(a) In order to provide for an appropriate integration of air quality and transportation planning, the affected MPOs and NYSDOT shall provide an opportunity for involved agencies to be fully and actively involved throughout the development of MPO transportation plans, MPO TIPs, and program of transportation projects conformity determinations. The department shall provide an opportunity for involved agencies to be fully involved throughout the development of applicable SIP revisions, including, but not limited to, the TCM and emissions budget components.

1. (1) The communications required by this subdivision shall include communications necessary to fully involve involved agencies throughout the development of MPO transportation plans, MPO TIPs, and program of transportation projects conformity determinations. The communications required by this subdivision shall also include communications necessary to fully involve involved agencies in the development of the applicable SIP revision.

2. (2) The lead conformity agency or the department shall convene meetings:

   1. (i) among technical representatives of such agency and involved agencies at least every 180 days for MPO transportation plans, MPO TIPs conformity determinations and proposed SIP revisions applicable to other nonattainment or maintenance areas.
   2. (ii) among policy level representatives of such agency and involved agencies at least once annually for MPO transportation plans, MPO TIP conformity determinations and proposed SIP revisions applicable to other nonattainment or maintenance areas.
3. (3) The department, NYSDOT, and the affected MPOs may agree to waive any of the meetings required pursuant to paragraph (2) of this subdivision if the meeting is not necessary for consultation.