The Texas Department of Transportation will host a series of openhouse style public meetings across the state to give citizens an opportunity to provide feedback on a longrange plan that provides the agency with a blueprint for the state’s future transportation needs.

TxDOT’s 25 districts will host two public meetings -- one each in May and August -- to provide the public an opportunity to preview the agency’s Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan 2035.

Brownwood will host the first of two meetings on Thursday from 4- 7 p.m. at the district office at 2495 U.S. Hwy. 183 N. in Brownwood.

Meetings are designed to give Texans an informal venue for viewing informational videos and exhibits outlining the statewide initiative. Participants may ask questions and provide written comments on the direction of the plan which is scheduled to be completed and ready for public hearing and commission adoption this fall.

The Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan is the foundation that will guide the planning process, a collaborative effort between TxDOT, local and regional decision-makers, and all transportation stakeholders, said Amadeo Saenz, TxDOT executive director.

“It’s important that we take this opportunity to reach out to citizens so they may be a part of shaping the future of transportation in Texas,” Saenz said. “This plan will provide a framework for developing and implementing a multi-modal transportation system through 2035. We need to hear from Texans: transportation partners, elected officials, industry stakeholders and citizens.”

The statewide plan also provides the foundation for a number of other TxDOT planning efforts, such as the Rail Plan, the 2011- 2015 Strategic Plan and corridorrelated initiatives, and it provides direction that makes it easier for all of the different planning efforts to work in coordination.

“It also assures the state’s goals are consistent with federal priorities and guidelines,” said Saenz.

Citizens who cannot attend the meeting may send written comments to Peggy Thurin, P.E., Project Manager, Statewide Long- Range Transportation Plan 2035, 4544 Post Oak Place, #224, Houston, TX 77027.

Comments also may be made online at the TxDOT Web site on the “Contact Us” page.