The commission and the department will protect, preserve and, when practicable, enhance the environment. Particular emphasis will be placed on avoidance, minimization, and compensation for adverse environmental impacts while balancing social and environmental concerns with economic growth. Environmental considerations will be fully integrated into department policies, procedures, and decision-making practices in a systematic, interdisciplinary manner. In implementing this policy, the department recognizes the need for effective communication and encourages coordination with the public, environmental or transportation interest groups, environmental agencies, resource agencies, businesses, communities, and similar entities in the transportation policy setting, planning, and development processes.

Source Note:The provisions of this §2.2 adopted to be effective March 8, 1995, 20 TexReg 1339.