Statewide and metropolitan planning has been in existence across the nation for almost 40 years. Over that time these practices have become well established and integrated into the state's transportation decision making. The statewide effort has always encompassed the rural areas. However, in recent years the question has been raised about how well rural issues are included in the statewide planning process. There appears to be a lack of understanding on just how comprehensive the statewide planning process is for rural areas.

The objective of this research effort is to evaluate the planning practices of state DOT's in rural areas. The research should consider the extent to which the statewide plans consider the following elements in rural areas:

• The detailed identification of needs for all modes,
• The integration of transportation and land use planning,
• The consideration of social, environmental and economic issues,
• The needs of the elderly and transit dependent,
• The level of public involvement in rural areas,
• The existence and role of regional planning organizations, and
• How rural issues and needs are reflected in the STIP

The final report as delivered by the contractor is posted at https://www.transportation.org/sites/planning/docs/nchrp35.doc