NASHVILLE (AP) — Tennessee Transportation Commissioner John Schroer says his agency's new office is aimed at better coordinating transportation planning statewide.

Schroer announced formation of the Office of Community Transportation Monday.

He said the state wants to increase collaboration between TDOT and cities across Tennessee.

The office will have regional staff in Knoxville, Nashville, Chattanooga and Memphis who will be committed to working specifically with the communities within their region. They will also work closely with Tennessee's Metropolitan Planning Organizations to coordinate regional transportation priorities.