MN SF4657

Requires MnDOT to develop context-specific "purpose and need" statements for trunk highway projects that consider all possible approaches and address safety for all transportation users, rather than pre-determining specific improvements

Mandates scoping documents with stakeholder checklists, modal accommodation analysis, and coordination field visits/walking audits before projects can be included in the state highway investment program

Establishes multidisciplinary project teams with diverse expertise for capacity expansion projects, requiring analysis of alternative metrics including equity outcomes, environmental justice, and public health impacts

Creates oversight mechanisms including expanded transportation ombudsperson duties, internal compliance audits when statutory violations occur, and incorporation of policy compliance into supervisor performance reviews

Effective dates are staggered: scoping requirements take effect July 1, 2027; purpose and need statement requirements and most other provisions take effect March 1, 2028