Do PPP programs frustrate state and local planning processes by allowing the private sector to submit unsolicited proposals?
Unsolicited proposals allow the private sector to initiate the PPP process for a particular project by proposing that a state or local authority procure the project as a PPP. Alternatively, a PPP procurement process can be initiated by the state or local authority soliciting proposals from the private sector. While states have very different attitudes towards unsolicited proposals, the public sector should be comfortable that unsolicited proposals will not frustrate planning processes because the decision whether or not to consider unsolicited proposals is made by the public sector, in its sole discretion. Unsolicited proposals provide an opportunity for public agencies to supplement traditional planning processes with private sector concepts for how best to improve transportation systems. In some states, such as Texas, unsolicited proposals from the private sector have been an important feature of the PPP program.[148] Other states have been more wary of unsolicited proposals because
