Department of Transportation

Glossary

The following is a list of definitions, acronyms and terms used in the Capital Project Delivery Process. Many routinely referred to by their acronyms are included here for reference.

AB C D E F G H I L M N O P Q R S T U V W

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AASHTO - See American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

AC - See Advance Construction

ACEC - See American Council of Engineering Companies

ACHP - See Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Activity Descriptions - Provides the activity identification number and the predecessor and successor activities required for each phase of the Project Delivery Process (PDP).Project Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
Included are brief descriptions of the work necessary to complete the activity and which Subject Matter Expert (SME),Subject Matter Expert (SME)
A person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.
Division, Bureau or Unit is responsible for that activity.

Advance Construction (AC) - A procedure to advance a federally-funded project(s) into the current fiscal yearFiscal Year (FY)
A time period of 12 months that is used to calculate annual financial statements of an organization. A fiscal year is not necessarily a calendar year (i.e., January through December). Fiscal years vary between businesses and organizations. The New Jersey Department of Transportation operates under a fiscal year July to June.
and implement it with other than federal funds. Use of AC is subject to the availability of other than federal funds (e.g., state funds) in the year in which the project is to be implemented, and the availability of federal funds in the year in which the AC project is to be converted to a regular federal-aid project. AC projects are to be listed individually in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
Is a program individually developed by each Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) (North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization) for their respective region that lists capital transportation projects and programs to be implemented. Transportation projects must be included in the TIP to receive most types of federal funding. The TIP provides a mechanism for locally-elected officials and agency staff to review the region's capital programming. It represents a consensus among MPO members and other major transportation interests in the region as to what improvements should have priority for available funds.
and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
Federal legislation requires that each state develop one multimodal STIP for all areas of the state. New Jersey's STIP consists of a listing of statewide line items and programs, as well as the regional Transportation Improvement Program, all of which were developed by the three Metropolitan Planning Organizations. The STIP is a comprehensive, one-volume guide to major transportation improvements and is a valuable reference for implementing agencies such as the New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ TRANSIT.
in both the year the project is to be implemented and the year in which the conversion is to take place.

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) - An independent agency charged with coordinating Federal, State, local and private preservationPreservation
Is an action taken to protect existing natural, cultural and human environments.
efforts and advising the President and Congress on matters of historic preservation. It acts in an advisory capacity and is typically the final sign-off in the Section 106 process.Section 106 process
Abbreviated terminology that means the process of complying with the National Historic Preservation Act. This Act basically requires the identification of properties on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and then determines the effect a federaly funded highway project may exert on the environmental and cultural resources within the proposed project area.

Alternate Procedures - As per the Stewardship Agreement Stewardship Agreement
The Federal Highway Administration and the New Jersey Department of Transportation have executed this document which sets the general framework for accomplishing the stewardship and oversight responsibilities of a Federal-aid Highway Program.
between Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
and the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), alternate procedures allow NJDOT to assume the roles and responsibilities of the FHWA for projects on the National Highway System (NHS)National Highway System (NHS)
An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, other intermodal transportation facilities and major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes the Interstate Highway System and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and metropolitan planning organizations.
and Non-NHSNon-NHS
Any roadway that is not part of the National Highway System; not designated as a part of National Highway System by United States Congress in 1995.
projects which NJDOT assumes complete responsibility for project administration. The NHS is the network of nationally significant highways, approved by Congress, that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility.

Alternatives Analysis - Alternatives Analysis is performed to assure each conceptual design alternative addresses the project need and is in compliance with standards with respect to safety, capacity, Context Sensitive Design,Context Sensitive Design (CSD)
Alternatively referred to as Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) is a concept that is applied to decision-making in the designing and planning of a transportation project. CSD/CSS states that decisions should be made within the context of a holistic approach. CSD/CSS seeks to balance the need to move vehicles efficiently and safely with other desirable outcomes, including historic preservation, environmental sustainability and the creation of vital public spaces.
environmental and operational improvements. Alternative analysis frequently reveals the need for revision, integration or elimination of alternatives to assure consistency with environmental community and budget restraints.

American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials (AASHTO) - AASHTO is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing highway and transportation departments in the 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. It represents all five transportation modes: air, highways, public transportation, rail and water. Its primary goal is to foster the development, operation and maintenance of an integrated national transportation system.

American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) - The ACEC is a professional engineering organization representing American engineers and engineering firms. Council members are engaged in a wide range of engineering works that propel the nation's economy and enhance and safeguard America's quality of life. The Council's mission is to contribute to America's prosperity and welfare by advancing the business interests of member firms.

APE - See Area of Potential Effect

Area of Potential Effect (APE) - The APE is a geographic area or areas within which an undertaking may directly or indirectly cause changes in the character or use of historic properties, if such properties exist. The APE is influenced by the scale and nature of the undertaking and may be different for different kinds of effects caused by the undertaking. Determination of the APE is conducted in the Preliminary Engineering (PE) Phase.Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type, size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.

As-Built Plans - Refers to transportation infrastructure plan sheets and other pertinent project documents that document the built environment. These plans are primarily used for reference (accessible through the NJDOT Engineering Document Unit) and are designated to be stored permanently.

Asset Management - A systematic cost-effective process of maintaining, upgrading and operating physical assets. NJDOT adopted this approach to managing its infrastructure assets and making capital investment decisions in 2008.

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Baseline Document - Baseline Documents are engineering documents that establish standards which are formally reviewed and approved by all project stakeholders, the Department's Directors, FHWA, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
and are endorsed by the Assistant Commissioner of Capital Program Management. All changes and alterations to these documents are processed through rigorous reviews and approvals.

Baseline Document Change (BDC) Announcement - A BDC announcement provides public notification using the NJDOT internet that a baseline document has been modified. A BDC is an alteration to, or rewriting of, any officially-approved document. New documents are also announced with a BDC.

BDC - See Baseline Document Change Announcement

Benefit Cost Analyses - All federally-funded safety projects are prioritized using a basic benefit cost analysis methodology. This analysis takes into account an estimate of the property damage and the injury costs saved via the proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
over its useful life and weighs that against the estimated traffic control device construction costs for the project building signal upgrades, signing, striping and minor curb and sidewalk work.

Bridge Management System - A systematic process for the identification, ranking and prioritization of structures in need of repair, rehabilitation or replacement.

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CAM - See Consultant Agreement Modification

CAN - See Corrective Action Notice

Capital Program Committee (CPC) - A committee established to review and make recommendations concerning all aspects of the Department's Capital Program. The committee approves recommendations for project advancement as presented by the Screening Committee, reviews the project advertisement schedule, receives reports on the development of the Capital Program, the STIPStatewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
Federal legislation requires that each state develop one multimodal STIP for all areas of the state. New Jersey's STIP consists of a listing of statewide line items and programs, as well as the regional Transportation Improvement Program, all of which were developed by the three Metropolitan Planning Organizations. The STIP is a comprehensive, one-volume guide to major transportation improvements and is a valuable reference for implementing agencies such as the New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ TRANSIT.
and the Study and Development Program (S&D)Study and Development Program (S&D)
Is a listing of proposed projects within the Department's Annual Capital Program that have been identified for further advancement that have been approved by the appropriate Metropolitan Planning Organization. Most proposed projects in the S&D Program have undergone a Problem Statement Review and/or Field Investigation and are in Concept Development, but have not reached approval for advancement into Preliminary Engineering or Final Design.
, and addresses other issues relating to the Capital Programming process. The Deputy Commissioner chairs the committee.

Capital Program Screening Committee (CPSC) - A committee established by the CPCCapital Program Committee (CPC)
A committee established to review and make recommendations concerning all aspects of the Department's Capital Program. The committee approves recommendations for project advancement as presented by the Screening Committee, reviews the project advertisement schedule, receives reports on the development of the Capital Program, the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program and the Study and Development Program, and addresses other issues relating to the Capital Programming process. The Deputy Commissioner chairs the committee.
to review, in detail, projects advancing to Concept Development (CD)Concept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, Preliminary Engineering (PE) Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and Final Design (FD) Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
. The committee members assure the appropriate scope of workScope of Work
Is the limits of work and elements included in that work; the work to be accomplished to deliver a product that fixes the issue as documented in the Problem Statement.
is being pursued. The Screening Committee recommends approval of the appropriate action for each project to the CPC. The Director of the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)
CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for NJDOT. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review during the Problem Screening Phase and the completion of the Charter. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.
chairs the committee.

Categorical Exclusions (CE) - A classification of projects which have been determined not to individually or cumulatively have a significant impact on the human or natural environment and are therefore exempt from the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA)Environmental Assessment (EA)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) 23 CFR 771.115 as Class III type projects or those projects for which it is unclear if there is a potential for significant environmental impacts. The EA provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. After the EA is made available and a public comment period is held, if the project is determined not to have a significant impact on the environment, then the FHWA issues a Finding of No Significant Impact. If the project is determined to have a Significant Impact, an Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared.
or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) regulation 23 CFR 771.115 as Class I type projects or those that have the potential for significant impacts on the human, natural or cultural environment. An EIS provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. It is circulated to the public and review agencies for comments and is prepared as a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and than, as a Final Environmental Impact Statement. Its approval is a Record of Decision prepared by FHWA and published in the Federal Register.
. This category of projects is referred to as Class II projects and is identified in FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
regulations (23 CFR 771).

CCB - See Change Control Board

CCR - See Division of Community and Constituent Relations

CD - See Concept Development

CE - See Categorical Exclusions

CFR - See Code of Federal Regulations

Change Control Board (CCB) - Established to review and approve changes and requests affecting design and construction in an effort to control costs, control scope changes and provide historical data for quality assuranceQuality Assurance
Is the systematic utilization of performance requirements, design criteria, specifications, production control procedure and acceptance plans for materials, processes or products to ensure prescribed properties or characteristics.
purposes. The Project Manager (PM)Project Manager (PM)
Is a New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
attends the CCB meetings to present an issue related to a project. The PM may be accompanied by the Designer or the Resident Engineer for technical support. In unusual situations, a Consultant Designer may be present during project presentation, if deemed necessary. In addition, a representative from Capital Program Coordination and a representative from FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
will attend CCB meetings as appropriate.

Change in Scope - A change in scope is when the scope of a proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
or project is changed significantly, such as downsizingDownsize
A new alternative that addresses the purpose and need, but is smaller than the original scope that was presented to local stakeholders.
, segmenting or adding work, to the point where funding levels, community support or other issues may be impacted.

Change in Status - When a proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
or project is moved from one phase of development to another phase, it changes status. This can result in advancing the project to the next phase or terminating Termination
Official withdrawal of the project from the New Jersey Department of Transportation Work Program.
, recycling Recycle
Officially moving a proposed project or project back to the Problem Screening phase of work in order to determine an appropriate level of effort.
, downsizingDownsize
A new alternative that addresses the purpose and need, but is smaller than the original scope that was presented to local stakeholders.
or placing it on-holdOn-Hold
Work is halted on a project in order to better evaluate the scope and priority of the project, or to obtain funding.
.

Charter - Document issued by CIPD Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)
CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for NJDOT. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review during the Problem Screening Phase and the completion of the Charter. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.
that formally authorizes the existence of a project and provides the PMProject Manager (PM)
Is a New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
with the authority to apply organizational resources to project activities.

CIPD - See Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development

CMS - See Congestion Management Study

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) – The CFR is the codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal RegisterFederal Register
Published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, the Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents.
by the executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government. It is divided into 50 titles that represent broad areas subject to Federal regulation. Each volume of the CFR is updated yearly and is issued on a quarterly basis. Examples are 23 CFR 450, 23 CFR 771. Title 23 specifically pertains to Highway regulations.

Community Involvement Process - A critical part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
The Federal Act of 1970 that establishes national environmental policy and goals for the protection, maintenance and enhancement of the environment and provides a process for implementing these goals within the federal agencies. NEPA recognized that nearly all federal activities affect the environment in some way and mandated that before federal agencies make decisions, they must thoroughly consider the effects of their actions on all facets of the human environment.
process provides an avenue for the public to participate in transportation scoping meetings and to receive proposed project Proposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
information. During a Public Information Center (PIC)Public Information Center (PIC)
Is a meeting to disseminate information regarding a proposed transportation project to the public. Information regarding environmentally related issues is presented, as well as right of way impacts and detour information, if applicable. Comments are received from the public and recorded and addressed by the New Jersey Department of Transportation Project Manager.
the proposed alternative is presented in an open house format and public comments are received on resource areas to be studied in the environmental analysis.

CON - See Construction

Concept Development (CD) - The major objective of the CD Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Purpose and Need
Is a statement defining the transportation need and the purpose or reason to address the need. This statement is created before the development of alternatives during Concept Development.
Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA)Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA)
The selected alternative identified among the many alternatives developed to address the Purpose and Need Statement during Concept Development. It is selected from an alternative analysis comparison. Identifying a PPA initially requires data analysis, National Environmental Policy Act classification determination, a thorough examination of possible alternatives and input from internal/external stakeholders to conclude if the selected alternative provides reasonable cost for an anticipated and derived benefit.
for advancement through the Capital
PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
can advance to the next phase of the PDP. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimate and a project cost estimate.
, FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
and Construction (CON) Construction (CON)
Formally begins after construction plans, specifications and estimates are submitted and authorization to advertise is received. This phase of the project culminates when all construction work is completed and the resulting asset is accepted by the Federal Highway Administration (if using Federal funds) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Operations. This phase includes the work required to advertise and award the contract, set up construction management systems and processes, mobilize for construction, execute and control the actual construction, complete contract work, and close-out the project. The phase is closed when all construction work and as-built plans are completed, the final change order is processed, final payment is made, and the records are stored. There is no further close-out work done beyond the Construction Phase.
Phases.

Concept Development (CD) Report - The CD Report is an official document compiled as a package describing the problem, collected data, findings of the evaluation of all alternatives developed, the PPAPreliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA)
The selected alternative identified among the many alternatives developed to address the Purpose and Need Statement during Concept Development. It is selected from an alternative analysis comparison. Identifying a PPA initially requires data analysis, National Environmental Policy Act classification determination, a thorough examination of possible alternatives and input from internal/external stakeholders to conclude if the selected alternative provides reasonable cost for an anticipated and derived benefit.
and other documented information associated with the project location.

Concept Development (CD) Scope Statement - The CD Scope Statement provides the Designer with the scope of workScope of Work
Is the limits of work and elements included in that work; the work to be accomplished to deliver a product that fixes the issue as documented in the Problem Statement.
level of detail necessary to assist them in determining the effort required to estimate the man hours for CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
. The CD Scope Statement also provides an area for the PMProject Manager (PM)
Is a New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
to state any assumptions, clarify and customize standard activities and add new activities and their descriptions.

Congestion Management Study (CMS) - A study that evaluates congestion management strategies within a study area and investigates multi-modal mobility needs. All federal projects need a CMS clearance prior to approval of FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
funding for the environmental document. It is the responsibility of the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
for granting a CMS clearance. A standard template document has been developed by the MPO and the NJDOT so that all relevant information is provided for the CMS determination. Not all projects need to address the CMS requirement. Projects of limited scopeLimited Scope
The Limited Scope Project Delivery Approach was developed to deliver small-scope projects that meet specific criteria. The purpose of these projects is to address deficiencies in order to extend the functional and structural life of the assets. The project scope is not intended to go beyond addressing the defined purpose and needs. Projects that involve acquisition of right of way or easements, environmental impacts or permanent utility relocations are not applicable to the Limited Scope Project Approach and should be designed using the standard project delivery process.
that do not increase single occupant capacity, are not located in a non-attainment area for air quality, and are not federally-funded, may bypass the CMS process and requirement. However, exploration of the ability of particular congestion management strategies or other multi-modal strategies should be conducted outside of the study.

Congestion Management System - A systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations with a history of vehicular congestion.

Constructability - The ability of a design to be effectively and efficiently constructed. A proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
design is examined by
SMEs,Subject Matter Expert (SME)
A person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.
to determine that there are no fatal flawsfatal flaws
A critical error that will likely result in the failure of a project to be constructed; a fault or imperfection that may lend itself to a catastrophic failure.
in the design and that construction of the project is feasible and possible.

Construction (CON) (the phase) - Formally begins after construction plans, specifications and estimates (PS&E)Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E)
The PS&E Package addresses the Final Design Submission Package comments and provides the contract plans, specifications in alignment with the accepted design standards, and final cost estimates. These documents contain all the construction details, contract provisions, permits, agreements and certifications required to advertise, award and administer a construction contract.
are submitted and authorization to advertise is received. This phase of the project culminates when all construction work is completed and the resulting asset is accepted by the FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
(if using Federal funds) and NJDOT Operations. This phase includes the work required to advertise and award the contract, set up construction management systems and processes, mobilize for construction, execute and control the actual construction, complete contract work, and close-out the project. The phase is closed when all construction work and as-built plans As-Built Plans
Refers to transportation infrastructure plan sheets and other pertinent project documents that document the built environment. These plans are primarily used for reference (accessible through the NJDOT Engineering Document Unit) and are designated to be stored permanently.
are completed, the final change order is processed, final payment is made, and the records are stored. There is no further close-out work done beyond the CON Phase.

Consultant Agreement Modification (CAM) - Modifications made to existing consultant agreements which may affect the project budget and schedule.

Context Sensitive Design (CSD) - Also referred to as Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS) is a concept that is applied to decision-making in the designing and planning of a transportation project. CSD/CSS states that decisions should be made within the context of a holistic approach. CSD/CSS seeks to balance the need to move vehicles efficiently and safely with other desirable outcomes, including historic preservationPreservation
Is an action taken to protect existing natural, cultural and human environments.
, environmental sustainability and the creation of vital public spaces.

Controlling Design Element - A Controlling Design Element controls or drives a particular design and has a controlling effect on the project design. Controlling roadway design elements include the following: Stopping Sight Distance, Super Elevation, Minimum Radius of Curve, Minimum and Maximum Grades, Cross Slope, Lane Width, Shoulder Width, Through Lane Drop Transition Length, Acceleration and Deceleration Lane Length, Horizontal Clearance, and Design Speed. Controlling structural design elements include the following: Bridge Width, Vertical Clearance and Structural Capacity.

Core Group - Is a working group of various NJDOT representatives which provides a forum for soliciting input and buy-in into the project development process to ensure the project has appropriate support. It serves as a means to tap the knowledge and information pool within NJDOT on a particular transportation problem area and helps build support for the PPAPreliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA)
The selected alternative identified among the many alternatives developed to address the Purpose and Need Statement during Concept Development. It is selected from an alternative analysis comparison. Identifying a PPA initially requires data analysis, National Environmental Policy Act classification determination, a thorough examination of possible alternatives and input from internal/external stakeholders to conclude if the selected alternative provides reasonable cost for an anticipated and derived benefit.
.

Corrective Action Notice (CAN) - CANs identify and address problems that may lead to additional costs, impact project schedules or may be systemic in nature. They include a corrective action plan designed to eliminate the possibility of a recurrence, along with the units responsible for carrying out both immediate and permanent changes. When these changes alter any Baseline DocumentBaseline Document
Baseline Documents are engineering documents that establish standards which are formally reviewed and approved by all project stakeholders, the Department's Directors, and are endorsed by the Assistant Commissioner of Capital Program Management. All changes and alterations to these documents are processed through rigorous reviews and approvals.
, a BDC Announcement Baseline Document Change (BDC) Announcement
A BDC announcement provides public notification using the New Jersey Department of Transportation internet that a baseline document has been modified. A BDC is an alteration to, or rewriting of, any officially-approved document. New documents are also announced with a BDC.
follows.

CPC - See Capital Program Committee

CPM - See Critical Path Method

CPSC - See Capital Program Screening Committee

Critical Path Method (CPM) - A formal scheduling method used on large complex projects to assure design and construction can be completed in the shortest time frame. The CPM utilizes network-based logic to identify the interrelationship of design and construction activities and calculates the longest path of interrelated activities (the critical path) through the process which cannot be delayed without causing the entire project to be delayed.

CSD - See Context Sensitive Design

Cultural Resource - Term used to denote both architectural resources (above ground) and archaeological resources (below ground) that have historical significance.

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DCR - See Design Communications Report

DEIS - See (Draft) Environmental Impact Statement

DEP - See New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Department Certification - Is a requirement submitted to
FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
with the PS&EPlans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E)
The PS&E Package addresses the Final Design Submission Package comments and provides the contract plans, specifications in alignment with the accepted design standards, and final cost estimates. These documents contain all the construction details, contract provisions, permits, agreements and certifications required to advertise, award and administer a construction contract.
Submission that indicates the project has been designed and will be constructed in accordance with the applicable Federal Oversight Category, and that the Quality Management (QM)Quality Management (QM)
A formalized system that documents the structure, responsibilities and procedures required to achieve and deliver a quality product.  It describes the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization.
process has been conducted in accordance with approved procedures and meets NJDOT and FHWA requirements. If the project has design exceptionsDesign Exception
Certain conditions may warrant a deviation from the standard in the design of a project; an exception will be granted for a project with one or more controlling substandard design elements. If it can be documented that a lesser design value is the best practical alternative in terms of social, economic and environmental impacts and yet shall provide safe and efficient traffic operations, a design exception will be approved.
, a copy of the approved Design Exceptions Report is to be attached to the Department Certification.

Design Build - Is a method used to deliver a project in which the design and construction services are contracted by a single entity. The advantages of a design-build contract are: the reliance on a single point of responsibility, minimizing risks for the project owner, and reducing the delivery schedule by overlapping the FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
Phase and the CON Construction (CON)
Formally begins after construction plans, specifications and estimates are submitted and authorization to advertise is received. This phase of the project culminates when all construction work is completed and the resulting asset is accepted by the Federal Highway Administration (if using Federal funds) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Operations. This phase includes the work required to advertise and award the contract, set up construction management systems and processes, mobilize for construction, execute and control the actual construction, complete contract work, and close-out the project. The phase is closed when all construction work and as-built plans are completed, the final change order is processed, final payment is made, and the records are stored. There is no further close-out work done beyond the Construction Phase.
Phase.

Design Certifications (Consultant Design or NJDOT In-House Design) - A requirement for CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
at the completion of each phase that attests to the work performed in the approved Scope StatementScope Statement
Is a document that clearly lists the anticipated work for a project or proposed project. There are Scope Statements for Concept Development, Preliminary Engineering and Final Design. Each Scope Statement details the project deliverables and describes the limit of scope of the project or proposed project as far as it is known during each phase of design, and is used during the next phase.
for the CD, PE and FD phases. The Designer PS&E Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E)
The PS&E Package addresses the Final Design Submission Package comments and provides the contract plans, specifications in alignment with the accepted design standards, and final cost estimates. These documents contain all the construction details, contract provisions, permits, agreements and certifications required to advertise, award and administer a construction contract.
Certification is also required on federal projects for Construction Authorization.

Design Communications Report (DCR) - Is a document established for the project during the CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
Phase. The DCR is continually updated throughout the remainder of the project's development and through the CON Construction (CON)
Formally begins after construction plans, specifications and estimates are submitted and authorization to advertise is received. This phase of the project culminates when all construction work is completed and the resulting asset is accepted by the Federal Highway Administration (if using Federal funds) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Operations. This phase includes the work required to advertise and award the contract, set up construction management systems and processes, mobilize for construction, execute and control the actual construction, complete contract work, and close-out the project. The phase is closed when all construction work and as-built plans are completed, the final change order is processed, final payment is made, and the records are stored. There is no further close-out work done beyond the Construction Phase.
Phase. The DCR provides a record of the justification associated with decisions, agreements, stakeholder concerns and resolutions of design issues made during project development, which may affect the design or outcome of the project.

Design Element - A particular feature of a design, such as lane width, cross slope, curb or beam guide rail. There are controlling design elements Controlling Design Element
A Controlling Design Element controls or drives a particular design and has a controlling effect on the project design. Controlling roadway design elements include the following: Stopping Sight Distance, Super Elevation, Minimum Radius of Curve, Minimum and Maximum Grades, Cross Slope, Lane Width, Shoulder Width, Through Lane Drop Transition Length, Acceleration and Deceleration Lane Length, Horizontal Clearance, and Design Speed. Controlling structural design elements include the following: Bridge Width, Vertical Clearance and Structural Capacity.
specific to the roadway such as design speed and controlling design elements specific to structures such as bridge width.

Design Exception - Certain conditions may warrant a deviation from the standard in the design of a project; an exception will be granted for a project with one or more controlling substandard design elements Design Element
A particular feature of a design, such as lane width, cross slope, curb or beam guide rail. There are controlling design elements specific to the roadway such as design speed and controlling design elements specific to structures such as bridge width.
. If it can be documented that a lesser design value is the best practical alternative in terms of social, economic and environmental impacts and yet shall provide safe and efficient traffic operations, a design exception will be approved.

Design Standard - An authoritative principle or rule containing specific criteria and controls for design. These are customarily found in the Manuals, Specifications and Department Policies.

Design Submission - Is a set of plans, specificationsSpecifications
Is a general term used to describe a compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work.
and construction cost estimates along with other supporting documentation. A design submission may be an interim submission as determined by the
PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
or a standard submission such as the FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
Submission. An interim design submission allows NJDOT to verify that the design of the project is proceeding in accordance with all policies, procedures and standards and that the designer has considered all areas that can have a major impact on the design of the project.

Designer Audit - Under the Department's Quality Management Audit ProcedureQuality Management Audit Procedure
Is the mechanism used to assess a project's quality level, using New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) guidance, and compliance to NJDOT policies, design practices and procedures. The Audit will be administered by the Program Management Office. Audit results will be documented and presented to NJDOT Senior Management, Program and Project Managers and the Federal Highway Administration.
guideline, a consultant designer may be audited for
compliance in accordance with their approved Quality Management Plan (QMP)Quality Management Plan (QMP)
Is a document or set of documents that describe the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization. The Quality Management plan describes how an organization will implement their quality management policy.
that is on file in the Program Management Office (PMO)Program Management Office (PMO)
The PMO is a business or professional enterprise is the department or group that defines and maintains the standards of process, generally related to project management, within the organization The PMO strives to standardize and introduce economies of repetition in the execution of projects. The PMO is the source of documentation, guidance and metrics on the practice of project management and execution.
.

Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)- CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy (SCIS) Statewide Capital Investment Strategy (SCIS)
The SCIS is a decision-making tool used to develop investment options for transportation program categories based upon goals, objectives, and performance measures. The SCIS represents an “asset management” approach to addressing our transportation needs. Asset Management is a systematic, comprehensive approach and process for maintaining, upgrading and operating physical assets cost-effectively.
and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for NJDOT. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review Problem Statement Review
A process performed by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) during the Problem Screening Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem Statement. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital Project Delivery Process and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to New Jersey Department of Transportation's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
during the Problem Screening (PS) Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investiation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
Phase and the completion of the Charter Charter
Document issued by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development that formally authorizes the existence of a project and provides the Project Manager with the authority to apply organizational resources to project activities.
. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Asset Management
A systematic cost-effective process of maintaining, upgrading and operating physical assets. New Jersey Department of Transportation adopted this approach to managing its infrastructure assets and making capital investment decisions in 2008.
Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.

Division of Community and Constituent Relations (CCR) - Is a NJDOT division responsible for ensuring the opportunity for public participation in all phases of a transportation project through construction and maintenance. Community Relations managers coordinate public participation in NJDOT's Capital Program, serve as a liaison to municipal officials, and conduct PICsPublic Information Center (PIC)
Is a meeting to disseminate information regarding a proposed transportation project to the public. Information regarding environmentally related issues is presented, as well as right of way impacts and detour information, if applicable. Comments are received from the public and recorded and addressed by the New Jersey Department of Transportation Project Manager.
, Public Meetings and Public Hearings.

Division of Project Management (DPM) - Is a NJDOT division that is responsible for effective control and delivery of capital transportation projects from PS Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investigation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
through CON Construction (CON)
Formally begins after construction plans, specifications and estimates are submitted and authorization to advertise is received. This phase of the project culminates when all construction work is completed and the resulting asset is accepted by the Federal Highway Administration (if using Federal funds) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Operations. This phase includes the work required to advertise and award the contract, set up construction management systems and processes, mobilize for construction, execute and control the actual construction, complete contract work, and close-out the project. The phase is closed when all construction work and as-built plans are completed, the final change order is processed, final payment is made, and the records are stored. There is no further close-out work done beyond the Construction Phase.
, in accordance with the established scope, budget, schedule and quality managementQuality Management (QM)
A formalized system that documents the structure, responsibilities and procedures required to achieve and deliver a quality product.  It describes the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization.
for each individual project.

Downsize - A new alternative that addresses the purpose and need Purpose and Need
Is a statement defining the transportation need and the purpose or reason to address the need. This statement is created before the development of alternatives during Concept Development.
, but is smaller than the original scope that was presented to local stakeholders.

DPM - See Division of Project Management

Drainage Management System - Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of drainage system repair or improvement.

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E&O - See Errors and Omissions Procedure

EA - See Environmental Assessment

Effect Determination - This term is in reference to Section 106Section 106 process
Abbreviated terminology that means the process of complying with the National Historic Preservation Act. This Act basically requires the identification of properties on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and then determines the effect a federally funded highway project may exert on the environmental and cultural resources within the proposed project area.
of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)
Legislation signed into law in 1966, which is intended to preserve historical and archaeological sites in the United States. This act requires federal agencies to evaluate the impact of all federally-funded projects on historic properties through a process known as Section 106 Review.
of 1966 and is defined as an undertaking with effects on historic property eligible for inclusion in the National Register when the undertaking may alter characteristics of the property. Alteration to features of the property’s location, setting or use may be relevant, depending on a property’s significant characteristics, in determining the effect on a property. An Adverse Effect results when the effect on a historic property may diminish the integrity of the property’s location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling or association. Under certain conditions a project may have an effect on a property, but that effect may be determined to be Not Adverse and, in certain instances, there may be No Effect.

EIS - See Environmental Impact Statement

EJ - See Environmental Justice

Engineering and Administration Costs - A project's engineering, review and incidental costs, including, but not limited to, Department salaries and overhead, consultant preliminary engineering, utility preliminary engineering, construction engineering, Right of Way (ROW)Right of Way (ROW)
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
plan preparation, and cultural resource Cultural Resources
Term used to denote both architectural resources (above ground) and archaeological resources (below ground) that have historical significance.
mitigation.

Environmental Assessment (EA) - Is a document prepared for projects identified in FHWA'sFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
23 CFR 771.115 as Class III type projects or those projects for which it is unclear if there is a potential for significant environmental impacts. The EA provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. After the EA is made available and a public comment period is held, if the project is determined not to have a significant impact on the environment, then the FHWA issues a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
A FONSI is issued when environmental analysis and interagency review during the Environmental Assessment (EA) process find a project to have no significant impacts on the quality of the environment. The FONSI document is the EA modified to reflect all applicable comments and responses. If it was not done in the EA, the FONSI must include the project sponsor's recommendation or selected alternative. No formal public circulation of the FONSI is required, but the state clearinghouse must be notified of the availability of the FONSI.
. If the project is determined to have a Significant Impact, an EISEnvironmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) regulation 23 CFR 771.115 as Class I type projects or those that have the potential for significant impacts on the human, natural or cultural environment. An EIS provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. It is circulated to the public and review agencies for comments and is prepared as a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and than, as a Final Environmental Impact Statement. Its approval is a Record of Decision prepared by FHWA and published in the Federal Register.
must be prepared.

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) - Is a document prepared for projects identified in FHWA's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
regulation 23 CFR 771.115 as Class I type projects or those that have the potential for significant impacts on the human, natural or cultural environment. An EIS provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. It is circulated to the public and review agencies for comments and is prepared as a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) and than, as a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). Its approval is a Record of Decision (ROD)Record of Decision (ROD)
Following the Final Environmental Impact Statement, Federal Highway Administration prepares a ROD that states and justifies the decision of the Final Environmental Impact Statement. The ROD summarizes any mitigation measures that will be incorporated in the project and documents any required Section 4(f) approval. Further Federal funding may not be secured for a project until a ROD has been signed.
prepared by FHWA and published in the Federal Register Federal Register
Published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, the Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents.
.

Environmental Justice (EJ) - The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin or income regarding the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies. Everyone is ensured the same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards and equal access to the decision-making process under Presidential Executive Order 21898.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or (USEPA) - An agency of the federal government that is charged with writing and enforcing regulations based on Congressional law pertaining to protection of the environment and human health.

EO 215 - See Executive Order 215

EPA - See Environmental Protection Agency

Errors and Omissions (E&O) Procedure - This procedure is used to reinforce design accountability and recover additional project costs due to carelessness or negligence from consultant designers in the design development of a project. The E&O Procedure may also be used with an error claim that results from a Construction Inspection Consultant.

Executive Order 215 (EO 215) - An environmental document similar to the federal EAEnvironmental Assessment (EA)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) 23 CFR 771.115 as Class III type projects or those projects for which it is unclear if there is a potential for significant environmental impacts. The EA provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. After the EA is made available and a public comment period is held, if the project is determined not to have a significant impact on the environment, then the FHWA issues a Finding of No Significant Impact. If the project is determined to have a Significant Impact, an Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared.
or federal EISEnvironmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) regulation 23 CFR 771.115 as Class I type projects or those that have the potential for significant impacts on the human, natural or cultural environment. An EIS provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. It is circulated to the public and review agencies for comments and is prepared as a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and than, as a Final Environmental Impact Statement. Its approval is a Record of Decision prepared by FHWA and published in the Federal Register.
that is required for all state-funded projects over $1 million in construction costs. The order has provisions for certain project exemptions; NJDOT has a Memorandum of Agreement on additional projects that are exempt from the EO 215 requirements.

Executive Regional Manager – Is an NJDOT individual who manages a group of related projects in a coordinated way to obtain benefits and control not available when managing them individually. Currently, capital projects are grouped by the region in which they reside.

Exempt Project - A project that is exempt from full FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
review and oversight due to the project being classified as an Interstate 3R (Resurfacing, Rehabilitation or Restoration) project3R (Resurfacing, Rehabilitation or Restoration) project
Are projects that involve Resurfacing, Rehabilitation or Restoration (3R) of a roadway or bridge. Projects that re-stripe a roadway to bring the width of through lanes up to the required design value by utilizing a portion of the existing shoulder may be classified under 3R (resurfacing) provided that a design exception is not required. When a project uses the existing shoulder width in its entirety for through lane use, the roadway cross section has been changed significantly and therefore the project is to be classified as a reconstruction. Those projects that include widening of the shoulders may be classified as 3R (rehabilitation). Minor widening is defined as a widening, within existing right of way, only to upgrade lanes and/or shoulders to the required design value, exclusive of a full lane addition.
, National Highway System (NHS)National Highway System (NHS)
An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, other intermodal transportation facilities and major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes the Interstate Highway System and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and metropolitan planning organizations.
3R project or Non-NHSNon-NHS
Any roadway that is not part of the National Highway System; not designated as a part of National Highway System by United States Congress in 1995.
project.

Experimental Feature - A material, process, method, equipment item, traffic operational device or other feature that: (1) has not been sufficiently tested under actual service conditions to merit acceptance without reservation in normal highway construction; or (2) has been accepted but needs comparison with alternative acceptable features for determining their relative merits and cost effectiveness.

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Fatal Flaw(s)- A critical error that will likely result in the failure of a project to be constructed; a fault or imperfection that may lend itself to a catastrophic failure.

FD - See Final Design

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) - The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.

Federal Register - Published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration, the Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules and notices of Federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other presidential documents.

Federal Transit Administration (FTA) – This Administration, within the United States Department of Transportation, has been authorized by Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU)Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU)
Is a funding authorization bill which governs federal highway and transit programs. The original bill expired in 2009 and has been operating on a series of short-term extensions since then.
to provide stewardship over funding which supports a variety of locally-planned, locally-constructed and locally-operated public transportation systems throughout the United States.

FEIS - See (Final) Environmental Impact Statement

FHWA - See Federal Highway Administration

Field Investigation - A process performed during the PS Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investigation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
Phase by the NJDOT PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
after the Problem Statement Review Problem Statement Review
A process performed by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) during the Problem Screening Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem Statement. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital Project Delivery Process and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to New Jersey Department of Transportation's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
is complete. The purpose of the Field Investigation is to identify the most efficient and rapid path that the deficiency outlined in the Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
could follow to move forward in the Capital PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
. The result of a Field Investigation can also be placement in a future S&D ProgramStudy and Development Program (S&D)
Is a listing of proposed projects within the Department's Annual Capital Program that have been identified for further advancement that have been approved by the appropriate Metropolitan Planning Organization. Most proposed projects in the S&D Program have undergone a Problem Statement Review and/or Field Investigation and are in Concept Development, but have not reached approval for advancement into Preliminary Engineering or Final Design.
or termination Termination
Official withdrawal of the project from the New Jersey Department of Transportation Work Program
.

Final Design (FD) - The Final Design Phase formally begins once
FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the
PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way Right of Way
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specificationsSpecifications
Is a general term used to describe a compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work.
, construction schedule and construction estimate).

Final Design (FD) Scope Statement - The FD Scope Statement lists the project's deliverables and the activities required to create those deliverables in the FD phase of the project delivery processProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
. The scope statement also provides a common understanding of the project's scope to stakeholders, SMEsSubject Matter Expert (SME)
A person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.
and the designer, and it lists the project's major objectives. It enables the PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
to perform FD, and it helps guide the design team's work during execution and provides the baseline for evaluating whether change requests or additional work are contained within or outside the project's boundaries.

Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) - A FONSI is issued when environmental analysis and interagency review during the EAEnvironmental Assessment (EA)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) 23 CFR 771.115 as Class III type projects or those projects for which it is unclear if there is a potential for significant environmental impacts. The EA provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. After the EA is made available and a public comment period is held, if the project is determined not to have a significant impact on the environment, then the FHWA issues a Finding of No Significant Impact. If the project is determined to have a Significant Impact, an Environmental Impact Statement must be prepared.
process find a project to have no significant impacts on the quality of the environment. The FONSI document is the EA modified to reflect all applicable comments and responses. If it was not done in the EA, the FONSI must include the project sponsor's recommendation or selected alternative. No formal public circulation of the FONSI is required, but the state clearinghouse must be notified of the availability of the FONSI.

Fiscal Year (FY) - A time period of 12 months that is used to calculate annual financial statements of an organization. A fiscal year is not necessarily a calendar year (i.e., January through December). Fiscal years vary between businesses and organizations. NJDOT operates under a fiscal year July to June.

Flow Chart - A diagram or chart which represents a process or procedure in a step-wise graphic fashion. The steps are presented as boxes connected by arrows. The flow of control is shown in this chart, and the sequencing of operations is represented. Flowcharts are used to analyze, design or manage complex processes and help visualize and, perhaps, finds flaws or incorrect logic in a process.

FONSI - See Finding of No Significant Impact

FTA - See Federal Transit Administration

Full Oversight - A Federal Aid highway project processing category; this process is fully documented in the Stewardship AgreementStewardship Agreement
The Federal Highway Administration and the New Jersey Department of Transportation have executed this document which sets the general framework for accomplishing the stewardship and oversight responsibilities of a Federal-aid Highway Program.
. Federal oversight ensures that the Federal highway program is delivered consistent with applicable laws, regulations and policies.

Functional Classification System - The process by which all public roadways are grouped into categories based on the service they are intended to provide. A factor in the development of the Functional Classification System is census data. This data determines the development of the Urban Boundary which delineates the Rural and Urban classification. Development of the Functional Classification System is performed in cooperation with county and MPOMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
officials.

FY - See Fiscal Year

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Geographic Information System (GIS) - Is a common term used to indicate a digital database for storage, retrieval, mapping and analysis of geographic information or cartography.

GIS - See Geographic Information System

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Highway Type Designation - Is an element used in project design and is typically shown on the key sheet of the project's contract plans. Development of Highway Type designations considers two factors, the functional classification of the roadway and whether the roadway is divided or undivided. An FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
established set of codes is used to define the Highway Type of any given roadway.

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IHS - See Interstate Highway System

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Engineering - Includes the development and design of integrated traffic signal systems, incident management systems, traffic management systems, traffic information systems and other ITS components, including, but not limited to computerized arterial traffic signals, Dynamic/Variable Message Signs, closed circuit television surveillance (traffic cameras), Highway Advisory Radio and Phone Systems, traffic movement detectors, and a fiber optic communications network.

Interactive Communications Procedure - Interactive Communications are formal and informal communications that occur on a project between NJDOT, the consultant(s), prime and sub consultants, SMEsSubject Matter Expert (SME)
A person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.
, and project stakeholders. Interactive Communications are critical to control of the scope, schedule, budget and the project quality. During the project delivery processProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
, Interactive Communications establish specific details on design elementsDesign Element
A particular feature of a design, such as lane width, cross slope, curb or beam guide rail. There are controlling design elements specific to the roadway such as design speed and controlling design elements specific to structures such as bridge width.
of a project. All important and pertinent design decisions and the rationale behind the decision, is documented in the DCRDesign Communications Report (DCR)
Is a document established for the project during the Concept Development Phase. The DCR is continually updated throughout the remainder of the project's development and through the Construction Phase. The DCR provides a record of the justification associated with decisions, agreements, stakeholder concerns and resolutions of design issues made during project development, which may affect the design or outcome of the project.
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Interstate Highway System (IHS) - Is a network of limited-access roads including freeways, highways and expressways which form part of the NHSNational Highway System (NHS)
An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, other intermodal transportation facilities and major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes the Interstate Highway System and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and metropolitan planning organizations.
.

ITS - See Intelligent Transportation Systems

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Limited Scope - The Limited Scope Project Delivery Approach was developed to deliver small-scope project that meet certain criteria. The purpose of these projects is to address deficiencies in order to extend the functional and structural life of the assets. The project scope is not intended to go beyond addressing the defined purpose and needs Purpose and Need
Is a statement defining the transportation need and the purpose or reason to address the need. This statement is created before the development of alternatives during Concept Development.
. Projects that involve acquisition of right of way Right of Way
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
or easements, environmental impacts or permanent utility relocations are not applicable to the Limited Scope Project Approach and should be designed using the standard project delivery processProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
.

Local Outreach - Term used to denote a major component of the Department’s Public Involvement Process. Public outreach involves soliciting input from local interests (municipal, township, county) on a particular transportation problem to help better define that problem and understand the public perception of transportation needs.

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Maintenance Management System - Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of maintenance.

Management Systems - Data is obtained from the Department's various management systems and is used to prioritize problem statementsProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
. Management systems include the Congestion Management SystemCongestion Management System
A systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations with a history of vehicular congestion.
, Bridge Management SystemBridge Management System
A systematic process for the identification, ranking and prioritization of structures in need of repair, rehabilitation or replacement.
, Drainage Management SystemDrainage Management System
Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of drainage system repair or improvement.
, Rockfall Management SystemRockfall Management System
Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of a rock fall hazard mitigation or study.
, Pavement Management SystemPavement Management System
Is a systematic decision and management tool which provides detailed data on existing pavement conditions evaluated by various detection tools and provides scores, ranking status and life expectancy of the pavement. This information is used to determine maintenance and/or reconstruction activities and helps prioritize pavement projects.
, Safety Management SystemSafety Management System
Is a systematic process for identifying, ranking and prioritizing roadway locations with a history of vehicular safety issues.
, Maintenance Management SystemMaintenance Management System
Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of maintenance.
, Smart Growth Management SystemSmart Growth Management System
Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes areas within the state that may benefit from smart growth strategies.
and Pedestrian Safety Management System.Pedestrian Safety Management System
Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations with a history of pedestrian safety issues.

Management Systems Initiatives - Proposed projectsProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
originating from one of the Management Systems: Rockfall, Bridge, Pavement, Drainage, etc.

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) - Defines the standards used nationwide to install and maintain traffic control devices on roadways.

Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) - Section 106 - Typically an agreement signed by the NJDOT, State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO)
State designated official which offers the official opinion of the Historic Preservation Office of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection under the Section 106 process.
, FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
and ACHPAdvisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP)
An independent agency charged with coordinating Federal, State, local and private preservation efforts and advising the President and Congress on matters of historic preservation. It acts in an advisory capacity and is typically the final sign-off in the Section 106 process.
, which documents the methods that will be used to minimize or mitigate impacts of projects on historic and cultural resources Cultural Resources
Term used to denote both architectural resources (above ground) and archaeological resources (below ground) that have historical significance.
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Metrics - Are parameters of a qualitative assessment used for measurement, comparison or to track performance. A metric is a standard measure or objective benchmark used to assess performance in a particular area. Metrics are crucial to assessing any program directed at continuous improvement.

Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) - Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. An MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization (SJTPO) and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA).

MOA - See Memorandum of Agreement

MPO - See Metropolitan Planning Organization

MUTCD - See Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

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National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) - The Federal Act of 1970 that establishes national environmental policy and goals for the protection, maintenance and enhancement of the environment and provides a process for implementing these goals within the federal agencies. NEPA recognized that nearly all federal activities affect the environment in some way and mandated that before federal agencies make decisions, they must thoroughly consider the effects of their actions on all facets of the human environment.

National Highway System (NHS) - An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities and other intermodal transportation facilities and other major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes
IHSInterstate Highway System (IHS)
Is a network of limited-access roads including freeways, highways and expressways which form part of the National Highway System.
and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense
and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and MPOsMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
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National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) - Legislation signed into law in 1966, which is intended to preserve historical and archaeological sites in the United States. This act requires federal agencies to evaluate the impact of all federally-funded projects on historic properties through a process known as Section 106Section 106 process
Abbreviated terminology that means the process of complying with the National Historic Preservation Act. This Act basically requires the identification of properties on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and then determines the effect a federally-funded highway projects may exert on the environmental and cultural resources within the proposed project area.
Review.

National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) - Is a Federal agency under the umbrella of the United States Department of Agriculture which provides public benefits such as enhanced natural resources that help sustain agricultural productivity and environmental quality while supporting economic development, recreation and scenic beauty.

NEPA - See National Environmental Policy Act

Network Diagram - Is a chart that visually depicts the interconnected elements that exist within a system. Network diagrams are used to
detail all tasks and activities in each phase of the PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
(e.g., CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
).

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) - Manages natural resources and solves pollution issues with innovative environmental management strategies. The core mission of the NJDEP is the protection of the air, waters, land and all natural and historic resources of the State to ensure continued public benefit and preservationPreservation
Is an action taken to protect existing natural, cultural and human environments.
.

NHPA - See National Historic Preservation Act

NHS - See National Highway System

NJDEP - See New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Non-NHS - Any roadway that is not part of the National Highway System; not designated as part of NHSNational Highway System (NHS)
An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, other intermodal transportation facilities and major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes the Interstate Highway System and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and metropolitan planning organizations.
by United States Congress in 1995.

NRCS - See National Resource Conservation Service

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On-Hold - Work is halted on a project in order to better evaluate the scope and priority of the project, or to obtain funding.

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PAD - See Project Activity Description

Pavement (Performance) Management System (PMS) - Is a systematic decision and management tool which provides detailed data on existing pavement conditions evaluated by various detection tools and provides scores, ranking status and life expectancy of the pavement. This information is used to determine maintenance and/or reconstructionReconstruction
Any work that includes the following: lane addition (including auxiliary, acceleration and/or deceleration lanes or any extension thereof), use of a shoulder as a through lane, changes in the width of traveled way, pavement structure replacement, any changes in horizontal alignment, complete deck replacement or parapet replacement.
activities and helps prioritize pavement projects.

Pavement Preservation - Major - Pavement preservation is classified as structural enhancements that extends the service life of an existing pavement and/or improves its load carrying capability.

Pavement Preservation - Minor - Pavement restoration is classified as non-structural enhancements made to the existing pavement sections to eliminate age-related, top down surface cracking that develop in flexible pavements.

PDP - See Project Delivery Process

PE - See Preliminary Engineering

Pedestrian Safety Management System - Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations with a history of pedestrian safety issues.

PIAP - See Public Involvement Action Plan

PIC - See Public Information Center

Planning Study - A Planning Study is an effort that can be initiated by the Bureau of Statewide Planning, a management system owner, the Division of Multimodal Services, the Division of Local Aid and Economic Development, or a regional MPOMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
, and can produce a Problem Statement Problem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
.

Plans, Specifications and Estimate (PS&E) - The PS&E Package addresses the FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
Submission Package comments and provides the contract plans, specificationsSpecifications
Is a general term used to describe a compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work.
in alignment with the accepted design standardsDesign Standard
An authoritative principle or rule containing specific criteria and controls for design. These are customarily found in the Manuals, Specifications and Department Policies.
, and final cost estimates. These documents contain all the construction details, contract provisions, permits, agreements and certifications required to advertise, award and administer a construction contract.

PM - See Project Manager

PMBOK® - See Project Management Body of Knowledge

PMI - See Project Management Institute

PMO - See Program Management Office

PMP® - See Project Management Professional

PM Plan - See Project Management Plan

PMS - See Pavement (Performance) Management System

PPA - See Preliminary Preferred Alternative

Preliminary Engineering (PE) – Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies Technical Environmental Study (TES)
Is a report containing the environmental technical details of studies performed to evaluate the environmental impacts of a proposed project. For example, air quality and noise studies are conducted to determine if abatement mitigation will be necessary. Other commonly required technical studies are Cultural Resources and Ecology, which includes screening of the project area for wetlands and/or endangered plants or animals.
to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the PPAPreliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA)
The selected alternative identified among the many alternatives developed to address the Purpose and Need Statement during Concept Development. It is selected from an alternative analysis comparison. Identifying a PPA initially requires data analysis, National Environmental Policy Act classification determination, a thorough examination of possible alternatives and input from internal/external stakeholders to conclude if the selected alternative provides reasonable cost for an anticipated and derived benefit.
and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type, size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of wayRight of Way (ROW)
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.

Preliminary Engineering (PE) Report - Is an official document that summarizes the work performed in PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and also includes the Environmental Document, Design Exception Report, FD Scope StatementFinal Design (FD) Scope Statement
The FD Scope Statement lists the project's deliverables and the activities required to create those deliverables in the FD phase of the project delivery process. The scope statement also provides a common understanding of the project's scope to stakeholders, subject matter experts and the designer, and it lists the project's major objectives. It enables the Project Manager to perform Final Design, and it helps guide the design team's work during execution and provides the baseline for evaluating whether change requests or additional work are contained within or outside the project's boundaries.
, the Project Management Plan (PM Plan)Project Management Plan (PM Plan)
Is a formal document that defines how a project is executed, monitored and controlled during all design phases. It may be summary or detailed and may be composed of one or more subsidiary management plans and other planning documents. The objective of a project management plan is to define the approach to be used by the Project team to deliver the intended project scope of the project.
and the appropriate plans in support of the Environmental Document and Design Exception Report.

Preliminary Engineering (PE) Scope Statement - The PE Scope Statement provides both the consultant and NJDOT with the scope of workScope of Work
Is the limits of work and elements included in that work; the work to be accomplished to deliver a product that fixes the issue as documented in the Problem Statement.
level and detail necessary to assist them in determining the effort required to estimate the man hours for PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
. The PE Scope Statement also provides an area for the functional SMESubject Matter Expert (SME)
A person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.
units to state any assumptions, clarify and customize standard activities, and add new activities and their descriptions.

Preliminary Preferred Alternative (PPA) - The selected alternative identified among the many alternatives developed to address the Purpose and Need Purpose and Need
Is a statement defining the transportation need and the purpose or reason to address the need. This statement is created before the development of alternatives during Concept Development.
Statement during CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
. It is selected from an alternative analysis comparison. Identifying a PPA initially requires data analysis, NEPANational Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
The Federal Act of 1970 that establishes national environmental policy and goals for the protection, maintenance and enhancement of the environment and provides a process for implementing these goals within the federal agencies. NEPA recognized that nearly all federal activities affect the environment in some way and mandated that before federal agencies make decisions, they must thoroughly consider the effects of their actions on all facets of the human environment.
classification determination, a thorough examination of possible alternatives and input from internal/external stakeholders to conclude if the selected alternative provides reasonable cost for an anticipated and derived benefit.

Preservation - Is an action taken to protect existing natural, cultural and human environments.

Problem Screening (PS) – Is the entryway into the Capital PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
submitted to the CIPD Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)
CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for New Jersey Department of Transportation. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review during the Problem Screening Phase and the completion of the Charter. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.
. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various NJDOT Management Systems Management Systems
Data is obtained from the Department's various management systems and is used to prioritize problem statements. Management systems include the Congestion Management System, Bridge Management System, Drainage Management System, Rockfall Management System, Pavement Management System, Safety Management System, Maintenance Management System, Smart Growth Management System and Pedestrian Safety Management System.
, Planning Studies Planning Studies
A Planning Study is an effort that can be initiated by the Bureau of Statewide Planning, a management system owner, the Division of Multimodal Services, the Division of Local Aid and Economic Development, or a regional Metropolitan Planning Organization, and can produce a Problem Statement.
, one of three MPOsMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
, or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review Problem Statement Review
A process performed by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) during the Problem Screening Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem Statement. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital Project Delivery Process and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to New Jersey Department of Transportation's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
, Field Investigation Field Investigation
A process performed during the Problem Screening Phase by the New Jersey Department of Transportation Project Manager after the Problem Statement Review is complete. The purpose of the Field Investigation is to identify the most efficient and rapid path that the deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement could follow to move forward in the Capital Project Delivery Process. The result of a Field Investigation can also be placement in a future Study and Development Program or termination.
, and Review and Approval by the CPSCCapital Program Screening Committee (CPSC)
A committee established by the Capital Program Committee (CPC)to review, in detail, projects advancing to Concept Development, Preliminary Engineering and Final Design. The committee members assure the appropriate scope of work is being pursued. The Screening Committee recommends approval of the appropriate action for each project to the CPC. The Director of the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development chairs the committee.
and the CPCCapital Program Committee (CPC)
A committee established to review and make recommendations concerning all aspects of the Department's Capital Program. The committee approves recommendations for project advancement as presented by the Screening Committee, reviews the project advertisement schedule, receives reports on the development of the Capital Program, the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program and the Study and Development Program, and addresses other issues relating to the Capital Programming process. The Deputy Commissioner chairs the committee.
.

Problem Statement - A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.

Problem Statement Review - A process performed by the CIPD Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)
CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for the New Jersey Department of Transportation. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review during the Problem Screening Phase and the completion of the Charter. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.
during the PS Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investigation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to NJDOT's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital PDP.

Process Activity Description (PAD) - Is provided with each specific process within the overall PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
, is a Process Summary. The Process Summary provides an overview of the activities, a brief description of the process and its objectives, and links to key sections such as process guidance and templates.

Program Management Office (PMO) - The PMO is a business or professional enterprise, is the department or group that defines and maintains the standards of process, generally related to project management, within the organization. The PMO strives to standardize and introduce economies of repetition in the execution of projects. The PMO is the source of documentation, guidance and metrics Metrics
Are parameters of a qualitative assessment used for measurement, comparison or to track performance. A metric is a standard measure or objective benchmark used to assess performance in a particular area. Metrics are crucial to assessing any program directed at continuous improvement.
on the practice of project management and execution.

Project - Consists of a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service or result. A project may be a proposed project Proposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
which may graduate from the Concept Development Phase to become a project.

Project Customization - Refers to the process of tailoring the overall project delivery processProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
to meet the requirements of a capital project based on its specific scope and complexity.

Project Delivery Process (PDP) - The PDP is how the NJDOT evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.

Project Initiation - Launching a process that usually results in the authorization and defining of the scope of a new project including a Project Charter Charter
Document issued by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development that formally authorizes the existence of a project and provides the Project Manager with the authority to apply organizational resources to project activities.
.

Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®) - Refers to the guidebook which contains the Project Management Body of Knowledge as defined by the Project Management Institute Project Management Institute (PMI)
The Project Management Institute is the world's leading organization for the project management profession. PMI serves practitioners and organizations with standards that describe best practices, credentials that verify knowledge and experience, and resources for professional development, networking and community involvement.
.

Project Management Institute (PMI) - The PMI is the world's leading organization for the project management profession. PMI serves practitioners and organizations with standards that describe best practices, credentials that verify knowledge and experience, and resources for professional development, networking and community involvement.

Project Management Plan (PM Plan) - Is a formal document that defines how a project is executed, monitored and controlled during all design phases. It may be summary or detailed and may be composed of one or more subsidiary management plans and other planning documents. The objective of a project management plan is to define the approach to be used by the Project team to deliver the intended project scope of the project.

Project Management Professional (PMP®) - PMP® certification is a qualification program overseen by the PMI Project Management Institute (PMI)
The Project Management Institute is the world's leading organization for the project management profession. PMI serves practitioners and organizations with standards that describe best practices, credentials that verify knowledge and experience, and resources for professional development, networking and community involvement.
. The process for becoming a certified Project Management Professional involves a review of prior education and work experience followed by written examination. Holders of the certification may use the designation "PMP" after their names in professional correspondence and publication. Each holder of the certification must adhere to a formal code of professional conduct and accumulate a certain minimum amount of relevant experience over a period of three years starting January 1 after successfully completing the examination process.

Project Manager (PM) - Is an NJDOT individual who manages and is accountable for projects from PS Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investigation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
.

Project Reporting System (PRS) - Is an NJDOT reporting system used to produce budget estimates, record project data and funding, and create various reports. It provides status of the project, contact information and project location.

Project Sponsor - Is the person, organization or group that provides commitment of financial resources and/or human resources for a project.

Proposed Project - A proposed project is an outcome of a
Problem Statement Review Problem Statement Review
A process performed by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) during the Problem Screening Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem Statement. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital Project Delivery Process and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to New Jersey Department of Transportation's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
or Field Investigation Field Investigation
A process performed during the Problem Screening Phase by the New Jersey Department of Transportation Project Manager after the Problem Statement Review is complete. The purpose of the Field Investigation is to identify the most efficient and rapid path that the deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement could follow to move forward in the Capital Project Delivery Process. The result of a Field Investigation can also be placement in a future Study and Development Program or termination.
of a Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
. The DPM Division of Project Management (DPM)
Is a New Jersey Department of Transportation division that is responsible for effective control and delivery of capital transportation projects from Problem Screening through Construction in accordance with the established scope, budget, schedule and quality management for each individual project.
or CIPD Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD)
CIPD is charged with developing a Statewide Capital Investment Strategy and a 10-year constrained Capital Transportation Improvement Plan for the New Jersey Department of Transportation. CIPD is also responsible for completion of Problem Statement Review during the Problem Screening Phase and the completion of the Charter. CIPD also manages the funding elements associated with each year's approved Annual Capital Program. One of the strategic initiatives within the Division is the development and implementation of an Asset Management Program and, further, the institutionalization of Asset Management as a way of doing business.
evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
.

PRS - See Project Reporting System

PS - See Problem Screening

PS&E - See Plans, Specifications and Estimate

Public Information Center (PIC) - Is a meeting to disseminate information regarding a proposed transportation project to the public. Information regarding environmentally related issues is presented, as well as right of wayRight of Way (ROW)
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
impacts and detour information, if applicable. Comments are received from the public and recorded and addressed by the NJDOT PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
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Public Involvement Action Plan (PIAP) - Developed by the
PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
in coordination with CCRDivision of Community and Constituent Relations (CCR)
Is a New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) division responsible for ensuring the opportunity for public participation in all phases of a transportation project through construction and maintenance. Community Relations managers coordinate public participation in NJDOT's Capital Program, serve as a liaison to municipal officials, and conduct Public Information Centers, Public Meetings and Public Hearings.
. This document identifies critical points for public involvement and the objectives for each. The goal of the PIAP is to solicit thorough public involvement as early as possible, achievement of community ownership of the proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
. Therefore, it is a critical element in the successful implementation of NJDOT's Transportation Program. The PIAP promotes an ongoing public partnership to ensure that the transportation benefits are considered within the context of the communities directly impacted by the project.

Purpose and Need - Is a statement defining the transportation need and the purpose or reason to address the need. This statement is created before the development of alternatives during CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
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QIA - See Quality Improvement Advisory

QM - See Quality Management

QMP - See Quality Management Plan

Quality - The degree to which the product or service performed meets the Department's expectations. The customer's expectations are documented in the Project Scope of WorkScope of Work
Is the limits of work and elements included in that work; the work to be accomplished to deliver a product that fixes the issue as documented in the Problem Statement.
and/or Scope StatementScope Statement
Is a document that clearly lists the anticipated work for a project or proposed project. There are Scope Statements for Concept Development, Preliminary Engineering and Final Design. Each Scope Statement details the project deliverables and describes the limit of scope of the project or proposed project as far as it is known during each phase of design, and is used during the next phase.
.

Quality Assurance - Is the systematic utilization of performance requirements, design criteria, specificationsSpecifications
Is a general term used to describe a compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work.
, production control procedure and acceptance plans for materials, processes or products to ensure prescribed properties or characteristics.

Quality Control - Is the system of collection, analysis and interpretation of measurements and other data concerning prescribed characteristics of material, process or product for determining the degree of conformance with specified requirements.

Quality Improvement Advisory (QIA) - Is a means of notifying all engineering units and outside organizations involved with the project delivery processProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
of problems that have occured. QIA's also include possible solutions and a means to alert others of information learned that may prove beneficial when incorporated under similar circumstances. Other uses include notification of efforts to minimize impacts to the project delivery schedule as well as avoiding unanticipated costs associated with project changes. QIA's are usually issued to further address or explain an officially approved item that is already covered elsewhere.

Quality Management (QM) - A formalized system that documents the structure, responsibilities and procedures required to achieve and deliver a quality product.  It describes the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization.

Quality Management Audit Procedure - Is the mechanism used to assess a project's quality level, using NJDOT guidance, and compliance to NJDOT policies, design practices and procedures. The Audit will be administered by the PMOProgram Management Office (PMO)
The PMO is a business or professional enterprise is the department or group that defines and maintains the standards of process, generally related to project management, within the organization The PMO strives to standardize and introduce economies of repetition in the execution of projects. The PMO is the source of documentation, guidance and metrics on the practice of project management and execution.
. Audit results will be documented and
presented to NJDOT Senior ManagementSenior Management
Are Assistant Commissioners and Directors within New Jersey Department of Transportation.
, Executive Regional ManagerExecutive Regional Manager
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages a group of related projects in a coordinated way to obtain benefits and control not available when managing them individually. Currently, capital projects are grouped by the region in which they reside.
and PMProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
Managers and FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
.

Quality Management Guideline - Provides direction when preparing Interim Submissions (if applicable), Final Design Submissions, and Pre-PS&E and PS&E Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E)
The PS&E Package addresses the Final Design Submission Package comments and provides the contract plans, specifications in alignment with the accepted design standards, and final cost estimates. These documents contain all the construction details, contract provisions, permits, agreements and certifications required to advertise, award and administer a construction contract.
Submissions.

Quality Management Plan (QMP) - Is a document or set of documents that describe the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization. The Quality Management plan describes how an organization will implement their Quality Management PolicyQuality Management Policy
Is an organization's general statement of its beliefs about quality, how quality will come about and its expected result. Department Project Managers other Department employees and Consultant's working with New Jersey Department of Transportation are governed by the Department's Quality Management Policy and Procedure.
.

Quality Management Plan (Project Specific) - Describes how the designer's project team will implement NJDOT's Quality Management PolicyQuality Management Policy
Is an organization's general statement of its beliefs about quality, how quality will come about and its expected result. Department Project Managers other Department employees and Consultant's working with New Jersey Department of Transportation are governed by the Department's Quality Management Policy and Procedure.
on a specific project. A project specific QMPQuality Management Plan (QMP)
Is a document or set of documents that describe the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization. The Quality Management plan describes how an organization will implement their quality management policy.
may be developed to establish a project's specific QMP requirements, in accordance with the approved Scope StatementScope Statement
Is a document that clearly lists the anticipated work for a project or proposed project. There are Scope Statements for Concept Development, Preliminary Engineering and Final Design. Each Scope Statement details the project deliverables and describes the limit of scope of the project or proposed project as far as it is known during each phase of design, and is used during the next phase.
and important decisions and agreements made as documented in the DCRDesign Communications Report (DCR)
Is a document established for the project during the Concept Development Phase. The DCR is continually updated throughout the remainder of the project's development and through the Construction Phase. The DCR provides a record of the justification associated with decisions, agreements, stakeholder concerns and resolutions of design issues made during project development, which may affect the design or outcome of the project.
for the project.

Quality Management Plan Procedure - Provides the required 14 Elements that are to be included in a Designer's QMPQuality Management Plan (QMP)
Is a document or set of documents that describe the standards, quality practices, resources and processes pertinent to an organization. The Quality Management plan describes how an organization will implement their quality management policy.
(Consultant Designer or NJDOT In-House Design). Obtaining approval of a QMP from NJDOT is a prerequisite of the design consultant prior to execution of an Agreement with the NJDOT.

Quality Management Policy - Is an organization's general statement of its beliefs about quality, how quality will come about and its expected result. Department PMsProject Manager (PM)
Is an New Jersey Department of Transportation individual who manages and is accountable for projects from Problem Screening through completion of construction of the project. A PM may have several projects to manage consecutively which are at various phases in the Project Delivery Process.
, other Department employees and Consultant's working with NJDOT are governed by the Department's Quality Management Policy and Procedure.

Quality Management Procedures - Are the written instructions for implementing the various components of the Quality Management Process.

Quality Metrics - Used to evaluate how well a project is performing.

Quality Standard - A formally established criterion for a specific activity which (a) describes a deficiency, condition or schedule that established the need for work; (b) outlines the work involved; (c) tells how to achieve good workmanship; and (d) lists expected end results.

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3R Projects - Are projects that involve Resurfacing, Rehabilitation or Restoration (3R) of a roadway or bridge. Projects that re-stripe a roadway to bring the width of through lanes up to the required design value by utilizing a portion of the existing shoulder may be classified under 3R (resurfacing) provided that a design exceptionDesign Exception
Certain conditions may warrant a deviation from the standard in the design of a project; an exception will be granted for a project with one or more controlling substandard design elements. If it can be documented that a lesser design value is the best practical alternative in terms of social, economic and environmental impacts and yet shall provide safe and efficient traffic operations, a design exception will be approved.
is not required. When a project uses the existing shoulder width in its entirety for through lane use, the roadway cross section has been changed significantly and therefore the project is to be classified as a reconstructionReconstruction
Any work that includes the following: lane addition (including auxiliary, acceleration and/or deceleration lanes or any extension thereof), use of a shoulder as a through lane, changes in the width of traveled way, pavement structure replacement, any changes in horizontal alignment, complete deck replacement or parapet replacement.
. Those projects that include widening of the shoulders may be classified as 3R (rehabilitation). Minor widening is defined as a widening, within existing right of wayRight of Way (ROW)
A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.
, only to upgrade lanes and/or shoulders to the required design value, exclusive of a full lane addition.

Rapid Design - NJDOT's Rapid Design Team provides design services on quick fix solutions; investigates, formulates and prepares design solutions for the safety and operational-related inquiries from constituents and other local leaders; prepares maintenance work orders and maintenance contracts; and provides design services on special projects.

Reconstruction - Any work that includes the following: lane addition (including auxiliary, acceleration and/or deceleration lanes or any extension thereof), use of a shoulder as a through lane, changes in the width of traveled way, pavement structure replacement, any changes in horizontal alignment, complete deck replacement or parapet replacement.

Record of Decision (ROD) - Following the FEISEnvironmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Is a document prepared for projects identified in Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) regulation 23 CFR 771.115 as Class I type projects or those that have the potential for significant impacts on the human, natural or cultural environment. An EIS provides information on the alternatives considered and their associated impacts. It is circulated to the public and review agencies for comments and is prepared as a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and than, as a Final Environmental Impact Statement. Its approval is a Record of Decision prepared by FHWA and published in the Federal Register.
, FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
prepares a ROD that states and justifies the decision of the FEIS. The ROD summarizes any mitigation measures that will be incorporated in the project and documents any required Section 4(f)Section 4(f)
Refers to the original section within the United States Department of Transportation Act of 1966 which established the requirement for consideration of park and recreational lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges and historic sites in transportation project development. This terminology is generally accepted to mean the process of complying with the requirements to document that there are no prudent or feasible alternatives to the "use" of publicly-owned parks, recreation areas, wildlife refuges and historic sites.
approval. Further Federal funding may not be secured for a project until a ROD has been signed.

Recycle - Officially moving a proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
or project back to the PS Problem Screening (PS)
Is the entryway into the Capital Project Delivery Process for any potential project. The purpose of this phase is to investigate a potential transportation deficiency identified through a Problem Statement submitted to the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development. The sources of the Problem Statement may include various New Jersey Department of Transportation Management Systems, Planning Studies, one of three Metropolitan Planning Organizations or internal and external stakeholders. This phase may involve a Problem Statement Review, Field Investigation, and Review and Approval by the Capital Program Screening Committee and the Capital Program Committee.
phase of work in order to determine an appropriate level of effort.

Responsibilities Matrix - Also called a RACI matrix, lists who is responsible, accountable, consulted and informed for each activity during design; a chart which describes the participation by various roles in completing tasks or producing deliverables for a complex project.

Right of Way (ROW) - A term used to denote land, property or interest therein; usually a strip or rectangular piece of land along a roadway acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes.

Rockfall Management System - Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes roadway locations in need of a rock fall hazard mitigation or study.

ROD - See Record of Decision

ROW - See Right of Way

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S&D - See Study and Development Program

Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for all Users (SAFETEA-LU) - Is a funding authorization bill which governs federal highway and transit programs. The original bill expired in 2009 and has been operating on a series of short-term extensions since then.

SAFETEA-LU - See Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for all Users

Safety Management System - Is a systematic process for identifying, ranking and prioritizing roadway locations with a history of vehicular safety issues.

SCIS - See Statewide Capital Investment Strategy

Scope Management- Is a process used to establish and control the scope of projects and proposed projectsProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
, starting with the Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
, progressing through CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and continuing throughout FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
. Scope Management is used to keep the size of the project under control.

Scope of Work - Is the limits of work and elements included in that work; the work to be accomplished to deliver a product that fixes the issue as documented in the Problem StatementProblem Statement
A written document (TP-1 Form) that identifies and describes a potential deficiency or safety issue on the State Transportation System of Roads and Bridges.
.

Scope Statement - Is a document that clearly lists the anticipated work for a project or proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
. There are Scope Statements for CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
and FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
. Each Scope Statement details the project deliverables and describes the limit of scope of the project or proposed project, as far as it is known during each phase of design, and is used during the next phase.

Section 4(f) - Refers to the original section within the United States Department of Transportation Act of 1966 which established the requirement for consideration of park and recreational lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges and historic sites in transportation project development. This terminology is generally accepted to mean the process of complying with the requirements to document that there are no prudent or feasible alternatives to the "use" of publicly-owned parks, recreation areas, wildlife refuges and historic sites.

Section 4(f) Individual - Is for projects classified as a CECategorical Exclusion (CE)
A classification of projects which have been determined not to individually or cumulatively have a significant impact on the human or natural environment and are therefore exempt from the preparation of an Environmental Assessment or Environmental Impact Statement. This category of projects is referred to as Class II projects and is identified in Federal Highway Administration regulations (23 CFR 771).
that will affect property protected under Section 4(f)Section 4(f)
Refers to the original section within the United States Department of Transportation Act of 1966 which established the requirement for consideration of park and recreational lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges and historic sites in transportation project development. This terminology is generally accepted to mean the process of complying with the requirements to document that there are no prudent or feasible alternatives to the "use" of publicly-owned parks, recreation areas, wildlife refuges and historic sites.
and which does not meet the criteria of either Temporary Occupancy or one of the Programmatic Section 4(f)'sSection 4(f) Programmatic
Programmatic Section 4(f) evaluations can be used in place of Individual evaluations for highway projects where uses are considered minor. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has prepared, processed and signed several Programmatic Section 4(f) documents, which, if the project’s use of the Section 4(f) property meets the criteria of these documents, Individual Section 4(f) documents do not need to be prepared and the Section 4(f) approval can be done at the FHWA district level.
, a separate document must be prepared (referred as an Individual 4(f)). An Individual Section 4(f) document presents the evaluation of alternatives to avoid the use of Section 4(f) land and the evaluation of all possible measures to minimize harm to such lands.

Section 4(f) Programmatic - Programmatic Section 4(f) evaluations can be used in place of Individual evaluations for highway projects where uses are considered minor. FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
has prepared, processed and signed several Programmatic Section 4(f) documents, which, if the project’s use of the Section 4(f)Section 4(f)
Refers to the original section within the United States Department of Transportation Act of 1966 which established the requirement for consideration of park and recreational lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges and historic sites in transportation project development. This terminology is generally accepted to mean the process of complying with the requirements to document that there are no prudent or feasible alternatives to the "use" of publicly-owned parks, recreation areas, wildlife refuges and historic sites.
property meets the criteria of these documents, Individual Section 4(f)Individual Section 4(f)
Is for projects classified as a Categorical Exclusion that will affect property protected under Section 4(f) and which does not meet the criteria of either Temporary Occupancy or one of the Programmatic Section 4(f)'s, a separate document must be prepared (referred as an Individual 4(f)). An Individual Section 4(f) document presents the evaluation of alternatives to avoid the use of Section 4(f) land and the evaluation of all possible measures to minimize harm to such lands.
documents do not need to be prepared and the Section 4(f) approval can be done at the FHWA district level.

Section 106 (Section 106 Process) - Abbreviated terminology that means the process of complying with the NHPANational Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)
Legislation signed into law in 1966, which is intended to preserve historical and archaeological sites in the United States. This act requires federal agencies to evaluate the impact of all federally-funded projects on historic properties through a process known as Section 106 Review.
. This Act basically requires the identification of properties on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and then determines the effect a federally funded highway project may exert on the environmental and cultural resources Cultural Resources
Term used to denote both architectural resources (above ground) and archaeological resources (below ground) that have historical significance.
within the proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
area.

Segment/Break Out - Involves separating the original alternative into different projects in order to expedite necessary improvements that are ready, while proceeding with or re-revaluating the remaining portion or portions of the project.

Senior Management - Are Assistant Commissioners and Directors within NJDOT.

SHPO - See State Historic Preservation Officer

SIP - See State Implementation Plan

SLD - See Straight Line Diagrams

Smart Growth Management System - Is a systematic process that identifies, ranks and prioritizes areas within the state that may benefit from smart growth strategies.

SME - See Subject Matter Expert

Special Provisions - Are revisions to the StandardStandard Specifications
Specifications approved for general application and repetitive use in road and bridge construction. The New Jersey Department of Transportation Manual of Standard Specifications was revised and updated in 2007.
and Supplemental SpecificationsSupplemental Specifications
Are approved additions and revisions to the Standard Specifications.
applicable to an individual project.

Specifications - Is a general term used to describe a compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work.

Standard Specifications -Specifications approved for general application and repetitive use in road and bridge construction. The NJDOT Manual of Standard Specifications was revised and updated in 2007.

State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) - State designated official which offers the official opinion of the Historic Preservation Office of the NJDEPNew Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP)
Manages natural resources and solves pollution issues with innovative environmental management strategies. The core mission of the NJDEP is the protection of the air, waters, land and all natural and historic resources of the State to ensure continued public benefit and preservation.
under the Section 106Section 106 process
Abbreviated terminology that means the process of complying with the National Historic Preservation Act. This Act basically requires the identification of properties on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and then determines the effect a federally-funded highway projects may exert on the environmental and cultural resources within the proposed project area.
process.

State Implementation Plan (SIP) - Is a federally-approved and enforceable plan by which each state identifies how it will attain and/or maintain the health-related primary and welfare-related secondary National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). It is sometimes referred to as a state's blueprint for clean air.

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) - Federal legislation requires that each state develop one multimodal STIP for all areas of the state. New Jersey's STIP consists of a listing of statewide line items and programs, as well as the regional TIPTransportation Improvement Program (TIP)
Is a program individually developed by each Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) (North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization) for their respective region that lists capital transportation projects and programs to be implemented. Transportation projects must be included in the TIP to receive most types of federal funding. The TIP provides a mechanism for locally-elected officials and agency staff to review the region's capital programming. It represents a consensus among MPO members and other major transportation interests in the region as to what improvements should have priority for available funds.
, all of which were developed by the three MPOsMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
. The STIP is a comprehensive, one-volume guide to major transportation improvements and is a valuable reference for implementing agencies such as NJDOT and NJ TRANSIT.

Statewide Capital Investment Strategy (SCIS) - The SCIS is a decision-making tool used to develop investment options for transportation program categories based upon goals, objectives, and performance measures. The SCIS represents an “asset management Asset Management
A systematic cost-effective process of maintaining, upgrading and operating physical assets. New Jersey Department of Transportation adopted this approach to managing its infrastructure assets and making capital investment decisions in 2008.
” approach to addressing our transportation needs. Asset Management is a systematic, comprehensive approach and process for maintaining, upgrading and operating physical assets cost-effectively.

Stewardship Agreement - The FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
and the NJDOT have executed this document which sets the general framework for accomplishing the stewardship and oversight responsibilities of a Federal-aid Highway Program.

Straight Line Diagrams (SLDs) - Provide a graphical method of viewing roadways in a line format. NJDOT's SLD network presents approximately 12,000 miles of roadway, including State, Interstate, United States, and New Jersey numbered roads, NHSNational Highway System (NHS)
An interconnected system of principal arterial routes that serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, other intermodal transportation facilities and major travel destinations. Consists of approximately 160,000 miles of roadway and includes the Interstate Highway System and roads that are important to the nation's economy, defense and mobility. The NHS was developed by the United States Department of Transportation in cooperation with the states, local officials and metropolitan planning organizations.
, Surface Transportation Program and all County roads.

STIP - See Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan

Study and Development (S&D) - Is a listing of proposed projectsProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
within the Department's Annual Capital Program that have been identified for further advancement that have been approved by the appropriate MPOMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
. Most proposed projects in the S&D Program have undergone a Problem Statement Review Problem Statement Review
A process performed by the Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development (CIPD) during the Problem Screening Phase to evaluate a submitted Problem Statement. CIPD reviews the Problem Statement for possible duplication of an existing project already in the Capital Project Delivery Process and identifies whether correcting the potential transportation deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement is in general conformity to New Jersey Department of Transportation's CIPD goals and objectives. CIPD then determines whether the project should be advanced within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
and/or Field Investigation Field Investigation
A process performed during the Problem Screening Phase by the New Jersey Department of Transportation Project Manager after the Problem Statement Review is complete. The purpose of the Field Investigation is to identify the most efficient and rapid path that the deficiency outlined in the Problem Statement could follow to move forward in the Capital Project Delivery Process. The result of a Field Investigation can also be placement in a future Study and Development Program or termination.
and are in CDConcept Development (CD)
The major objective of the Concept Development Phase is to identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies that address the Purpose and Need Statement and select a Preliminary Preferred Alternative for advancement through the Capital Project Delivery Process. The tasks associated with the CD Phase will generate the required information to determine whether or not the proposed project can advance to the next phase of the Project Delivery Process. During the CD Phase a designer is selected to take the potential project through Preliminary Engineering, Final Design and Construction Phases.
, but have not reached approval for advancement into PE Preliminary Engineering (PE)
Involves performing engineering tasks and technical environmental studies to secure the approval of the environmental document and a Design Exception Report, if applicable. The tasks conducted during this phase will be based on the complexity of the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and may consist of: development of design level base plans; development of geometric design (horizontal, vertical alignment, type size, location, etc.) that sufficiently clarify environmental impacts and right of way impacts; utility discovery and verification; geotechnical studies (soil borings and analysis) for foundation and pavement design; preliminary drainage work; access impact evaluation; and development of property acquisition cost estimates and a project cost estimate.
or FD Final Design (FD)
The Final Design Phase formally begins once Federal Highway Administration approves the FD funding and the FD Addendum is executed. The FD Phase includes continuing and completing tasks started during the Preliminary Engineering Phase, such as roadway design, bridge design, right of way and access engineering, utility engineering, environmental permits and clearances, and community outreach. This phase of project development concludes in the completion of construction contract documents (i.e. project plans, specifications, construction schedule and construction estimate).
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Subject Matter Expert (SME) – Is a person who is an expert in a particular area or topic. The plural of SME is SMEs. One may be a subject matter expert in structures or in hydrology, for example.

Substandard Design Element - Is a design element that does not meet the specified design standards or falls below the acceptable criterion for that element. For example, lane width, shoulder width or turning radius may be substandard and require correction of the roadway to meet standards.

Supplemental Specifications - Are approved additions and revisions to the Standard SpecificationsStandard Specifications
Specifications approved for general application and repetitive use in road and bridge construction. The New Jersey Department of Transportation Manual of Standard Specifications was revised and updated in 2007.
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Technical Environmental Study (TES) - Is a report containing the environmental technical details of studies performed to evaluate the environmental impacts of a proposed projectProposed Project
A proposed project is an outcome of a Problem Statement Review or Field Investigation of a Problem Statement. The Division of Project Management or Division of Capital Investment Planning and Development evaluates the feasibility of proposed projects for advancement within the Capital Project Delivery Process.
. For example, air quality and noise studies are conducted to determine if abatement mitigation will be necessary. Other commonly required technical studies are Cultural Resources Cultural Resources
Term used to denote both architectural resources (above ground) and archaeological resources (below ground) that have historical significance.
and Ecology, which includes screening of the project area for wetlands and/or endangered plants or animals.

Termination - Official withdrawal of the project from the NJDOT Work Program.

TES - See Technical Environmental Study

TIP - See Transportation Improvement Program

Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) - Is a program individually developed by each MPOMetropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Is a federally-mandated and federally-funded transportation policy-making organization that consists of representatives from local government. A MPO is concerned with multimodal travel such as public transit, freight, bicycle/pedestrian and safe and efficient highway planning and execution. A MPO facilitates collaboration of government entities, interested parties and residents in the transportation planning process. The three MPO's in New Jersey are: Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization and North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.
(NJTPA, DVRPC, SJTPO) for their respective region that lists capital transportation projects and programs to be implemented. Transportation projects must be included in the TIP to receive most types of federal funding. The TIP provides a mechanism for locally-elected officials and agency staff to review the region's capital programming. It represents a consensus among MPO members and other major transportation interests in the region as to what improvements should have priority for available funds.

Transportation Research Board (TRB) - Is an organization that provides leadership in transportation innovation and progress through research and information exchange which is conducted in an objective, multimodal and interdisciplinary setting. The TRB engages professionals worldwide in a broad range of transportation related activities to lay the foundation for feasible and effective transportation solutions.

TRB - See Transportation Research Board

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Unusual Structures - Major/Unusual projects include tunnels, movable bridges, major hydraulic structures or bridges with deck area greater than 125,000 square feet. For further clarification, the following is the definition of unusual bridge/structure taken from a November 13, 1998 memorandum from the Director, Office of Engineering in FHWAFederal Highway Administration (FHWA)
The Federal Agency that oversees the disbursement of federal funds for highway projects. FHWA ensures that all applicable federal laws have been met before releasing those funds to the Department of Transportation.
Headquarters:

"For the purpose of this guidance, unusual bridges are those the Divisions determine have: (1) difficult or unique foundation problems, (2) new or complex designs with unique operational or design features, (3) bridges with exceptionally long spans, or (4) bridges being designed with procedures that depart from currently recognized acceptable practices. Examples of unusual bridges include cable-stayed, suspension, arch, segmental concrete, movable or truss bridges. Other examples are bridge types that deviate from AASHTOAmerican Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials (AASHTO)
AASHTO is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing highway and transportation departments in the 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. It represents all five transportation modes: air, highways, public transportation, rail and water. Its primary goal is to foster the development, operation and maintenance of an integrated national transportation system.
bridge design standards or AASHTO guide specifications for highway bridges; major bridges using load and resistance factor design specifications; bridges requiring abnormal dynamic analysis for seismic design; bridges using a three-dimensional computer analysis; bridges with spans exceeding 152 meters (500 feet); and bridges with major supporting elements of "ultra" high strength concrete or steel."

Unusual structures are tunnels, geotechnical structures featuring new or complex wall systems or ground improvement systems, and hydraulic structures that involve complex stream stability countermeasures, or designs or design techniques that are atypical or unique."

USEPA - See Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

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Value Engineering (VE) - Is a process used to maximize project quality and value by evaluating project elements, delivery processes, acceptable standards and new technologies for optimum performance and effectiveness. The goal of value engineering is to propose improvements based on function and cost and to consider all alternatives should an issue arise.

VE - See Value Engineering

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WBS - See Work Breakdown Structure

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) - A WBS shows the products, and the breakdown of products, of a capital transportation project. NJDOT's WBS diagram shows the products of a phase or process and how the products relate to each other. Specifically, a WBS diagram shows how individual products may be grouped together to create a top level product such as the CD ReportConcept Development (CD) Report
The CD Report is an official document compiled as a package describing the problem, collected data, findings of the evaluation of all alternatives developed, the Preliminary Preferred Alternative and other documented information associated with the project location.
. The work breakdown structure is utilized to create scope statementScope Statement
Is a document that clearly lists the anticipated work for a project or proposed project. There are Scope Statements for Concept Development, Preliminary Engineering and Final Design. Each Scope Statement details the project deliverables and describes the limit of scope of the project or proposed project as far as it is known during each phase of design, and is used during the next phase.
templates for each phase of work.

Work Breakdown Structure Element - A product or deliverable that is produced during the Capital PDPProject Delivery Process (PDP)
The Project Delivery Process is how the New Jersey Department of Transportation evaluates, plans, designs and constructs projects. This process is a model that provides consistency and is how the Department works to ensure a quality product is created on time and at the lowest cost possible. Use of this standard process is necessary because it provides the foundation for all of the Department's service areas and provides guidance to project management staff.
and listed on a WBSWork Breakdown Structure (WBS)
A WBS shows the products, and the breakdown of products, of a capital transportation project. NJDOT's WBS diagram shows the products of a phase or process and how the products relate to each other. Specifically, a WBS diagram shows how individual products may be grouped together to create a top level product such as the Concept Development Report. The work breakdown structure is utilized to create scope statement templates for each phase of work.
diagram.



Last updated date: July 7, 2021 8:05 AM