The Department of Transportation's Program To Preserve the Highways: Safety Remains an Issue
RCED-84-69
Published: Dec 23, 1983. Publicly Released: Jan 23, 1984.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed federally funded highway preservation efforts in seven states to determine the effects of allowing states to develop their own geometric design standards for highway resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation (3R) projects. The Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) allows states to adopt their own geometric design standards for 3R projects, rather than use standards for new construction.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Transportation | The Secretary of Transportation should direct the Administrator, FHwA, to develop uniform procedures for reviewing 3R projects that are not designed according to applicable standards. These procedures should address: (1) identification and documentation of substandard conditions by each state; (2) division review of accident data; (3) division site visits prior to project approval; and (4) participation of the division's safety expert in reviewing documentation of 3R projects. |
Closed – Implemented
FHwA defined safety enhancements in a memo to its regional offices. Also, FHwA sent a memo to its regional administrators stating that all 3R projects are to be constructed to standards which: (1) preserve and extend the service life of highways; and (2) enhance highway safety.
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