AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Transportation is looking to “Talk Transportation” and seeks public input regarding any and all types of transportation issues during a series of public meetings throughout the state in February, March and April.

“Maine’s transportation policy affects every citizen directly,” said Sen. Roger Katz, R-Augusta, in a news release from the Senate Majority Office. “The Department of Transportation wants to hear from those they serve, and I encourage people to take advantage of this opportunity to discuss infrastructure issues.”

On Monday, March 9, area citizens will have two opportunities to share their thoughts. One meeting will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and another from 6 to 8 p.m.; both will be held at the Augusta City Center.

Input from the meetings will help MaineDOT understand the needs of the public and various stakeholders to help the Department formulate its Long-Range Transportation Needs Assessment, according to the release. The Long-Range Transportation Needs Assessment documents anticipated transportation system needs for the next 20 years, with particular emphasis on the next 10 years. Public input is an important part of this long-range transportation planning process. The meetings will also allow for the Department to inform the public about its activities and programs while obtaining information regarding any immediate concerns or needs from the participants.