Congratulations to the winners of the 2004 Excellence in Right-of-Way Awards and all who were nominated for these awards. This biennial awards program was developed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to honor those who excel in streamlining or improving the real property acquisition process while ensuring that property owners' and tenants' rights are protected. The awards recognize outstanding innovations that enhance the right-of-way professional's ability to meet the challenges associated with acquiring real property for a Federal-aid project.
This year, FHWA received many impressive entries describing exciting and innovative right-of-way projects from around the country. The categories for the 2004 Excellence in Right-of-Way Awards included Innovation, Leadership, Local Public Agency Stewardship, Streamlining and Integration, and Technical Specialties. The winners in these five categories demonstrated successful methods to effectively and efficiently purchase and manage right-of-way in their states. The recipients will be honored during the 2004 FHWA and AASHTO Subcommittee on Right-of-Way and Utilities annual meeting in Seattle, Washington.
It is encouraging to know that right-of-way professionals are continually striving to improve their processes and the services they provide to the public. Other right-of-way professionals can implement and build upon the ideas and innovative processes represented in the winning entries. The winners' examples demonstrate that right-of-way professionals sharing successes benefit both the right-of-way community and the public. The ultimate benefits include time and money saved as we continue to streamline the process and make our national transportation system safer and more efficient while continuing to protect the rights of owners and tenants as well as the environment.
Once again, I would like to congratulate all of the winners in the 2004 Excellence in Right-of-Way Awards. Thank you for developing innovations in meeting the challenges of acquiring real property and serving the public.
Mary E. Peters
Federal Highway Administrator
