How does NDOT determine whether a project is worth doing?
NDOT works closely with city and county officials, county commissioners, road superintendents, tribal councils, and regional transportation commissions to identify needs based on many factors, including safety and congestion. Potential projects are further evaluated based on benefit-cost ratios and available funding and are reviewed by a statewide committee comprised of federal, local, and state agencies and entities before presentation to State Transportation Board for final approval. Further information can be found in the Program Development Manual . The pavement rehabilitation program is prioritized based on financial consequences and public safety concerns. Roads such as I-80 with high truck volumes and rapid rate of deterioration receive the highest priority. If interstate rehabilitation projects are delayed by two years, the cost of rehabilitation increases by a factor of five. This means a 10-mile section of I-80 that can be rehabilitated this year for a cost of $6 million will
