(1) It is the policy of the department that significant adverse economic, social, and environmental effects relating to any proposed department action should be fully considered in planning and implementing such action, and that final decisions on such action should be made in the best overall public interest, and taking into consideration (a) the need for fast, safe, efficient, and economical transportation and public services reasonably responsive to the public's preferences, (b) the adverse environmental, social, and economic effects of the proposed action and alternative courses of action, and (c) the costs of eliminating or minimizing such adverse effects.

(2) The provisions of this chapter shall be interpreted in accord with this policy. This policy shall also govern substantive decisions made by the department.