Step 1: Define Desired Outcomes and Actions

"Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them."

- Albert Einstein

Using the Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) Guidance and other relevant materials, this step establishes the project goals and actions. It also defines the teams to be used and decisions to be made. Relevant material may include the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), previously developed plans or commitments, environmental documents, and current program documents. These provide the initial input into establishing the goals for the project. If the project is in the Project Design phase, for example, the desired outcomes should reflect those documented in the Project Development phase and the CSS Guidance.

During Step 1 in Life Cycle Phase 1: I-70 Mountain Corridor Planning, a Project Leadership Team (PLT) is established and should be carried through all subsequent phases of a project. By using the 6-Step Process framework, the PLT will develop the specific process to be used during decision making, including teams, team roles and responsibilities, and interactions during the project.

Sample tasks and documentation matrices have been developed for each of the Life Cycle Phases to guide the 6-Step Process in each phase.