Location and Design Division

VDOT GOVERNANCE DOCUMENT 
Location and Design Division 
Issued March 15, 1999 - November 2021
 

Public Involvement Manual

This Manual ensures that highway locations and designs are consistent with federal and state laws and local goals and objectives. The policies and procedures explained are intended to give full opportunity for coordination and participation by the public before the final approval of highway locations and designs. 
 
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) considers a wide range of factors, including possible adverse economic, social, and environmental effects, in the development of a project. It is VDOT's desire that final decisions on any project be in the best overall public interest, taking into consideration the need for safe and efficient transportation, public services, and the costs of eliminating or minimizing adverse effects. 
 
It is VDOT's desire that final decisions on any project be in the best overall public interest, taking into consideration the need for safe and efficient transportation, public services, and the costs of eliminating or minimizing adverse effects. 
 
This policy is in accordance with Federal Regulation 23 CFR 771.111(h) and 23 USC 128, Section 33.2-208 of the Highway Laws of Virginia, Virginia Department of Transportation Policy Memorandum DPM 1-11 and shall apply to all proposed highway projects of VDOT, regardless of the system or funding involved. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has endorsed this policy for use on all Federal-aid highway projects.  
  
Projects administered/developed by others that will be funded by federal and/or state funds must meet the Department’s guidelines for public participation.
   

 

Page last modified: Nov. 9, 2023