Decisions about the drainage requirements, and shape and strength of the road are made in the _______ process.

The design process is crucial because it encompasses the technical specifications necessary for constructing safe and functional roadways. During this phase, engineers determine the drainage requirements, ensuring that water runoff is managed effectively to prevent issues like flooding or erosion. They also assess the road's shape, which affects vehicle flow and safety, and its strength, which is essential for supporting the loads it will bear over time, including traffic and environmental stresses.

These considerations are foundational in creating a road that is not only functional but also durable and safe for public use. The design process translates initial concepts from the planning phase into detailed drawings and specifications to guide construction. This is distinct from the construction phase, which focuses on the implementation of these designs, and the inspection phase, which checks for adherence to those designs after construction. The planning phase primarily involves broader considerations and setting overall project goals before detailed designs are developed.