(a) Whichever of the methods of State land project initiation set forth in section 591.3 of this Part is involved, the first step in the review process is the investigation of all potential projects by the regional office of the department within which the project is located or by the Division of Marine and Coastal Resources for tidal wetlands and tidal waterway access projects located within the marine and coastal district. That investigation must include a determination of whether or not the project meets the minimum eligibility requirements set forth under section 591.3 of this Part and is consistent with identified regional acquisition objectives. Such investigation, when appropriate, will be coordinated with any program personnel who may have an interest in the project. Upon completion of this investigation, if the proposed project meets the minimum eligibility requirements, a project file shall be prepared and forwarded with the regional recommendation to central office program.

(b) The central office program will review each project file and recommend statewide projects for the program area to the commissioner based on all relevant factors, including the extent to which the project furthers identified statewide acquisition objectives.