(a) to develop long-range regional transportation plans for submission to the commissioner for consideration for inclusion in the statewide transportation master plan;
(b) to develop and suggest periodic amendments to the master plan to the commissioner;
(c) to consult with and cooperate with local officials and representatives of carriers and transportation facilities and systems within their urbanized area;
(d) to examine the structure, and cost of transit operations;
(e) to endorse long-range plans assuring maximum utilization and integration of mass transportation facilities and services throughout the State;
(f) to study the long-range financial needs for improving public transportation systems; and
(g) to conduct one or more public hearings to carry out the provisions of this subdivision. 4. To provide for the existence of a transit development program, the metropolitan planning organization shall consult with other planning agencies and coordinate its transportation planning process with the comprehensive regional plan developed by the regional planning commission.