What began as compliance with the federal mandate for consultation with nonmetropolitan officials is evolving in Arizona into an enthusiastically embraced opportunity to build positive relationships between state, regional, and local jurisdictions. This case study in the implementation of this federal requirement shows how the process provides a meaningful opportunity for local officials to offer input into transportation planning and programming. The study also demonstrates the role of the consultation process in establishing trust and cooperation on the part of local governments and in developing greater understanding of local needs on the part of state transportation agencies.