51·çÁ÷

[caption id="attachment_130" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Dean Word, FHWA Administrator Madison, Scott Williams, Don Weaver"] [/caption] 51·çÁ÷’s Highway and Transportation Division Leadership, including Division Chair Scott Williams, Vice Chair Don Weaver and Vice Chair–elect Dean Word met Wednesday with new Federal Highway Administrator Tom Madison to discuss a number of industry issues. The primary issue discussed was the current situation with funding of the highway program for the remainder of FY 2009. There is some concern that, despite the $8 billion Highway Trust Fund rescue plan enacted several weeks ago, the continuing decline in driving may undermine the ability to fully fund SAFETEA-LU levels this year. 51·çÁ÷ pointed out the implications for contractors with ongoing contracts if states are not reimbursed for expenditures for Federal-aid contracts. Administrator Madison indicated that FHWA has instituted a new monitoring system to ensure that there is early notice if there will be a funding shortfall. 51·çÁ÷ also encouraged continuing efforts on clarifying DBE program compliance issues. 51·çÁ÷ initiated an effort to develop a DBE Tool Kit to provide contractors with guidance on complying with federal DBE regulatory requirements. That effort has now been broadened to include other industry groups and other DOT agencies and the leadership encouraged that this initiative be continued. Other issues discussed included: how to address material price volatility, steps to reduce construction costs, and Federal requirements for implementing an ethics and compliance program. Administrator Madison encouraged a continuing dialogue between 51·çÁ÷ members and FHWA.