A critical step in the SHC implementation process is to incorporate recommendations from the Vision Plan and subsequent comprehensive transportation plans and corridor studies into individual projects. The first part of this process is to examine all projects programmed in the state's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) that are located along Strategic Highway Corridors. There are currently 193 projects located along the corridors, according to the 2006-2012 TIP. These include interstate improvements, widening, and new location projects, but not bridge replacement or intersection improvement projects.

The scope and design of these projects will be examined for consistency with the corridor vision. If the current project scope differs from the vision, the project may be modified to fit or bring the current scope closer to the ultimate facility type. Each project will be examined on a case-by-case basis, regarding the level of access control, interchange designs, median openings, driveway locations, and proposed traffic signals. Potential modifications to a project include increasing the amount and level of control of access; modifying interchange designs to allow for high-speed, free-flow movements; closing, relocating, or modifying the design of median openings; consolidating or relocating driveway locations; and modifying traditional signalized four or three-legged intersections to an alternate intersection design, such as the median u-turn.

Efforts will be made to minimize changes to a project's scope, to keep the project on schedule and minimize cost impacts. If a project's schedule or the cost of modifications dictate the magnitude of changes, other options may be sought. These include implementing the proposed modifications at different times (staging), purchasing additional right-of-way for future improvements, and/or designing the project in a manner which does not preclude the additional improvements needed to attain the ultimate vision. Coordination between NCDOT, partner agencies, local officials, key stakeholders, and the public is essential during this process and will occur in the appropriate manner. While delays and cost increases may occur as a result of modifications, the ultimate vision may be achieved sooner, rather than developing a future TIP project to make additional improvements to attain the vision.

The second part of this implementation item is developing future/new TIP projects in a manner which achieves the long-term vision and goals of the SHC initiative, from the beginning. Engineers will develop project scopes and make design decisions that are consistent with the corridor vision. This includes preparation of Purpose and Need Statements and the alternatives analysis stage of the project develop-ment. Purpose and Need Statements should demonstrate how the project meets the criteria set forth with the SHC initiative and describes the need for improvements to corridor as they relate to the corridor's function and vision. Alternatives should be developed and analyzed which reflect the mobility and connectivity goals of the vision, while attempting to maximize the use of existing infrastructure. New projects will also be carefully monitored to ensure consistency with the ultimate vision over the project's life.