Bill > S233

This bill requires the secretary to evaluate the economic impact of certain transportation projects proposed by any state agency, department, board, commission, or authority, specifically those with an estimated construction cost exceeding ten million dollars. Before such a project is included or rescheduled on the Commonwealth's statewide transportation plan, the secretary must consult with the project's sponsor, the department of transportation, and the relevant metropolitan planning organization (MPO), which is a regional transportation planning body. The secretary will then issue a statement detailing the project's economic benefits, including whether it aligns with commercial, industrial, or residential growth needs, the anticipated public benefit, and its potential to improve the Commonwealth's economic vitality. These statements, findings, and comments will be considered by the department of transportation and MPOs when making recommendations for statewide transportation improvement plans.