Revision of Stewardship and Oversight Agreement Template, 78193-78201 [2022-27705]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
UDOT: Carissa Watanabe,
Environmental Program Manager, UDOT
Environmental Services Division, 4501
South 2700 West, P.O. Box 148450, Salt
Lake City, Utah 84114–8450; telephone:
(503) 939–3798; email: cwatanabe@
utah.gov.
(Catalog of Federal and Domestic Assistance
Program Number 20.205, Highway Research,
Planning and Construction. The regulations
implementing Executive Order 12372
regarding intergovernmental consultation on
federal programs and activities apply to this
program.)
Dated: December 14, 2022.
Ivan Marrero,
Division Administrator, Federal Highway
Administration, Salt Lake City, Utah.
[FR Doc. 2022–27728 Filed 12–20–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–22–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Highway Administration
[FHWA Docket No. FHWA–2022–0013]
Revision of Stewardship and Oversight
Agreement Template
Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of revised Stewardship
and Oversight Agreement template,
request for comments.
AGENCY:
The FHWA has completed a
revision to the Federal-State
Stewardship and Oversight (S&O)
Agreement template. The revised S&O
Agreement template that is the subject
of this notice is an updated version of
a template issued by FHWA in 2015.
The revisions address such issues as
changes in applicable laws and the
evolution of FHWA’s risk-based
stewardship and oversight program. The
FHWA is requesting comments on the
revised S&O Agreement template. The
FHWA will publish a Federal Register
notice announcing the final S&O
Agreement template, including any
changes FHWA makes in response to
public comments.
DATES: The public comment period
closes on February 21, 2023.
ADDRESSES: All comments should
include the docket number that appears
in the heading of this document and
may be submitted in any of the
following ways:
• Electronically through the Federal
eRulemaking Portal:
www.regulations.gov. This website
allows the public to enter comments on
any Federal Register notice issued by
any agency. Follow the online
instructions for submitting comments.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
• Fax: 1–202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations,
West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590 between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
Instructions: You should identify the
docket number at the beginning of your
comments. If you submit your
comments by mail, submit two copies.
To receive confirmation that DOT
received your comments, include a selfaddressed stamped postcard. Late
comments will be considered to the
extent practicable. Note that all
comments received will be posted
without change to www.regulations.gov,
including any personal information
provided.
Mr.
Lloyd Rue, Office of Infrastructure, (202)
366–6125, office hours are from 8 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m., MT, Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays, or Ms.
Alla Shaw, Office of the Chief Counsel,
(202) 366–1042, office hours are from 8
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ET, Federal Highway
Administration, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Offices are open Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Electronic Access
This document and the revised S&O
Agreement template may be viewed
online under the docket number noted
above through the Federal eRulemaking
portal at: www.regulations.gov.
Electronic submission and retrieval help
and guidelines are available on the
website. Please follow the online
instructions.
In addition to being available in the
electronic docket, the revised S&O
Agreement template may also be viewed
online at: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/
federalaid/stewardship/Draft_
stewardship_and_oversight_
template.docx.
An electronic copy of this document
may also be downloaded from the Office
of the Federal Register’s website at:
https://www.archives.gov/federal-register
and the U.S. Government Publishing
Office’s website at: https://
www.govinfo.gov/.
Physical access to the docket is
available at the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
PO 00000
Frm 00152
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
78193
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20950, between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
All comments received before the
close of business on the comment
closing date indicated above will be
considered and will be available for
examination in the docket at the above
address. Comments received after the
comment closing date will be filed in
the docket and will be considered to the
extent practicable. In addition to late
comments, FHWA will also continue to
file relevant information in the docket
as it becomes available after the
comment period closing date and
interested persons should continue to
examine the docket for new material.
Background
In enacting 23 United States Code
(U.S.C.) 106(c), as amended, Congress
established authority for States to enter
into agreements with FHWA under
which the States carry out certain
project responsibilities traditionally
handled by FHWA. Congress also
recognized the importance of a riskbased approach to FHWA oversight of
the Federal-aid highway program
(FAHP), establishing requirements in 23
U.S.C. 106(g). The S&O Agreement is a
key element of FHWA’s risk-based S&O
approach. The S&O Agreements are
formal instruments executed between
each FHWA Division Office and its
corresponding State department of
transportation (State DOT). The S&O
Agreement defines the roles and
responsibilities of FHWA and the State
DOT with respect to Title 23, U.S.C.
project approvals and related
responsibilities, and documents
methods that will be used for FAHP
oversight activities.
In response to Office of Inspector
General recommendations,1 FHWA
revised its national S&O procedures to
require use of a uniform template for
developing an S&O Agreement and
instituted a legal review of each S&O
Agreement. In 2015, FHWA issued the
template currently in use. Each of the 52
FHWA Division Offices and their
respective State DOTs executed a new
S&O Agreement based on the 2015 S&O
Agreement template.
Since the issuance of the 2015 S&O
Agreement template and
implementation of the new S&O
Agreements, statutes and regulations
applicable to the FAHP have changed.
1 ‘‘Improvements to Stewardship and Oversight
Agreements Are Needed to Enhance Federal-aid
Highway Program Management,’’ OIG, DOT, Report
Number MH–2013–001 (October 1, 2012), available
online at https://www.oig.dot.gov/library-item/
28742.
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
78194
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
In addition, FHWA identified
improvements for the 2015 template.
For these reasons, FHWA initiated
updates to the 2015 S&O Agreement
template.
Finally, section 11307 of the
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (Pub. L.
117–58) directed the Secretary of
Transportation to publish a template
created by the Secretary for FederalState S&O agreements in the Federal
Register along with a notice requesting
public comment on ways to improve the
template. Accordingly, FHWA is making
available the revised template and the
2015 template in the docket established
for this notice. The 2015 template is
included for reference, and it may also
be viewed at https://go.usa.gov/xtQcM.
The FHWA is requesting comments on
the revised template, which FHWA
believes addresses many concerns
expressed by stakeholders since 2015.
Discussion of Changes
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
Revisions to the 2015 S&O Agreement
template include the removal of
redundant language and outdated text;
revisions to the project-level approval
actions, listed in attachment A to the
template, including revisions based on
changes in Federal law that have
occurred since March 2015; and
reorganization of the template.
The revised S&O Agreement template
is more concise. The text of the 2015
S&O Agreement template is 12 pages,
excluding signature pages and the
attachments. The text of the revised
S&O Agreement template is 7 pages,
excluding signature pages and the
attachments.
The 2015 S&O Agreement template
has 12 sections. The revised S&O
Agreement template is now nine
sections. The revised section headings
are:
Section I. Background and Introduction
Section II. Intent and Purpose of Agreement
Section III. Permissible Areas of Assumption
Under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
Section IV. Assumption of Responsibilities
for Federal-Aid Projects on the NHS
Section V. Assumption of Responsibilities for
Federal-Aid Projects off the NHS
Section VI. FHWA Oversight Program Under
23 U.S.C. 106(g)
Section VII. State DOT Oversight
Responsibilities
Section VIII. Agreement Execution and
Modifications
Section IX. Agreement Term and
Termination
The title of the agreement is unchanged.
The 2015 S&O Agreement template
included three attachments: (1)
attachment A—Project Action
Responsibility Matrix; (2) attachment
B—Program Responsibility Matrix; and
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
(3) attachment C—Manuals,
Agreements, Control, Monitoring, And
Reporting Documents. The revised S&O
Agreement template eliminates
attachment B—Program Responsibility
Matrix of the 2015 agreement template.
The purpose of attachment B in the
2015 template was to identify FHWA
and State DOT offices involved in
carrying out various program-level
actions under the FAHP. That detailed
level of information is not necessary in
this more focused and concise version
of the S&O Agreement template.
The revised S&O Agreement template
includes three attachments: (1)
attachment A—Project Action
Responsibility Matrix; (2) attachment
B—Manuals, Agreements, Control,
Monitoring, And Reporting Documents;
and (3) attachment C—Stewardship and
Oversight Indicators.
Request for Comments
Although comments may address any
part or provision of the template, FHWA
is specifically requesting comments on
the following:
• Whether revisions are needed to the
template to delete standard terms
requiring approval by the Secretary of
the policies, procedures, processes, or
manuals of the States, or other State
actions, if Federal law (including
regulations) does not specifically
require an approval. The FHWA
encourages commenters to specify each
provision that should be revised.
• Opportunities to modify the
template to allow adjustments to the
review schedules for State practices or
actions, including through risk-based
approaches, program reviews, process
reviews, or other means.
• Provisions of the template that
describe how FHWA will perform
oversight under 23 U.S.C. 106(g), such
as reviewing State DOT practices or
actions through risk-based approaches,
program reviews, process reviews, or
other means. The FHWA is interested in
how commenters believe FHWA could
improve these provisions in the
template.
• Whether FHWA should allow the
template to be modified by individual
division offices and State DOTs to
include State-specific provisions that do
not otherwise conflict with the template
and, if so, examples of what might be
included in those provisions. The
FHWA is particularly interested in
whether commenters believe FHWA
should allow the addition of such Statespecific provisions under Section VI.
FHWA Oversight Program Under 23
U.S.C. 106(g) and Section VII. State DOT
Oversight Responsibilities and, if so,
examples of additional provisions
PO 00000
Frm 00153
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
commenters believe might be covered in
these sections.
• Provisions of the template that
describe project approval actions that
are assumable by State DOTs. In
particular, FHWA is seeking comments
on whether those actions are adequately
described or addressed, and whether
there are additional project-level
approval actions that commenters
believe arise out of Title 23, U.S.C. or
title 23, Code of Federal Regulations and
that may be assumed by State DOTs
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c).
• Provisions of the template that
describes State responsibilities for
oversight of subrecipients. A State DOT
is responsible for project oversight (23
U.S.C. 106(g)(4)) for federally assisted
projects using apportioned Federal-aid
highway funds. The FHWA is interested
in whether the provisions in section VII
of the template in conjunction with
other existing FHWA policies,
regulations, guidance, and technical
assistance are sufficient for State DOTs
to adequately provide subrecipient
oversight and how commenters believe
FHWA could improve the provisions in
the template.
• Procedures for future updates to the
S&O Agreement template. Comments
are sought on how frequently the S&O
Agreement template should be updated
and on how future revisions to the S&O
Agreement template should be managed
to ensure the S&O Agreement template
remains reasonably up to date without
creating an overly burdensome process.
• Procedures for processing updates
to FHWA-State DOT S&O Agreements.
Comments are sought on how FHWA
should process and execute revisions to
existing FHWA-State DOT S&O
Agreements, amendments to existing
FHWA-State DOT S&O Agreements and
new FHWA-State DOT S&O
Agreements.
Further Proceedings
The FHWA is providing a 60-day
comment period. After considering
public comments in response to this
notice, FHWA will publish a notice in
the Federal Register that includes:
• The final S&O Agreement template,
including any changes FHWA makes in
response to public comments and any
alternatives to those changes.
• A summary response to public
comments, including the basis for
FHWA’s decision whether to revise the
template in response to comments. This
will include an explanation of the basis
for retaining any requirement for FHWA
approval of State policies, procedures,
processes, or manuals, or other State
actions if Federal law (including
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
regulations) does not specifically
require the approval.
• An implementation plan and
schedule for use of the new template.
Stephanie Pollack,
Deputy Administrator, Federal Highway
Administration.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
Stewardship and Oversight Agreement
on Project Assumption and Program
Oversight By and Between the Federal
Highway Administration, [State Name]
Division Office, and the [State Name
DOT/STA Organization]
Section I. Background and Introduction
The Federal-aid Highway Program
(FAHP) provides for a Federally-assisted
State program. In enacting section
106(c) of title 23, United States Code
(U.S.C.), as amended, Congress
established authority for a State
Department of Transportation (State
DOT) to carry out certain project
responsibilities traditionally handled by
the Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) through a delegation from the
Secretary of the U.S. Department of
Transportation (‘‘Secretary’’). The
authority in 23 U.S.C. 106(c) applies to
projects that are subject to the
requirements of title 23, U.S.C. (‘‘title
23’’) because the State DOT receives
Federal funding or because the State
DOT needs an FHWA action for the
project even though the project may not
use Federal funds. Congress also
recognized the importance of a riskbased approach to FHWA oversight of
the FAHP, establishing requirements in
23 U.S.C. 106(g). In addition to
assumptions of responsibility, FHWAState DOT Stewardship and Oversight
Agreements cover certain oversight
activities relating to the oversight
requirements of 23 U.S.C. 106(g).
The FHWA may not assign its
decisionmaking authority to a State
DOT unless authorized by law. The
authorities FHWA assigns to a State
DOT under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)(1) and (2)
are listed in Attachment A of the
applicable FHWA-State DOT
Stewardship and Oversight Agreement.
A decision, determination, or action
carried-out by a State DOT under the
authority of a Stewardship and
Oversight Agreement (‘‘Agreement’’)
does not constitute an eligibility,
participation, obligation,
reimbursement, authorization, or
compliance decision by or for FHWA.
For clarity, Attachment A also lists
certain other actions FHWA may have
allowed a State DOT to undertake based
on delegation or assumption provisions
in other Federal laws. As noted in those
Attachment A listings, a State DOT
exercise of those authorities is governed
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
by separate agreements between FHWA
and that State DOT.
For project responsibilities that are
not assumed by a State DOT under 23
U.S.C. 106(c), and are not otherwise
delegated or assigned in accordance
with another Federal law, FHWA may
authorize a State DOT to perform work
needed to reach the FHWA decision
point, or to implement FHWA’s
decision. However, such decisions
themselves are reserved to FHWA.
Section II. Intent and Purpose of
Agreement
This Stewardship and Oversight
Agreement (‘‘Agreement’’) establishes
the roles and responsibilities of the
FHWA [State name] Division Office and
the [State name DOT/STA organization
(abbreviation)] with respect to certain
title 23 project approvals and related
responsibilities, and FAHP oversight
activities. Nothing in this Agreement
affects the Secretary’s authority, or
authority delegated to FHWA, to oversee
compliance with Federal requirements.
These authorities include but are not
limited to 23 U.S.C. 114, under which
the Secretary has the right to conduct
such inspections and take such
corrective action as the Secretary
determines to be appropriate.
This Agreement carries out 23 U.S.C.
106(c)(3), which requires FHWA and the
State DOT enter into an agreement
relating to the extent to which the State
DOT assumes project responsibilities
pursuant to section 106(c). This
Agreement also documents certain
oversight activities that FHWA and the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
will use to efficiently and effectively
deliver the FAHP.
Section IV of this Agreement covers
assumption of project approvals on the
National Highway System (NHS).
Section V covers assumption of project
approvals off the NHS.
The Project Action Responsibility
Matrix, Attachment A to this
Agreement, describes responsibilities
that the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] assumes from FHWA
pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 106(c) and other
legal authorities.
Upon execution of this Agreement,
Attachment A controls and, except as
specifically noted in Attachment A
(including any amendment thereto done
in accordance with section VIII) and
sections IV and V of this Agreement, no
other agreements, attachments, or other
documents shall have the effect of
delegating or assigning FHWA
approvals to the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] under 23 U.S.C 106(c), or
have the effect of altering Attachment A.
PO 00000
Frm 00154
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
78195
Section III. Permissible Areas of
Assumption Under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
FHWA has determined the activities
and actions that are assumable under 23
U.S.C. 106(c). Those activities and
actions are listed in a template issued by
FHWA to create this Agreement and
cover only activities or actions in the
following areas:
A. Design, which includes
preliminary engineering, engineering,
and design-related services directly
relating to the construction of a FAHPfunded project, including engineering,
design, project development and
management, construction project
management and inspection, surveying,
mapping (including the establishment of
temporary and permanent geodetic
control in accordance with
specifications of the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration), and
architectural-related services.
B. Plans, specifications and estimates
(PS&E), which represents an array of
actions and approvals required before
authorization of construction and
carried out during construction. The
PS&E package includes standards,
drawings, specifications, project
estimates, certifications relating to
completion of right-of-way acquisition
and relocation, utility work, and
railroad work.
C. Contract awards, which include
procurement of professional and other
consultant services and constructionrelated services to include advertising,
evaluating, and awarding contracts.
D. Inspections, which include general
contract administration, material testing
and quality assurance, review, and
inspections of Federal-aid contracts as
well as final inspection/acceptance.
E. Approvals and related
responsibilities affecting real property
as provided in 23 CFR 710.201(h) and
any successor regulation.
The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is to exercise any and all
assumptions of the FHWA’s
responsibilities in accordance with the
Federal laws, regulations, policies,
Executive Orders, and procedures that
would apply if the responsibilities were
carried out by FHWA. For all projects
and programs carried out under title 23,
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
will comply with title 23 and all
applicable non-title 23 Federal-aid
program requirements.
Section IV. Assumption of
Responsibilities for FederaL-Aid
Projects on the NHS
For projects under title 23 that are on
the NHS, including projects on the
Interstate System, the [State name DOT/
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
78196
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
STA abbreviation] may assume FHWA’s
title 23 responsibilities for activities or
actions assumable under 23 U.S.C.
106(c) if the FHWA [State name]
Division Office determines that
assumption of responsibilities is
appropriate and the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] agrees.
A. The activities or actions on the
NHS assumed by the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] under this Agreement
are listed in Attachment A.
B. Activities or actions for which the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] has
assumed the FHWA’s responsibilities
apply program-wide except when
superseded by provisions in a
stewardship and oversight plan adopted
by the FHWA [State name] Division
Office for a specific project. Additional
discussion on FHWA project
involvement is included in section VI.D
of this Agreement.
C. In accordance with 23 U.S.C.
106(c)(4), the DOT Secretary may define
high-risk categories for Interstate
projects on a national basis, a State-byState basis, or a national and State-byState basis. A State DOT may not
assume responsibilities for Interstate
projects in a designated category.
Currently, FHWA has not designated
any high-risk categories applicable to
[State name] in accordance with 23
U.S.C. 106(c)(4). If the FHWA makes a
future designation that applies to [State
name], then that designation will
immediately supersede the assumptions
of responsibilities elsewhere in this
Agreement.
Section V. Assumption of
Responsibilities for Federal-Aid
Projects Off the NHS
For projects under title 23 that are not
on the NHS, the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] must assume FHWA’s title
23 responsibilities for activities or
actions assumable under 23 U.S.C.
106(c) unless the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] determines that
assumption of responsibilities is not
appropriate (23 U.S.C. 106(c)(2)).
A. The activities or actions off the
NHS assumed by the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] under this Agreement
are listed in Attachment A.
B. Activities or actions for which the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] has
assumed the FHWA’s responsibilities
apply programwide except when
superseded by provisions in a
stewardship and oversight plan for a
specific project adopted by the FHWA
[State name] Division Office. For nonNHS projects, the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] must determine that
superseding an assumption listed in
Attachment A for a specific project is
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
appropriate. Additional discussion on
FHWA project involvement is included
in section VI.D of this Agreement.
C. Except as provided in 23
U.S.C.109(o), the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is to exercise FHWA’s
approvals and related responsibilities
on these projects in accordance with
Federal laws, regulations, policies,
Executive Orders, and procedures that
would apply if the responsibilities were
carried out by FHWA.
D. In accordance with 23 U.S.C.
109(o), non-NHS projects shall be
designed and constructed in accordance
with State laws, regulations, directives,
safety standards, design standards, and
construction standards, except that a
local jurisdiction may use a roadway
design guide recognized by FHWA and
adopted by the local jurisdiction that is
different from the roadway design guide
used by the State in which the local
jurisdiction is located for the design of
projects on all roadways under the
ownership of the local jurisdiction for
which the local jurisdiction is the
project sponsor, provided that the
design complies with all other
applicable Federal laws.
Section VI. FHWA Oversight Program
Under 23 U.S.C. 106(g)
The Secretary must establish an
oversight program to monitor the
effective and efficient use of funds
authorized to carry out the FAHP (23
U.S.C. 106(g)). This includes FHWA
oversight of the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] processes and
management practices, including those
involved in carrying out the approvals
and related responsibilities assumed by
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c).
Section 106(g) requires, at a
minimum, FHWA’s oversight program
be responsive to all areas relating to
financial integrity and project delivery.
To carry out the requirements of 23
U.S.C. 106(g), FHWA uses a risk
management framework to evaluate
financial integrity, project delivery, and
other aspects of the FAHP. The objective
is to balance risk while considering
staffing, budget resources, and the
State’s transportation needs.
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] may use a variety of
methods to identify, analyze, and
manage risks and develop response
strategies, such as oversight techniques,
manuals and operating agreements,
stewardship and oversight indicators,
and FHWA project involvement.
PO 00000
Frm 00155
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
Oversight Techniques
Techniques the FHWA [State name]
Division Office and the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] may use to
identify and analyze risks and develop
response strategies include, but are not
limited to, the following:
• program assessments;
• FHWA Financial Integrity Review
and Evaluations reviews;
• program reviews;
• certification reviews;
• recurring or periodic reviews such
as the FHWA Compliance Assessment
Program;
• inspections of project elements or
phases.
Manuals and Operating Agreements
The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] manuals, agreements and
other control, monitoring, and reporting
documents that are used on Federal-aid
projects are listed in Attachment B to
this Agreement.
Stewardship and Oversight Indicators
[Drafting note: Select the paragraph
that applies.]
Option 1
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] have established
stewardship and oversight indicators
(indicators) to help monitor
performance of responsibilities assumed
under this Agreement. Indicators are
those intended to provide evidence of
how well a State DOT assumption of
responsibilities is functioning.
Indicators set targets, track trends, and
may help determine when
countermeasures and actions are
implemented or adjusted. The
indicators are agreed to as provided in
Attachment C.
Option 2
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] have not established
indicators as part of this Agreement.
FHWA Project Involvement
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office may select projects (individually
or by type) for risk-based FHWA project
involvement and stewardship and
oversight activities. In some instances,
the programwide assumption by the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] of
FHWA’s responsibilities under
Attachment A to this Agreement may be
superseded by provisions in a
stewardship and oversight plan for a
specific project, per sections IV and V
of this Agreement. The FHWA [State
name] Division Office will document
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
the additional activities in a
stewardship and oversight plan for the
affected project(s).
Section VII. State DOT Oversight
Responsibilities
• Oversight of State DOT Performance
of Assumed Responsibilities.This
section addresses how 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
assumed authorities are carried out by
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation].
The actions include monitoring to
assure that the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is properly carrying out its
responsibilities in accordance with this
Agreement. The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is responsible for
demonstrating to FHWA how it is
carrying out its responsibilities in
accordance with this Agreement. The
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
will provide information to the FHWA
[State name] Division Office upon
request.
The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] represents that processes,
procedures, and practices from manuals,
agreements, and other documents listed
in Attachment B to this Agreement
comply with applicable Federal
requirements.
Subrecipient Oversight
The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is responsible for ensuring
that its subrecipients meet applicable
Federal requirements (2 CFR 200.332).
This includes but is not limited to
providing adequate oversight of subrecipients with respect to both the
subaward and any 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
assumed responsibilities the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation] delegates
to a subrecipient. The [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] is responsible for
determining that subrecipients of
Federal funds are suitably staffed and
equipped and have adequate project
delivery systems and sufficient
accounting controls to properly manage
these funds (23 U.S.C. 106(g)).
Section VIII. Agreement Execution and
Modifications
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
A. Agreement Execution
This Agreement is effective when
fully executed by the FHWA [State
name] Division Administrator and
authorized representative of the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation]. The
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
duly-authorized official shall execute
this Agreement and then submit it to the
FHWA [State name] Division
Administrator, who shall sign this
Agreement last.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
B. Agreement Modifications
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] acknowledge that
Agreement modifications (minor
revisions or amendments) are needed
periodically. Either party may initiate a
request to modify this Agreement.
1. Minor Revisions
The FHWA [State name] Division
Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] may make minor revisions
to this Agreement without an
amendment. For purposes of this
Agreement, a minor revision makes a
technical correction, addresses nonsubstantive changes such as a change in
points-of-contact or document names, or
revises aspects of procedures that do not
materially change the terms of this
Agreement. Changes to Attachments B
or C are considered minor revisions.
Minor revisions are recorded in a
change log by the FHWA [State name]
Division Office. Minor revisions may be
executed without FHWA legal
sufficiency review or coordination with
FHWA’s Office of Infrastructure.
2. Amendments
Modifications to this Agreement that
exceed the definition of a minor
revision in paragraph B.1. of this section
shall require execution of an
amendment to this Agreement.
Amendments include any change to
Attachment A. The amendment shall
follow the execution procedure set forth
in paragraph A of this section.
Amendments require FHWA legal
sufficiency review and coordination
with FHWA’s Office of Infrastructure.
New Agreement
This Agreement will be replaced in its
entirety and a new Agreement executed
between the FHWA [State name]
Division Office and the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] when mutually
agreed upon by the parties, or as
requested by the FHWA Office of
Infrastructure. New Agreements require
FHWA legal sufficiency review and
coordination with FHWA’s Office of
Infrastructure prior to execution.
The electronic Agreement file shall
contain the executed Agreement, any
change logs, and amendments.
IX. Agreement Term and Termination
A. This Agreement shall have a term
of [insert term of no greater than six (6)
years] years, effective on the date of the
signature of the FHWA [State name]
Division Administrator in accordance
with section VIII(A) of this Agreement.
B. Before the expiration of the term of
this Agreement, a new agreement must
PO 00000
Frm 00156
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
78197
be executed by both parties or the
Agreement will expire (refer to section
VIII.C. and IX.D.).
C. The FHWA [State name] Division
Office may terminate this Agreement at
any time if the FHWA [State name]
Division Office determines that this
Agreement is no longer in the public
interest. Except in an extraordinary
circumstance where immediate action is
needed, prior to termination, the FHWA
[State name] Division Office will issue
a written notice to the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] describing the
FHWA’s [State name] Division Office
concerns and give the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] a reasonable period
of time to submit a written response
addressing the FHWA [State name]
Division Office concerns. The FHWA
[State name] Division Office shall
review the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] response and make a final
determination within 30 business days
of receipt of the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] response. The FHWA
[State name] Division Office will notify
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
in writing of the final determination and
the effective date of any termination.
D. Expiration or termination of this
Agreement shall mean that the
assumption of project approvals by the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] as
set forth in this Agreement and
Attachment A hereto is automatically
revoked upon the date of expiration or
termination and the [State name DOT/
STA abbreviation] must immediately
cease exercising any decision,
determination, or action under the
authority of this Agreement, including
any amendments.
Attachment A: Project Action
Responsibility Matrix
This matrix identifies the Federal-aid
highway program (FAHP) project
approvals and related responsibilities.
The matrix specifies which actions are
assumed by the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] pursuant to this
Stewardship and Oversight Agreement
(‘‘Agreement’’) and certain other
applicable authorities as specified in the
tables in this Attachment A.
The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is responsible for ensuring
all individual elements of the project are
eligible for FAHP funding. Where the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
assumes authority to make a decision,
approval, determination or action, the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
decision does not constitute an
eligibility, obligation, reimbursement,
authorization, or compliance decision
by or for the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA). Final
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
78198
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
decisions on those matters must be
made by FHWA.
TABLE 1—FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
1 ..............
Review and accept financial plan and annual updates for Federal major projects [23
U.S.C. 106(h)].
Review cost estimates for Federal major projects [23 U.S.C. 106(h)] ..........................
Obligate funds/authorize Federal-aid project agreement (including advance construction authorization and conversion), modifications, and project closures (project authorizations) [23 U.S.C. 106(a)(2), 23 CFR 630.106, 630.703, 630.709].
Authorize to advertise for bids when all preconditions are met [23 CFR 635.112(a),
635.309].
Approve reimbursements including authorizing current bill (23 U.S.C. 121) ................
Approval of reimbursement for bond-issue projects [23 U.S.C. 122, 23 CFR part
140, Subpart F].
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA.
2 ..............
3 ..............
4 ..............
5 ..............
6 ..............
Agency responsible
non-NHS
TABLE 2—ENVIRONMENT
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
Agency responsible
non-NHS
7 ..............
EA/FONSI, EIS/ROD, 4(f), 106, 6(f) and other approval actions required by Federal
environmental laws and regulations (Note: The FHWA may assign these NEPA
actions and other environmental responsibilities to a State DOT as provided by 23
U.S.C. 327).
Categorical exclusion approval actions [Note: The FHWA may assign this action and
other FHWA environmental responsibilities to a State DOT as provided by 23
U.S.C. 326 and 327. The FHWA also may administratively delegate responsibility
for categorical exclusion determinations to a State DOT through a programmatic
agreement pursuant to Section 1318(d) of MAP–21 and implementing regulations
in 23 CFR 771.117(g)].
FHWA or Administered in accordance with 23
U.S.C. 327 MOU.
FHWA or Administered in accordance with applicable 23 U.S.C. 326
or 327 MOUs, or
Programmatic Categorical Exclusion
Agreement.
FHWA or Administered in accordance with 23
U.S.C. 327 MOU.
FHWA or Administered in accordance with applicable 23 U.S.C. 326
or 327 MOUs, or
Programmatic Categorical Exclusion
Agreement.
Agency responsible
non-NHS
8 ..............
TABLE 3—PRELIMINARY DESIGN
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
9 ..............
Approval before utilizing a consultant to act in a management support role for the
contracting agency [23 CFR 172.7(b)(5)(i)].
10 ............
Approval of noncompetitive procurement method for engineering and design-related
services [23 CFR 172.7(a)(3)].
Approve exceptions to design standards [23 CFR 625.3(f)] .........................................
FHWA or Administered in accordance with procedures approved
per 23 CFR
172.5(c).
FHWA or STATE .....
FHWA or Administered in accordance with procedures approved
per 23 CFR
172.5(c).
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
Not subject to 23
CFR 625.3(f).
STATE.
11 ............
12 ............
13 ............
14 ............
15 ............
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
16 ............
17 ............
18 ............
VerDate Sep<11>2014
Airport highway clearance coordination and respective public interest finding (if required).
[23 CFR 620.104] ..........................................................................................................
Approve project management plan for Federal major projects [23 U.S.C. 106(h)] ......
Approval of Interstate System access change [23 U.S.C. 111] ....................................
FHWA or STATE .....
Determine the engineering and operational acceptability of points of ingress or
egress with the Interstate System (justification reports) for new freeway-freeway
interchanges (system), modification of freeway-freeway interchanges, and new
partial interchanges or new ramps to/from continuous frontage roads that create a
partial interchange [23 U.S.C. 111(e)].
Determine the engineering and operational acceptability of points of ingress or
egress with the Interstate System (justification reports) for new and modified freeway-to-crossroad (service) interchanges, and completion of basic movements at
existing partial interchanges. [23 U.S.C. 111(e)].
FHWA ......................
Approve innovative and public-private partnership projects in accordance with TE–
045, SEP–14, SEP–15, or SEP–16. [23 U.S.C. 502(b)].
Approve any betterment to be incorporated into the project and for which emergency
relief funding is requested (23 U.S.C. 125, 23 CFR 668.109).
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00157
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
Not subject to 23
U.S.C. 111.
Not subject to
23 U.S.C. 111(e).
FHWA or Administered in Accordance with Programmatic Agreement.
FHWA ......................
Not subject to 23
U.S.C. 111(e).
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
FHWA.
78199
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
TABLE 3—PRELIMINARY DESIGN—Continued
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
19 ............
Prior written approval of the Federal awarding agency for the direct charge of upfront acquisition cost of equipment (2 CFR 200.439).
FHWA ......................
Agency responsible
non-NHS
FHWA.
TABLE 4—FINAL DESIGN
#
20
21
22
23
............
............
............
............
24 ............
25 ............
Agency responsible
NHS
Action
Approve retaining right-of-way encroachments [23 CFR 1.23(b), 1.23(c)] ...................
Approve use of publicly owned equipment [23 CFR 635.106] ......................................
Concur in use of publicly furnished materials [23 CFR 635.407(a)] .............................
Determine use of more costly signing, pavement marking and signal materials (or
equipment) is in the public interest [23 CFR 655.606].
Exception to designation of Interstate project as significant for work zones [23 CFR
630.1010(d)].
Determination that a United States Coast Guard Permit is not required for bridge
construction [23 CFR 650.805, 650.807, 23 U.S.C. 144(c)].
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
or
or
or
or
STATE
STATE
STATE
STATE
.....
.....
.....
.....
FHWA or STATE .....
Agency responsible
non-NHS
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
FHWA ......................
Not subject to23
CFR 630.1010(d).
FHWA.
Agency responsible
non-NHS
TABLE 5—REALTY
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
26 ............
Completion of ROW clearance, utility, and railroad work concurrently with construction: Make feasibility/practicability determination for allowing authorization to advertise for bids or to proceed with force account construction prior to completion of
ROW clearance, utility and railroad work [23 CFR 635.309(b)].
Approve non-highway use and occupancy of real property interests [23 CFR 1.23(c),
710.405].
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA for Interstate
FHWA or STATE for
Non-Interstate ..........
FHWA for Interstate
FHWA or STATE for
Non-Interstate.
FHWA ......................
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA.
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA.
FHWA.
27 ............
28 ............
Approve disposal at fair market value of real property acquired with Federal-aid assistance, including disposals of access control [23 CFR 710.403(e), 710.409].
29 ............
Approve disposal at less than fair market value of federally funded right-of-way, including disposals of access control [23 U.S.C. 156, 23 CFR 710.403(e)].
Conditional ROW certification, bid advertisement: Make public interest finding on
whether State may proceed with bid advertisement even though ROW acquisition/
relocation activities are not complete for some parcels [23 CFR 635.309(c)(3)(i)].
Conditional ROW certification, construction—Make finding of exceptional circumstances that make it in the public interest to allow State to proceed with construction even though ROW acquisition/relocation activities are not complete for
some parcels [23 CFR 635.309(c)(3)(ii)].
Approve hardship and protective buying [23 CFR 710.503] .........................................
Requests for credits toward the non-Federal share of construction costs for early acquisitions, donations or other contributions applied to a project [23 U.S.C. 323, 23
CFR 710.507].
Federal land transfers [23 CFR part 710, subpart F] ....................................................
Functional replacement of property [23 CFR 710.509] .................................................
Waiver of the policy of the availability of comparable replacement dwelling before
displacement under specified circumstances [49 CFR 24.204(b)].
30 ............
31 ............
32 ............
33 ............
34 ............
35 ............
36 ............
STATE.
FHWA.
TABLE 6—PS&E AND ADVERTISING
#
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
37
38
39
40
............
............
............
............
41 ............
42 ............
43 ............
VerDate Sep<11>2014
Agency responsible
NHS
Action
Approve PS&E [23 CFR 635.309(a)] .............................................................................
Approve utility or railroad force account work (23 CFR 140.916, 645.113, 646.216) ..
Approve utility and railroad agreements (23 CFR 140.916, 645.113, 646.216) ...........
Approve use of consultants by utility and railroad companies [23 CFR 645.109(b),
646.216(b)].
Approve exceptions to maximum railroad protective insurance limits (23 CFR
140.916, 646.111).
Approve use of guaranty and warranty clauses for projects other than design-build
projects [23 CFR 635.413(b)].
Recovery of railroad material—Approval of additional measures for restoration of
areas affected by the removal of salvaged material for Railroad work (23 CFR
140.908).
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00158
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
.....
.....
.....
.....
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
or
or
or
or
STATE
STATE
STATE
STATE
Agency responsible
non-NHS
21DEN1
78200
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
TABLE 6—PS&E AND ADVERTISING—Continued
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
44 ............
Approve use of lump sum payments to reimburse railroad for work by its forces [23
CFR 646.216(d)(3)].
Waive Buy America provisions (23 CFR 635.410) ........................................................
Training special provision—Approval of new project training programs [23 CFR
230.111(d), 230.111(e)].
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA ......................
FHWA ......................
FHWA.
FHWA.
45 ............
46 ............
Agency responsible
non-NHS
TABLE 7—CONTRACT ADVERTISEMENT AND AWARD
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
47 ............
Approve cost-effectiveness determinations for construction work performed by contract awarded by other than competitive bidding or by force account (23 CFR
635.104, 635.204).
Approve emergency determinations for construction work performed by contract
awarded by other than competitive bidding or by force account (23 CFR 635.104,
635.204).
Subrecipient project administration—Approve arrangements for local agency to serve
as the supervising agency for the project (23 CFR 635.105).
Approve advertising period less than 3 weeks [23 CFR 635.112(b)] ...........................
Approve addenda during advertising period [23 CFR 635.112(c)] ...............................
Concur in award of contract or rejection of all bids (23 CFR 635.114) ........................
Approval of design-build requests-for-proposals (RFP) and addenda for major
changes to the RFP during solicitation period [23 CFR 635.112(i)(4)].
Approve award to the next low bidder [23 CFR 635.114(f)] .........................................
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
.....
.....
.....
.....
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
48 ............
49 ............
50
51
52
53
............
............
............
............
54 ............
or
or
or
or
STATE
STATE
STATE
STATE
Agency responsible
non-NHS
TABLE 8—CONSTRUCTION
#
55
56
57
58
............
............
............
............
59 ............
Agency responsible
NHS
Action
Approve contract changes and extra work (23 CFR 635.120) .....................................
Approve contract time extensions [23 CFR 635.120, 635.121(b)] ................................
Concur in use of mandatory borrow/disposal sites (23 CFR 635.407) .........................
Approval of administrative settlements and contract claim awards and settlements
(23 CFR 140.505, 635.124).
Concur in termination of construction contracts [23 CFR 635.125(b)] ..........................
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
FHWA
or
or
or
or
STATE
STATE
STATE
STATE
Agency responsible
non-NHS
.....
.....
.....
.....
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
TABLE 9—CONSTRUCTION MANAGER/GENERAL CONTRACTOR (CM/GC) AND INDEFINITE DELIVERY/INDEFINITE QUANTITY
(ID/IQ) CONTRACTING
#
Action
Agency responsible
NHS
60 ............
Approval of advertising for bids or proposals for a CM/GC construction services
phase contract [23 CFR 635.504(b)(6)].
Determination of indirect cost rate for preconstruction services for a CM/GC project
in accordance with [23 CFR 635.504(e)(2)].
Approval of preconstruction price and cost/price analysis for preconstruction services
for a CM/GC project [23 CFR 635.506(b)(2)].
Approval of price estimate for construction costs for the entire project for CM/GC
project [23 CFR 635.506(d)(2)].
Approval of construction price analysis and agreed price for construction services of
a CM/GC project or portion of the project [23 CFR 635.506(d)(4)].
Approval of CM/GC project preconstruction services contract award [23 CFR
635.506(e)].
Concur in advertising an ID/IQ solicitation prior to completion of NEPA [23 CFR
635.605(a)(2)].
Concur in awarding an ID/IQ contract prior to completion of NEPA [23 CFR
635.605(a)(3)].
Approve a time extension of an ID/IQ contract [23 CFR 635.604(a)(6)(i)] ...................
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
FHWA or STATE .....
STATE.
61 ............
62 ............
63 ............
64 ............
65 ............
66 ............
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
67 ............
68 ............
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
PO 00000
Frm 00159
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
Agency responsible
non-NHS
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 244 / Wednesday, December 21, 2022 / Notices
Attachment B (Drafting Example):
Manuals, Agreements, Control,
Monitoring, And Reporting Documents
State department of transportation
(State DOT) manuals, agreements and
other control, monitoring, and reporting
documents that are used on Federal-aid
projects. (The following provides
examples of the types of manuals,
guidelines and procedures that will be
listed in Attachment B and the type of
information needed for each document.
The format is optional and the items
listed are not all inclusive or applicable
to all States.)
Example for Construction
Specifications
• Standard Specifications
Æ Elements that require the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA)
approval:
D Specifications that will be used on
the National Highway System
(NHS). (23 CFR 625.3)
Example State DOT Manuals That Will
Be Used on Federal-Aid Projects
• Highway Design Manual—
information and guidance to design
road projects.
Æ Elements that require FHWA
approval:
D Roadway design standards for 3R
and preventative maintenance
projects on the NHS. [23 CFR 625.3,
625.4(a)(3)]
Æ Elements required by Federal law
or regulation included in this
manual that do not require FHWA
approval:
D Erosion and Sediment Control
Guidelines (23 CFR 650.211)
• Right of Way Manual—right-of-way
organization, policies, and
procedures. Describes functions and
procedures for all phases of the real
estate program, including appraisal
and appraisal review, negotiation
and eminent domain, property
management, and relocation
assistance.
Æ Elements that require FHWA
approval:
D All elements. Right-of-way
organization, policies, and
procedures (23 CFR 710.201)
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with NOTICES1
Additional Manuals, Agreements,
Control, Monitoring, and Reporting
Documents
• Noise Analysis and Abatement Policy
(23 CFR part 772)
• Programmatic Agreement for
Processing Interstate Access Requests
(MAP–21, Section 1505)
• Asset Management Plan [23 U.S.C
119(e)(5)]
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:56 Dec 20, 2022
Jkt 259001
• Value Engineering Policy and
Procedures [23 CFR 627.1]
• Quality Assurance Program [23 CFR
637.205]
• Construction Manager/General
Contractor (CM/GC) procurement
procedures [23 CFR 635.504(c)]
• Pavement Design Policy [23 CFR part
626]
Attachment C (Drafting Example):
Stewardship and Oversight Indicators
Indicators used to monitor
assumptions of responsibility per
section VI. C. of this Agreement. (This
list is provided as an example. The
format is optional and the items listed
are not all inclusive or applicable to all
states).
Example Stewardship a6nd Oversight
Indicator
• Fiscal year Disadvantaged Business
Enterprise (DBE) overall participation
rate.
• Percent of DBE goal achieved.
• Average number of bidders per
project per type of work per year.
• Percent of projects with low bid
within +/¥ 10 percent of Engineer’s
Estimate.
• Percentage of projects that are
awarded within 120 days of
authorization.
• Number of National Bridge
Inspection Standards metrics that are
fully compliant.
• Percent of environmental mitigation
commitments completed.
• Average number of days between
the date of project final acceptance by
State department of transportation and
project close out date in the Financial
Management Information System
(FMIS).
• Percent of projects closed out with
final costs within 110 percent of award
amount.
• Percent of projects closed out with
final time expended within 135 percent
of original contract time.
• Percent of current year projects in
the State Transportation Improvement
Program advanced as scheduled.
• Percent of projects with right-ofway (ROW) acquired by acquisition due
date.
• Number of projects with
conditional ROW certifications.
• Number of disposals of excess ROW
below fair market value.
• Number of non-Interstate access
breaks and/or encroachments approved.
• Number of modifications to project
end dates in FMIS.
• Expenditures determined to be
ineligible for Federal participation.
[FR Doc. 2022–27705 Filed 12–20–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–22–P
PO 00000
Frm 00160
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
78201
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Railroad Administration
[Docket No. FRA–2010–0061]
Union Pacific Railroad’s Request To
Amend Its Positive Train Control
Safety Plan and Positive Train Control
System
Federal Railroad
Administration (FRA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of availability and
request for comments.
AGENCY:
This document provides the
public with notice that, on December
12, 2022, Union Pacific Railroad (UP)
submitted a request for amendment
(RFA) to its FRA-approved Positive
Train Control Safety Plan (PTCSP). As
this RFA may involve a request for
FRA’s approval of proposed material
modifications to an FRA-certified
positive train control (PTC) system, FRA
is publishing this notice and inviting
public comment on the railroad’s RFA
to its PTCSP.
DATES: FRA will consider comments
received by January 10, 2023. FRA may
consider comments received after that
date to the extent practicable and
without delaying implementation of
valuable or necessary modifications to a
PTC system.
ADDRESSES:
Comments: Comments may be
submitted by going to https://
www.regulations.gov and following the
online instructions for submitting
comments.
Instructions: All submissions must
include the agency name and the
applicable docket number. The relevant
PTC docket number for this host
railroad is Docket No. FRA–2010–0061.
For convenience, all active PTC dockets
are hyperlinked on FRA’s website at
https://railroads.dot.gov/train-control/
ptc/ptc-annual-and-quarterly-reports.
All comments received will be posted
without change to https://
www.regulations.gov; this includes any
personal information.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Gabe Neal, Staff Director, Signal, Train
Control, and Crossings Division,
telephone: 816–516–7168, email:
Gabe.Neal@dot.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In general,
title 49 United States Code (U.S.C.)
section 20157(h) requires FRA to certify
that a host railroad’s PTC system
complies with title 49 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) part 236, subpart I,
before the technology may be operated
in revenue service. Before making
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\21DEN1.SGM
21DEN1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 244 (Wednesday, December 21, 2022)]
[Notices]
[Pages 78193-78201]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-27705]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Highway Administration
[FHWA Docket No. FHWA-2022-0013]
Revision of Stewardship and Oversight Agreement Template
AGENCY: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Notice of revised Stewardship and Oversight Agreement template,
request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FHWA has completed a revision to the Federal-State
Stewardship and Oversight (S&O) Agreement template. The revised S&O
Agreement template that is the subject of this notice is an updated
version of a template issued by FHWA in 2015. The revisions address
such issues as changes in applicable laws and the evolution of FHWA's
risk-based stewardship and oversight program. The FHWA is requesting
comments on the revised S&O Agreement template. The FHWA will publish a
Federal Register notice announcing the final S&O Agreement template,
including any changes FHWA makes in response to public comments.
DATES: The public comment period closes on February 21, 2023.
ADDRESSES: All comments should include the docket number that appears
in the heading of this document and may be submitted in any of the
following ways:
Electronically through the Federal eRulemaking Portal:
www.regulations.gov. This website allows the public to enter comments
on any Federal Register notice issued by any agency. Follow the online
instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Instructions: You should identify the docket number at the
beginning of your comments. If you submit your comments by mail, submit
two copies. To receive confirmation that DOT received your comments,
include a self-addressed stamped postcard. Late comments will be
considered to the extent practicable. Note that all comments received
will be posted without change to www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information provided.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Lloyd Rue, Office of
Infrastructure, (202) 366-6125, office hours are from 8 a.m. to 4:30
p.m., MT, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays, or Ms. Alla
Shaw, Office of the Chief Counsel, (202) 366-1042, office hours are
from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ET, Federal Highway Administration, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. Offices are open Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Electronic Access
This document and the revised S&O Agreement template may be viewed
online under the docket number noted above through the Federal
eRulemaking portal at: www.regulations.gov. Electronic submission and
retrieval help and guidelines are available on the website. Please
follow the online instructions.
In addition to being available in the electronic docket, the
revised S&O Agreement template may also be viewed online at: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/federalaid/stewardship/Draft_stewardship_and_oversight_template.docx.
An electronic copy of this document may also be downloaded from the
Office of the Federal Register's website at: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register and the U.S. Government Publishing Office's website
at: https://www.govinfo.gov/.
Physical access to the docket is available at the U.S. Department
of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20950, between
9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
All comments received before the close of business on the comment
closing date indicated above will be considered and will be available
for examination in the docket at the above address. Comments received
after the comment closing date will be filed in the docket and will be
considered to the extent practicable. In addition to late comments,
FHWA will also continue to file relevant information in the docket as
it becomes available after the comment period closing date and
interested persons should continue to examine the docket for new
material.
Background
In enacting 23 United States Code (U.S.C.) 106(c), as amended,
Congress established authority for States to enter into agreements with
FHWA under which the States carry out certain project responsibilities
traditionally handled by FHWA. Congress also recognized the importance
of a risk-based approach to FHWA oversight of the Federal-aid highway
program (FAHP), establishing requirements in 23 U.S.C. 106(g). The S&O
Agreement is a key element of FHWA's risk-based S&O approach. The S&O
Agreements are formal instruments executed between each FHWA Division
Office and its corresponding State department of transportation (State
DOT). The S&O Agreement defines the roles and responsibilities of FHWA
and the State DOT with respect to Title 23, U.S.C. project approvals
and related responsibilities, and documents methods that will be used
for FAHP oversight activities.
In response to Office of Inspector General recommendations,\1\ FHWA
revised its national S&O procedures to require use of a uniform
template for developing an S&O Agreement and instituted a legal review
of each S&O Agreement. In 2015, FHWA issued the template currently in
use. Each of the 52 FHWA Division Offices and their respective State
DOTs executed a new S&O Agreement based on the 2015 S&O Agreement
template.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ ``Improvements to Stewardship and Oversight Agreements Are
Needed to Enhance Federal-aid Highway Program Management,'' OIG,
DOT, Report Number MH-2013-001 (October 1, 2012), available online
at https://www.oig.dot.gov/library-item/28742.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since the issuance of the 2015 S&O Agreement template and
implementation of the new S&O Agreements, statutes and regulations
applicable to the FAHP have changed.
[[Page 78194]]
In addition, FHWA identified improvements for the 2015 template. For
these reasons, FHWA initiated updates to the 2015 S&O Agreement
template.
Finally, section 11307 of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (Pub.
L. 117-58) directed the Secretary of Transportation to publish a
template created by the Secretary for Federal-State S&O agreements in
the Federal Register along with a notice requesting public comment on
ways to improve the template. Accordingly, FHWA is making available the
revised template and the 2015 template in the docket established for
this notice. The 2015 template is included for reference, and it may
also be viewed at https://go.usa.gov/xtQcM. The FHWA is requesting
comments on the revised template, which FHWA believes addresses many
concerns expressed by stakeholders since 2015.
Discussion of Changes
Revisions to the 2015 S&O Agreement template include the removal of
redundant language and outdated text; revisions to the project-level
approval actions, listed in attachment A to the template, including
revisions based on changes in Federal law that have occurred since
March 2015; and reorganization of the template.
The revised S&O Agreement template is more concise. The text of the
2015 S&O Agreement template is 12 pages, excluding signature pages and
the attachments. The text of the revised S&O Agreement template is 7
pages, excluding signature pages and the attachments.
The 2015 S&O Agreement template has 12 sections. The revised S&O
Agreement template is now nine sections. The revised section headings
are:
Section I. Background and Introduction
Section II. Intent and Purpose of Agreement
Section III. Permissible Areas of Assumption Under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
Section IV. Assumption of Responsibilities for Federal-Aid Projects
on the NHS
Section V. Assumption of Responsibilities for Federal-Aid Projects
off the NHS
Section VI. FHWA Oversight Program Under 23 U.S.C. 106(g)
Section VII. State DOT Oversight Responsibilities
Section VIII. Agreement Execution and Modifications
Section IX. Agreement Term and Termination
The title of the agreement is unchanged.
The 2015 S&O Agreement template included three attachments: (1)
attachment A--Project Action Responsibility Matrix; (2) attachment B--
Program Responsibility Matrix; and (3) attachment C--Manuals,
Agreements, Control, Monitoring, And Reporting Documents. The revised
S&O Agreement template eliminates attachment B--Program Responsibility
Matrix of the 2015 agreement template. The purpose of attachment B in
the 2015 template was to identify FHWA and State DOT offices involved
in carrying out various program-level actions under the FAHP. That
detailed level of information is not necessary in this more focused and
concise version of the S&O Agreement template.
The revised S&O Agreement template includes three attachments: (1)
attachment A--Project Action Responsibility Matrix; (2) attachment B--
Manuals, Agreements, Control, Monitoring, And Reporting Documents; and
(3) attachment C--Stewardship and Oversight Indicators.
Request for Comments
Although comments may address any part or provision of the
template, FHWA is specifically requesting comments on the following:
Whether revisions are needed to the template to delete
standard terms requiring approval by the Secretary of the policies,
procedures, processes, or manuals of the States, or other State
actions, if Federal law (including regulations) does not specifically
require an approval. The FHWA encourages commenters to specify each
provision that should be revised.
Opportunities to modify the template to allow adjustments
to the review schedules for State practices or actions, including
through risk-based approaches, program reviews, process reviews, or
other means.
Provisions of the template that describe how FHWA will
perform oversight under 23 U.S.C. 106(g), such as reviewing State DOT
practices or actions through risk-based approaches, program reviews,
process reviews, or other means. The FHWA is interested in how
commenters believe FHWA could improve these provisions in the template.
Whether FHWA should allow the template to be modified by
individual division offices and State DOTs to include State-specific
provisions that do not otherwise conflict with the template and, if so,
examples of what might be included in those provisions. The FHWA is
particularly interested in whether commenters believe FHWA should allow
the addition of such State-specific provisions under Section VI. FHWA
Oversight Program Under 23 U.S.C. 106(g) and Section VII. State DOT
Oversight Responsibilities and, if so, examples of additional
provisions commenters believe might be covered in these sections.
Provisions of the template that describe project approval
actions that are assumable by State DOTs. In particular, FHWA is
seeking comments on whether those actions are adequately described or
addressed, and whether there are additional project-level approval
actions that commenters believe arise out of Title 23, U.S.C. or title
23, Code of Federal Regulations and that may be assumed by State DOTs
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c).
Provisions of the template that describes State
responsibilities for oversight of subrecipients. A State DOT is
responsible for project oversight (23 U.S.C. 106(g)(4)) for federally
assisted projects using apportioned Federal-aid highway funds. The FHWA
is interested in whether the provisions in section VII of the template
in conjunction with other existing FHWA policies, regulations,
guidance, and technical assistance are sufficient for State DOTs to
adequately provide subrecipient oversight and how commenters believe
FHWA could improve the provisions in the template.
Procedures for future updates to the S&O Agreement
template. Comments are sought on how frequently the S&O Agreement
template should be updated and on how future revisions to the S&O
Agreement template should be managed to ensure the S&O Agreement
template remains reasonably up to date without creating an overly
burdensome process.
Procedures for processing updates to FHWA-State DOT S&O
Agreements. Comments are sought on how FHWA should process and execute
revisions to existing FHWA-State DOT S&O Agreements, amendments to
existing FHWA-State DOT S&O Agreements and new FHWA-State DOT S&O
Agreements.
Further Proceedings
The FHWA is providing a 60-day comment period. After considering
public comments in response to this notice, FHWA will publish a notice
in the Federal Register that includes:
The final S&O Agreement template, including any changes
FHWA makes in response to public comments and any alternatives to those
changes.
A summary response to public comments, including the basis
for FHWA's decision whether to revise the template in response to
comments. This will include an explanation of the basis for retaining
any requirement for FHWA approval of State policies, procedures,
processes, or manuals, or other State actions if Federal law (including
[[Page 78195]]
regulations) does not specifically require the approval.
An implementation plan and schedule for use of the new
template.
Stephanie Pollack,
Deputy Administrator, Federal Highway Administration.
Stewardship and Oversight Agreement on Project Assumption and Program
Oversight By and Between the Federal Highway Administration, [State
Name] Division Office, and the [State Name DOT/STA Organization]
Section I. Background and Introduction
The Federal-aid Highway Program (FAHP) provides for a Federally-
assisted State program. In enacting section 106(c) of title 23, United
States Code (U.S.C.), as amended, Congress established authority for a
State Department of Transportation (State DOT) to carry out certain
project responsibilities traditionally handled by the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) through a delegation from the Secretary of the
U.S. Department of Transportation (``Secretary''). The authority in 23
U.S.C. 106(c) applies to projects that are subject to the requirements
of title 23, U.S.C. (``title 23'') because the State DOT receives
Federal funding or because the State DOT needs an FHWA action for the
project even though the project may not use Federal funds. Congress
also recognized the importance of a risk-based approach to FHWA
oversight of the FAHP, establishing requirements in 23 U.S.C. 106(g).
In addition to assumptions of responsibility, FHWA-State DOT
Stewardship and Oversight Agreements cover certain oversight activities
relating to the oversight requirements of 23 U.S.C. 106(g).
The FHWA may not assign its decisionmaking authority to a State DOT
unless authorized by law. The authorities FHWA assigns to a State DOT
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)(1) and (2) are listed in Attachment A of the
applicable FHWA-State DOT Stewardship and Oversight Agreement. A
decision, determination, or action carried-out by a State DOT under the
authority of a Stewardship and Oversight Agreement (``Agreement'') does
not constitute an eligibility, participation, obligation,
reimbursement, authorization, or compliance decision by or for FHWA.
For clarity, Attachment A also lists certain other actions FHWA may
have allowed a State DOT to undertake based on delegation or assumption
provisions in other Federal laws. As noted in those Attachment A
listings, a State DOT exercise of those authorities is governed by
separate agreements between FHWA and that State DOT.
For project responsibilities that are not assumed by a State DOT
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c), and are not otherwise delegated or assigned in
accordance with another Federal law, FHWA may authorize a State DOT to
perform work needed to reach the FHWA decision point, or to implement
FHWA's decision. However, such decisions themselves are reserved to
FHWA.
Section II. Intent and Purpose of Agreement
This Stewardship and Oversight Agreement (``Agreement'')
establishes the roles and responsibilities of the FHWA [State name]
Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA organization
(abbreviation)] with respect to certain title 23 project approvals and
related responsibilities, and FAHP oversight activities. Nothing in
this Agreement affects the Secretary's authority, or authority
delegated to FHWA, to oversee compliance with Federal requirements.
These authorities include but are not limited to 23 U.S.C. 114, under
which the Secretary has the right to conduct such inspections and take
such corrective action as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
This Agreement carries out 23 U.S.C. 106(c)(3), which requires FHWA
and the State DOT enter into an agreement relating to the extent to
which the State DOT assumes project responsibilities pursuant to
section 106(c). This Agreement also documents certain oversight
activities that FHWA and the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] will use
to efficiently and effectively deliver the FAHP.
Section IV of this Agreement covers assumption of project approvals
on the National Highway System (NHS). Section V covers assumption of
project approvals off the NHS.
The Project Action Responsibility Matrix, Attachment A to this
Agreement, describes responsibilities that the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] assumes from FHWA pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 106(c) and other
legal authorities.
Upon execution of this Agreement, Attachment A controls and, except
as specifically noted in Attachment A (including any amendment thereto
done in accordance with section VIII) and sections IV and V of this
Agreement, no other agreements, attachments, or other documents shall
have the effect of delegating or assigning FHWA approvals to the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation] under 23 U.S.C 106(c), or have the effect of
altering Attachment A.
Section III. Permissible Areas of Assumption Under 23 U.S.C. 106(c)
FHWA has determined the activities and actions that are assumable
under 23 U.S.C. 106(c). Those activities and actions are listed in a
template issued by FHWA to create this Agreement and cover only
activities or actions in the following areas:
A. Design, which includes preliminary engineering, engineering, and
design-related services directly relating to the construction of a
FAHP-funded project, including engineering, design, project development
and management, construction project management and inspection,
surveying, mapping (including the establishment of temporary and
permanent geodetic control in accordance with specifications of the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), and architectural-
related services.
B. Plans, specifications and estimates (PS&E), which represents an
array of actions and approvals required before authorization of
construction and carried out during construction. The PS&E package
includes standards, drawings, specifications, project estimates,
certifications relating to completion of right-of-way acquisition and
relocation, utility work, and railroad work.
C. Contract awards, which include procurement of professional and
other consultant services and construction-related services to include
advertising, evaluating, and awarding contracts.
D. Inspections, which include general contract administration,
material testing and quality assurance, review, and inspections of
Federal-aid contracts as well as final inspection/acceptance.
E. Approvals and related responsibilities affecting real property
as provided in 23 CFR 710.201(h) and any successor regulation.
The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] is to exercise any and all
assumptions of the FHWA's responsibilities in accordance with the
Federal laws, regulations, policies, Executive Orders, and procedures
that would apply if the responsibilities were carried out by FHWA. For
all projects and programs carried out under title 23, the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] will comply with title 23 and all applicable non-
title 23 Federal-aid program requirements.
Section IV. Assumption of Responsibilities for FederaL-Aid Projects on
the NHS
For projects under title 23 that are on the NHS, including projects
on the Interstate System, the [State name DOT/
[[Page 78196]]
STA abbreviation] may assume FHWA's title 23 responsibilities for
activities or actions assumable under 23 U.S.C. 106(c) if the FHWA
[State name] Division Office determines that assumption of
responsibilities is appropriate and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] agrees.
A. The activities or actions on the NHS assumed by the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] under this Agreement are listed in Attachment A.
B. Activities or actions for which the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] has assumed the FHWA's responsibilities apply program-
wide except when superseded by provisions in a stewardship and
oversight plan adopted by the FHWA [State name] Division Office for a
specific project. Additional discussion on FHWA project involvement is
included in section VI.D of this Agreement.
C. In accordance with 23 U.S.C. 106(c)(4), the DOT Secretary may
define high-risk categories for Interstate projects on a national
basis, a State-by-State basis, or a national and State-by-State basis.
A State DOT may not assume responsibilities for Interstate projects in
a designated category. Currently, FHWA has not designated any high-risk
categories applicable to [State name] in accordance with 23 U.S.C.
106(c)(4). If the FHWA makes a future designation that applies to
[State name], then that designation will immediately supersede the
assumptions of responsibilities elsewhere in this Agreement.
Section V. Assumption of Responsibilities for Federal-Aid Projects Off
the NHS
For projects under title 23 that are not on the NHS, the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation] must assume FHWA's title 23 responsibilities
for activities or actions assumable under 23 U.S.C. 106(c) unless the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] determines that assumption of
responsibilities is not appropriate (23 U.S.C. 106(c)(2)).
A. The activities or actions off the NHS assumed by the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] under this Agreement are listed in Attachment A.
B. Activities or actions for which the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] has assumed the FHWA's responsibilities apply programwide
except when superseded by provisions in a stewardship and oversight
plan for a specific project adopted by the FHWA [State name] Division
Office. For non-NHS projects, the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
must determine that superseding an assumption listed in Attachment A
for a specific project is appropriate. Additional discussion on FHWA
project involvement is included in section VI.D of this Agreement.
C. Except as provided in 23 U.S.C.109(o), the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is to exercise FHWA's approvals and related
responsibilities on these projects in accordance with Federal laws,
regulations, policies, Executive Orders, and procedures that would
apply if the responsibilities were carried out by FHWA.
D. In accordance with 23 U.S.C. 109(o), non-NHS projects shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with State laws, regulations,
directives, safety standards, design standards, and construction
standards, except that a local jurisdiction may use a roadway design
guide recognized by FHWA and adopted by the local jurisdiction that is
different from the roadway design guide used by the State in which the
local jurisdiction is located for the design of projects on all
roadways under the ownership of the local jurisdiction for which the
local jurisdiction is the project sponsor, provided that the design
complies with all other applicable Federal laws.
Section VI. FHWA Oversight Program Under 23 U.S.C. 106(g)
The Secretary must establish an oversight program to monitor the
effective and efficient use of funds authorized to carry out the FAHP
(23 U.S.C. 106(g)). This includes FHWA oversight of the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] processes and management practices, including
those involved in carrying out the approvals and related
responsibilities assumed by the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] under
23 U.S.C. 106(c).
Section 106(g) requires, at a minimum, FHWA's oversight program be
responsive to all areas relating to financial integrity and project
delivery. To carry out the requirements of 23 U.S.C. 106(g), FHWA uses
a risk management framework to evaluate financial integrity, project
delivery, and other aspects of the FAHP. The objective is to balance
risk while considering staffing, budget resources, and the State's
transportation needs.
The FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] may use a variety of methods to identify, analyze, and
manage risks and develop response strategies, such as oversight
techniques, manuals and operating agreements, stewardship and oversight
indicators, and FHWA project involvement.
Oversight Techniques
Techniques the FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation] may use to identify and analyze risks and
develop response strategies include, but are not limited to, the
following:
program assessments;
FHWA Financial Integrity Review and Evaluations reviews;
program reviews;
certification reviews;
recurring or periodic reviews such as the FHWA Compliance
Assessment Program;
inspections of project elements or phases.
Manuals and Operating Agreements
The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] manuals, agreements and other
control, monitoring, and reporting documents that are used on Federal-
aid projects are listed in Attachment B to this Agreement.
Stewardship and Oversight Indicators
[Drafting note: Select the paragraph that applies.]
Option 1
The FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] have established stewardship and oversight indicators
(indicators) to help monitor performance of responsibilities assumed
under this Agreement. Indicators are those intended to provide evidence
of how well a State DOT assumption of responsibilities is functioning.
Indicators set targets, track trends, and may help determine when
countermeasures and actions are implemented or adjusted. The indicators
are agreed to as provided in Attachment C.
Option 2
The FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] have not established indicators as part of this
Agreement.
FHWA Project Involvement
The FHWA [State name] Division Office may select projects
(individually or by type) for risk-based FHWA project involvement and
stewardship and oversight activities. In some instances, the
programwide assumption by the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] of
FHWA's responsibilities under Attachment A to this Agreement may be
superseded by provisions in a stewardship and oversight plan for a
specific project, per sections IV and V of this Agreement. The FHWA
[State name] Division Office will document
[[Page 78197]]
the additional activities in a stewardship and oversight plan for the
affected project(s).
Section VII. State DOT Oversight Responsibilities
Oversight of State DOT Performance of Assumed
Responsibilities.This section addresses how 23 U.S.C. 106(c) assumed
authorities are carried out by the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation].
The actions include monitoring to assure that the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is properly carrying out its responsibilities in
accordance with this Agreement. The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
is responsible for demonstrating to FHWA how it is carrying out its
responsibilities in accordance with this Agreement. The [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] will provide information to the FHWA [State name]
Division Office upon request.
The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] represents that processes,
procedures, and practices from manuals, agreements, and other documents
listed in Attachment B to this Agreement comply with applicable Federal
requirements.
Subrecipient Oversight
The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] is responsible for ensuring
that its subrecipients meet applicable Federal requirements (2 CFR
200.332). This includes but is not limited to providing adequate
oversight of sub-recipients with respect to both the subaward and any
23 U.S.C. 106(c) assumed responsibilities the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] delegates to a subrecipient. The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] is responsible for determining that subrecipients of
Federal funds are suitably staffed and equipped and have adequate
project delivery systems and sufficient accounting controls to properly
manage these funds (23 U.S.C. 106(g)).
Section VIII. Agreement Execution and Modifications
A. Agreement Execution
This Agreement is effective when fully executed by the FHWA [State
name] Division Administrator and authorized representative of the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation]. The [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] duly-authorized official shall execute this Agreement and
then submit it to the FHWA [State name] Division Administrator, who
shall sign this Agreement last.
B. Agreement Modifications
The FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] acknowledge that Agreement modifications (minor revisions
or amendments) are needed periodically. Either party may initiate a
request to modify this Agreement.
1. Minor Revisions
The FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] may make minor revisions to this Agreement without an
amendment. For purposes of this Agreement, a minor revision makes a
technical correction, addresses non-substantive changes such as a
change in points-of-contact or document names, or revises aspects of
procedures that do not materially change the terms of this Agreement.
Changes to Attachments B or C are considered minor revisions. Minor
revisions are recorded in a change log by the FHWA [State name]
Division Office. Minor revisions may be executed without FHWA legal
sufficiency review or coordination with FHWA's Office of
Infrastructure.
2. Amendments
Modifications to this Agreement that exceed the definition of a
minor revision in paragraph B.1. of this section shall require
execution of an amendment to this Agreement. Amendments include any
change to Attachment A. The amendment shall follow the execution
procedure set forth in paragraph A of this section. Amendments require
FHWA legal sufficiency review and coordination with FHWA's Office of
Infrastructure.
New Agreement
This Agreement will be replaced in its entirety and a new Agreement
executed between the FHWA [State name] Division Office and the [State
name DOT/STA abbreviation] when mutually agreed upon by the parties, or
as requested by the FHWA Office of Infrastructure. New Agreements
require FHWA legal sufficiency review and coordination with FHWA's
Office of Infrastructure prior to execution.
The electronic Agreement file shall contain the executed Agreement,
any change logs, and amendments.
IX. Agreement Term and Termination
A. This Agreement shall have a term of [insert term of no greater
than six (6) years] years, effective on the date of the signature of
the FHWA [State name] Division Administrator in accordance with section
VIII(A) of this Agreement.
B. Before the expiration of the term of this Agreement, a new
agreement must be executed by both parties or the Agreement will expire
(refer to section VIII.C. and IX.D.).
C. The FHWA [State name] Division Office may terminate this
Agreement at any time if the FHWA [State name] Division Office
determines that this Agreement is no longer in the public interest.
Except in an extraordinary circumstance where immediate action is
needed, prior to termination, the FHWA [State name] Division Office
will issue a written notice to the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
describing the FHWA's [State name] Division Office concerns and give
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] a reasonable period of time to
submit a written response addressing the FHWA [State name] Division
Office concerns. The FHWA [State name] Division Office shall review the
[State name DOT/STA abbreviation] response and make a final
determination within 30 business days of receipt of the [State name
DOT/STA abbreviation] response. The FHWA [State name] Division Office
will notify the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] in writing of the
final determination and the effective date of any termination.
D. Expiration or termination of this Agreement shall mean that the
assumption of project approvals by the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] as set forth in this Agreement and Attachment A hereto is
automatically revoked upon the date of expiration or termination and
the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] must immediately cease exercising
any decision, determination, or action under the authority of this
Agreement, including any amendments.
Attachment A: Project Action Responsibility Matrix
This matrix identifies the Federal-aid highway program (FAHP)
project approvals and related responsibilities. The matrix specifies
which actions are assumed by the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation]
pursuant to this Stewardship and Oversight Agreement (``Agreement'')
and certain other applicable authorities as specified in the tables in
this Attachment A.
The [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] is responsible for ensuring
all individual elements of the project are eligible for FAHP funding.
Where the [State name DOT/STA abbreviation] assumes authority to make a
decision, approval, determination or action, the [State name DOT/STA
abbreviation] decision does not constitute an eligibility, obligation,
reimbursement, authorization, or compliance decision by or for the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Final
[[Page 78198]]
decisions on those matters must be made by FHWA.
Table 1--Financial Management
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1............................. Review and accept financial plan and FHWA............. FHWA.
annual updates for Federal major projects
[23 U.S.C. 106(h)].
2............................. Review cost estimates for Federal major FHWA............. FHWA.
projects [23 U.S.C. 106(h)].
3............................. Obligate funds/authorize Federal-aid FHWA............. FHWA.
project agreement (including advance
construction authorization and
conversion), modifications, and project
closures (project authorizations) [23
U.S.C. 106(a)(2), 23 CFR 630.106,
630.703, 630.709].
4............................. Authorize to advertise for bids when all FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
preconditions are met [23 CFR 635.112(a),
635.309].
5............................. Approve reimbursements including FHWA............. FHWA.
authorizing current bill (23 U.S.C. 121).
6............................. Approval of reimbursement for bond-issue FHWA............. FHWA.
projects [23 U.S.C. 122, 23 CFR part 140,
Subpart F].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 2--Environment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7............................. EA/FONSI, EIS/ROD, 4(f), 106, 6(f) and FHWA or FHWA or
other approval actions required by Administered in Administered in
Federal environmental laws and accordance with accordance with
regulations (Note: The FHWA may assign 23 U.S.C. 327 23 U.S.C. 327
these NEPA actions and other MOU. MOU.
environmental responsibilities to a State
DOT as provided by 23 U.S.C. 327).
8............................. Categorical exclusion approval actions FHWA or FHWA or
[Note: The FHWA may assign this action Administered in Administered in
and other FHWA environmental accordance with accordance with
responsibilities to a State DOT as applicable 23 applicable 23
provided by 23 U.S.C. 326 and 327. The U.S.C. 326 or U.S.C. 326 or
FHWA also may administratively delegate 327 MOUs, or 327 MOUs, or
responsibility for categorical exclusion Programmatic Programmatic
determinations to a State DOT through a Categorical Categorical
programmatic agreement pursuant to Exclusion Exclusion
Section 1318(d) of MAP-21 and Agreement. Agreement.
implementing regulations in 23 CFR
771.117(g)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 3--Preliminary Design
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9............................. Approval before utilizing a consultant to FHWA or FHWA or
act in a management support role for the Administered in Administered in
contracting agency [23 CFR accordance with accordance with
172.7(b)(5)(i)]. procedures procedures
approved per 23 approved per 23
CFR 172.5(c). CFR 172.5(c).
10............................ Approval of noncompetitive procurement FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
method for engineering and design-related
services [23 CFR 172.7(a)(3)].
11............................ Approve exceptions to design standards [23 FHWA or STATE.... Not subject to 23
CFR 625.3(f)]. CFR 625.3(f).
12............................ Airport highway clearance coordination and FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
respective public interest finding (if
required).
[23 CFR 620.104]..........................
13............................ Approve project management plan for FHWA............. FHWA.
Federal major projects [23 U.S.C. 106(h)].
14............................ Approval of Interstate System access FHWA............. Not subject to 23
change [23 U.S.C. 111]. U.S.C. 111.
15............................ Determine the engineering and operational FHWA............. Not subject to
acceptability of points of ingress or 23 U.S.C. 111(e).
egress with the Interstate System
(justification reports) for new freeway-
freeway interchanges (system),
modification of freeway-freeway
interchanges, and new partial
interchanges or new ramps to/from
continuous frontage roads that create a
partial interchange [23 U.S.C. 111(e)].
16............................ Determine the engineering and operational FHWA or Not subject to 23
acceptability of points of ingress or Administered in U.S.C. 111(e).
egress with the Interstate System Accordance with
(justification reports) for new and Programmatic
modified freeway-to-crossroad (service) Agreement.
interchanges, and completion of basic
movements at existing partial
interchanges. [23 U.S.C. 111(e)].
17............................ Approve innovative and public-private FHWA............. FHWA.
partnership projects in accordance with
TE-045, SEP-14, SEP-15, or SEP-16. [23
U.S.C. 502(b)].
18............................ Approve any betterment to be incorporated FHWA............. FHWA.
into the project and for which emergency
relief funding is requested (23 U.S.C.
125, 23 CFR 668.109).
[[Page 78199]]
19............................ Prior written approval of the Federal FHWA............. FHWA.
awarding agency for the direct charge of
up-front acquisition cost of equipment (2
CFR 200.439).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 4--Final Design
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20............................ Approve retaining right-of-way FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
encroachments [23 CFR 1.23(b), 1.23(c)].
21............................ Approve use of publicly owned equipment FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
[23 CFR 635.106].
22............................ Concur in use of publicly furnished FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
materials [23 CFR 635.407(a)].
23............................ Determine use of more costly signing, FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
pavement marking and signal materials (or
equipment) is in the public interest [23
CFR 655.606].
24............................ Exception to designation of Interstate FHWA or STATE.... Not subject to23
project as significant for work zones [23 CFR 630.1010(d).
CFR 630.1010(d)].
25............................ Determination that a United States Coast FHWA............. FHWA.
Guard Permit is not required for bridge
construction [23 CFR 650.805, 650.807, 23
U.S.C. 144(c)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 5--Realty
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26............................ Completion of ROW clearance, utility, and FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
railroad work concurrently with
construction: Make feasibility/
practicability determination for allowing
authorization to advertise for bids or to
proceed with force account construction
prior to completion of ROW clearance,
utility and railroad work [23 CFR
635.309(b)].
27............................ Approve non-highway use and occupancy of FHWA for STATE.
real property interests [23 CFR 1.23(c), Interstate.
710.405]. FHWA or STATE for
Non-Interstate...
28............................ Approve disposal at fair market value of FHWA for STATE.
real property acquired with Federal-aid Interstate.
assistance, including disposals of access FHWA or STATE for
control [23 CFR 710.403(e), 710.409]. Non-Interstate.
29............................ Approve disposal at less than fair market FHWA............. FHWA.
value of federally funded right-of-way,
including disposals of access control [23
U.S.C. 156, 23 CFR 710.403(e)].
30............................ Conditional ROW certification, bid FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
advertisement: Make public interest
finding on whether State may proceed with
bid advertisement even though ROW
acquisition/relocation activities are not
complete for some parcels [23 CFR
635.309(c)(3)(i)].
31............................ Conditional ROW certification, FHWA............. FHWA.
construction--Make finding of exceptional
circumstances that make it in the public
interest to allow State to proceed with
construction even though ROW acquisition/
relocation activities are not complete
for some parcels [23 CFR
635.309(c)(3)(ii)].
32............................ Approve hardship and protective buying [23 FHWA............. FHWA.
CFR 710.503].
33............................ Requests for credits toward the non- FHWA............. FHWA.
Federal share of construction costs for
early acquisitions, donations or other
contributions applied to a project [23
U.S.C. 323, 23 CFR 710.507].
34............................ Federal land transfers [23 CFR part 710, FHWA............. FHWA.
subpart F].
35............................ Functional replacement of property [23 CFR FHWA............. FHWA.
710.509].
36............................ Waiver of the policy of the availability FHWA............. FHWA.
of comparable replacement dwelling before
displacement under specified
circumstances [49 CFR 24.204(b)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 6--PS&E and Advertising
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37............................ Approve PS&E [23 CFR 635.309(a)].......... FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
38............................ Approve utility or railroad force account FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
work (23 CFR 140.916, 645.113, 646.216).
39............................ Approve utility and railroad agreements FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
(23 CFR 140.916, 645.113, 646.216).
40............................ Approve use of consultants by utility and FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
railroad companies [23 CFR 645.109(b),
646.216(b)].
41............................ Approve exceptions to maximum railroad FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
protective insurance limits (23 CFR
140.916, 646.111).
42............................ Approve use of guaranty and warranty FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
clauses for projects other than design-
build projects [23 CFR 635.413(b)].
43............................ Recovery of railroad material--Approval of FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
additional measures for restoration of
areas affected by the removal of salvaged
material for Railroad work (23 CFR
140.908).
[[Page 78200]]
44............................ Approve use of lump sum payments to FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
reimburse railroad for work by its forces
[23 CFR 646.216(d)(3)].
45............................ Waive Buy America provisions (23 CFR FHWA............. FHWA.
635.410).
46............................ Training special provision--Approval of FHWA............. FHWA.
new project training programs [23 CFR
230.111(d), 230.111(e)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 7--Contract Advertisement and Award
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
47............................ Approve cost-effectiveness determinations FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
for construction work performed by
contract awarded by other than
competitive bidding or by force account
(23 CFR 635.104, 635.204).
48............................ Approve emergency determinations for FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
construction work performed by contract
awarded by other than competitive bidding
or by force account (23 CFR 635.104,
635.204).
49............................ Subrecipient project administration-- FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
Approve arrangements for local agency to
serve as the supervising agency for the
project (23 CFR 635.105).
50............................ Approve advertising period less than 3 FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
weeks [23 CFR 635.112(b)].
51............................ Approve addenda during advertising period FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
[23 CFR 635.112(c)].
52............................ Concur in award of contract or rejection FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
of all bids (23 CFR 635.114).
53............................ Approval of design-build requests-for- FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
proposals (RFP) and addenda for major
changes to the RFP during solicitation
period [23 CFR 635.112(i)(4)].
54............................ Approve award to the next low bidder [23 FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
CFR 635.114(f)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 8--Construction
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55............................ Approve contract changes and extra work FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
(23 CFR 635.120).
56............................ Approve contract time extensions [23 CFR FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
635.120, 635.121(b)].
57............................ Concur in use of mandatory borrow/disposal FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
sites (23 CFR 635.407).
58............................ Approval of administrative settlements and FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
contract claim awards and settlements (23
CFR 140.505, 635.124).
59............................ Concur in termination of construction FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
contracts [23 CFR 635.125(b)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 9--Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) and Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ)
Contracting
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agency
# Action Agency responsible non-
responsible NHS NHS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
60............................ Approval of advertising for bids or FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
proposals for a CM/GC construction
services phase contract [23 CFR
635.504(b)(6)].
61............................ Determination of indirect cost rate for FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
preconstruction services for a CM/GC
project in accordance with [23 CFR
635.504(e)(2)].
62............................ Approval of preconstruction price and cost/ FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
price analysis for preconstruction
services for a CM/GC project [23 CFR
635.506(b)(2)].
63............................ Approval of price estimate for FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
construction costs for the entire project
for CM/GC project [23 CFR 635.506(d)(2)].
64............................ Approval of construction price analysis FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
and agreed price for construction
services of a CM/GC project or portion of
the project [23 CFR 635.506(d)(4)].
65............................ Approval of CM/GC project preconstruction FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
services contract award [23 CFR
635.506(e)].
66............................ Concur in advertising an ID/IQ FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
solicitation prior to completion of NEPA
[23 CFR 635.605(a)(2)].
67............................ Concur in awarding an ID/IQ contract prior FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
to completion of NEPA [23 CFR
635.605(a)(3)].
68............................ Approve a time extension of an ID/IQ FHWA or STATE.... STATE.
contract [23 CFR 635.604(a)(6)(i)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 78201]]
Attachment B (Drafting Example): Manuals, Agreements, Control,
Monitoring, And Reporting Documents
State department of transportation (State DOT) manuals, agreements
and other control, monitoring, and reporting documents that are used on
Federal-aid projects. (The following provides examples of the types of
manuals, guidelines and procedures that will be listed in Attachment B
and the type of information needed for each document. The format is
optional and the items listed are not all inclusive or applicable to
all States.)
Example for Construction Specifications
Standard Specifications
[cir] Elements that require the Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) approval:
[ssquf] Specifications that will be used on the National Highway
System (NHS). (23 CFR 625.3)
Example State DOT Manuals That Will Be Used on Federal-Aid Projects
Highway Design Manual--information and guidance to design road
projects.
[cir] Elements that require FHWA approval:
[ssquf] Roadway design standards for 3R and preventative
maintenance projects on the NHS. [23 CFR 625.3, 625.4(a)(3)]
[cir] Elements required by Federal law or regulation included in
this manual that do not require FHWA approval:
[ssquf] Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines (23 CFR 650.211)
Right of Way Manual--right-of-way organization, policies, and
procedures. Describes functions and procedures for all phases of the
real estate program, including appraisal and appraisal review,
negotiation and eminent domain, property management, and relocation
assistance.
[cir] Elements that require FHWA approval:
[ssquf] All elements. Right-of-way organization, policies, and
procedures (23 CFR 710.201)
Additional Manuals, Agreements, Control, Monitoring, and Reporting
Documents
Noise Analysis and Abatement Policy (23 CFR part 772)
Programmatic Agreement for Processing Interstate Access
Requests (MAP-21, Section 1505)
Asset Management Plan [23 U.S.C 119(e)(5)]
Value Engineering Policy and Procedures [23 CFR 627.1]
Quality Assurance Program [23 CFR 637.205]
Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) procurement
procedures [23 CFR 635.504(c)]
Pavement Design Policy [23 CFR part 626]
Attachment C (Drafting Example): Stewardship and Oversight Indicators
Indicators used to monitor assumptions of responsibility per
section VI. C. of this Agreement. (This list is provided as an example.
The format is optional and the items listed are not all inclusive or
applicable to all states).
Example Stewardship a6nd Oversight Indicator
Fiscal year Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
overall participation rate.
Percent of DBE goal achieved.
Average number of bidders per project per type of work per
year.
Percent of projects with low bid within +/- 10 percent of
Engineer's Estimate.
Percentage of projects that are awarded within 120 days of
authorization.
Number of National Bridge Inspection Standards metrics
that are fully compliant.
Percent of environmental mitigation commitments completed.
Average number of days between the date of project final
acceptance by State department of transportation and project close out
date in the Financial Management Information System (FMIS).
Percent of projects closed out with final costs within 110
percent of award amount.
Percent of projects closed out with final time expended
within 135 percent of original contract time.
Percent of current year projects in the State
Transportation Improvement Program advanced as scheduled.
Percent of projects with right-of-way (ROW) acquired by
acquisition due date.
Number of projects with conditional ROW certifications.
Number of disposals of excess ROW below fair market value.
Number of non-Interstate access breaks and/or
encroachments approved.
Number of modifications to project end dates in FMIS.
Expenditures determined to be ineligible for Federal
participation.
[FR Doc. 2022-27705 Filed 12-20-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-22-P