Both studies are very similar in process. The corridor study identifies the appropriate area for a new highway. The route study details a number of feasible route options within the identified area. In both the corridor and route studies, consultation is initiated with local residents, municipal officials and elected representatives. Base studies for the region are scrutinized.
Aerial photography is obtained for the production of topographic maps.
Existing and potential problems, possible solutions and community development plans are examined. The end result of the planning process is a conceptual route described by classification, the type and location of accesses, the speed to design for, and the projected traffic volumes. Specific needs regarding lanes and interchanges, and cyclist and pedestrian accommodations are also established. In preliminary design, planning moves from a conceptual route to a more specific route after identifying a number of possible alignments. Essentially, everything completed in the planning design stage is taken to the next level and refined so realistic project cost estimates can be made, and the proposed route and highway can be geometrically designed on paper.