METHODS OF OVERSIGHT. FHWA will utilize various approaches to accomplish oversight activities. Continuous Process Improvement Study (CPIS) reviews, process reviews, sampling/testing of program and/or project compliance, project-by-project involvement, telephone contacts, participation in meetings, participation on task forces and committees, and similar types of activities will be used. CPISs will be the primary method of program oversight. The following techniques may be used to provide stewardship and oversight to the FAHP: Program Assessments – This technique may take many forms including joint risk assessments, self-assessments and program assessments. All of these tools are based on the common concepts of identifying strengths, weaknesses and opportunities and the identification and sharing of “best” practices to continually improve the program. Program Reviews – These reviews are a thorough analysis of key program components and the processes employed by the WVDOT in managing the program. The reviews are conducted to 1) ensure compliance with Federal requirements; 2) identify opportunities for greater efficiencies and improvements to the program; and/or 3) identify exemplary practices. They can be referred to, or known as, program improvement reviews, program assessments, program accountability and results reviews, process reviews, program/product evaluations, or continuous process improvement studies (CPIS).
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT a. Program Approval Actions • LADOTD has been delegated programmatic approval authority for specific categorical exclusions. • LADOTD also acts as FHWA’s nonfederal representative for informal Section 7 ESA consultation and Section 106 consultation. • LADOTD public involvement procedures are to be approved by FHWA.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT a. Program Approval Actions FHWA will approve the LADOTD Standards Manual for Accommodating Utilities, Driveways and Other Facilities on Highway Right-of-way and any revisions to that manual.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT a. Program Approval Actions • FHWA will approve any waivers to Buy America Act on all federal-aid projects. • FHWA will have specific approval authority for the authorization and obligation of Federal-Aid funds for all federal-aid projects. • FHWA will approve LADOTD Standard Specifications and Supplemental Specifications for all federal-aid projects.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT a. Program Approval Actions • 23 USC Sections 48 (previously Sec. 130 & 152): LADOTD will submit for FHWA approval a programming process and amendments, a program of projects and program evaluation report under the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), including Hazard Elimination Projects and Rail Crossing Improvement Projects. • 23 USC Section 154 (Open Container): LADOTD must submit a notification to FHWA and NHTSA identifying how the Open Container penalty transferred funds will be used. It will also include any Section 154 Penalty Transfer Projects advanced as hazard elimination safety construction projects based on Section 148 criteria in the annual program of projects under the Highway Safety Improvement Program. • 23 USC Section 159 Certification (Revocation or Suspension of Drivers' Licenses for Drug Offenders): LADOTD will submit an annual certification to FHWA indicating either opposition to or enactment/enforcement of a law requiring the revocation or suspension of drivers’ licenses of individuals convicted of drug offenses. • 23 USC Section 163 (0.08 blood alcohol): LADOTD must annually jointly notify FHWA and NHTSA of the intended use of the Section 163 incentive funds.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT a. Program Approval Actions (see attached flowchart) • The LADOTD must specifically request assistance under the ER program for each natural disaster or catastrophic event. This should be initiated with a letter of intent to seek ER funds as soon as it is evident that there is eligible damage. • FHWA will respond to written requests for ER assistance with a letter of acknowledgement and brief instructions on how to proceed. Typically, the letter of acknowledgement establishes a beginning date of potential eligibility for immediate emergency repairs. • LADOTD prepares and submits to FHWA a Damage Survey Summary Report in support of the ER funding request. The Damage Survey Summary Report is prepared for each particular event in accordance with the ER Manual requirements, after consulting with the FHWA Division Office as to which of the three method of developing and processing ER request will be utilized. • FHWA will respond to the report with a determination of ER eligibility. The list of sites outlined in the report constitutes the program of projects required prior to authorization of permanent repairs.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT. This Agreement documents the key processes used by FHWA and DDOT for managing the FAHP. FHWA and DDOT will jointly administer and manage the FAHP through methods of oversight that are risk- based, data-driven, value-added, and ensure a consistent approach to program and project level actions throughout the District.
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT. A. FHWA will employ a risk management framework in consultation with TxDOT to evaluate program areas to balance risk with consideration of staffing resources, funding within FAHP, and highway needs within the state. TxDOT will work collaboratively with FHWA to identify risks and make practical resources available to address FHWA's risk assessment findings. The following table highlights some potential risks that may affect an individual project's risk profile. Design / Construction Risks • Permitting problems • Design Changes • Poor / Incomplete Design • Cost Overruns • Cash Flow Deficiencies • Technology Risks • Schedule Delays • Litigation
METHODS OF OVERSIGHT
