This page provides information on submittal letter types with templates and examples.
- Distribution of approved and signed layout (Layout Levels 1-3)
Note: GDSU must receive a copy of all approved layouts and profiles - Level 1 layout for Staff Approval
- Concept or Study layout for Review or Comment (or Level 1-3 Concurrence)
- Request for Assistance with Alternates and Design
- Reaction to Written Review Comments by the GDSU
Project Introduction Note:
The submittal letter is a good tool to provide a basis of information to begin the review of geometric design products and to let other functional areas know that a product worthy of review is available. As projects become more complex, it is advantageous for the Project Manager to schedule a time to introduce the project to the Geometric Design Support Unit (GDSU) staff. This in-person introduction allows a detailed discussion of the complexities and issues related to the design of the project prior to an in-depth review. This introduction is well worth the time and effort so that the project can be reviewed within the context of the design and political environment involved. In essence, the hope is that the GDSU will not waste precious time pursuing issues or alternatives previously considered and effectively addressed by the design team. Should the Project Manager elect to introduce the project as described, it is recommended that the layout be sent to the GDSU in advance, instead of waiting for the scheduled meeting time. As a result, the GDSU will better understand the introduction and the discussion of the project will be more valuable.
- General location description and design narrative
- Request for staff approval, review and comment or assistance
- Explanation of reasons for deign choices
- Areas of plan and profile compromise
- Background data on existing roadway
- Reason for project
- Letting date
- Known design exceptions
- Local agreements and partnerships
- Timeline for GDSU input
- Future development not evident on layout
Links to Submittal Letter Templates:
Distribution of approved and signed Layout (Word, 38KB)
Level 1 Layout for Staff Approval (Word, 36KB)
Concept or Study layout for Review or Comment (or Level 1-3 Concurrence) (Word, 37KB)
Request for Assistance with Alternates and Design (Word, 36KB)
Examples of Submittal Letters:
Distribution of approved and signed Layout (PDF, 242KB)
Level 1 Layout for Staff Approval (PDF, 83KB)
Concept or Study layout for Review or Comment (or Level 1-3 Concurrence) (PDF, 135KB)
Response to Written Review Comments by the GDSU (PDF, 48KB)
When submitting a Layout for approval, a proper signature & title block should be applied to the layout and District signatures obtained first.
Additional work units in Central Office such as the Office of Traffic Engineering, Office of Transit, Land Management, State Aid, or Design Standards can be notified that a copy of the layout product is being submitted to the Geometric Design Support Unit and available for study and reaction.
Quick Links
- Layout Content Review Checklist (Excel 78KB)
- Road Design Manual
- HPDP Geometric Design Resources
- Consultant Pre-qualification
- Construction Project Log
- Trunk Highway Logpoints
- Minnesota Roundabouts

