Benefits of TxDOT Involvement in Local Development Review: Summary Report (0-4429-S)

Many cities in Texas have a process in place to review development plans. Depending on the size of the city and its approach to development regulation, the process may range from loose and informal to structured and formalized. Counties in Texas have authority to regulate subdivision plats, but unlike cities they have little authority to regulate important elements of site development such as access, parking, and drainage. The review of subdivisions and land development in the state of Texas has historically been the responsibility of cities and counties. With the exception of perhaps a few districts, over the years there has been limited collaboration between local jurisdictions and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in the planning stages of development along state roadways. TxDOT involvement in local development review is important because decisions related to access and right-of-way along state roadways are made during the site development and platting stages of development. TxDOT's involvement in this process is key to implementation of a statewide access management program and important to ensure that TxDOT right-of-way needs and interests are considered in local development review. The agency's involvement in this activity also provides the important benefit of increased and improved coordination in local and metropolitan planning organization (MPO) thoroughfare planning. This research provided recommendations and guidelines for how TxDOT can most effectively be involved in local development review to ensure that TxDOT interests are considered. It provided insight into the local development process and a clearer understanding of the impacts that local decisions have on state roadways. The project also recommended changes to existing TxDOT policy and new legislation to facilitate and enhance TxDOT local cooperation in development review.