The General Assembly finds that the State must have sustainable communities in order to: Preserve and protect the State’s natural resources; and Achieve the State’s economic growth, resource protection, and planning policy in § 5–7A–01 of the State Finance and Procurement Article. The General Assembly finds that sustainable communities are places where public and private investments and partnerships achieve: Development of a healthy local economy; Protection and appreciation of historic and cultural resources; A mix of land uses; Affordable and sustainable housing and job options; and Growth and development practices that protect the environment and conserve air, water, and energy resources, encourage walkability and recreational opportunities, and, where available, create access to transit.

It is the intent of the General Assembly that the Department shall: Consider sustainable communities as it considers annual revisions under the Consolidated Transportation Program in § 2–103.1(b) through (f) of this title; and Twice a year consult with the Sustainable Growth Subcabinet established under § 9–1406 of the State Government Article on how the Department may work cooperatively to make mutual investments towards creating and supporting sustainable communities across the State.

Subject to the limitations imposed by this subtitle, the Department may exercise all powers reasonably necessary to achieve the purposes of this subtitle, including the authority to: Adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this subtitle; Apply for and receive grants, gifts, payments, loans, advances, appropriations, property, and services from the federal government and the State, any of the agencies or political subdivisions of the federal government and the State, or other public or private person; and Enter into agreements and contract for: Any studies, plans, demonstrations, or projects; Planning, engineering, and technical services; or Any purpose necessary for or incidental to the performance of its duties and the exercise of its powers under this subtitle.