(a)        Limit on Basis for Project Objection. – Beginning with the 2004 State Transportation Improvement Program, neither the State nor a consolidated metropolitan planning organization shall have a basis to object to a project that is proposed for funding in the Transportation Improvement Program, provided that the project does not affect projects previously programmed, if the project is included in a mutually adopted plan developed pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 136-66.2, and is consistent with the project selection criteria contained in the memorandum of understanding creating the consolidated metropolitan planning organization.

(b)        Project Ranking Priorities. – Beginning with the 2004 State Transportation Improvement Program, and subject to the availability of funding, the Department of Transportation, when developing the Transportation Improvement Program, shall abide by the project ranking priorities approved by a:

(1)        Consolidated metropolitan planning organization for any project within its jurisdiction, if the project is not a National Highway System or bridge and Interstate maintenance program project.

(2)        Regional transportation authority created pursuant to Article 27 of Chapter 160A of the N.C. Gen. Stat., for any project that all metropolitan planning organizations within the authority’s jurisdiction have delegated responsibility, if the project is not a National Highway System or bridge and Interstate maintenance program project. (2000-80, s. 6.)