By engaging the public in regional planning, local officials can help their communities understand how regional plans and investments are connected to local needs and priorities. When local officials and residents participate actively in regional planning processes, these regional decisions are more likely to take local priorities and preferences into account. This in turn can provide a foundation for greater consensus on subsequent local planning, land use and other decisions.

Regional agencies are required by state and federal regulations to adopt and implement a public participation plan specifically for the development of the regional transportation plan.  This section provides links to the current public participation plans of the 18 metropolitan planning organizations covered by SB 375.