(1) Upon receiving an application for improvements to an existing state highway or highways pursuant to RCW
43.160.074 from the community economic revitalization board, the department shall, in a timely manner, determine whether or not the proposed state highway improvements:
(a) Meet the safety and design criteria of the department of transportation;
(b) Will impair the operational integrity of the existing highway system; and
(c) Will affect any other improvements planned by the department.
(2) Upon completion of its determination of the factors contained in subsection (1) of this section and any other factors it deems pertinent, the department shall forward its approval, as submitted or amended or disapproval of the proposed improvements to the board, along with any recommendation it may wish to make concerning the desirability and feasibility of the proposed development. If the department disapproves any proposed improvements, it shall specify its reasons for disapproval.
(3) Upon notification from the board of an application's approval pursuant to RCW
43.160.074, the department shall carry out the improvements in coordination with the applicant.