to provide comments during public hearing
workshops and to VDOT as part of the transportation enhancement
application package. Selected transportation enhancement projects are
incorporated into the STIP.

VDOT and DRPT
Don’t Do It Alone

Transportation plans and
programs result from a
collaborative effort between
many players and partners.
Roadway, transit and bicycle
and pedestrian needs are
balanced with funding
constraints and political and
citizen influence. Working
together, citizens, politicians
and transportation officials
can create solutions to the
issues facing the
transportation system.




7

Planning
Transportation planning refers to the process of identifying transportation 
problems and creating appropriate long-term solutions to those problems.
Planning efforts that you can get involved in include:

u Statewide Transportation Plan
u State Highway Plan, Rail Plan, Public Transit & TDM Plan
u Small Urban Area Transportation Studies
u Corridor/Feasibility Studies
u MPO Constrained Long-Range Plans

Programming
Programming is the process of scheduling and funding projects envisioned in
long-range transportation plans by committing expected revenues to 
transportation projects over several years.
Programming efforts that you can get involved in include:

u Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
u Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP)
u MPO Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP)
u County Secondary Roads Six-Year Plan
u Transportation Enhancement Program

Project Implementation
Project implementation is the process of making all the preparations to construct 
a programmed project. Major activities in project implementation include:

u Field work and land surveys
u Engineering design and environmental work
u Public hearings and/or public information meetings
u Right of way acquisition and utility relocation

Construction
After all of the preparations above, the project is ready for construction.
Key elements of the construction stage include:

u Clearing and grading of construction area
u Maintenance of traffic through work zone
u Continuous inspections and environmental monitoring

Operations and Maintenance
After a project is constructed, the focus shifts to operations and maintenance.
Key operational and maintenance activities include:

u Pavement and bridge repair
u Traffic markings and signal modifications
u Snow removal, mowing, ditch cleaning, etc.
u Transit operations and maintenance

How Does It All Fit?

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PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

How Does It All Fit?

Planning

Transportation planning refers to the process of identifying transportation
problems and creating appropriate long-term solutions to those problems.
Planning efforts that you can get involved in include:

Statewide Transportation Plan

State Highway Plan, Rail Plan, Public Transit & TDM Plan

Small Urban Area Transportation Studies

Corridor/Feasibility Studies

MPO Constrained Long-Range Plans

oooee

Programming

Programming is the process of scheduling and funding projects envisioned in
long-range transportation plans by committing expected revenues to
transportation projects over several years.

Programming efforts that you can get involved in include:

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)

Six-Year Improvement Program (SYIP)

MPO Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP)

County Secondary Roads Six-Year Plan

Transportation Enhancement Program

ooeoe

4

Project Implementation
Project implementation is the process of making all the preparations to constr
a programmed project. Major activities in project implementation include:
Field work and land surveys
@ Engineering design and environmental work
Public hearings and/or public information meetings
© Right of way acquisition and utility relocation

uct

Construction
After all of the preparations above, the project is ready for construction.
Key elements of the construction stage include:

Clearing and grading of construction area

Maintenance of traffic through work zone

Continuous inspections and environmental monitoring

Operations and Maintenance
After a project is constructed, the focus shifts to operations and maintenance.
Key operational and maintenance activities include

Pavement and bridge repair
Traffic markings and signal modifications

@ Snow removal, mowing, ditch cleaning, etc.
Transit operations and maintenance

a a 4





8

Nondiscrimination
Policy

VDOT and DRPT ensure 

nondiscrimination in all pro-

grams, services and activities

in accordance with Title VI of

the Civil Rights Act of 1964

and other nondiscrimination

authorities. 

If you feel you have been

excluded from participation

in, denied benefits of, or 

subjected to discrimination

regarding programs, services

and/or activities on the basis

of your race, color, national

origin, sex, age or disability,

you may contact: 

VDOT - Civil Rights Division

1221 East Broad Street

Richmond, Virginia 23219

804-786-2935 

TTY/TDD statewide 711

(for hearing impaired)

Toll Free Voice (888) 508-3737

Virginia Department of Rail

and Public Transportation 

P. O. Box 590 

Richmond, VA 23218-0590 

(804) 786-4440

Learn About Public 
Involvement Opportunities

Public meetings give citizens the opportunity to talk to transportation officials face
to face. VDOT and DRPT alert citizens to these meetings by:

u Announcing public meetings in local newspapers 30 days in advance and 
again a week before the meeting 

u Using kiosks, mass mailings, or television and radio ads
u Sending press releases to the media, which often generate news stories
u Web site notices such as www.virginiadot.org/projects/publicinvolvement.asp

or www.drpt.state.va.us/events/meetings.aspx

Citizens who wish to view the technical or policy information used to create the
plans and programs before they are discussed at the meetings can contact VDOT
or DRPT.  Meetings may be formal, informal or a combination of the two.

Formal - VDOT or DRPT speakers present material and the public makes 
comments for the official meeting record. 
Informal - One-on-one interaction among citizens and agency staff; comments
are gathered. 

Regardless of the format of the meeting, public input is always welcomed. At the
meetings, information will be provided to participants about making follow-up
comments. You don’t have to attend the meeting to make comments. Written
and telephone comments are accepted at any time and in the following ways:

u Writing to VDOT at: 
State Transportation Planner
1401 E. Broad St. 
Richmond, VA 23219 

u Calling specific numbers outlined in the notice or the meeting.

u E-mailing VDOT at planning@VDOT.Virginia.gov 

u Checking VDOT’s or DRPT’s web site for other ways to contact us. 

Following the meeting, a summary of comments directed at the plans and 
programs with official responses is available upon request. Comments resulting
from meetings are often posted on VDOT’s or DRPT’s Web sites.  

After public involvement activities, VDOT or DRPT create a draft plan or program.
Copies of the draft document are available for public review and comment at a
number of sources, including VDOT and DRPT main offices. The procedures for
commenting are outlined in the draft document. After considering the feedback
from the review and comment period, VDOT creates a final plan document. A
public notice is issued following the methods previously outlined informing citizens
how they can obtain copies of the final plan.

or DRPT at:
Planning Director 
P.O. Box 590 
Richmond, VA 23218

 

Learn About Public
Involvement Opportunities

Public meetings give citizens the opportunity to talk to transportation officials face
to face. VDOT and DRPT alert citizens to these meetings by:

Announcing public meetings in local newspapers 30 days in advance and
again a week before the meeting

Using kiosks, mass mailings, or television and radio ads

Sending press releases to the media, which often generate news stories
Web site notices such as www.virginiadot.org/projects/publicinvolvement. asp
or www. drpt state.va.us/events/meetings.aspx

ooo e

Citizens who wish to view the technical or policy information used to create the
plans and programs before they are discussed at the meetings can contact VDOT
‘or DRPT. Meetings may be formal, informal or a combination of the two.

Formal - VDOT or DRPT speakers present material and the public makes
comments for the official meeting record

Informal - One-on-one interaction among citizens and agency staff, comments
are gathered.

Regardless of the format of the meeting, public input is always welcomed. At the
meetings, information will be provided to participants about making follow-up
comments. You don't have to attend the meeting to make comments. Written
and telephone comments are accepted at any time and in the following ways:

© Writing to VDOT at: or DRPT at:
State Transportation Planner Planning Director
1401 €. Broad St. P.O. Box 590
Richmond, VA 23219 Richmond, VA 23218

© Calling specific numbers outlined in the notice or the meeting.
E-mailing VDOT at planning@VDOT.Virginia.gov
Checking VDOT’s or DRPT's web site for other ways to contact us.

Following the meeting, a surnmary of comments directed at the plans and
programs with official responses is available upon request. Comments resulting
from meetings are often posted on VDOT's or DRPT's Web sites.

After public involvement activities, VDOT or DRPT create a draft plan or program.
Copies of the draft document are available for public review and comment at a
number of sources, including VDOT and DRPT main offices. The procedures for
commenting are outlined in the draft document. After considering the feedback
from the review and comment period, VDOT creates a final plan document. A
public notice is issued following the methods previously outlined informing citizens
how they can obtain copies of the final plan.

Nondiscrimination
Policy

VDOT and DRPT ensure
nondiscrimination in all pro-
grams, services and activities
in accordance with Title VI of
the Civil Rights Act of 1964
and other nondiscrimination
authorities

If you feel you have been
excluded from participation
in, denied benefits of, or
subjected to discrimination
regarding programs, services
and/or activities on the basis
of your race, color, national
origin, sex, age or disability,
you may contact:

VDOT - Civil Rights Division
1221 East Broad Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804-786-2935

TTYADD statewide 711

(for hearing impaired)

Toll Free Voice (888) 508-3737

Virginia Department of Rail
and Public Transportation
P.O. Box 590

Richmond, VA 23218-0590
(804) 786-4440




9

Want to Learn
More?

There are many ways to learn

about VDOT’s and DRPT’s

plans and programs.

u Check your local 

newspaper, or our Web

sites such as 

www.virginiadot.org/

projects/publicinvolv/

ement.asp or 

www.drpt.state.va.us/

events/meetings.aspx for 

news on upcoming 

meetings

u Write to:

VDOT

State Transportation Planner

1401 E. Broad St.

Richmond, VA   23219

or

DRPT

Planning Director

P.O. Box 590

Richmond, VA  23218

u Call VDOT at 

1-800-367- ROAD or 

DRPT at 

(804) 786-4440

u E-mail 

planning@VDOT.Virginia.gov

Then attend the meetings, 

write letters, make phone

calls, and spread the word.  

Get Involved Locally 

VDOT, DRPT and the Commonwealth Transportation Board play a significant role
in deciding which projects are programmed and constructed by determining 
priorities for many of Virginia’s ground related transportation programs and 
projects. However, there are other key organizations in the decision-making
process, including:

Metropolitan Planning Organization
(See www.ampo.org/links/mposnet.html#VIRGINIA)

u Comprised of state and/or local officials
u Chooses priorities for certain federally funded projects to be included in 

the MPO Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
u Sets priorities for roadway and transit improvements in MPO areas

County Board of Supervisors 
(See www.vml.org/Links.html)

u Sets priorities for improvements to the secondary highway system 
(state-maintained roads numbered 600 and above) in their county

u Sets priorities and provides local funding to public transportation and 
special transportation facilities

City or Town Council
(See www.vml.org/Links.html)

u Sets priorities for improve- 
ment on the urban street 
system within their 
corporate boundaries

u Sets priorities and provides 
local funding to public 
transportation and special 
transportation facilities

We encourage you to participate in the
public involvement activities offered by
local governments and regional planning
organizations.

Public Involvement Process 
Adoption Procedure

This guide documents the public involvement procedures for transportation plan-
ning and programming. VDOT and DRPT periodically review the public involve-
ment procedures to ensure that the most effective process is in place. When the
process is updated, the revised procedures must be open for a public comment
period of at least 45 days before they are adopted. Comments for the statewide
process will be solicited from local governments, MPOs, state agencies, transit
providers both public and private, interested professional and citizen groups, 
planning district commissions, transportation district commissions, federal agen-
cies, and others. By commenting on the proposed changes, citizens can influence
the procedures VDOT and DRPT follow when seeking citizen participation in the
planning and programming processes. Citizens are informed of the update
through the same methods used to announce public meetings.

Want to Learn
More?

There are many ways to learn
about VDOT's and DRPT’s
plans and programs.

© Check your local
newspaper, or our Web
sites such as
www.virginiadot.org/
projects/publicinvolv/
ement.asp or
www.drpt state.va.us!
events/meetings.aspx for
news on upcoming
meetings

© Write to
vooT
State Transportation Planner
1401 E. Broad St
Richmond, VA 23219
or
DRPT
Planning Director
PO. Box 590
Richmond, VA 23218

© Call VDOT at
1-800-367- ROAD or
DRPT at
(804) 786-4440

© Email
planning@VDOTVirginia.gov

Then attend the meetings,
write letters, make phone
calls, and spread the word.

Get Involved Locally

\VDOT, DRPT and the Commonwealth Transportation Board play a significant role
in deciding which projects are programmed and constructed by determining
priorities for many of Virginia's ground related transportation programs and
projects. However, there are other key organizations in the decision-making
process, including

Metropolitan Planning Organization
(See wwnw.ampo.org/links/mposnet. html VIRGINIA)

‘© Comprised of state and/or local officials

© Chooses priorities for certain federally funded projects to be included in
the MPO Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)

© Sets priorities for roadway and transit improvements in MPO areas

County Board of Supervisors

(See wwnw.vnl.org/tinks.html)

‘@ Sets priorities for improvements to the secondary highway system
(state-maintained roads numbered 600 and above) in their county

Sets priorities and provides local funding to public transportation and
special transportation facilities

City or Town Council
(See www.vinl.org/Links. htm!)

@ Sets priorities for improve-
ment on the urban street
system within their
corporate boundaries

Sets priorities and provides
local funding to public
transportation and special
transportation facilities

We encourage you to participate in the
public involvement activities offered by

local governments and regional planning
organizations.

Public Involvement Process
Adoption Procedure

This guide documents the public involvement procedures for transportation plan-
ning and programming. VDOT and DRPT periodically review the public involve-
ment procedures to ensure that the most effective process is in place. When the
process is updated, the revised procedures must be open for a public comment
period of at least 45 days before they are adopted. Comments for the statewide
process will be solicited from local governments, MPOs, state agencies, transit
providers both public and private, interested professional and citizen groups,
planning district commissions, transportation district commissions, federal agen-
Gees, and others. By commenting on the proposed changes, citizens can influence
the procedures VDOT and DRPT follow when seeking citizen participation in the
planning and programming processes. Citizens are informed of the update
through the same methods used to announce public meetings.




10

About Us

VDOT and DRPT prepared this public involvement guide to transportation planning
and programming. In Virginia, planning for highways and bike and pedestrian
facilities is one of VDOT’s lead responsibilities. Likewise, planning for rail, public
transit and ridesharing is one of DRPT’s lead responsibilities. Together with the
Department of Aviation and Virginia Port Authority, and with input from other
organizations and the public, planning is provided for all modes of public trans-
portation. VDOT and DRPT operate under the direction of the Secretary of
Transportation and the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board. The
Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner heads VDOT. The Director of DRPT is
the head of DRPT.

VDOT’s mission is to plan, develop and deliver on time and on budget the best
transportation system for the traveling public. VDOT manages the Virginia high-
way system (about 57,100 miles) and its supporting facilities. The DRPT mission is
to improve mobility and expand transportation choices in the Commonwealth.
DRPT provides funds and assistance to approximately 40 public transit agencies,
50 special service providers, 11 freight railroads and 15 commuter programs.

\VDOT -DRPT-

be meron
Vegnia Deparment of Transportation The Smarts Ditonce Berwean fs Poles

About Us

VDOT and DRPT prepared this public involvement guide to transportation planning
and programming. In Virginia, planning for highways and bike and pedestrian
facilities is one of VDOT'S lead responsibilities. Likewise, planning for rail, public
transit and ridesharing is one of DRPT’s lead responsibilities. Together with the
Department of Aviation and Virginia Port Authority, and with input from other
organizations and the public, planning is provided for all modes of public trans-
portation. VDOT and DRPT operate under the direction of the Secretary of
Transportation and the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board. The
Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner heads VDOT. The Director of DRPT is
the head of DRPT.

VDOT's mission is to plan, develop and deliver on time and on budget the best
transportation system for the traveling public. VDOT manages the Virginia high-
way system (about 57, 100 miles) and its supporting facilities. The DRPT mission is
to improve mobility and expand transportation choices in the Commonwealth.
DRPT provides funds and assistance to approximately 40 public transit agencies,
50 special service providers, 11 freight railroads and 15 commuter programs.

10




© Commonwealth of Virginia,  September 2004

To get more public involvement information 
on planning and programming, or copies of this 

document, call VDOT at 1-800-367-ROAD or 
DRPT at (804) 786-4440. 

To get more public involvement information
on planning and programming, or copies of this
document, call VDOT at 1-800-367-ROAD or
DRPT at (804) 786-4440.

© Commonwealth of Virginia, September 2004