FHWA > Federal-aid Program Administration > Major Projects > Manual for Oversight Managers > Stewardship/Oversight Task Force Report |
Major Projects
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FHWA Stewardship / Oversight Task Force
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Name | Definition |
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Stewardship: | The efficient and effective management of the public funds that have been entrusted to the Federal Highway Administration. |
Oversight: | The act of ensuring that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with applicable laws, regulations and policies. |
Previous policy was written to emphasize the delegation of project authorities to the STAs. The emphasis of policy and past outreach created questions as to whether the FHWA had oversight responsibilities on "exempt" projects. The proposed policy makes clear that the FHWA has stewardship and oversight responsibilities on all Federally funded programs. The proposed policy also clarifies and emphasizes that the FHWA and the STA roles in the implementation of Federal highway funding.
FHWA has stewardship and oversight responsibilities for all FHWA programs. While STAs may assume certain project approval authorities in accordance with 23 USC 106, FHWA is ultimately accountable for ensuring that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with the established requirements.
In addition to the clarity on FHWA stewardship roles, the proposed policy also highlights the need for FHWA Offices to conduct program oversight, and to manage oversight responsibilities by including the major activities in their unit plans.
The Task Force recommends that the FHWA provide a stronger link between FHWA oversight responsibilities in National Strategic Plan and Performance Plans. The Task Force reviewed the 1998 FHWA National Strategic Plan, the 1999 Performance Plan and the Draft 2001 Performance Plan. These documents had brief narratives linking the Agency's stewardship roles to achieving identified business goals and the implementation of strategies. The missing link the Task Force identified is Agency accountability to Congress and the public in administering these programs since there are no direct links between FHWA stewardship activities and performance. The Task Force understands the importance of linking our activities to the accomplishment of identified business goals to benefit the public, but recommends emphasizing the importance of staff conducting appropriate oversight of the Federal highway programs to ensure these programs comply with the program requirements and provide effective transportation products and services.
Appendix B includes further discussion of this subject, and the recommendation for a stronger discussion of oversight in the FHWA National Strategic Plan when that plan is updated. The Task Force has referred this issue to Policy and its future activities to update the National Strategic Plan.
The Task Force recommends that FHWA update all its policies and guidance material to be consistent with the updated FHWA stewardship policy. In reviewing past Agency policies and guidance, the Task Force identified that there are numerous FHWA documents that include discussion of "exempt" projects and imply FHWA does not have an oversight role on "exempt" projects. Appendix C includes a list of identified regulations that need to be updated.
The Task Force recommends the FHWA develop an integrated information system on the FHWA Home Page, linking legislation, regulation, and policy memoranda. It is also recommended that when documents are not synchronized, the home page should identify documents and procedures FHWA uses to implement the Federal highway program.
One of the first issues identified was that FHWA has regulations and policies that are out of date with the legislative changes authorized in TEA-21. The Task Force recognizes that the FHWA is in this position because of the number and scope of the legislative changes authorized in 1998, coupled with other Department of Transportation or Federal government changes that the Agency has had to implement concurrently. Employees with some years of service in FHWA have knowledge of the changes and can identify the most current "Agency position" on an issue. However, newer, less experienced employees struggle with knowing all sources of information and the identification of the Agency's position on a topic. This proposal has been forwarded to the FHWA "FAPG" team and is being considered.
The Task Force recommends all offices use their information processes to share best practices, and innovative processes and procedures they use in conducting their stewardship and oversight responsibilities. The Task Force noted that one of the keys to our future success is the sharing of information, innovation, and "lessons learned" with our peers in other FHWA offices. This sharing of information primarily would build knowledge and experience. There are several program offices or activities that are currently using methods such as newsletters, websites, and conference calls to share information with others.
Appendix D includes an example of a Division Office "required actions" list. This list is provided as an example of information sharing that Divisions might find useful. An outgrowth of the risk / benefit analysis could be the identification of additional opportunities for the STA to assume a broader range of responsibilities.
The Task Force recommends a coordinated outreach plan. The need for this coordinated outreach is to continue the discussion of the policy and uniformly address issues and concerns in the implementation of the policy. The plan involves top FHWA management communication with STA executives as well as communication to FHWA and STA employees at all levels of the organization. The intent of this plan is to take advantage of currently planned meetings in calendar year 2001, and to add opportunities for discussion if necessary. The Task Force has developed a "Question " Answer" document to assist in the outreach effort. Appendix E includes an outline of the proposed outreach plan, and a "Powerpoint" presentation to highlight the important facets of the proposed policy and key implementation issues, and the "Question " Answer" document.
The proposed stewardship policy expects that all FHWA offices assess the implementation of the FHWA program in its responsibility, and to prioritize the use of their limited resources. The Task Force recognizes that many FHWA offices currently conduct an assessment and prioritization process, and that there is a range of formality and documentation in the processes used. The Task Force recommends that the assessment / prioritization process be conducted in cooperation with the STA / Federal Agency involved in implementing the FHWA program.
The risk / benefit analysis tool included in Appendix F is a conceptual framework of how an office could assess the implementation of the FHWA programs and the determination of the most effective use of its personnel resources for the next fiscal year. The Task Force recommends that FHWA conduct further review of available processes.
The administration of the Federal highway programs has evolved from 100% Federal project level involvement and approval mechanisms to a mixture of program oversight and project level involvement. Secondary Road Plans and Certification Acceptance Agreements were the earliest program oversight mechanisms the FHWA used to delegate project approvals to a STA.
As a result of Section 106 of Title 23, United States Code, the STA or Federal Agency assumes some of the responsibilities of the Secretary. It is also a requirement that the STA or Federal Agency and the FHWA reach agreement on each agency's roles and responsibilities, and how those responsibilities will be managed.
The Task Force recommends that the FHWA office discuss the implementation of the Federal highway programs with the STA or Federal Agency that shares the implementation of the program with FHWA. There needs to be agreement on the Agency that will have the project level approval authority. The FHWA and the STA or Federal agency need to continually: (1) evaluate its stewardship and oversight mechanisms, and (2) work to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the FHWA highway programs. Appendix G is an example of how the Agreement can be used to assist the FHWA and STA or Federal Agency in managing these delegated authorities. Another option is for these discussions to occur with the development and approval of individual processes and procedures.
The message that this Task Force and the FHWA management, through approval of these recommendations, want to convey is that (1) FHWA has been directed to delegate these project level authorities to the STAs, and (2) FHWA has a responsibility to conduct program oversight of all programs to ensure the effective delivery of the programs. Through the issuance of the updated Stewardship and Oversight Policy, the updating of related policies and guidance material, and the appropriate use of oversight tools, the FHWA can improve its management of the Federal highway programs while allowing STAs the maximum delegated authority and flexibility available.
Federal funding is provided to assist States and Federal Agencies in providing transportation services through the various Federal Highway Administration programs. By law, the nature of the majority of these Federal programs is Federal assistance for State administered programs. The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) increased the role of State Transportation Agencies (STA) in project approvals. These changes did not alter the fact that the FHWA is the Federal agency responsible for ensuring compliance with Federal requirements in the delivery of the Federal highway program. These changes did affect how FHWA implements this responsibility. The flexibility afforded in the ISTEA and the TEA-21 allowed STAs to assume the Secretary's responsibilities for design, plans, specifications, estimates, contract awards and inspection of many Federal-aid projects. Policy, guidance, training, and other FHWA material implementing the oversight provisions of ISTEA were written to initiate change within the agency regarding our approach to the oversight component of the stewardship of the Federal highway program. However, the implementation of the policies and guidance resulted in inconsistent interpretations of the FHWA responsibility for ensuring compliance on "exempt" projects.
The purpose of this document is to restate the FHWA responsibilities in the delivery of the Federal highway programs.
In order to ensure that this policy statement is consistently interpreted, the following definitions have been established.
Name | Definition |
---|---|
Stewardship: | The efficient and effective management of the public funds that have been entrusted to the Federal Highway Administration. |
Oversight: | The act of ensuring that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with laws, regulations and policies. |
Stewardship reflects our responsibility for the development and implementation of the Federal highway programs. It involves all FHWA activities in delivering the Federal highway program, such as leadership, technology deployment, technical assistance, problem solving, program administration and oversight.
Oversight is the compliance or verification component of FHWA stewardship activities. Narrowly focused, oversight activities ensure that the implementation of these Federal highway programs is done in accordance with the applicable laws, regulations, and policies. More broadly focused, oversight activities enable the FHWA to ensure the effective delivery and operation of the transportation system envisioned in our base statutes.
In short, it must be recognized that Congress and the public hold the FHWA accountable for ensuring that the Federal highway programs are both efficient and effective, and are consistent with applicable laws, regulations and policies.
The policy applies to all organizational elements of the FHWA and all FHWA programs. FHWA has stewardship and oversight responsibilities for all FHWA programs, and these program responsibilities include Title 23 and non-Title 23 program areas. While STAs may assume certain project approval authorities in accordance with Section 106, Title 23, United States Code, the FHWA is ultimately accountable for ensuring that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with established requirements. The FHWA responsibility is the same when Federal Agencies assume authorities for the implementation of Federal Lands Highway Program. FHWA has program oversight responsibilities regardless of project approval authorities assumed by the STA or Federal Agency. FHWA oversight is conducted through a wide range and variety of mechanisms. These include process reviews, program evaluation, program management activities, and project involvement activities. FHWA stewardship activities, beyond oversight, include continuous process improvement initiatives, technical assistance, technology deployment, performance measurement, project involvement activities, and sharing best practices.
FHWA unit offices (Headquarters and Divisions) will evaluate the risks / benefits in the implementation of FHWA programs and establish activities to develop confidence that the STA or Federal Agency mechanisms and activities are sufficient. Oversight activities will be included in the unit's annual performance plan.
When a STA or Federal Agency assumes project approval responsibilities, it must have mechanisms in-place to assure that all project actions will be carried out according to laws, regulations, and policies. This applies to projects administered by the STA or local public agencies (LPA). These mechanisms include the agreement required under Section 106, Title 23, United States Code, processes, procedures, and program manuals. The FHWA must conduct verification activities to assure that the STA or Federal Agency implementation of the Federal highway programs conform with laws, regulations and policies and the STA or Federal Agency is carrying out its roles and responsibilities according to the law, regulations, policies, and any established agreement with the FHWA. The FHWA oversight and independent verification activities are similar to the quality assurance portion of quality control / quality assurance programs prevalent in many construction and materials programs.
The National Strategic Plan sets strategic goals for FHWA stewardship activities. The FHWA Performance Plan identifies key stewardship initiatives that will be conducted nationally for the immediate fiscal year. Each office must develop annual unit performance plans that guide its stewardship efforts. These plans must be aligned with the FHWA Annual Performance Plan. The FHWA must balance its activities to achieve strategic goals while reaching a level of confidence that Federal requirements are being met. As a result, each office is expected to include some level of oversight activities in its unit performance plan.
Each office is expected to use a risk / benefit analysis or similar prioritization process to identify the appropriate oversight initiatives and effectively allocate personnel resources based on risks and benefits. The process should consider items such as strategic goals, mutual FHWA and STA or Federal Agency initiatives to improve quality, cost, and the FHWA level of confidence in oversight mechanisms and activities. Ideally, this prioritization process would be conducted in cooperation with the STA or Federal Agency. This process should result in a mixture of initiatives to achieve strategic goals, meet customer needs and expectations, yield high benefits or pay-offs, result in systemic improvement, deploy innovative technology, provide technical assistance, and to ensure that the Federal highway program is being delivered consistent with laws, regulations, policies and strategic goals. The process should also result in reviews that include project and program verification so that FHWA has confidence in the quality of the delivery of the Federal highway programs.
Stewardship and oversight initiatives that focus on broad program areas must play a prominent role in the plan since these reviews are more likely to yield systemic improvements and a resultant higher pay-off for the effort invested. Project level verification may also be included depending on several factors such as level of Federal interest, technical complexity, statutory requirements, and partner capabilities. Program reviews should include a sampling of Interstate, NHS, and non-NHS projects for verifying adequate STA / Federal implementation of the program and making program or project improvement recommendations.
Actions:
The U.S. Department of Transportation, through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is charged with the administration of the Federal highway programs. Section 101 (b)(1) of Title 49, United States Code, states the Department is to "ensure the coordinated and effective administration of the transportation programs of the United States Government". The current FHWA Strategic Plan identifies the business goals we hope to obtain with the "coordinated and effective administration" of these programs and the plan discusses that it is through the stewardship and oversight of the Federal highway programs that we achieve the identified business goals. The current plan does not discuss the important accountability role the FHWA staff has in administering these same programs.
A unique aspect of the Federal highway programs is that, by law, the FHWA shares the administration of these programs with our STA and Federal agency partners. The FHWA retains the ultimate responsibility for all activities funded with FHWA funds, with the STA or Federal agency partners frequently being the implementing entity. The degree that the STA or Federal Agency has assumed project approval authority varies with each STA and Federal Agency. The FHWA stewardship and oversight activities for each program and each partner vary in a direct relationship to the project approval authorities assumed by the STA or Federal Agency and the results of the implementation of the program. This project administration, program oversight relationship is analogous to quality control and quality assurance processes. The agency with the oversight responsibility needs to structure their activities in direct response to the quality control, process management activities, and capabilities of the implementing agency.
While everyone agrees that the FHWA has oversight and accountability responsibilities, there is the question of whether and how our oversight activities and our effectiveness and efficiency in conducting oversight should be reflected in the FHWA National Strategic Plan and Performance Plan. Currently, the National Strategic Plan has reflected the FHWA stewardship role in a paragraph discussing that the FHWA ability to achieve the identified goals is through our ability to influence other agencies since it is these other agencies that actually determine the priority of transportation needs, scope of improvements, etc. There is no direct connection or reference to the FHWA oversight role in the National Strategic Plan. The strength of this approach is that it conveys that our staff's stewardship responsibilities are intricately linked to the accomplishment of these business goals and the interrelationship of daily business and the agency strategic goals is important in implementing quality in an organization. The FHWA employees struggle with this approach because (1) a one paragraph reference to a thirteen page report does not convey a lot of importance, and (2) there are important activities in our daily business (i.e. program and project oversight activities) that are not linked to the improvement strategies and initiatives tracked as part of the Strategic Plan and Performance Plan processes.
Discussion in the FHWA Performance Plans offers some improvement in that there are efforts underway to include some related performance measures in the Department and Agency Performance Plans and some Divisions already include oversight activities in their Unit Plans.
FY 2001 Performance Plan:
The Corporate Management Strategies section of this document identifies the actual corporate management strategies FHWA has adopted, based on the Malcolm Baldrige and President's Quality Award criteria, and initiatives to be implemented in FY 2001. Appendix II of this document provides information to align these corporate management strategies with the DOT "Organizational Excellence" strategic goal and the implementation of performance measures in the 2002 Performance Plan. Earlier drafts of this performance plan referenced the FHWA / STA Partnership Pilot that is underway currently. These references were deleted in the final document, although it is the Task Force understanding that the information provided from this pilot activity will be used in formulating the FY 2002 Performance Plan.
Division Unit Plans:
Some Division Unit Plans included references to "oversight" responsibilities, and in some of the plans it was clear to see a mixture of project actions and program actions was the effective way for the Division to accomplish all of its responsibilities with limited personnel resources. Not all unit plans clearly identified oversight responsibilities or oversight activities.
The Task Force received consensus on the need for a stronger reference of the FHWA Oversight role in the FHWA Business Plan and the FHWA Performance Plans. There is a wide range of opinion on how to accomplish that stronger link and due to the range of opinion and the fact that major decisions regarding the structure and direction of FHWA National Strategic Plan will not be made at this time. The Task Force is comfortable in (1) recommending the Agency develop a stronger link between oversight and our business goals, and (2) presenting the discussion that has occurred to date in this report.
Options to create a stronger link include:
The Task Force discussions focused on identifying recognizable business goals as being the most beneficial link for the FHWA employees since this is the most visible, recognizable portion of the National Strategic Plan and it conveys to our employees that our Agency's success depends on our oversight effectiveness as well as our ability to achieve the identified business goals. The Task Force recognizes the conflict in asserting "oversight" in the same sense of the public benefit of mobility, productivity, etc., but offers the concept that oversight does provide the public benefits.
The Task Force recognizes that it is easier to develop direct links between oversight and FHWA Corporate Management Strategies / DOT Organizational Excellence. The downside of these links is the topic becomes split across the multiple strategies and this results in a lack of focus and priority.
Regardless of how oversight is discussed in FHWA Strategic Plan, there must be performance elements in the FHWA Performance Plan and in the Performance Agreements. The plans should set up the accountable for each FHWA unit office to analyze the status and risks of its programs and to develop its unit plans to manage risks, obtain benefits or high payoffs with the use of our resources, and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the programs. Performance measures should address compliance with program requirements with a few measures targeting efficiency and effectiveness of processes.
The agency's decisions regarding the current FHWA / STA partnership effort should be coordinated with the Stewardship / Oversight Task Force recommendations since both efforts provide parallel discussions of how FHWA programs are administered and the need for accountability. In order to allow the maximum buy-in at the unit level and to allow flexibility in working with our STA and Federal Agency partners, our recommendation is that there be a minimum number of measures that are uniform nationwide, and that the unit offices determine additional measures and target goals that are based on the program needs in its area of responsibilities.
The word "exempt" appears in numerous sections of Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations. The following sections should be revised to eliminate reference to "exempt" term and reflect restated policy:
The phrase "project oversight exceptions" appears in 23 CFR 668.113(b)(1). This section should be revised to reflect restated policy.
References to (construction) inspections should be reviewed and revised in light of the program efficiencies (Section 1016) contained in ISTEA. Inspections are referenced in the following sections of Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations:
TEA-21 deleted all discussion of Certification Acceptance from Title 23, United States Code. The following sections of Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, should be revised accordingly:
The "Combined Road Plan" was a limited demonstration program in the 1980s. Similar to Certification Acceptance, the Program Efficiencies authorized in ISTEA and TEA-21 effectively eliminated the need for this program. 23 CFR 172.1 should be revised accordingly.
There are a number of references in Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, to the Secondary Road Plan (SRP). The Federal-aid Secondary System was repealed by ISTEA. These following references should be removed:
In addition, Section 106, Title 23 of the United States Code, 106 Project Approval and Oversight, as amended by Section 1305 of TEA-21, STAs assume certain project activities related to design; plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&Es); contract awards; and inspection of projects. The following sections of Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, should be revised accordingly:
SUBJECT: REQUIRED ACTIONS LIST
OWNER: DIVISION ADMINISTRATOR
MANAGER: ASSISTANT DIVISION ADMINISTRATOR (ADA)
EFFECTIVE DATE: April 13, 2000 (revised May 1, 2000)
AUTHORITY: ILLINOIS DIVISION
POLICY:
This policy establishes the Illinois Division Required Actions List including responsibilities and standard operating procedures for the updating / revising of the List.
The Illinois Division Required Actions List includes all the activities that the Division Office is required to perform throughout the year(s). Responsibilities of the Program Manager and / or Team Leader include knowing what is required and when; performing those functions on time; knowing where to obtain the most current information on the action; and reviewing / revising / updating the items for which they are responsible as set forth below.
Revisions / updates to the Required Actions List are the responsibility of the Program Manager and / or the Team Leader. The Program Manager and / or Team Leader are expected to be familiar with federal law, regulations, policies, etc., as well as those of the State for their area(s) of responsibility. The Program Manager and / or Team Leader are also expected to be aware of any changes at the federal and State levels that occur to their area(s) of responsibility and these changes should be communicated to appropriate Division Office and State personnel and reflected in the Required Actions List. As a minimum, the Required Actions List will be reviewed once each year (by July 31) by each Program Manager and / or Team Leader to ensure it is current and accurate.
Proposed revisions / updates will be identified and discussed with the ADA. The ADA will ensure the appropriate revisions / updates are made to the list within 3 weeks after the review date.
# | Activity | Authority | Action | Frequency | Delegated To | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
R = Review, A = Approve, C = Compliance | ||||||
SP | Statewide Planning | |||||
1. | 20 yr Statewide transportation plan | 23 CFR 450.214 | R for C | As updated | Trans Plng Eng | |
2. | 3 yr State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) & amendments | 23 CFR 450.216, 220 | R & A w/ FTA | As requested by State (at least biennially) | Trans Plng Eng | |
3. | SPR and PL funded work programs | 23 CFR 420 | R & A | Annually by May 15 | Trans Plng Eng | |
4. | SPL / PL program performance / expenditure reports | 23 CFR 420.117(b)(1) & (c) | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by Sept. 30 | Trans Plng Eng | |
5. | State PL funds formula | 23 CFR 420.109(a) | R & A | As needed or as revised by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
6. | State certification of their planning process | 23 CFR 450.220(a) | R for C | In conjunction with STIP approval (at least biennially) | Trans Plng Eng | |
7. | Public involvement for State planning process | 23 CFR 450.212 | R for C | As needed or as revised by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
8. | Functional classification of highways / streets | 23 CFR 105(b) | R & A | As needed or as revised by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
9. | Urban area boundaries | 23 CFR 470.105(a) | R & A | As needed or as revised by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
10. | Interstate additions & revisions | 23 CFR 470.111, 115(a) | R & Recommend action to HQ | As requested by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
11. | NHS revisions | 23 CFR 470.113, 115(a) | R & Recommend action to HQ | As requested by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
12. | Public Lands discretionary funds application | HQ memo soliciting applications | R & Recommend action to HQ | Periodic (usually annually, date varies) | Trans Plng Eng | |
MP | Metropolitan Planning | |||||
1. | Unified Planning Work Program for Transportation Management Areas (TMA) | 23 CFR 450.314(a) | R & A | Annually by May 15 | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
2. | Transportation plan for non-attainment metropolitan areas | 23 CFR 450.322 | R & A | Every 3 yrs | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
3. | Transportation plan for attainment metropolitan areas | 23 CFR 450.322 | R for C | Every 5 yrs | Trans Plng Eng | |
4. | Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and corollary STIP amendments for non-attainment areas | 23 CFR 450.324 - 330(b) | R & A | As requested by State - at least biennially | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
5. | TIP and corollary STIP amendments for attainment areas | 23 CFR 450.324 - 330(a) | R & A | As requested by State - at least biennially | Trans Plng Eng | |
6. | FHWA / FTA TMA planning certification | 23 CFR 450.334 | Conduct w/ FTA | Every 3 yrs | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
7. | Metro planning area boundary changes | 23 CFR 450.308 | R for C | As needed / revised by MPO / State | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
8. | MPO / State certification of MPO planning process | 23 CFR 450.334 | R for C | In conjunction with TIP approval (at least biennially) | Trans Plng Eng (CMO) | |
9. | Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Evasion Project funds request | HQ memo soliciting applications | R & A | Periodic (usually annually) | Trans Plng Eng | |
HI | Highway Information | |||||
1. | Interstate system traffic volume review | 10/24/95 HQ Memo | Conduct | Annually by Sept. 1 | Plng & Prog Eng | |
2. | HPMS data submission | FHWA HPMS Field Manual | R for C (State sends direct to HQ w/ copy to Div.) | Annually by June 15 | Plng & Prog Eng | |
3. | HPMS data review | FHWA HPMS Field Manual | Conduct | Annually by Sept. 1 | Plng & Prog Eng | |
4. | Highway statistics reports (various) | FHWA Guide to Reporting Highway Statistics | R for C (State sends direct to HQ w/ copy to Div.) | Annually or biennially per FHWA guide | Plng & Prog Eng | |
5. | Highway taxes and fees report | HQ memo of request | R for C and send to HQ | Periodic (usually biennially) | Plng & Prog Eng | |
6. | Monthly fuel report (PR 511M) | Chapter 2 of FHWA Guide to Reporting Highway Statistics | R for C (State sends direct to HQ w/ copy to Div.) | Monthly | Plng & Prog Eng | |
7. | Public road mileage certification | 23 CFR 460.3 & FAPG NS 23 CFR 460 | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by June 1 | Plng & Prog Eng | |
8. | Traffic Monitoring System | 23 CFR 500.203 | R for C | As needed or revised by State | Plng & Prog Eng | |
9. | Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Payment Certification | 23 CFR 669.7 | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by July 1 | Plng & Prog Eng | |
10. | Heavy Vehicle Use Tax Payment Review | 23 CFR 669.21 & FAPG NS 23 CFR 669 | Conduct | Every 3 years | Plng & Prog Eng | |
M | Mobility / ITS | |||||
1. | Congestion management system | 23 CFR 500.109 | R for C | As needed / revised by MPO / State | Mob Eng | |
2. | Traffic surveillance and control | 23 CFR 655.411 | R for C | As needed w/ PS&E submission (full oversight projects) | TEs | |
3. | Conformity with National ITS Architecture | FHWA interim guidance dated Oct. 1998 | R for C | As needed w/ PS&E submission (full oversight projects that affect regional integration) | TEs | |
4. | ITS Deployment Program (project descriptions) | TEA-21 Section 5208 and 5209 | R for C and send to HQ | As requested by State | Mob Eng | |
5. | ITS Deployment Program (work orders) | ITS partnership agreements | R & A | As requested by State | Mob Eng | |
6. | ITS Life Cycle Cost (>$3 million) and ITS Financing and Operations Plan | TEA-21 Section 5210 | R for C | As needed for projects funded by TEA-21 Sections 5208 and 5209 | Mob Eng | |
7. | ITS Service Plan | TEA-21 Section 5207 | Develop | By Jan 1 and April 15 | Mob Eng | |
8. | Vehicle Size & Weight enforcement certification | 23 CFR 657.13 | R for C | Annually by Jan 1 | Mob Eng | |
9. | Vehicle Size & Weight enforcement plan | 23 CFR 657.11 | R & A w/ evaluation report | Annually by July 1, w/ approval by Oct 1 | Mob Eng | |
10. | National Truck Network Modifications | 23 CFR 658.11 | R & recommend action to HQ | As requested by State | Mob Eng | |
AQ | Air Quality | |||||
1. | Transportation plan conformity determination for non-attainment areas | 23 CFR 450.322(d) | R & A | Every 3 years | Trans Plng Eng | |
2. | TIP conformity determination for non-attainment | 23 CFR 450.330(b) | R & A | Every 2 years | Trans Plng Eng | |
3. | CMAQ funds report | 04/28/99 HQ CMAQ guidance memo | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by Feb 1 | Trans Plng Eng | |
4. | CMAQ funds eligibility determination | 04/28/99 HQ CMAQ guidance memo | R & A | As requested by State | Trans Plng Eng | |
5. | MPO / state air quality agency agreements | 23 CFR 450.310(h) | R for C | As needed or revised by MPO / State | Trans Plng Eng | |
E | Environment | |||||
1. | Environmental document determination (CE-I projects) | 23 CFR 771.117 | Periodically R for C (State determines and documents) | As submitted by State | TEs or Envir Eng | |
2. | Environmental document determination (CE-II projects) | 23 CFR 771.117 | R & A | As submitted by State | TEs | |
3. | Environmental document determination (all other projects) | 23 CFR 771.113 | R & A | As submitted by State | TEs | |
4. | Environmental Assessment | 23 CFR 771.119 | R & A | As submitted by State | ETL or Envir Eng | |
5. | Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) | 23 CFR 771.121 | R & A | As submitted by State | ETL or Envir Eng | |
6. | Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) | 23 CFR 771.123 | R & A | As submitted by State | ETL or Envir Eng | |
7. | Final EIS | 23 CFR 771.125 | R & A | As submitted by State | DA | |
8. | Record of Decision (ROD) | 23 CFR 771.127 | R & A | 30 days after publishing final EIS | DA | |
9. | EIS written re-evaluations | 23 CFR 771.129 | R & A | If no action is taken within 3 years after final EIS as submitted by State | ETL or Envir Eng | |
10. | Section 4(f) programmatic | 23 CFR 771.135 | R & A | As submitted by State | TEs | |
11. | Section 4(f) individual | 23 CFR 771.135 | R & A | As submitted by State | ETL or Envir Eng | |
12. | Section 106 actions | 23 CFR 800 | R & A | As submitted by State | TEs | |
13. | Public involvement and interagency coordination | 23 CFR 771.111 | R for C | Project by project | TEs | |
14. | State public involvement program approval | 23 CFR 771.111(h), 40CFR 1500-150 | R & A | One time | Envir Eng | |
15. | Certification of hearings | 23 CFR 771.111 | R for C | Project by project | TEs | |
16. | NEPA / 404 Merger Agreement | NEPA & Clean Water Act Section 404 | R & A | As needed or requested by State | DA | |
17. | Environmental Streamlining MOU | TEA-21 Section 1309 | R & A | As needed or requested by State | DA | |
18. | Noise Policy | 06/12/95 HQ memo | R & A | As needed or requested by State | Envir Eng | |
CR | Civil Rights | |||||
1. | Title VI Plan accomplishments and next year's goals | 23 CFR 200.9 | R & A | Annually by Oct. 1 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
2. | Title VI Plan update | 23 CFR 200.9 | R & A | As needed or requested by State | Civ Rts Specialist | |
3. | State internal EEO affirmative action plan (Title VII) accomplishments and goals | 23 CFR 230.311 | R & A | Annually by Oct. 1 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
4. | State internal EEO (Title VII) plan update | 23 CFR 230.311 | R & A | Annually by Oct. 1 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
5. | EEO Contract Compliance review reports (form FHWA 86) | 23 CFR 230.409, 230.413 | R & A | As submitted by State | Civ Rts Specialist | |
6. | State Employment Practices Report (EEO-4) | 23 CFR 311 | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by Aug. 1 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
7. | MBE / MWBE / WWBE Awards & Commitment (form DOT 4630) | 49 CFR 23 Subpart C | R for C and send to HQ | Quarterly by April 15, July 15, Oct. 15, and Jan.15 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
8. | Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program revisions | 49 CFR 26.21(b) | R & A | As needed or as requested by State | Civ Rts Specialist | |
9. | State's DBE program goals | 49 CFR 26.41 | R & A | Annually by Aug 1 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
10. | Supportive services funds requests | 23 CFR 230.113 | R & A | As requested by State | Civ Rts Specialist | |
11. | Annual Contractor Employment Report (Construction Summary of Employment Data (form PR-1392)) | 23 CFR 230.121(a) | R for C and send to HQ | Annually by Sept 25 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
12. | Report on supportive services (On-the-Job Training (OJT) & DBE) | 23 CFR 230.121(e) | R for C and send to HQ | Quarterly by April 15, July 15, Oct 12, and Jan 15 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
13. | OJT goals & accomplishments | 23 CFR 230.111(b) | R for C | Annually by Jan 30 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
14. | Report on supportive services (OJT & DBE) | 23 CFR 230.111, 113 | R for C | Quarterly | Civ Rts Specialist | |
15. | Historically Black College & University (HBCU) Report | Pres. Exec. Order 12876, dated Nov. 1, 1993 | Prepare report & submit to HQ | Annually by Nov 15 | Civ Rts Specialist | |
16. | Americans with Disabilities Act Review complaint | Voluntary agreement with Justice Dept. | Conduct evaluation & correct or recommend action to HQ | As requested by HQ | Civ Rts Specialist | |
17. | Recreational Trails discretionary funds application | HQ memo soliciting applications | R & Recommend action to HQ | Periodic (usually annually) | Civ Rts Specialist | |
R/W | Right-of Way | |||||
1. | State R/W Manual changes | 23 CFR 710.201 | R & A | Jan. 1, 2001 & every 3 years thereafter | R/W Prog Mngr | |
2. | Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Report - (OMB Form 2125-0030) | 49 CFR 24.9(c) and Appendix B | R | Every 3 years | R/W Prog Mngr | |
3. | Requests for waivers | 49 CFR 24.204(b) | R & A | As submitted by State | R/W Prog Mngr | |
4. | Local Public Agency Oversight | 23 CFR 710.201(h) | Periodically R for C (State takes action) | As needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
5. | Real Property Acquisition Report (form FHWA 1434) | FHWA Order 6540.1 | Prepare & submit to HQ | Annually by Nov. 15 | R/W Prog Mngr | |
6. | Use of R/W Air Space authorization request (on Interstate system) | 23 CFR 710.405 | R & A | Project by project | R/W Prog Mngr | |
7. | Use of R/W Air Space authorization request (off Interstate system) | 23 CFR 710.405 | Periodically R for C (State takes action) | As needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
8. | Access Break / R/W Disposal authorization request (if on Interstate system or fair market value not charged) | 23 CFR 710.401 & 409 | R & A | Project by project | R/W Prog Mngr | |
9. | Access Break / R/W Disposal authorization request (if not on Interstate system and fair market value charged) | 23 CFR 710.409 | Periodically R for C (State takes action) | As needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
10. | Functional Replacement | 23 CFR 710.509 | Periodically R for C (State takes action) | As needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
11. | Outdoor Advertising policies and procedures revisions | 23 CFR 750.304 | R & A | As needed or submitted by State | R/W Prog Mngr | |
12. | Outdoor Advertising sign removal projects | 23 CFR 750.307 | R & A | Project by project | R/W Prog Mngr | |
13. | Outdoor Advertising report (form FHWA 1424) | 23 CFR 750.308 | R for C and submit to HQ | Annually by Nov. 15 | R/W Prog Mngr | |
14. | Lead Agency Uniform Act monitoring activities | 49 CFR 24.603 | R for C | As needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
15. | Develop R/W oversight agreement | 23 CFR 710.201(i) | R & A | By Jan. 1, 2001 and updated as needed | R/W Prog Mngr | |
16. | Scenic Byways discretionary funds application | HQ memo soliciting applications | R & Recommend action to HQ | Periodic (usually annually, date varies) | R/W Prog Mngr | |
R | Research | |||||
1. | SPR work program | 23 CFR 420.111 | R & A | Annually by June 30 | Res & T2 Eng | |
2. | Experimental Project work plans | FHWA LTAP Field Manual | R & A | Project by project | Res & T2 Eng | |
3. | LTAP centers work plan and budget | FHWA LTAP Field Manual | R & A | Annually by March 31 | Res & T2 Eng | |
4. | RD&T work program | 23 CFR 420.209 | R & A | Annually by June 30 | Res & T2 Eng | |
S | Safety | |||||
1. | Highway Safety Improvement Program (including HES Program - 10% STP set aside for safety eligibility determinations) | 23 CFR 924.15 | R & A | Annually by Aug. 31 | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
2. | 402 Highway Safety Program Plan | 12/22/99 guidelines | R & A | Annually by Sept. 1 | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
3. | Work Zone Safety Process review of effectiveness | 23 CFR 630.1010 | R & A | Annually by Sept. 30 | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
4. | Project crash data | 23 CFR 630.1010 | R | Continuous | State / Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
5. | Seat belt law | 23 CFR 1215.6 | R for Compliance | Annually (each fiscal year) | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
6. | Drug offender DL suspension law & enforcement certification | 23 USC 159, 23 CFR 192.5 | Accept | Annually by Jan 1 | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
7. | Zero tolerance law & enforcement certification | 23 CFR 1210.5 | Accept | Update as amended | Saf & Traf Op Eng | |
DCM | Design, Construction, & Maintenance | |||||
Full-oversight Projects (Note: The State assumes responsibility for the following on Exempt Projects.) | ||||||
1. | Consultant Settlements | 23 CFR 172.5 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
2. | Projects Near Airports | 23 CFR 620.103 | R | As requested | TEs | |
3. | Highway Facility Relinquishment | 23 CFR 620.203 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
4. | Design Exception Request | 23 CFR 625.3 | R & A | As needed | TEs / ADA (mainline Interstate) | |
5. | Plans, Specifications, & Estimates (PS&E) | 23 CFR 630B, 23 CFR 633.102 23 USC 106 | R & A | Project by project | TEs | |
6. | Competitive Bidding | 23 CFR 635.104, 23 USC 112 | R & A | As requested | ETLs | |
7. | Use of Public Owned Equipment | 23 CFR 635.106 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
8. | Changed Conditions | 23 CFR 635.109 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
9. | Concurrence in Award | 23 CFR 635.114, 23 USC 112(d) | R & A | Project by project | ETLs | |
10. | Changes and Extra Work | 23 CFR 635.120 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
11. | Claims | 23 CFR 635.124 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
12. | Statement of Materials and Labor (NHS projects of $1 million or more) (form FHWA-47) | 23 CFR 635.126 | Periodically R for C (State prepares and submits to HQ | Project by project | TEs | |
13. | Public Agency Furnished Material | 23 CFR 635.407 | R | As needed | TEs | |
14. | Warranties | 23 CFR 635.413 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
15. | Utility Agreement | 23 CFR 645.113 | R & A | Project by project | TEs | |
16. | Railroad Agreement | 23 CFR 646.216 | R & A | Project by project | TEs | |
17. | Construction Inspection | FAPG G 6042.8 | R for C | As needed | TEs | |
18. | Project Agreements (all projects) | 23 CFR 630 Subpart C | Accept | As needed | TEs | |
19. | Convict Produced Material (all projects) | 23 CFR 635.417 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
20. | Authorization to Advertise (all projects) | 23 CFR 635.309 | R & A | Project by project | TEs | |
21. | Project Authorizations (all projects) | 23 CFR 630.106 | R & Accept | Project by project | TEs | |
22. | Advanced Construction (all projects) | 23 CFR 630.705 | R & A | As needed | ETLs / TEs | |
23. | Payroll (all projects) | 23 CFR 635.118 | R | As needed | TEs | |
24. | Termination of Contract (all projects) | 23 CFR 635.125 | R & A | As needed | ADA | |
25. | Buy America waiver (all projects) | 23 CFR 635.410 | R & A | As needed | DA | |
Non-Project Specific Activities | ||||||
26. | Contracting Procedures Consultant Selection | 23 CFR 172.5 | R & A | As updated | ETLs | |
27. | Design Standards / Standard Specifications | 23 CFR 625 | R & A | When changes occur | ETLs | |
28. | Value Engineering (NHS and $25 million or more) | 23 CFR 627 and P.L. 104-59 Sec 303 | R for C (State conducts study) | Project by project | TEs | |
29. | Year-end Value Engineering Rpt | FAPG G 6011.9 | R & send to HQ | Annually by Nov. 30 | ETL A | |
30. | Local Public Agency Oversight Policies & procedures | FAPG 23 CFR 635.105 | R & A | As updated | ETLs | |
31. | Bid Opening / Tabulations | 23 CFR 635.113 | Periodically R for C (State takes action) | Per letting | ETLs | |
32. | Emergency Repair / Projects | 23 CFR 635.204 | R & A | As requested | DA | |
33. | Interstate Maintenance certification | 23 CFR 635.507 | R & Accept | Annually by Sept. 30 | ETLs | |
34. | Utility Agreement Alternate Procedure | 23 CFR 645.119 | R & Accept | One time | ETLs | |
35. | Utility Accommodation Policy | 23 CFR 645.215 | R & A | When changes occur | ETLs | |
36. | Railroad Agreement Alternate Procedure | 23 CFR 646.220 | R & A | One time | ETLs | |
37. | Defense Access Roads | 23 CFR 660 Part E | R | As needed | TEs | |
PM | Pavement & Materials | |||||
1. | Materials Acceptance | FAPG 23 CFR 637B | R & A | As updated | Pvmt Eng | |
2. | Pavement Design Policy | 23 CFR 626.3 | R | As needed | Pvmt Eng | |
B | Bridge | |||||
1. | NBIS Review Statewide report | 23 CFR 650 Subpart C | R for C | Annually (date determined by Division) | Br Eng | |
2. | HBRRP Unit Cost submittal | 23 CFR 650 Subpart D | R & A | Annually by April 1 | Br Eng | |
3. | HBRRP eligibility determinations | 23 CFR 650 Subpart D | R & A | Project by project | Br Eng | |
4. | HBRRP discretionary candidate submittals | 23 CFR 650 Subpart D | R & A | Annually by July 1 | Br Eng | |
5. | TS & L and PS&E reviews (non-exempt projects) | 23 CFR 630, 23 USC 106, and W.O. 11/13/98 memo | R & A | Project by project | Br Eng | |
6. | Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program eligibility determination | 23 USC 503(b) | R & A and submit to HQ | Annually (date varies) | Br Eng | |
7. | Construction inspections | FAPG G 6042.8 | R for C | As needed | Br Eng | |
FM | Financial Management | |||||
1. | Project Agreements, include provisions (e.g. drug free work place) | 23 CFR 630 Subpart C | Accept | As needed | Fin & Admin TL | |
2. | Fed-aid billing reimbursement of eligible expenditures | 23 CFR 140 and 635.122 | R & A | Weekly | Fin & Admin TL | |
3. | Discretionary funding application for funds (IM) | Memo form HQ | R & A | Annually (date varies) | Fin & Admin TL | |
4. | Transfer of funds as requested by State | 23 USC 104 (c) and 119 (f) | R & A | As needed | Fin & Admin TL | |
5. | Federal Managers Financial Integrity Act Assurance Statement | Congressional Act 1982 | R & A | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
6. | Quality Financial Management Initiative (QFMI) | Memo HFS-40, 12/01/97 | Encourage | Continuous | Fin & Admin TL | |
7. | Report of Excess Property | DOT H4410.4 | Submit to Lakewood Human Resource Center (LHRC) | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
8. | Report of Survey Activity | DOT H4410.4 | Submit to LHRC | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
9. | Report of Inventory Value | DOT H4410.4 | Submit to LHRC | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
10. | Non-Federal Recipients Report | DOT H4410.4 | Submit to LHRC | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
11. | Transit Benefit Program | DOT M1750.1 | Submit to LHRC | Semiannually by April 1 and Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
12. | POV Mileage Report | FHWA Order 4230.1 | Submit to LHRC | Quarterly by Jan. 1, April 1, July 1, and Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
13. | Alternate Fuel Report | Exec Order 13031 | Submit to LHRC | Annually by Oct. 1 | Fin & Admin TL | |
EP | Emergency Preparedness | |||||
1. | Assure implementation and support of program elements as follows: | |||||
- Data collecting and reporting | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Perform | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Federal, State and Local assistance | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Perform with State and Locals | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Emergency Communications | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Operate and maintain | Continuously | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Alert Bulletins | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Submit to HQ | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Continuity of Operations planning | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Perform | Continuously | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- National Security Coordination | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Support HQ | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Federal Response Plan participation | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Support HQ | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
- Emergency preparedness training | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Participate | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | ||
2. | Capability to carry out emergency programs and plans | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Develop and maintain | Continuously | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | |
3. | Appoint a Division Emergency Coordinator | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Appoint | One time | DA | |
4. | Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Maintain and distribute | As needed | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | |
5. | SHA capability to carry out emergency plans and programs | Executive Order 12656 and FHWA Order 1910.2B | Promote | Continuously | Eng Coord &Info Mgnt TL | |
6. | Emergency Relief (ER) damage assessments & reports | 23 CFR 668, 23 USC 120 and 125 | Perform w/ State | As needed | TEs | |
7. | Emergency Highway Traffic Regulation (EHTR) plans | EO 12656 dated 11/18/88. ( A Guide for Emergency Highway Traffic Regulation (FHWA-SA-88-023)) | R & A or Accept (send copy to HQ) | As requested | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL | |
O | Other | |||||
1. | Privately operated information centers at rest areas (Leases or agreements) | FAPG 23 CFR 752 | R & A | As needed | TEs | |
2. | Education and Training of State and Local highway agency employees | 23 USC 321 (b) and (c) | R & A | As requested | Div, NHI | |
3. | Metrication of FHWA documents | Federal Register, 06/11/92 | C | Continuous | Eng Coord & Info Mgnt TL |
Internal Outreach - The memorandum distributing the Task Force report to the FHWA offices will indicate management commitment. This memorandum needs to be followed inclusion of stewardship into the strategic planning process including implementation in annual performance plans.
The implementation of this policy and performance plan recommendations should also be discussed at Division Administrator meetings held nationally and at the local meetings with the Director of Field Services. Tri-Regional Forums, discussions with STA Transportation Agencies and via 60 minute calls / video conferences are also opportunities to clarify mutual understanding of the policy
External Outreach - Management needs to have discussions with appropriate AASHTO Committees and at Regional AASHTO meetings concerning this Task Force and implementation of recommendations. Initial discussion will occur at the AASHTO Standing Committee on Highways meeting December 8, 2000.
When the new policy becomes official, it should to be emphasized to the STA from the top (Administrator) down with emphasis at national meeting discussions etc of what the FHWA role is. It should not be left largely to the Divisions to emphasis it from the bottom up.
FHWA Office Outreach
The FHWA policy paper, talking points and power point presentation are included in this report and will be made available electronically to the DAs so that they can discuss the stewardship and oversight issues with their STA and Federal Agency partners and their FHWA staff. This outreach should begin at the upper management at the STA or Federal Agency, and continue to the other levels of the organization to implement understanding of these recommendations and maintain effective relationship with STA.
Members of the Stewardship Task Force are available upon request to make presentations on stewardship and oversight.
1) QUESTION: Does the Policy Statement conflict with previously issued guidance - most notably guidance contained in the Executive Director's March 11, 1992-memorandum in which it is stated that "FHWA has no responsibility for insuring compliance with any Federal or State requirements regarding design or construction of (Non-NHS) projects?"
ANSWER: The guidance in the policy statement replaces earlier guidance regarding oversight. The policy statement acknowledges FHWA has overall responsibility for the entire Federal Highway program. As FHWA discharges that responsibility it must focus its activities in high priority/high risk areas. Whether or not detailed project related oversight activities are conducted on non-NHS projects depends on the FHWA / STA agreement reached in accordance with 23 U.S.C.106(c)(3) and whether or not non-NHS projects constitute high priority/high risk areas.
2) QUESTION: Why is FHWA assuming new oversight responsibilities?
ANSWER: FHWA is not assuming new responsibilities. The policy statement acknowledges FHWA has overall responsibility for the Federal highway program, which must be exercised within the parameters of 23 U.S.C.106. FHWA will not exercise project level oversight responsibilities that go beyond 23 USC 106 and the agreement required by 23 USC 106(c)(3). FHWA may include assessments of projects for which the STA has project level oversight responsibility in program level reviews.
3) QUESTION: The FHWA restated policy on stewardship and oversight does not use the term "exempt". Why not?
ANSWER: After the passage of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act, FHWA introduced the term "exempt" to refer to projects for which FHWA was not going to be involved in project level review and oversight. The term was sometimes misinterpreted to mean that FHWA does not have program or project oversight responsibility. In reality, FHWA has program level responsibility for all projects, even those for which a STA has assumed project responsibilities in accordance with 23 USC 106. In order to alleviate the confusion that has arisen regarding the term "exempt", a conscious decision was made to avoid the use of the term when the restated policy was developed.
4) QUESTION: What role does FHWA play in "problem solving," if any?
ANSWER: 49 U.S.C.101(b)(5) indicates USDOT [and modal agencies] must "provide general leadership in identifying and solving transportation problems. The reference to problem solving in the policy paper is in the context of FHWA stewardship responsibilities. Helping our partners solve problems has been a long-standing function of FHWA.
5) QUESTION: As a result of the restated policy, will it be necessary to renegotiate the agreement with the STA required by 23 USC 106(c)(3)?
ANSWER: Not necessarily. The agreement should result from a dialogue between the FHWA and the STA about how oversight of the Federal-aid program in the state is managed. The agreement should be seen as an opportunity to identify and document program oversight efficiencies that reflect strengths and other unique characteristics that exist within the state. While a periodic agreement review and update cycle is not specified it makes sense to assess and reconfirm the agreement as changes occur in issues or programs.
6) QUESTION: Does the restated policy signal a return to business prior to 1991, i.e., project oriented oversight?
ANSWER: ABSOLUTELY NOT. The policy statement emphasizes the point that FHWA has overall responsibility for the Federal Highway program, and acknowledges that, in accordance with 23 USC 106, STAs are to act for the Federal government in certain project related activities. The policy statement provides flexibility to implement a balanced set of program and project-based activities, consistent with the requirements of 23 U.S.C 106(c)(3). The agreement as to these activities should provide reasonable assurance that the Federal Highway program is implemented effectively and efficiently and in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and policies.
7) QUESTION: The policy statement suggests that review activities are to include verification activities. What does this mean, particularly in regard to the agreement required by 23 U.S.C.106(c)(3)?
ANSWER: The policy discusses FHWA verification activities in a number of areas. The FHWA is held accountable for the expenditure of public funds and the implementation of the Federal highway programs. This accountability includes The FHWA confirmation that there are processes and procedures in place, as may be described in the agreement required by 23 U.S.C.106(c)(3) and elsewhere, to assure compliance with applicable laws and policies.
8) QUESTION: Is the risk assessment or prioritization process a formal or informal process?
ANSWER: The FHWA Office, in conjunction with the STA or Federal Agency, have the flexibility to determine how they will conduct the risk assessment/prioritization process and the format used to document the analysis and conclusions.
9) QUESTION: The policy statement does not deal with the differences in oversight for Interstate, NHS, and non-NHS projects. Why not?
ANSWER: The statement emphasizes the FHWA overall responsibility for the Federal Highway program. The FHWA overall program remains the same across funding categories. It is the mechanisms that we use to manage our oversight responsibility at the project level that change based on the program and the role the STA has in managing the project level activities. It is expected that the differences in FHWA involvement for Interstate, NHS and non-NHS projects will be documented in each agreement required by 23 USC 106(c)(3) agreement.
10) QUESTION: For projects administered by Local Public Agencies (LPA) what is the oversight role for both STA and FHWA?
ANSWER: FHWA has oversight responsibility for the Federal-aid program. Nothing in the policy statement changes the provisions of 23 CFR, Section 635.105 that establishes STA responsibility for projects constructed by LPAs. FHWA holds the STA accountable for LPA administered projects and may conduct verification activities to assure that the STA and LPA's, are carrying out its roles and responsibilities according to laws, regulations and policies.
11) QUESTION: Is it expected that the policy statement will result in increased staffing needs?
ANSWER: No. It is expected that FHWA managers will, as they have always done, develop approaches to address program needs within their current resource allocations. Risk/benefit considerations will need to be made to select high priority to effectively manage resources. It is envisioned that implementation of this policy will result in increased staff efficiencies.
12) QUESTION: Are there any new tools for use in working with oversight?
ANSWER: FHWA needs to do more work in this area. There are program review techniques that have been in existence for several years, and we are gaining more experience with Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) techniques. FHWA needs to develop risk benefit analysis from a conceptual framework to a workable tool that can be used in establishing priorities for oversight activities.
Background:
ISTEA and TEA 21 authorized the FHWA to allow the States to assume authority for specific project approval actions. ISTEA and TEA 21 did not alter FHWA responsibility for the overall implementation of the Federal highway programs; it did allow delegation of project approval authorities. Since the implementation of these provisions, there has been continual discussion and questions as to the FHWA role when States assume these authorities. In May 2000, there was a commitment made to organize a Stewardship and Oversight Task Force to reframe our agency policy and guidance on Stewardship and Oversight.
Talking Points:
Background: There has been considerable discussion on where FHWA, particularly the Division Offices should expend its resources, i.e., where are those areas where the agency might be at risk if Federal requirements are not adhered to, and conversely, where can we add value. This paper is based on some earlier work by Mr. Leon Witman, former Director of Field Services - West.
Introduction: The following is intended as a guide to assist Division Offices in determining and selecting the most appropriate process to carry out its stewardship and oversight responsibilities. For purposes of this discussion, stewardship is defined as the efficient and effective management of the public funds which have been entrusted to the Federal Highway Administration, whereas oversight is defined as the act of ensuring that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with laws, regulations and policies.
Approach: The suggested approach takes into consideration the qualifications and technical competencies of the state highway agency; the level of trust that exists with our State partner based on historical relationships, shared expectations, and mutually agreed upon procedures and processes; and importantly, the risk involved from the FHWA perspective. This is the risk element. The second part addresses the question of whether there is an opportunity to make a difference or add value (the benefit). Before proceeding with this approach, the issue of whether FHWA has responsibility in a particular area must be clearly established. The Federal interest and FHWA responsibility is derived from Federal laws and/or regulations which require FHWA oversight or from executive-level policy statements. Once this is established, a determination can then be made as to where FHWA is at risk and where there might be a benefit in FHWA's involvement from both the Division Office's and the State highway agency's perspective. The following matrix helps define what is important and where the Division may want to place its resources.
RISK | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Low | High | |||||||
Trust & Shared Expectations | Quality & Competencies | Procedures & Processes in Place | Lack of Procedures | Evidence of non- compliance | ||||
B E N E F I T S |
H i g h |
Complex | Utilize Potential | Maximize Strengths & Potential | ||||
State-of- the-Art | ||||||||
State-of- the-Practice | ||||||||
L o w |
Quality Issues Involved | Routine Business | Utilize Strengths | |||||
Routine |
Defining Risk: If there is a Federal responsibility, then a risk assessment can be performed to determine where the Division may want to place its emphasis. This could be done on a programmatic basis. A positive answer to one or more of the following questions can help determine areas where there is a potential high risk.
Consistent with law and regulation, the Division can make decisions regarding how they will conduct their oversight and the level of energy/resources depending on the risk. The FHWA may delegate some of its responsibilities, depending on risk, based on a demonstration that the State has in place laws, regulations, directives, standards and/or procedures that either separately or collectively will accomplish the policies and objectives contained in Title 23. In addition, there should be a finding that the state highway/ transportation agency has the capability to carry out project responsibilities in accordance with such requirements. Capability is defined as having an suitably equipped organization with adequate staff and authority to carry out delegated oversight responsibilities. This approach, modeled after 23 CFR 640 (Certification Acceptance), should be based on previous process reviews or a formal finding that the State has adequate internal controls to ensure that the Federal interest is protected.
Defining Benefit: A positive answer to one or more of the following questions can help determine areas where there are opportunities that would benefit one or both parties. This is typically done on a project or new program basis. The issues to review include:
The assessment described above should be conducted in cooperation with our partners, considering the risk(s) and benefit(s) involved.
To set forth agreement between the State Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration on the respective roles and responsibilities of each party in administering the Federal-aid Highway Program in the State of __________.
Whereas, Section 106 of Title 23 - United States Code (USC), as amended by Section 1305 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) of 1998, provides considerable flexibility to individual States and FHWA Division offices in reaching agreement on "responsibilities" for design, plans, specifications, estimates, contract awards, and inspection of Federal-aid highway projects. While the State DOT may assume certain project approval and authorities in accordance with 23 USC 106, FHWA is ultimately accountable for ensuring that the Federal-Aid Highway Program is delivered consistent with established requirements.
Under Title 23, FHWA is ultimately accountable for all Federal-Aid highway programs, however, the State may assume responsibility for project-level activities associated with 23 USC 106 on certain National Highway System (NHS) projects and all non-NHS projects. The State's responsibilities for the following types of projects are as follows:
State and FHWA agree to manage the implementation of this agreement by:
This agreement does not preclude FHWA access to and review of Federal-aid projects at any time, and it does not replace the fundamental provisions of law in Title 23 with respect to the basic structure of the Federal-aid program. FHWA will exercise its stewardship and oversight through product evaluations/process reviews, continuous process improvement initiatives, program management activities, and other project involvement activities.
FHWA may at any time have access to and review project phases and records under this agreement. In accordance with 23 CFR 17.5, records will be retained for a minimum of 3 years or until litigation, claims, or audit findings initiated before the expiration of the 3-year period have been resolved.
State Department Of Transportation | Federal Highway Administration | |
---|---|---|
Name (Date) | Name (Date) | |
Secretary of Transportation State of | Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration |
Jim Sinnette
Innovative Program Delivery Office
202-366-0479
E-mail Jim