Why should a Local Agency consider Caltrans as team members?
This is really a project specific question. At the discretion of the Project Manager, Caltrans Management and Local Agency officials, the level of participation should be agreed upon during the planning phase of the project. Depending upon the issues and complexity of the project, Caltrans team members may or may not be needed for the VA study. There are several advantages to having Caltrans team members involved in the study. Advantages include: streamlining the review process, use of expert highway design professionals familiar with the Caltrans policies and procedures, designs that conform to the existing and planned highway system, increased number of alternatives that meet Caltrans standards, policies and procedures, greater chance for Caltrans buy-in of VA alternatives, and streamlining the project delivery process.
