Department of Transportation to modify the evaluation and planning process for certain transportation projects requirement

This bill requires the Minnesota Department of Transportation to update how it evaluates and plans certain transportation projects, specifically those involving construction, reconstruction, or requiring environmental impact statements. The law mandates that agencies use a more flexible approach when defining project needs, allowing them to consider factors like safety, cost efficiency, and community input rather than relying solely on traffic volume metrics. It also requires the department to create scoping documents that engage stakeholders early and include walking audits of project areas before finalizing plans. These changes apply to major highway projects but exclude routine maintenance activities like resurfacing or preventive upkeep.