Consistency of state road network master plan development steps

By scrutinizing the implementation of a long-range road network plan at the federal state level, the article puts emphasis on the consistency of previously compartmentalized development steps. A recent regional case study of the German state of Thuringia is used to reflect the current planning procedures. Aiming to overcome inconsistencies, an integrated approach to a policy-formation framework is presented, allowing for the systematic identification of a road network improvement project portfolio. Organizational and technological options for the delivery of consistency and a better the usage of the project opportunity space are explored, for example, by transferring the considerations on welfare aspects from the cost-benefit appraisal step to the earlier process stages of construction measure specification and project nomination.