Like anything, roads wear out. Others need to be expanded due to heavy traffic volume. And new development means that in some place new roads need to be built.

Just what should MnDOT's priorities be for the next 20 years?

Motorists can weigh in during two Stakeholder Engagement meetings that will take place in the metro area. The first is today from 1 to 4 p.m. at Richfield Lutheran Church, 8 W. 60th St., Minneapolis.

Another session will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. next Tuesday at the MnDOT Training and Conference Center, 1900 W. County Road I in Shoreview.

Each session will include a presentation by MnDOT officials and a time for the public to offer input to help develop the 20-Year State Highway Investment Plan. They also will include interactive exercises and an open house.

The state highway system is a network of roads that includes interstates, U.S. highways, and state highways. MnDOT maintains the state's 12,000-mile highway system.

The State Highway Investment Plan is updated every four years as required by State Legislature. The plan, with input from the public, will guide future capital improvements on Minnesota's state highway system over the next 20 years; it will not affect local or county roads.

Information on the plan is at www.dot.state.mn.us/planning/statehighwayinvestmentplan/