TITLE 23 - US CODE - HIGHWAYS

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 1 - FEDERAL-AID HIGHWAYS

23 USC 130 - Railway-highway crossings

(a) Subject to section 120 and subsection (b) of this section, the entire cost of construction of projects for the elimination of hazards of railway-highway crossings, including the separation or protection of grades at crossings, the reconstruction of existing railroad grade crossing structures, and the relocation of highways to eliminate grade crossings, may be paid from sums apportioned in accordance with section 104 of this title. In any case when the elimination of the hazards of a railway-highway crossing can be effected by the relocation of a portion of a railway at a cost estimated by the Secretary to be less than the cost of such elimination by one of the methods mentioned in the first sentence of this section, then the entire cost of such relocation project, subject to section 120 and subsection (b) of this section, may be paid from sums apportioned in accordance with section 104 of this title.
(b) The Secretary may classify the various types of projects involved in the elimination of hazards of railway-highway crossings, and may set for each such classification a percentage of the costs of construction which shall be deemed to represent the net benefit to the railroad or railroads for the purpose of determining the railroads share of the cost of construction. The percentage so determined shall in no case exceed 10 per centum. The Secretary shall determine the appropriate classification of each project.
(c) Any railroad involved in a project for the elimination of hazards of railway-highway crossings paid for in whole or in part from sums made available for expenditure under this title, or prior Acts, shall be liable to the United States for the net benefit to the railroad determined under the classification of such project made pursuant to subsection (b) of this section. Such liability to the United States may be discharged by direct payment to the State transportation department of the State in which the project is located, in which case such payment shall be credited to the cost of the project. Such payment may consist in whole or in part of materials and labor furnished by the railroad in connection with the construction of such project. If any such railroad fails to discharge such liability within a six-month period after completion of the project, it shall be liable to the United States for its share of the cost, and the Secretary shall request the Attorney General to institute proceedings against such railroad for the recovery of the amount for which it is liable under this subsection. The Attorney General is authorized to bring such proceedings on behalf of the United States, in the appropriate district court of the United States, and the United States shall be entitled in such proceedings to recover such sums as it is considered and adjudged by the court that such railroad is liable for in the premises. Any amounts recovered by the United States under this subsection shall be credited to miscellaneous receipts.
(d) Survey and Schedule of Projects.— 
Each State shall conduct and systematically maintain a survey of all highways to identify those railroad crossings which may require separation, relocation, or protective devices, and establish and implement a schedule of projects for this purpose. At a minimum, such a schedule shall provide signs for all railway-highway crossings.
(e) Funds for Protective Devices.— 

(1) In general.— 
Before making an apportionment under section 104 (b)(5) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall set aside, from amounts made available to carry out the highway safety improvement program under section 148 for such fiscal year, at least $220,000,000 for the elimination of hazards and the installation of protective devices at railway-highway crossings. At least 1/2 of the funds authorized for and expended under this section shall be available for the installation of protective devices at railway-highway crossings. Sums authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be available for obligation in the same manner as funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(1) of this title.
(2) Special rule.— 
If a State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the State has met all its needs for installation of protective devices at railway-highway crossings, the State may use funds made available by this section for other purposes under this subsection.
(f) Apportionment.— 

(1) Formula.— 
Fifty percent of the funds set aside to carry out this section pursuant to subsection (e)(1) shall be apportioned to the States in accordance with the formula set forth in section 104 (b)(3)(A), and 50 percent of such funds shall be apportioned to the States in the ratio that total public railway-highway crossings in each State bears to the total of such crossings in all States.
(2) Minimum apportionment.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), each State shall receive a minimum of one-half of 1 percent of the funds apportioned under paragraph (1).
(3) Federal share.— 
The Federal share payable on account of any project financed with funds set aside to carry out this section shall be 90 percent of the cost thereof.
(g) Annual Report.— 
Each State shall report to the Secretary not later than December 30 of each year on the progress being made to implement the railway-highway crossings program authorized by this section and the effectiveness of such improvements. Each State report shall contain an assessment of the costs of the various treatments employed and subsequent accident experience at improved locations. The Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Environment and Public Works and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,[1] of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, not later than April 1, 2006, and every 2 years thereafter,,[1] on the progress being made by the State in implementing projects to improve railway-highway crossings. The report shall include, but not be limited to, the number of projects undertaken, their distribution by cost range, road system, nature of treatment, and subsequent accident experience at improved locations. In addition, the Secretarys report shall analyze and evaluate each State program, identify any State found not to be in compliance with the schedule of improvements required by subsection (d) and include recommendations for future implementation of the railroad highway[2] crossings program.
(h) Use of Funds for Matching.— 
Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section may be used to provide a local government with funds to be used on a matching basis when State funds are available which may only be spent when the local government produces matching funds for the improvement of railway-highway crossings.
(i) Incentive Payments for At-Grade Crossing Closures.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section and subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), a State may, from sums available to the State under this section, make incentive payments to local governments in the State upon the permanent closure by such governments of public at-grade railway-highway crossings under the jurisdiction of such governments.
(2) Incentive payments by railroads.— 
A State may not make an incentive payment under paragraph (1) to a local government with respect to the closure of a crossing unless the railroad owning the tracks on which the crossing is located makes an incentive payment to the government with respect to the closure.
(3) Amount of state payment.— 
The amount of the incentive payment payable to a local government by a State under paragraph (1) with respect to a crossing may not exceed the lesser of
(A) the amount of the incentive payment paid to the government with respect to the crossing by the railroad concerned under paragraph (2); or
(B) $7,500.
(4) Use of state payments.— 
A local government receiving an incentive payment from a State under paragraph (1) shall use the amount of the incentive payment for transportation safety improvements.
(j) Bicycle Safety.— 
In carrying out projects under this section, a State shall take into account bicycle safety.
(k) Expenditure of Funds.— 
Not more than 2 percent of funds apportioned to a State to carry out this section may be used by the State for compilation and analysis of data in support of activities carried out under subsection (g).
[1] So in original.
[2] So in original. Probably should be “railroad-highway”.

23 USC 101 - Definitions and declaration of policy

(a) Definitions.— 
In this title, the following definitions apply:
(1) Apportionment.— 
The term apportionment includes unexpended apportionments made under prior authorization laws.
(2) Carpool project.— 
The term carpool project means any project to encourage the use of carpools and vanpools, including provision of carpooling opportunities to the elderly and individuals with disabilities, systems for locating potential riders and informing them of carpool opportunities, acquiring vehicles for carpool use, designating existing highway lanes as preferential carpool highway lanes, providing related traffic control devices, and designating existing facilities for use for preferential parking for carpools.
(3) Construction.— 
The term construction means the supervising, inspecting, actual building, and incurrence of all costs incidental to the construction or reconstruction of a highway, including bond costs and other costs relating to the issuance in accordance with section 122 of bonds or other debt financing instruments and costs incurred by the State in performing Federal-aid project related audits that directly benefit the Federal-aid highway program. Such term includes
(A) locating, surveying, and mapping (including the establishment of temporary and permanent geodetic markers in accordance with specifications of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the Department of Commerce);
(B) resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation;
(C) acquisition of rights-of-way;
(D) relocation assistance, acquisition of replacement housing sites, and acquisition and rehabilitation, relocation, and construction of replacement housing;
(E) elimination of hazards of railway grade crossings;
(F) elimination of roadside obstacles;
(G) improvements that directly facilitate and control traffic flow, such as grade separation of intersections, widening of lanes, channelization of traffic, traffic control systems, and passenger loading and unloading areas; and
(H) capital improvements that directly facilitate an effective vehicle weight enforcement program, such as scales (fixed and portable), scale pits, scale installation, and scale houses.
(4) County.— 
The term county includes corresponding units of government under any other name in States that do not have county organizations and, in those States in which the county government does not have jurisdiction over highways, any local government unit vested with jurisdiction over local highways.
(5) Federal-aid highway.— 
The term Federal-aid highway means a highway eligible for assistance under this chapter other than a highway classified as a local road or rural minor collector.
(6) Federal-aid system.— 
The term Federal-aid system means any of the Federal-aid highway systems described in section 103.
(7) Federal lands highway.— 
The term Federal lands highway means a forest highway, public lands highway, park road, parkway, refuge road, and Indian reservation road that is a public road.
(8) Forest development roads and trails.— 
The term forest development roads and trails means forest roads and trails under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service.
(9) Forest highway.— 
The term forest highway means a forest road under the jurisdiction of, and maintained by, a public authority and open to public travel.
(10) Forest road or trail.— 
The term forest road or trail means a road or trail wholly or partly within, or adjacent to, and serving the National Forest System that is necessary for the protection, administration, and utilization of the National Forest System and the use and development of its resources.
(11) Highway.— 
The term highway includes
(A) a road, street, and parkway;
(B) a right-of-way, bridge, railroad-highway crossing, tunnel, drainage structure, sign, guardrail, and protective structure, in connection with a highway; and
(C) a portion of any interstate or international bridge or tunnel and the approaches thereto, the cost of which is assumed by a State transportation department, including such facilities as may be required by the United States Customs and Immigration Services in connection with the operation of an international bridge or tunnel.
(12) Indian reservation road.— 
The term Indian reservation road means a public road that is located within or provides access to an Indian reservation or Indian trust land or restricted Indian land that is not subject to fee title alienation without the approval of the Federal Government, or Indian and Alaska Native villages, groups, or communities in which Indians and Alaskan Natives reside, whom the Secretary of the Interior has determined are eligible for services generally available to Indians under Federal laws specifically applicable to Indians.
(13) Interstate System.— 
The term Interstate System means the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways described in section 103 (c).
(14) Maintenance.— 
The term maintenance means the preservation of the entire highway, including surface, shoulders, roadsides, structures, and such traffic-control devices as are necessary for safe and efficient utilization of the highway.
(15) Maintenance area.— 
The term maintenance area means an area that was designated as a nonattainment area, but was later redesignated by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency as an attainment area, under section 107(d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7407 (d)).
(16) National Highway System.— 
The term National Highway System means the Federal-aid highway system described in section 103 (b).
(17) Operating costs for traffic monitoring, management, and control.— 
The term operating costs for traffic monitoring, management, and control includes labor costs, administrative costs, costs of utilities and rent, and other costs associated with the continuous operation of traffic control, such as integrated traffic control systems, incident management programs, and traffic control centers.
(18) Operational improvement.— 
The term operational improvement
(A) means
(i)  a capital improvement for installation of traffic surveillance and control equipment, computerized signal systems, motorist information systems, integrated traffic control systems, incident management programs, and transportation demand management facilities, strategies, and programs, and
(ii)  such other capital improvements to public roads as the Secretary may designate, by regulation; and
(B) does not include resurfacing, restoring, or rehabilitating improvements, construction of additional lanes, interchanges, and grade separations, and construction of a new facility on a new location.
(19) Park road.— 
The term park road means a public road, including a bridge built primarily for pedestrian use, but with capacity for use by emergency vehicles, that is located within, or provides access to, an area in the National Park System with title and maintenance responsibilities vested in the United States.
(20) Parkway.— 
The term parkway, as used in chapter 2 of this title, means a parkway authorized by Act of Congress on lands to which title is vested in the United States.
(21) Project.— 
The term project means an undertaking to construct a particular portion of a highway, or if the context so implies, the particular portion of a highway so constructed or any other undertaking eligible for assistance under this title.
(22) Project agreement.— 
The term project agreement means the formal instrument to be executed by the State transportation department and the Secretary as required by section 106.
(23) Public authority.— 
The term public authority means a Federal, State, county, town, or township, Indian tribe, municipal or other local government or instrumentality with authority to finance, build, operate, or maintain toll or toll-free facilities.
(24) Public lands development roads and trails.— 
The term public lands development roads and trails means those roads and trails that the Secretary of the Interior determines are of primary importance for the development, protection, administration, and utilization of public lands and resources under the control of the Secretary of the Interior.
(25) Public lands highway.— 
The term public lands highway means a forest road under the jurisdiction of and maintained by a public authority and open to public travel or any highway through unappropriated or unreserved public lands, nontaxable Indian lands, or other Federal reservations under the jurisdiction of and maintained by a public authority and open to public travel.
(26) Public lands highways.— 
The term public lands highways means those main highways through unappropriated or unreserved public lands, nontaxable Indian lands, or other Federal reservations, which are on the Federal-aid systems.
(27) Public road.— 
The term public road means any road or street under the jurisdiction of and maintained by a public authority and open to public travel.
(28) Refuge road.— 
The term refuge road means a public road that provides access to or within a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System and for which title and maintenance responsibility is vested in the United States Government.
(29) Rural areas.— 
The term rural areas means all areas of a State not included in urban areas.
(30) Safety improvement project.— 
The term safety improvement project means a project that corrects or improves high hazard locations, eliminates roadside obstacles, improves highway signing and pavement marking, installs priority control systems for emergency vehicles at signalized intersections, installs or replaces emergency motorist aid call boxes, or installs traffic control or warning devices at locations with high accident potential.
(31) Secretary.— 
The term Secretary means Secretary of Transportation.
(32) State.— 
The term State means any of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
(33) State funds.— 
The term State funds includes funds raised under the authority of the State or any political or other subdivision thereof, and made available for expenditure under the direct control of the State transportation department.
(34) State transportation department.— 
The term State transportation department means that department, commission, board, or official of any State charged by its laws with the responsibility for highway construction.
(35) Transportation enhancement activity.— 
The term transportation enhancement activity means, with respect to any project or the area to be served by the project, any of the following activities as the activities relate to surface transportation:
(A) Provision of facilities for pedestrians and bicycles.
(B) Provision of safety and educational activities for pedestrians and bicyclists.
(C) Acquisition of scenic easements and scenic or historic sites (including historic battlefields).
(D) Scenic or historic highway programs (including the provision of tourist and welcome center facilities).
(E) Landscaping and other scenic beautification.
(F) Historic preservation.
(G) Rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures, or facilities (including historic railroad facilities and canals).
(H) Preservation of abandoned railway corridors (including the conversion and use of the corridors for pedestrian or bicycle trails).
(I) Inventory, control, and removal of outdoor advertising.
(J) Archaeological planning and research.
(K) Environmental mitigation
(i) to address water pollution due to highway runoff; or
(ii) [1] reduce vehicle-caused wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity.
(L) Establishment of transportation museums.
(36) Urban area.— 
The term urban area means an urbanized area or, in the case of an urbanized area encompassing more than one State, that part of the urbanized area in each such State, or urban place as designated by the Bureau of the Census having a population of 5,000 or more and not within any urbanized area, within boundaries to be fixed by responsible State and local officials in cooperation with each other, subject to approval by the Secretary. Such boundaries shall encompass, at a minimum, the entire urban place designated by the Bureau of the Census, except in the case of cities in the State of Maine and in the State of New Hampshire.
(37) Urbanized area.— 
The term urbanized area means an area with a population of 50,000 or more designated by the Bureau of the Census, within boundaries to be fixed by responsible State and local officials in cooperation with each other, subject to approval by the Secretary. Such boundaries shall encompass, at a minimum, the entire urbanized area within a State as designated by the Bureau of the Census.
(38) Advanced truck stop electrification system.— 
The term advanced truck stop electrification system means a system that delivers heat, air conditioning, electricity, or communications to a heavy duty vehicle.
(b) Declaration of Policy.— 

(1) Acceleration of construction of federal-aid highway systems.— 
Congress declares that it is in the national interest to accelerate the construction of Federal-aid highway systems, including the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense,[2] because many of the highways (or portions of the highways) are inadequate to meet the needs of local and interstate commerce for the national and civil defense.
(2) Completion of interstate system.— 
Congress declares that the prompt and early completion of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways (referred to in this section as the Interstate System), so named because of its primary importance to the national defense, is essential to the national interest. It is the intent of Congress that the Interstate System be completed as nearly as practicable over the period of availability of the forty years appropriations authorized for the purpose of expediting its construction, reconstruction, or improvement, inclusive of necessary tunnels and bridges, through the fiscal year ending September 30, 1996, under section 108(b) of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 (70 Stat. 374), and that the entire system in all States be brought to simultaneous completion. Insofar as possible in consonance with this objective, existing highways located on an interstate route shall be used to the extent that such use is practicable, suitable, and feasible, it being the intent that local needs, to the extent practicable, suitable, and feasible, shall be given equal consideration with the needs of interstate commerce.
(3) Transportation needs of 21st century.— 
Congress declares that
(A) it is in the national interest to preserve and enhance the surface transportation system to meet the needs of the United States for the 21st Century;
(B) the current urban and long distance personal travel and freight movement demands have surpassed the original forecasts and travel demand patterns are expected to continue to change;
(C) continued planning for and investment in surface transportation is critical to ensure the surface transportation system adequately meets the changing travel demands of the future;
(D) among the foremost needs that the surface transportation system must meet to provide for a strong and vigorous national economy are safe, efficient, and reliable
(i) national and interregional personal mobility (including personal mobility in rural and urban areas) and reduced congestion;
(ii) flow of interstate and international commerce and freight transportation; and
(iii) travel movements essential for national security;
(E) special emphasis should be devoted to providing safe and efficient access for the type and size of commercial and military vehicles that access designated National Highway System intermodal freight terminals;
(F) the connection between land use and infrastructure is significant;
(G) transportation should play a significant role in promoting economic growth, improving the environment, and sustaining the quality of life; and
(H) the Secretary should take appropriate actions to preserve and enhance the Interstate System to meet the needs of the 21st Century.
(c) It is the sense of Congress that under existing law no part of any sums authorized to be appropriated for expenditure upon any Federal-aid system which has been apportioned pursuant to the provisions of this title shall be impounded or withheld from obligation, for purposes and projects as provided in this title, by any officer or employee in the executive branch of the Federal Government, except such specific sums as may be determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, after consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, are necessary to be withheld from obligation for specific periods of time to assure that sufficient amounts will be available in the Highway Trust Fund to defray the expenditures which will be required to be made from such fund.
(d) No funds authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund shall be expended by or on behalf of any Federal department, agency, or instrumentality other than the Federal Highway Administration unless funds for such expenditure are identified and included as a line item in an appropriation Act and are to meet obligations of the United States heretofore or hereafter incurred under this title attributable to the construction of Federal-aid highways or highway planning, research, or development, or as otherwise specifically authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund by Federal-aid highway legislation.
(e) It is the national policy that to the maximum extent possible the procedures to be utilized by the Secretary and all other affected heads of Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities for carrying out this title and any other provision of law relating to the Federal highway programs shall encourage the substantial minimization of paperwork and interagency decision procedures and the best use of available manpower and funds so as to prevent needless duplication and unnecessary delays at all levels of government.
[1] So in original. The word “to” probably should appear.
[2] So in original. Probably should be “Defense Highways,”.

23 USC 102 - Program efficiencies

(a) Access of Motorcycles.— 
No State or political subdivision of a State may enact or enforce a law that applies only to motorcycles and the principal purpose of which is to restrict the access of motorcycles to any highway or portion of a highway for which Federal-aid highway funds have been utilized for planning, design, construction, or maintenance. Nothing in this subsection shall affect the authority of a State or political subdivision of a State to regulate motorcycles for safety.
(b) Engineering Cost Reimbursement.— 
If on-site construction of, or acquisition of right-of-way for, a highway project is not commenced within 10 years (or such longer period as the State requests and the Secretary determines to be reasonable) after the date on which Federal funds are first made available, out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than Mass Transit Account), for preliminary engineering of such project, the State shall pay an amount equal to the amount of Federal funds made available for such engineering. The Secretary shall deposit in such Fund all amounts paid to the Secretary under this section.

23 USC 103 - Federal-aid systems

(a) In General.— 
For the purposes of this title, the Federal-aid systems are the Interstate System and the National Highway System.
(b) National Highway System.— 

(1) Description.— 
The National Highway System consists of the highway routes and connections to transportation facilities depicted on the map submitted by the Secretary to Congress with the report entitled Pulling Together: The National Highway System and its Connections to Major Intermodal Terminals and dated May 24, 1996. The system shall
(A) serve major population centers, international border crossings, ports, airports, public transportation facilities, and other intermodal transportation facilities and other major travel destinations;
(B) meet national defense requirements; and
(C) serve interstate and interregional travel.
(2) Components.— 
The National Highway System described in paragraph (1) consists of the following:
(A) The Interstate System described in subsection (c).
(B) Other urban and rural principal arterial routes.
(C) Other connector highways (including toll facilities) that provide motor vehicle access between arterial routes on the National Highway System and a major intermodal transportation facility.
(D) A strategic highway network consisting of a network of highways that are important to the United States strategic defense policy and that provide defense access, continuity, and emergency capabilities for the movement of personnel, materials, and equipment in both peacetime and wartime. The highways may be highways on or off the Interstate System and shall be designated by the Secretary in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies and the States.
(E) Major strategic highway network connectors consisting of highways that provide motor vehicle access between major military installations and highways that are part of the strategic highway network. The highways shall be designated by the Secretary in consultation with appropriate Federal agencies and the States.
(3) Maximum mileage.— 
The mileage of highways on the National Highway System shall not exceed 178,250 miles.
(4) Modifications to nhs.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Secretary may make any modification, including any modification consisting of a connector to a major intermodal terminal, to the National Highway System that is proposed by a State or that is proposed by a State and revised by the Secretary if the Secretary determines that the modification
(i) meets the criteria established for the National Highway System under this title; and
(ii) enhances the national transportation characteristics of the National Highway System.
(B) Cooperation.— 

(i) In general.— 
In proposing a modification under this paragraph, a State shall cooperate with local and regional officials.
(ii) Urbanized areas.— 
In an urbanized area, the local officials shall act through the metropolitan planning organization designated for the area under section 134.
(5) Congressional high priority corridors.— 
Upon the completion of feasibility studies, the Secretary shall add to the National Highway System any congressional high priority corridor or any segment of such a corridor established by section 1105 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 2031 et seq.) that was not identified on the National Highway System described in paragraph (1).
(6) State eligible projects for nhs.— 
Subject to approval by the Secretary, funds apportioned to a State under section 104 (b)(1) for the National Highway System may be obligated for any of the following:
(A) Construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation of segments of the National Highway System.
(B) Operational improvements for segments of the National Highway System.
(C) Construction of, and operational improvements for, a Federal-aid highway not on the National Highway System, and construction of a transit project eligible for assistance under chapter 53 of title 49, if
(i) the highway or transit project is in the same corridor as, and in proximity to, a fully access-controlled highway designated as a part of the National Highway System;
(ii) the construction or improvements will improve the level of service on the fully access-controlled highway described in clause (i) and improve regional traffic flow; and
(iii) the construction or improvements are more cost-effective than an improvement to the fully access-controlled highway described in clause (i).
(D) Highway safety improvements for segments of the National Highway System.
(E) Transportation planning in accordance with sections 134 and 135.
(F) Highway research and planning in accordance with chapter 5.
(G) Highway-related technology transfer activities.
(H) Capital and operating costs for traffic monitoring, management, and control facilities and programs.
(I) Fringe and corridor parking facilities.
(J) Carpool and vanpool projects.
(K) Bicycle transportation and pedestrian walkways in accordance with section 217.
(L) Development, establishment, and implementation of management systems under section 303.
(M) In accordance with all applicable Federal law (including regulations), participation in natural habitat and wetland mitigation efforts related to projects funded under this title, which may include participation in natural habitat and wetland mitigation banks, contributions to statewide and regional efforts to conserve, restore, enhance, and create natural habitats and wetland, and development of statewide and regional natural habitat and wetland conservation and mitigation plans, including any such banks, efforts, and plans authorized under the Water Resources Development Act of 1990 (Public Law 101640) (including crediting provisions). Contributions to the mitigation efforts described in the preceding sentence may take place concurrent with or in advance of project construction; except that contributions in advance of project construction may occur only if the efforts are consistent with all applicable requirements of Federal law (including regulations) and State transportation planning processes. With respect to participation in a natural habitat or wetland mitigation effort related to a project funded under this title that has an impact that occurs within the service area of a mitigation bank, preference shall be given, to the maximum extent practicable, to the use of the mitigation bank if the bank contains sufficient available credits to offset the impact and the bank is approved in accordance with the Federal Guidance for the Establishment, Use and Operation of Mitigation Banks (60 Fed. Reg. 58605 (November 28, 1995)) or other applicable Federal law (including regulations).
(N) Publicly-owned intracity or intercity bus terminals.
(O) Infrastructure-based intelligent transportation systems capital improvements.
[(P) Repealed. Pub. L. 109–59, title I, § 1118(b)(1)(B), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1181.]
(Q) Environmental restoration and pollution abatement in accordance with section 328.
(R) Control of noxious weeds and aquatic noxious weeds and establishment of native species in accordance with section 329.
(7) Territory eligible projects.— 
Subject to approval by the Secretary, funds set aside for this program under section 104 (b)(1) for the National Highway System may be obligated for projects eligible for assistance under the territorial highway program under section 215.
(c) Interstate System.— 

(1) Description.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways within the United States (including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico) consists of highways designed, located, and selected in accordance with this paragraph.
(B) Design.— 

(i) In general.— 
Except as provided in clause (ii), highways on the Interstate System shall be designed in accordance with the standards of section 109 (b).
(ii) Exception.— 
Highways on the Interstate System in Alaska and Puerto Rico shall be designed in accordance with such geometric and construction standards as are adequate for current and probable future traffic demands and the needs of the locality of the highway.
(C) Location.— 
Highways on the Interstate System shall be located so as
(i) to connect by routes, as direct as practicable, the principal metropolitan areas, cities, and industrial centers;
(ii) to serve the national defense; and
(iii) to the maximum extent practicable, to connect at suitable border points with routes of continental importance in Canada and Mexico.
(D) Selection of routes.— 
To the maximum extent practicable, each route of the Interstate System shall be selected by joint action of the State transportation departments of the State in which the route is located and the adjoining States, in cooperation with local and regional officials, and subject to the approval of the Secretary.
(2) Maximum mileage.— 
The mileage of highways on the Interstate System shall not exceed 43,000 miles, exclusive of designations under paragraph (4).
(3) Modifications.— 
The Secretary may approve or require modifications to the Interstate System in a manner consistent with the policies and procedures established under this subsection.
(4) Interstate system designations.— 

(A) Additions.— 
If the Secretary determines that a highway on the National Highway System meets all standards of a highway on the Interstate System and that the highway is a logical addition or connection to the Interstate System, the Secretary may, upon the affirmative recommendation of the State or States in which the highway is located, designate the highway as a route on the Interstate System.
(B) Designations as future interstate system routes.— 

(i) In general.— 
If the Secretary determines that a highway on the National Highway System would be a logical addition or connection to the Interstate System and would qualify for designation as a route on the Interstate System under subparagraph (A) if the highway met all standards of a highway on the Interstate System, the Secretary may, upon the affirmative recommendation of the State or States in which the highway is located, designate the highway as a future Interstate System route.
(ii) Written agreement of states.— 
A designation under clause (i) shall be made only upon the written agreement of the State or States described in such clause that the highway will be constructed to meet all standards of a highway on the Interstate System by the date that is 25 years after the date of the agreement.
(iii) Removal of designation.— 

(I) In general.— 
If the State or States described in clause (i) have not substantially completed the construction of a highway designated under this subparagraph within the time provided for under clause (ii), the Secretary shall remove the designation of the highway as a future Interstate System route.
(II) Effect of removal.— 
Removal of the designation of a highway under subclause (I) shall not preclude the Secretary from designating the highway as a route on the Interstate System under subparagraph (A) or under any other provision of law providing for addition to the Interstate System.
(III) Existing agreements.— 
An agreement described in clause (ii) that is entered into before the date of enactment of this subclause shall be deemed to include the 25-year time limitation described in that clause, regardless of any earlier construction completion date in the agreement.
(iv) Prohibition on referral as interstate system route.— 
No law, rule, regulation, map, document, or other record of the United States, or of any State or political subdivision of a State, shall refer to any highway designated as a future Interstate System route under this subparagraph, nor shall any such highway be signed or marked, as a highway on the Interstate System until such time as the highway is constructed to the geometric and construction standards for the Interstate System and has been designated as a route on the Interstate System.
(C) Financial responsibility.— 
Except as provided in this title, the designation of a highway under this paragraph shall create no additional Federal financial responsibility with respect to the highway.
(5) Exemption of interstate system.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Interstate System shall not be considered to be a historic site under section 303 of title 49 or section 138 of this title, regardless of whether the Interstate System or portions or elements of the Interstate System are listed on, or eligible for listing on, the National Register of Historic Places.
(B) Individual elements.— 
Subject to subparagraph (C), the Secretary shall determine, through the administrative process established for exempting the Interstate System from section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470f), those individual elements of the Interstate System that possess national or exceptional historic significance (such as a historic bridge or a highly significant engineering feature). Such elements shall be considered to be a historic site under section 303 of title 49 or section 138 of this title, as applicable.
(C) Construction, maintenance, restoration, and rehabilitation activities.— 
Subparagraph (B) does not prohibit a State from carrying out construction, maintenance, restoration, or rehabilitation activities for a portion of the Interstate System referred to in subparagraph (B) upon compliance with section 303 of title 49 or section 138 of this title, as applicable, and section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470f).
(d) Transfer of Interstate Construction Funds.— 

(1) Interstate construction funds not in surplus.— 

(A) In general.— 
Upon application by a State and approval by the Secretary, the Secretary may transfer to the apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(1) any amount of funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century), if the amount does not exceed the Federal share of the costs of construction of segments of the Interstate System in the State included in the most recent Interstate System cost estimate.
(B) Effect of transfer.— 
Upon transfer of an amount under subparagraph (A), the construction on which the amount is based, as included in the most recent Interstate System cost estimate, shall not be eligible for funding under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) or 118(c).
(2) Surplus interstate construction funds.— 
Upon application by a State and approval by the Secretary, the Secretary may transfer to the apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(1) any amount of surplus funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century), if the State has fully financed all work eligible under the most recent Interstate System cost estimate.
(3) Applicability of certain laws.— 
Funds transferred under this subsection shall be subject to the laws (including regulations, policies, and procedures) relating to the apportionment to which the funds are transferred.

23 USC 104 - Apportionment

(a) Administrative Expenses.— 

(1) In general.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to be made available to the Secretary for administrative expenses of the Federal Highway Administration
(A) $353,024,000 for fiscal year 2005;
(B) $370,613,540 for fiscal year 2006;
(C) $389,079,500 for fiscal year 2007;
(D) $408,465,500 for fiscal year 2008; and
(E) $423,717,460 for fiscal year 2009.
(2) Purposes.— 
The funds authorized by this subsection shall be used
(A) to administer the provisions of law to be financed from appropriations for the Federal-aid highway program and programs authorized under chapter 2; and
(B) to make transfers of such sums as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to the Appalachian Regional Commission for administrative activities associated with the Appalachian development highway system.
(3) Availability.— 
The funds made available under paragraph (1) shall remain available until expended.
(b) Apportionments.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary, after making the set-asides authorized by subsections (d) and (f) and section 130 (e), shall apportion the remainder of the sums authorized to be appropriated for expenditure on the Interstate and National Highway System program, the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the highway safety improvement program, and the Surface Transportation program for that fiscal year, among the several States in the following manner:
(1) National highway system component.— 

(A) In general.— 
For the National Highway System (excluding funds apportioned under paragraph (4)), $40,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 and 2006 and $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2009 for the territorial highway program under section 215, $30,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 for the Alaska Highway, and the remainder apportioned as follows:
(i) 25 percent in the ratio that
(I) the total lane miles of principal arterial routes (excluding Interstate System routes) in each State; bears to
(II) the total lane miles of principal arterial routes (excluding Interstate System routes) in all States.
(ii) 35 percent in the ratio that
(I) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on principal arterial routes (excluding Interstate System routes) in each State; bears to
(II) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on principal arterial routes (excluding Interstate System routes) in all States.
(iii) 30 percent in the ratio that
(I) the total diesel fuel used on highways in each State; bears to
(II) the total diesel fuel used on highways in all States.
(iv) 10 percent in the ratio that
(I) the quotient obtained by dividing the total lane miles on principal arterial highways in each State by the total population of the State; bears to
(II) the quotient obtained by dividing the total lane miles on principal arterial highways in all States by the total population of all States.
(B) Minimum apportionment.— 
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) and paragraph (4), each State shall receive a minimum of 1/2 of 1 percent of the funds apportioned under subparagraph (A) and paragraph (4).
(2) Congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program.— 

(A) In general.— 
For the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program, in the ratio that
(i) the total of all weighted nonattainment and maintenance area populations in each State; bears to
(ii) the total of all weighted nonattainment and maintenance area populations in all States.
(B) Calculation of weighted nonattainment and maintenance area population.— 
Subject to subparagraph (C), for the purpose of subparagraph (A), the weighted nonattainment and maintenance area population shall be calculated by multiplying the population of each area in a State that was a nonattainment area or maintenance area as described in section 149 (b) for ozone or carbon monoxide by a factor of
(i) 1.0 if, at the time of apportionment, the area is a maintenance area;
(ii) 1.0 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is classified as a marginal ozone nonattainment area under subpart 2 of part D of title I of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7511 et seq.);
(iii) 1.1 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is classified as a moderate ozone nonattainment area under such subpart;
(iv) 1.2 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is classified as a serious ozone nonattainment area under such subpart;
(v) 1.3 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is classified as a severe ozone nonattainment area under such subpart;
(vi) 1.4 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is classified as an extreme ozone nonattainment area under such subpart;
(vii) 1.0 if, at the time of the apportionment, the area is not a nonattainment or maintenance area as described in section 149 (b) for ozone, but is classified under subpart 3 of part D of title I of such Act (42 U.S.C. 7512 et seq.) as a nonattainment area described in section 149 (b) for carbon monoxide; or
(viii) 1.0 if, at the time of apportionment, an area is designated as nonattainment for ozone under subpart 1 of part D of title I of such Act (42 U.S.C. 7512 et seq.).[1]
(C) Additional adjustment for carbon monoxide areas.— 
If, in addition to being designated as a nonattainment or maintenance area for ozone as described in section 149 (b), any county within the area was also classified under subpart 3 of part D of title I of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7512 et seq.) as a nonattainment or maintenance area described in section 149 (b) for carbon monoxide, the weighted nonattainment or maintenance area population of the county, as determined under clauses (i) through (vi) or clause (viii) of subparagraph (B), shall be further multiplied by a factor of 1.2.
(D) Minimum apportionment.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this paragraph, each State shall receive a minimum of 1/2 of 1 percent of the funds apportioned under this paragraph.
(E) Determinations of population.— 
In determining population figures for the purposes of this paragraph, the Secretary shall use the latest available annual estimates prepared by the Secretary of Commerce.
(3) Surface transportation program.— 

(A) In general.— 
For the surface transportation program, in accordance with the following formula:
(i) 25 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the total lane miles of Federal-aid highways in each State; bears to
(II) the total lane miles of Federal-aid highways in all States.
(ii) 40 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on Federal-aid highways in each State; bears to
(II) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on Federal-aid highways in all States.
(iii) 35 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the estimated tax payments attributable to highway users in each State paid into the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) in the latest fiscal year for which data are available; bears to
(II) the estimated tax payments attributable to highway users in all States paid into the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) in the latest fiscal year for which data are available.
(B) Minimum apportionment.— 
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), each State shall receive a minimum of 1/2 of 1 percent of the funds apportioned under this paragraph.
(4) Interstate maintenance component.— 
For resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing the Interstate System
(A) 331/3 percent in the ratio that
(i) the total lane miles on Interstate System routes open to traffic in each State; bears to
(ii) the total of all such lane miles in all States;
(B) 331/3 percent in the ratio that
(i) the total vehicle miles traveled on Interstate System routes open to traffic in each State; bears to
(ii) the total of all such vehicle miles traveled in all States; and
(C) 331/3 percent in the ratio that
(i) the total of each States annual contributions to the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) attributable to commercial vehicles; bears to
(ii) the total of such annual contributions by all States.
(5) Highway safety improvement program.— 

(A) In general.— 
For the highway safety improvement program, in accordance with the following formula:
(i) 331/3 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the total lane miles of Federal-aid highways in each State; bears to
(II) the total lane miles of Federal-aid highways in all States.
(ii) 331/3 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on Federal-aid highways in each State; bears to
(II) the total vehicle miles traveled on lanes on Federal-aid highways in all States.
(iii) 331/3 percent of the apportionments in the ratio that
(I) the number of fatalities on the Federal-aid system in each State in the latest fiscal year for which data are available; bears to
(II) the number of fatalities on the Federal-aid system in all States in the latest fiscal year for which data are available.
(B) Minimum apportionment.— 
Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), each State shall receive a minimum of one-half of 1 percent of the funds apportioned under this paragraph.
(c) Transferability of NHS Apportionments.— 
A State may transfer not to exceed 50 percent of the States apportionment under subsection (b)(1) to the apportionment of the State under subsection (b)(3). A State may transfer not to exceed 100 percent of the States apportionment under subsection (b)(1) to the apportionment of the State under subsection (b)(3) if the State requests to make such transfer and the Secretary approves such transfer as being in the public interest, after providing notice and sufficient opportunity for public comment. Section 133 (d) shall not apply to funds transferred under this subsection.
(d) Operation Lifesaver and High Speed Rail Corridors.— 

(1) Operation lifesaver.— 
To carry out a public information and education program to help prevent and reduce motor vehicle accidents, injuries, and fatalities and to improve driver performance at railway-highway crossings
(A) before making an apportionment under subsection (b)(3) for fiscal year 2005, the Secretary shall set aside $560,000 for such fiscal year; and
(B) there is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) $560,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009.
(2) Railway-highway crossing hazard elimination in high speed rail corridors.— 

(A) Funding.— 
To carry out the elimination of hazards at railway-highway crossings
(i) before making an apportionment under subsection (b)(3) for fiscal year 2005, the Secretary shall set aside $5,250,000 for such fiscal year; and
(ii) there is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) $7,250,000 for fiscal year 2006, $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2007, $12,500,000 for fiscal year 2008, and $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2009.
(B) Eligible corridors.— 
Subject to subparagraph (E), funds made available under subparagraph (A) shall be expended for projects in
(i) 5 railway corridors selected by the Secretary in accordance with this subsection (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this clause);
(ii) 3 railway corridors selected by the Secretary in accordance with subparagraphs (C) and (D);
(iii) a Gulf Coast high speed railway corridor (as designated by the Secretary);
(iv) a Keystone high speed railway corridor from Philadelphia to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and
(v) an Empire State railway corridor from New York City to Albany to Buffalo, New York.
(C) Required inclusion of high speed rail lines.— 
A corridor selected by the Secretary under subparagraph (B) shall include rail lines where railroad speeds of 90 miles or more per hour are occurring or can reasonably be expected to occur in the future.
(D) Considerations in corridor selection.— 
In selecting corridors under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall consider
(i) projected rail ridership volume in each corridor;
(ii) the percentage of each corridor over which a train will be capable of operating at its maximum cruise speed taking into account such factors as topography and other traffic on the line;
(iii) projected benefits to nonriders such as congestion relief on other modes of transportation serving each corridor (including congestion in heavily traveled air passenger corridors);
(iv) the amount of State and local financial support that can reasonably be anticipated for the improvement of the line and related facilities; and
(v) the cooperation of the owner of the right-of-way that can reasonably be expected in the operation of high speed rail passenger service in each corridor.
(E) Certain improvements.— 
Of such set-aside, not less than $250,000 for fiscal year 2005, $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2006, $1,750,000 for fiscal year 2007, $2,250,000 for fiscal year 2008, and $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2009 shall be available for eligible improvements to the Minneapolis/St. Paul-Chicago segment of the Midwest High Speed Rail Corridor.
(F) Authorization of appropriations.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1999 through 2003 to carry out this subsection.
(e) Certification of Apportionments.— 

(1) In general.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year the Secretary shall certify to each of the State transportation departments the sums which he has apportioned hereunder to each State for such fiscal year. To permit the States to develop adequate plans for the utilization of apportioned sums, the Secretary shall advise each State of the amount that will be apportioned each year under this section not later than ninety days before the beginning of the fiscal year for which the sums to be apportioned are authorized, except that in the case of the Interstate System the Secretary shall advise each State ninety days prior to the apportionment of such funds.
(2) Notice to states.— 
If the Secretary has not made an apportionment under section 104, 105, or 144 by the 21st day of a fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1998, the Secretary shall transmit, by such 21st day, to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate a written statement of the reason for not making such apportionment in a timely manner.
(f) Metropolitan Planning.— 

(1) Set-aside.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall set aside 1.25 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated for the Interstate maintenance, national highway system, surface transportation, congestion mitigation and air quality improvement, and highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation programs authorized under this title to carry out the requirements of section 134.
(2) Apportionment to states of set-aside funds.— 
These funds shall be apportioned to the States in the ratio which the population in urbanized areas or parts thereof, in each State bears to the total population in such urbanized areas in all the States as shown by the latest available census, except that no State shall receive less than one-half percent of the amount apportioned.
(3) Use of funds.— 

(A) In general.— 
The funds apportioned to any State under paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be made available by the State to the metropolitan planning organizations responsible for carrying out the provisions of section 134 of this title, except that States receiving the minimum apportionment under paragraph (2) may, in addition, subject to the approval of the Secretary, use the funds apportioned to finance transportation planning outside of urbanized areas.
(B) Unused funds.— 
Any funds that are not used to carry out section 134 may be made available by a metropolitan planning organization to the State to fund activities under section 135.
(4) Distribution of funds within states.— 

(A) In general.— 
The distribution within any State of the planning funds made available to agencies under paragraph (3) of this subsection shall be in accordance with a formula developed by each State and approved by the Secretary which shall consider but not necessarily be limited to, population, status of planning, attainment of air quality standards, metropolitan area transportation needs, and other factors necessary to provide for an appropriate distribution of funds to carry out the requirements of section 134 and other applicable requirements of Federal law.
(B) Reimbursement.— 
Not later than 30 days after the date of receipt by a State of a request for reimbursement of expenditures made by a metropolitan planning organization for carrying out section 134, the State shall reimburse, from funds distributed under this paragraph to the metropolitan planning organization by the State, the metropolitan planning organization for those expenditures.
(5) Determination of population figures.— 
For the purposes of determining population figures under this subsection, the Secretary shall use the most recent estimate published by the Secretary of Commerce.
(g) Not more than 40 per centum of the amount apportioned in any fiscal year to each State in accordance with sections 130 and 144 may be transferred from the apportionment under one section to the apportionment under any other of such sections if such a transfer is requested by the State transportation department and is approved by the Secretary as being in the public interest. The Secretary may approve the transfer of 100 per centum of the apportionment under one such section to the apportionment under any other of such sections if such transfer is requested by the State transportation department, and is approved by the Secretary as being in the public interest, if he has received satisfactory assurances from such State transportation department that the purposes of the program from which such funds are to be transferred have been met. A State may transfer not to exceed 50 percent of the States apportionment under section 144 in any fiscal year to the apportionment of such State under subsection (b)(1) or subsection (b)(3) of this section. Any transfer to subsection (b)(3) shall not be subject to section 133 (d). Nothing in this subsection authorizes the transfer of any amount apportioned from the Highway Trust Fund to any apportionment the funds for which were not from the Highway Trust Fund, and nothing in this subsection authorizes the transfer of any amount apportioned from funds not from the Highway Trust Fund to any apportionment the funds for which were from the Highway Trust Fund.
(h) Recreational Trails Program.— 

(1) Administrative costs.— 
Before apportioning sums authorized to be appropriated to carry out the recreational trails program under section 206, the Secretary shall deduct for administrative, research, technical assistance, and training expenses for such program $840,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009. The Secretary may enter into contracts with for-profit organizations or contracts, partnerships, or cooperative agreements with other government agencies, institutions of higher learning, or nonprofit">nonprofit organizations to perform these tasks.
(2) Apportionment to the states.— 
The Secretary shall apportion the sums authorized to be appropriated for expenditure on the recreational trails program for each fiscal year, among the States in the following manner:
(A) 50 percent of that amount shall be apportioned equally among eligible States.
(B) 50 percent of that amount shall be apportioned among eligible States in amounts proportionate to the degree of non-highway recreational fuel use in each of those States during the preceding year.
(3) Eligible state defined.— 
In this section, the term eligible State means a State that meets the requirements of section 206 (c).
(i) Audits of Highway Trust Fund.— 
From administrative funds made available under subsection (a), the Secretary may reimburse the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Transportation for the conduct of annual audits of financial statements in accordance with section 3521 of title 31.
(j) Report to Congress.— 
The Secretary shall submit to Congress a report, and also make such report available to the public in a user-friendly format via the Internet, for each fiscal year on
(1) the amount obligated, by each State, for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs during the preceding fiscal year;
(2) the balance, as of the last day of the preceding fiscal year, of the unobligated apportionment of each State by fiscal year under this section and sections 105 and 144;
(3) the balance of unobligated sums available for expenditure at the discretion of the Secretary for such highways and programs for the fiscal year; and
(4) the rates of obligation of funds apportioned or set aside under this section and sections 105, 133, and 144, according to
(A) program;
(B) funding category or subcategory;
(C) type of improvement;
(D) State; and
(E) sub-State geographic area, including urbanized and rural areas, on the basis of the population of each such area.
(k) Transfer of Highway and Transit Funds.— 

(1) Transfer of highway funds for transit projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to subparagraph (B), funds made available for transit projects or transportation planning under this title may be transferred to and administered by the Secretary in accordance with chapter 53 of title 49.
(B) Non-federal share.— 
The provisions of this title relating to the non-Federal share shall apply to the funds transferred under subparagraph (A).
(2) Transfer of transit funds for highway projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to subparagraph (B), funds made available for highway projects or transportation planning under chapter 53 of title 49 may be transferred to and administered by the Secretary in accordance with this title.
(B) Non-federal share.— 
The provisions of chapter 53 of title 49 relating to the non-Federal share shall apply to funds transferred under subparagraph (A).
(3) Transfer of funds among states or to federal highway administration.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Secretary may, at the request of a State, transfer funds apportioned or allocated under this title to the State to another State, or to the Federal Highway Administration, for the purpose of funding one or more projects that are eligible for assistance with funds so apportioned or allocated.
(B) Apportionment.— 
The transfer shall have no effect on any apportionment of funds to a State under this section or section 105 or 144.
(C) Surface transportation program.— 
Funds that are apportioned or allocated to a State under subsection (b)(3) and attributed to an urbanized area of a State with a population of over 200,000 individuals under section 133 (d)(3) may be transferred under this paragraph only if the metropolitan planning organization designated for the area concurs, in writing, with the transfer request.
(4) Transfer of obligation authority.— 
Obligation authority for funds transferred under this subsection shall be transferred in the same manner and amount as the funds for the projects that are transferred under this subsection.
(l) Effect of Certain Delay in Deposits Into Highway Trust Fund.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, deposits into the Highway Trust Fund resulting from the application of section 901(e) of the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (111 Stat. 872) shall not be taken into account in determining the apportionments and allocations that any State shall be entitled to receive under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century and this title.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 105 - Equity bonus program

(a) Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to subsections (c) and (d), for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009, the Secretary shall allocate among the States amounts sufficient to ensure that no State receives a percentage of the total apportionments for the fiscal year for the programs specified in paragraph (2) that is less than the percentage calculated under subsection (b).
(2) Specific programs.— 
The programs referred to in subsection (a) are
(A) the Interstate maintenance program under section 119;
(B) the national highway system program under section 103;
(C) the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program under section 144;
(D) the surface transportation program under section 133;
(E) the highway safety improvement program under section 148;
(F) the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program under section 149;
(G) metropolitan planning programs under section 104 (f);
(H) the high priority projects program under section 117;
(I) the equity bonus program under this section;
(J) the Appalachian development highway system program under subtitle IV of title 40;
(K) the recreational trails program under section 206;
(L) the safe routes to school program under section 1404 of the SAFETEALU;
(M) the rail-highway grade crossing program under section 130; and
(N) the coordinated border infrastructure program under section 1303 of the SAFETEALU.
(b) State Percentage.— 

(1) In general.— 
The percentage referred to in subsection (a) for each State shall be
(A) for each of fiscal years 2005 and 2006, 90.5 percent, for fiscal year 2007, 91.5 percent, and for each of fiscal years 2008 and 2009, 92 percent, of the quotient obtained by dividing
(i) the estimated tax payments attributable to highway users in the State paid into the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) in the most recent fiscal year for which data are available; by
(ii) the estimated tax payments attributable to highway users in all States paid into the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for the fiscal year; or
(B) for a State with a total population density of less than 40 persons per square mile (as reported in the decennial census conducted by the Federal Government in 2000) and of which at least 1.25 percent of the total acreage is under Federal jurisdiction, based on the report of the General Services Administration entitled Federal Real Property Profile and dated September 30, 2004, a State with a total population of less than 1,000,000 (as reported in that decennial census), a State with a median household income of less than $35,000 (as reported in that decennial census), a State with a fatality rate during 2002 on Interstate highways that is greater than one fatality for each 100,000,000 vehicle miles traveled on Interstate highways, or a State with an indexed, State motor fuels excise tax rate higher than 150 percent of the Federal motor fuels excise tax rate as of the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the greater of
(i) the applicable percentage under subparagraph (A); or
(ii) the average percentage of the States share of total apportionments for the period of fiscal years 1998 through 2003 for the programs specified in paragraph (2).
(2) Specific programs.— 
The programs referred to in paragraph (1)(B)(ii) are (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU)
(A) the Interstate maintenance program under section 119;
(B) the national highway system program under section 103;
(C) the highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program under section 144;
(D) the surface transportation program under section 133;
(E) the recreational trails program under section 206;
(F) the high priority projects program under section 117;
(G) the minimum guarantee provided under this section;
(H) revenue aligned budget authority amounts provided under section 110;
(I) the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program under section 149;
(J) the Appalachian development highway system program under subtitle IV of title 40; and
(K) metropolitan planning programs under section 104 (f).
(c) Special Rules.— 

(1) Minimum combined allocation.— 
For each fiscal year, before making the allocations under subsection (a)(1), the Secretary shall allocate among the States amounts sufficient to ensure that no State receives a combined total of amounts allocated under subsection (a)(1), apportionments for the programs specified in subsection (a)(2), and amounts allocated under this subsection, that is less than the following percentages of the average for fiscal years 1998 through 2003 of the annual apportionments for the State for all programs specified in subsection (b)(2):
(A) For fiscal year 2005, 117 percent.
(B) For fiscal year 2006, 118 percent.
(C) For fiscal year 2007, 119 percent.
(D) For fiscal year 2008, 120 percent.
(E) For fiscal year 2009, 121 percent.
(2) No negative adjustment.— 
No negative adjustment shall be made under subsection (a)(1) to the apportionment of any State.
(d) Treatment of Funds.— 

(1) Programmatic distribution.— 
The Secretary shall apportion the amounts made available under this section that exceed $2,639,000,000 so that the amount apportioned to each State under this paragraph for each program referred to in subparagraphs (A) through (F) of subsection (a)(2) is equal to the amount determined by multiplying the amount to be apportioned under this paragraph by the ratio that
(A) the amount of funds apportioned to each State for each program referred to in subparagraphs (A) through (F) of subsection (a)(2) for a fiscal year; bears to
(B) the total amount of funds apportioned to such State for all such programs for such fiscal year.
(2) Remaining distribution.— 
The Secretary shall administer the remainder of funds made available under this section to the States in accordance with section 104 (b)(3), except that paragraphs (1) through (3) of section 133 (d) shall not apply to amounts administered pursuant to this paragraph.
(e) Metro Planning Set Aside.— 
Notwithstanding section 104 (f), no set aside provided for under that section shall apply to funds allocated under this section.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) such sums as are necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009.

23 USC 106 - Project approval and oversight

(a) In General.— 

(1) Submission of plans, specifications, and estimates.— 
Except as otherwise provided in this section, each State transportation department shall submit to the Secretary for approval such plans, specifications, and estimates for each proposed project as the Secretary may require.
(2) Project agreement.— 
The Secretary shall act on the plans, specifications, and estimates as soon as practicable after the date of their submission and shall enter into a formal project agreement with the State transportation department formalizing the conditions of the project approval.
(3) Contractual obligation.— 
The execution of the project agreement shall be deemed a contractual obligation of the Federal Government for the payment of the Federal share of the cost of the project.
(4) Guidance.— 
In taking action under this subsection, the Secretary shall be guided by section 109.
(b) Project Agreement.— 

(1) Provision of state funds.— 
The project agreement shall make provision for State funds required to pay the States non-Federal share of the cost of construction of the project and to pay for maintenance of the project after completion of construction.
(2) Representations of state.— 
If a part of the project is to be constructed at the expense of, or in cooperation with, political subdivisions of the State, the Secretary may rely on representations made by the State transportation department with respect to the arrangements or agreements made by the State transportation department and appropriate local officials for ensuring that the non-Federal contribution will be provided under paragraph (1).
(c) Assumption by States of Responsibilities of the Secretary.— 

(1) Non-interstate nhs projects.— 
For projects under this title that are on the National Highway System but not on the Interstate System, the State may assume the responsibilities of the Secretary under this title for design, plans, specifications, estimates, contract awards, and inspections of projects unless the State or the Secretary determines that such assumption is not appropriate.
(2) Non-nhs projects.— 
For projects under this title that are not on the National Highway System, the State shall assume the responsibilities of the Secretary under this title for design, plans, specifications, estimates, contract awards, and inspection of projects, unless the State determines that such assumption is not appropriate.
(3) Agreement.— 
The Secretary and the State shall enter into an agreement relating to the extent to which the State assumes the responsibilities of the Secretary under this subsection.
(4) Limitation on authority of secretary.— 
The Secretary may not assume any greater responsibility than the Secretary is permitted under this title on September 30, 1997, except upon agreement by the Secretary and the State.
(d) Responsibilities of the Secretary.— 
Nothing in this section, section 133, or section 149 shall affect or discharge any responsibility or obligation of the Secretary under
(1) section 113 or 114; or
(2) any Federal law other than this title (including section 5333 of title 49).
(e) Value Engineering Analysis.— 

(1) Definition of value engineering analysis.— 

(A) In general.— 
In this subsection, the term value engineering analysis means a systematic process of review and analysis of a project, during the concept and design phases, by a multidisciplined team of persons not involved in the project, that is conducted to provide recommendations such as those described in subparagraph (B) for
(i) providing the needed functions safely, reliably, and at the lowest overall cost;
(ii) improving the value and quality of the project; and
(iii) reducing the time to complete the project.
(B) Inclusions.— 
The recommendations referred to in subparagraph (A) include, with respect to a project
(i) combining or eliminating otherwise inefficient use of costly parts of the original proposed design for the project; and
(ii) completely redesigning the project using different technologies, materials, or methods so as to accomplish the original purpose of the project.
(2) Analysis.— 
The State shall provide a value engineering analysis or other cost-reduction analysis for
(A) each project on the Federal-aid system with an estimated total cost of $25,000,000 or more;
(B) a bridge project with an estimated total cost of $20,000,000 or more; and
(C) any other project the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(3) Major projects.— 
The Secretary may require more than 1 analysis described in paragraph (2) for a major project described in subsection (h).
(4) Requirements.— 
Analyses described in paragraph (1) for a bridge project shall
(A) include bridge substructure requirements based on construction material; and
(B) be evaluated
(i) on engineering and economic bases, taking into consideration acceptable designs for bridges; and
(ii) using an analysis of life-cycle costs and duration of project construction.
(f) Life-Cycle Cost Analysis.— 

(1) Use of life-cycle cost analysis.— 
The Secretary shall develop recommendations for the States to conduct life-cycle cost analyses. The recommendations shall be based on the principles contained in section 2 of Executive Order No. 12893 and shall be developed in consultation with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. The Secretary shall not require a State to conduct a life-cycle cost analysis for any project as a result of the recommendations required under this subsection.
(2) Life-cycle cost analysis defined.— 
In this subsection, the term life-cycle cost analysis means a process for evaluating the total economic worth of a usable project segment by analyzing initial costs and discounted future costs, such as maintenance, user costs, reconstruction, rehabilitation, restoring, and resurfacing costs, over the life of the project segment.
(g) Oversight Program.— 

(1) Establishment.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish an oversight program to monitor the effective and efficient use of funds authorized to carry out this title.
(B) Minimum requirement.— 
At a minimum, the program shall be responsive to all areas relating to financial integrity and project delivery.
(2) Financial integrity.— 

(A) Financial management systems.— 
The Secretary shall perform annual reviews that address elements of the State transportation departments financial management systems that affect projects approved under subsection (a).
(B) Project costs.— 
The Secretary shall develop minimum standards for estimating project costs and shall periodically evaluate the practices of States for estimating project costs, awarding contracts, and reducing project costs.
(3) Project delivery.— 
The Secretary shall perform annual reviews that address elements of the project delivery system of a State, which elements include one or more activities that are involved in the life cycle of a project from conception to completion of the project.
(4) Responsibility of the states.— 

(A) In general.— 
The States shall be responsible for determining that subrecipients of Federal funds under this title have
(i) adequate project delivery systems for projects approved under this section; and
(ii) sufficient accounting controls to properly manage such Federal funds.
(B) Periodic review.— 
The Secretary shall periodically review the monitoring of subrecipients by the States.
(5) Specific oversight responsibilities.— 

(A) Effect of section.— 
Nothing in this section shall affect or discharge any oversight responsibility of the Secretary specifically provided for under this title or other Federal law.
(B) Appalachian development highways.— 
The Secretary shall retain full oversight responsibilities for the design and construction of all Appalachian development highways under section 14501 of title 40.
(h) Major Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a recipient of Federal financial assistance for a project under this title with an estimated total cost of $500,000,000 or more, and recipients for such other projects as may be identified by the Secretary, shall submit to the Secretary for each project
(A) a project management plan; and
(B) an annual financial plan.
(2) Project management plan.— 
A project management plan shall document
(A) the procedures and processes that are in effect to provide timely information to the project decisionmakers to effectively manage the scope, costs, schedules, and quality of, and the Federal requirements applicable to, the project; and
(B) the role of the agency leadership and management team in the delivery of the project.
(3) Financial plan.— 
A financial plan shall
(A) be based on detailed estimates of the cost to complete the project; and
(B) provide for the annual submission of updates to the Secretary that are based on reasonable assumptions, as determined by the Secretary, of future increases in the cost to complete the project.
(i) Other Projects.— 
A recipient of Federal financial assistance for a project under this title with an estimated total cost of $100,000,000 or more that is not covered by subsection (h) shall prepare an annual financial plan. Annual financial plans prepared under this subsection shall be made available to the Secretary for review upon the request of the Secretary.

23 USC 107 - Acquisition of rights-of-way - Interstate System

(a) In any case in which the Secretary is requested by a State to acquire lands or interests in lands (including within the term interests in lands, the control of access thereto from adjoining lands) required by such State for right-of-way or other purposes in connection with the prosecution of any project for the construction, reconstruction, or improvement of any section of the Interstate System, the Secretary is authorized, in the name of the United States and prior to the approval of title by the Attorney General, to acquire, enter upon, and take possession of such lands or interests in lands by purchase, donation, condemnation, or otherwise in accordance with the laws of the United States (including sections 3114 to 3116 and 3118 of title 40), if
(1) the Secretary has determined either that the State is unable to acquire necessary lands or interests in lands, or is unable to acquire such lands or interests in lands with sufficient promptness; and
(2) the State has agreed with the Secretary to pay, at such time as may be specified by the Secretary an amount equal to 10 per centum of the costs incurred by the Secretary, in acquiring such lands or interests in lands, or such lesser percentage which represents the States pro rata share of project costs as determined in accordance with subsection (c) 1 of section 120 of this title. The authority granted by this section shall also apply to lands and interests in lands received as grants of land from the United States and owned or held by railroads or other corporations.
(b) The costs incurred by the Secretary in acquiring any such lands or interests in lands may include the cost of examination and abstract of title, certificate of title, advertising, and any fees incidental to such acquisition. All costs incurred by the Secretary in connection with the acquisition of any such lands or interests in lands shall be paid from the funds for construction, reconstruction, or improvement of the Interstate System apportioned to the State upon the request of which such lands or interests in lands are acquired, and any sums paid to the Secretary by such State as its share of the costs of acquisition of such lands or interests in lands shall be deposited in the Treasury to the credit of the appropriation for Federal-aid highways and shall be credited to the amount apportioned to such State as its apportionment of funds for construction, reconstruction, or improvement of the Interstate System, or shall be deducted from other moneys due the State for reimbursement from funds authorized to be appropriated under section 108(b) of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956.
(c) The Secretary is further authorized and directed by proper deed, executed in the name of the United States, to convey any such lands or interests in lands acquired in any State under the provisions of this section, except the outside five feet of any such right-of-way in any State which does not provide control of access, to the State transportation department of such State or such political subdivision thereof as its laws may provide, upon such terms and conditions as to such lands or interests in lands as may be agreed upon by the Secretary and the State transportation department or political subdivisions to which the conveyance is to be made. Whenever the State makes provision for control of access satisfactory to the Secretary, the outside five feet then shall be conveyed to the State by the Secretary, as herein provided.
(d) Whenever rights-of-way, including control of access, on the Interstate System are required over lands or interests in lands owned by the United States, the Secretary may make such arrangements with the agency having jurisdiction over such lands as may be necessary to give the State or other person constructing the projects on such lands adequate rights-of-way and control of access thereto from adjoining lands, and any such agency is directed to cooperate with the Secretary in this connection.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 108 - Advance acquisition of real property

(a) In General.— 

(1) Availability of funds.— 
For the purpose of facilitating the timely and economical acquisition of real property for a transportation improvement eligible for funding under this title, the Secretary, upon the request of a State, may make available, for the acquisition of real property, such funds apportioned to the State as may be expended on the transportation improvement, under such rules and regulations as the Secretary may issue.
(2) Construction.— 
The agreement between the Secretary and the State for the reimbursement of the cost of the real property shall provide for the actual construction of the transportation improvement within a period not to exceed 20 years following the fiscal year for which the request is made, unless the Secretary determines that a longer period is reasonable.
(b) Federal participation in the cost of rights-of-way acquired under subsection (a) of this section shall not exceed the Federal pro rata share applicable to the class of funds from which Federal reimbursement is made.
(c) Early Acquisition of Rights-of-Way.— 

(1) General rule.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), funds apportioned to a State under this title may be used to participate in the payment of
(A) costs incurred by the State for acquisition of rights-of-way, acquired in advance of any Federal approval or authorization, if the rights-of-way are subsequently incorporated into a project eligible for surface transportation program funds; and
(B) costs incurred by the State for the acquisition of land necessary to preserve environmental and scenic values.
(2) Terms and conditions.— 
The Federal share payable of the costs described in paragraph (1) shall be eligible for reimbursement out of funds apportioned to a State under this title when the rights-of-way acquired are incorporated into a project eligible for surface transportation program funds, if the State demonstrates to the Secretary and the Secretary finds that
(A) any land acquired, and relocation assistance provided, complied with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970;
(B) the requirements of title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 have been complied with;
(C) the State has a mandatory comprehensive and coordinated land use, environment, and transportation planning process under State law and the acquisition is certified by the Governor as consistent with the State plans before the acquisition;
(D) the acquisition is determined in advance by the Governor to be consistent with the State transportation planning process pursuant to section 135 of this title;
(E) the alternative for which the right-of-way is acquired is selected by the State pursuant to regulations to be issued by the Secretary which provide for the consideration of the environmental impacts of various alternatives;
(F) before the time that the cost incurred by a State is approved for Federal participation, environmental compliance pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act has been completed for the project for which the right-of-way was acquired by the State, and the acquisition has been approved by the Secretary under this Act,[1] and in compliance with section 303 of title 49, section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, and all other applicable environmental laws shall be identified by the Secretary in regulations; and
(G) before the time that the cost incurred by a State is approved for Federal participation, both the Secretary and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency have concurred that the property acquired in advance of Federal approval or authorization did not influence the environmental assessment of the project, the decision relative to the need to construct the project, or the selection of the project design or location.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 109 - Standards

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall ensure that the plans and specifications for each proposed highway project under this chapter provide for a facility that will
(1) adequately serve the existing and planned future traffic of the highway in a manner that is conducive to safety, durability, and economy of maintenance; and
(2) be designed and constructed in accordance with criteria best suited to accomplish the objectives described in paragraph (1) and to conform to the particular needs of each locality.
(b) The geometric and construction standards to be adopted for the Interstate System shall be those approved by the Secretary in cooperation with the State transportation departments. Such standards, as applied to each actual construction project, shall be adequate to enable such project to accommodate the types and volumes of traffic anticipated for such project for the twenty-year period commencing on the date of approval by the Secretary, under section 106 of this title, of the plans, specifications, and estimates for actual construction of such project. Such standards shall in all cases provide for at least four lanes of traffic. The right-of-way width of the Interstate System shall be adequate to permit construction of projects on the Interstate System to such standards. The Secretary shall apply such standards uniformly throughout all the States.
(c) Design Criteria for National Highway System.— 

(1) In general.— 
A design for new construction, reconstruction, resurfacing (except for maintenance resurfacing), restoration, or rehabilitation of a highway on the National Highway System (other than a highway also on the Interstate System) may take into account, in addition to the criteria described in subsection (a)
(A) the constructed and natural environment of the area;
(B) the environmental, scenic, aesthetic, historic, community, and preservation impacts of the activity; and
(C) access for other modes of transportation.
(2) Development of criteria.— 
The Secretary, in cooperation with State transportation departments, may develop criteria to implement paragraph (1). In developing criteria under this paragraph, the Secretary shall consider
(A) the results of the committee process of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials as used in adopting and publishing A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, including comments submitted by interested parties as part of such process;
(B) the publication entitled Flexibility in Highway Design of the Federal Highway Administration;
(C) Eight Characteristics of Process to Yield Excellence and the Seven Qualities of Excellence in Transportation Design developed by the conference held during 1998 entitled Thinking Beyond the Pavement National Workshop on Integrating Highway Development with Communities and the Environment while Maintaining Safety and Performance; and
(D) any other material that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(d) On any highway project in which Federal funds hereafter participate, or on any such project constructed since December 20, 1944, the location, form and character of informational, regulatory and warning signs, curb and pavement or other markings, and traffic signals installed or placed by any public authority or other agency, shall be subject to the approval of the State transportation department with the concurrence of the Secretary, who is directed to concur only in such installations as will promote the safe and efficient utilization of the highways.
(e) Installation of Safety Devices.— 

(1) Highway and railroad grade crossings and drawbridges.— 
No funds shall be approved for expenditure on any Federal-aid highway, or highway affected under chapter 2 of this title, unless proper safety protective devices complying with safety standards determined by the Secretary at that time as being adequate shall be installed or be in operation at any highway and railroad grade crossing or drawbridge on that portion of the highway with respect to which such expenditures are to be made.
(2) Temporary traffic control devices.— 
No funds shall be approved for expenditure on any Federal-aid highway, or highway affected under chapter 2, unless proper temporary traffic control devices to improve safety in work zones will be installed and maintained during construction, utility, and maintenance operations on that portion of the highway with respect to which such expenditures are to be made. Installation and maintenance of the devices shall be in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
(f) The Secretary shall not, as a condition precedent to his approval under section 106 of this title, require any State to acquire title to, or control of, any marginal land along the proposed highway in addition to that reasonably necessary for road surfaces, median strips, bikeways, gutters, ditches, and side slopes, and of sufficient width to provide service roads for adjacent property to permit safe access at controlled locations in order to expedite traffic, promote safety, and minimize roadside parking.
(g) Not later than January 30, 1971, the Secretary shall issue guidelines for minimizing possible soil erosion from highway construction. Such guidelines shall apply to all proposed projects with respect to which plans, specifications, and estimates are approved by the Secretary after the issuance of such guidelines.
(h) Not later than July 1, 1972, the Secretary, after consultation with appropriate Federal and State officials, shall submit to Congress, and not later than 90 days after such submission, promulgate guidelines designed to assure that possible adverse economic, social, and environmental effects relating to any proposed project on any Federal-aid system have been fully considered in developing such project, and that the final decisions on the project are made in the best overall public interest, taking into consideration the need for fast, safe and efficient transportation, public services, and the costs of eliminating or minimizing such adverse effects and the following:
(1) air, noise, and water pollution;
(2) destruction or disruption of man-made and natural resources, aesthetic values, community cohesion and the availability of public facilities and services;
(3) adverse employment effects, and tax and property value losses;
(4) injurious displacement of people, businesses and farms; and
(5) disruption of desirable community and regional growth.

Such guidelines shall apply to all proposed projects with respect to which plans, specifications, and estimates are approved by the Secretary after the issuance of such guidelines.

(i) The Secretary, after consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local officials, shall develop and promulgate standards for highway noise levels compatible with different land uses and after July 1, 1972, shall not approve plans and specifications for any proposed project on any Federal-aid system for which location approval has not yet been secured unless he determines that such plans and specifications include adequate measures to implement the appropriate noise level standards. The Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and appropriate Federal, State, and local officials, may promulgate standards for the control of highway noise levels for highways on any Federal-aid system for which project approval has been secured prior to July 1, 1972. The Secretary may approve any project on a Federal-aid system to which noise-level standards are made applicable under the preceding sentence for the purpose of carrying out such standards. Such project may include, but is not limited to, the acquisition of additional rights-of-way, the construction of physical barriers, and landscaping. Sums apportioned for the Federal-aid system on which such project will be located shall be available to finance the Federal share of such project. Such project shall be deemed a highway project for all purposes of this title.
(j) The Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall develop and promulgate guidelines to assure that highways constructed pursuant to this title are consistent with any approved plan for
(1) the implementation of a national ambient air quality standard for each pollutant for which an area is designated as a nonattainment area under section 107(d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7407 (d)); or
(2) the maintenance of a national ambient air quality standard in an area that was designated as a nonattainment area but that was later redesignated by the Administrator as an attainment area for the standard and that is required to develop a maintenance plan under section 175A of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7505a).
(k) The Secretary shall not approve any project involving approaches to a bridge under this title, if such project and bridge will significantly affect the traffic volume and the highway system of a contiguous State without first taking into full consideration the views of that State.
(l) 
(1) In determining whether any right-of-way on any Federal-aid highway should be used for accommodating any utility facility, the Secretary shall
(A) first ascertain the effect such use will have on highway and traffic safety, since in no case shall any use be authorized or otherwise permitted, under this or any other provision of law, which would adversely affect safety;
(B) evaluate the direct and indirect environmental and economic effects of any loss of productive agricultural land or any impairment of the productivity of any agricultural land which would result from the disapproval of the use of such right-of-way for the accommodation of such utility facility; and
(C) consider such environmental and economic effects together with any interference with or impairment of the use of the highway in such right-of-way which would result from the use of such right-of-way for the accommodation of such utility facility.
(2) For the purpose of this subsection
(A) the term utility facility means any privately, publicly, or cooperatively owned line, facility, or system for producing, transmitting, or distributing communications, power, electricity, light, heat, gas, oil, crude products, water, steam, waste, storm water not connected with highway drainage, or any other similar commodity, including any fire or police signal system or street lighting system, which directly or indirectly serves the public; and
(B) the term right-of-way means any real property, or interest therein, acquired, dedicated, or reserved for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a highway.
(m) Protection of Nonmotorized Transportation Traffic.— 
The Secretary shall not approve any project or take any regulatory action under this title that will result in the severance of an existing major route or have significant adverse impact on the safety for nonmotorized transportation traffic and light motorcycles, unless such project or regulatory action provides for a reasonable alternate route or such a route exists.
(n) It is the intent of Congress that any project for resurfacing, restoring, or rehabilitating any highway, other than a highway access to which is fully controlled, in which Federal funds participate shall be constructed in accordance with standards to preserve and extend the service life of highways and enhance highway safety.
(o) Compliance With State Laws for Non-NHS Projects.— 
Projects (other than highway projects on the National Highway System) shall be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with State laws, regulations, directives, safety standards, design standards, and construction standards.
(p) Scenic and Historic Values.— 
Notwithstanding subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary may approve a project for the National Highway System if the project is designed to
(1) allow for the preservation of environmental, scenic, or historic values;
(2) ensure safe use of the facility; and
(3) comply with subsection (a).
(q) Phase Construction.— 
Safety considerations for a project under this title may be met by phase construction consistent with the operative safety management system established in accordance with section 303 or in accordance with a statewide transportation improvement program approved by the Secretary.

23 USC 110 - Revenue aligned budget authority

(a) In General.— 

(1) Allocation.— 
On October 15 of fiscal year 2007 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Secretary shall allocate for such fiscal year and the succeeding fiscal year an amount of funds equal to the amount determined pursuant to section 251(b)(1)(B)(ii)(I)(cc) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2 U.S.C 901(b)(2)(B)(ii)(I)(cc))[1] if the amount determined pursuant to such section for such fiscal year is greater than zero.
(2) Reduction.— 
If the amount determined pursuant to section 251(b)(1)(B)(ii)(I)(cc) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (2 U.S.C 901(b)(2)(B)(ii)(I)(cc))[1] for fiscal year 2007 or any fiscal year thereafter is less than zero, the Secretary on October 15 of such fiscal year shall reduce proportionately the amount of sums authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for such fiscal year and the succeeding fiscal year to carry out each of the Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs (other than emergency relief) and the motor carrier safety grant program by an aggregate amount equal to the amount determined pursuant to such section. No reduction under this paragraph and no reduction under section 1102 (h), and no reduction under title VIII or any amendment made by title VIII, of the SAFETEALU shall be made for a fiscal year if, as of October 1 of such fiscal year the balance in the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) exceeds $6,000,000,000.
(b) General Distribution.— 
The Secretary shall
(1) determine the ratio that
(A) the sums authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for each of the Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs (other than the equity bonus program) and the motor carrier safety grant program for which funds are allocated from such Trust Fund by the Secretary under this title, the SAFETEALU, and subchapter I of chapter 311 of title 49 for a fiscal year, bears to
(B) the total of all sums authorized to be appropriated from such Trust Fund for such programs for such fiscal year;
(2) multiply the ratio determined under paragraph (1) by the total amount of funds to be allocated under subsection (a)(1) for such fiscal year;
(3) allocate the amount determined under paragraph (2) among such programs in the ratio that
(A) the sums authorized to be appropriated from such Trust Fund for each of such programs for such fiscal year, bears to
(B) the sums authorized to be appropriated from such Trust Fund for all such programs for such fiscal year; and
(4) allocate the remainder of the funds to be allocated under subsection (a)(1) for such fiscal year to the States in the ratio that
(A) the total of all funds authorized to be appropriated from such Trust Fund for Federal-aid highway and highway safety construction programs that are apportioned to each State for such fiscal year but for this section, bears to
(B) the total of all funds authorized to be appropriated from such Trust Fund for such programs that are apportioned to all States for such fiscal year but for this section.
(c) State Programmatic Distribution.— 
Of the funds to be apportioned to each State under subsection (b)(4) for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall ensure that such funds are apportioned for the Interstate and National Highway System program, the bridge program, the surface transportation program, the highway safety improvement program, and the congestion mitigation air quality improvement program in the same ratio that each State is apportioned funds for such programs for such fiscal year but for this section.
(d) Authorization of Appropriations.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1998.
(e) After making any calculation necessary to implement this section for fiscal year 2001, the amount available under paragraph (a)(1) shall be increased by $128,752,000. The amounts added under this subsection shall not apply to any calculation in any other fiscal year.
(f) For fiscal year 2001, prior to making any distribution under this section, $22,029,000 of the allocation under paragraph (a)(1) shall be available only for each program authorized under chapter 53 of title 49, United States Code, and title III of Public Law 105178, in proportion to each such programs share of the total authorization in section 5338 (other than 5338(h)) of such title and sections 3037 and 3038 of such Public Law, under the terms and conditions of chapter 53 of such title.
(g) For fiscal year 2001, prior to making any distribution under this section, $399,000 of the allocation under paragraph (a)(1) shall be available only for motor carrier safety programs under sections 31104 and 31107 of title 49, United States Code; $274,000 for NHTSA operations and research under section 403 of title 23, United States Code; and $787,000 for NHTSA highway traffic safety grants under chapter 4 of title 23, United States Code.
[1] So in original. Probably should be “(2 U.S.C. 901 (b)(1)(B)(ii)(I)(cc))”.

23 USC 111 - Agreements relating to use of and access to rights-of-way - Interstate System

(a) In General.— 
All agreements between the Secretary and the State transportation department for the construction of projects on the Interstate System shall contain a clause providing that the State will not add any points of access to, or exit from, the project in addition to those approved by the Secretary in the plans for such project, without the prior approval of the Secretary. Such agreements shall also contain a clause providing that the State will not permit automotive service stations or other commercial establishments for serving motor vehicle users to be constructed or located on the rights-of-way of the Interstate System. Such agreements may, however, authorize a State or political subdivision thereof to use or permit the use of the airspace above and below the established grade line of the highway pavement for such purposes as will not impair the full use and safety of the highway, as will not require or permit vehicular access to such space directly from such established grade line of the highway, or otherwise interfere in any way with the free flow of traffic on the Interstate System. Nothing in this section, or in any agreement entered into under this section, shall require the discontinuance, obstruction, or removal of any establishment for serving motor vehicle users on any highway which has been, or is hereafter, designated as a highway or route on the Interstate System
(1)  if such establishment
(A)  was in existence before January 1, 1960,
(B)  is owned by a State, and
(C)  is operated through concessionaries or otherwise, and
(2)  if all access to, and exits from, such establishment conform to the standards established for such a highway under this title.
(b) Vending Machines.— 
Notwithstanding subsection (a), any State may permit the placement of vending machines in rest and recreation areas, and in safety rest areas, constructed or located on rights-of-way of the Interstate System in such State. Such vending machines may only dispense such food, drink, and other articles as the State transportation department determines are appropriate and desirable. Such vending machines may only be operated by the State. In permitting the placement of vending machines, the State shall give priority to vending machines which are operated through the State licensing agency designated pursuant to section 2(a)(5) of the Act of June 20, 1936, commonly known as the Randolph-Sheppard Act (20 U.S.C. 107a (a)(5)). The costs of installation, operation, and maintenance of vending machines shall not be eligible for Federal assistance under this title.
(c) Motorist Call Boxes.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding subsection (a), a State may permit the placement of motorist call boxes on rights-of-way of the National Highway System. Such motorist call boxes may include the identification and sponsorship logos of such call boxes.
(2) Sponsorship logos.— 

(A) Approval by state and local agencies.— 
All call box installations displaying sponsorship logos under this subsection shall be approved by the highway agencies having jurisdiction of the highway on which they are located.
(B) Size on box.— 
A sponsorship logo may be placed on the call box in a dimension not to exceed the size of the call box or a total dimension in excess of 12 inches by 18 inches.
(C) Size on identification sign.— 
Sponsorship logos in a dimension not to exceed 12 inches by 30 inches may be displayed on a call box identification sign affixed to the call box post.
(D) Spacing of signs.— 
Sponsorship logos affixed to an identification sign on a call box post may be located on the rights-of-way at intervals not more frequently than 1 per every 5 miles.
(E) Distribution throughout state.— 
Within a State, at least 20 percent of the call boxes displaying sponsorship logos shall be located on highways outside of urbanized areas with a population greater than 50,000.
(3) Nonsafety hazards.— 
The call boxes and their location, posts, foundations, and mountings shall be consistent with requirements of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices or any requirements deemed necessary by the Secretary to assure that the call boxes shall not be a safety hazard to motorists.
(d) Idling Reduction Facilities in Interstate Rights-of-Way.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding subsection (a), a State may
(A) permit electrification or other idling reduction facilities and equipment, for use by motor vehicles used for commercial purposes, to be placed in rest and recreation areas, and in safety rest areas, constructed or located on rights-of-way of the Interstate System in the State, so long as those idling reduction measures do not reduce the existing number of designated truck parking spaces at any given rest or recreation area; and
(B) charge a fee, or permit the charging of a fee, for the use of those parking spaces actively providing power to a truck to reduce idling.
(2) Purpose.— 
The exclusive purpose of the facilities described in paragraph (1) (or similar technologies) shall be to enable operators of motor vehicles used for commercial purposes
(A) to reduce idling of a truck while parked in the rest or recreation area; and
(B) to use installed or other equipment specifically designed to reduce idling of a truck, or provide alternative power for supporting driver comfort, while parked.

23 USC 112 - Letting of contracts

(a) In all cases where the construction is to be performed by the State transportation department or under its supervision, a request for submission of bids shall be made by advertisement unless some other method is approved by the Secretary. The Secretary shall require such plans and specifications and such methods of bidding as shall be effective in securing competition.
(b) Bidding Requirements.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), construction of each project, subject to the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, shall be performed by contract awarded by competitive bidding, unless the State transportation department demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that some other method is more cost effective or that an emergency exists. Contracts for the construction of each project shall be awarded only on the basis of the lowest responsive bid submitted by a bidder meeting established criteria of responsibility. No requirement or obligation shall be imposed as a condition precedent to the award of a contract to such bidder for a project, or to the Secretarys concurrence in the award of a contract to such bidder, unless such requirement or obligation is otherwise lawful and is specifically set forth in the advertised specifications.
(2) Contracting for engineering and design services.— 

(A) General rule.— 
Subject to paragraph (3), each contract for program management, construction management, feasibility studies, preliminary engineering, design, engineering, surveying, mapping, or architectural related services with respect to a project subject to the provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall be awarded in the same manner as a contract for architectural and engineering services is negotiated under chapter 11 of title 40.
(B) Performance and audits.— 
Any contract or subcontract awarded in accordance with subparagraph (A), whether funded in whole or in part with Federal-aid highway funds, shall be performed and audited in compliance with cost principles contained in the Federal Acquisition Regulations of part 31 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations.
(C) Indirect cost rates.— 
Instead of performing its own audits, a recipient of funds under a contract or subcontract awarded in accordance with subparagraph (A) shall accept indirect cost rates established in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulations for 1-year applicable accounting periods by a cognizant Federal or State government agency, if such rates are not currently under dispute.
(D) Application of rates.— 
Once a firms indirect cost rates are accepted under this paragraph, the recipient of the funds shall apply such rates for the purposes of contract estimation, negotiation, administration, reporting, and contract payment and shall not be limited by administrative or de facto ceilings of any kind.
(E) Prenotification; confidentiality of data.— 
A recipient of funds requesting or using the cost and rate data described in subparagraph (D) shall notify any affected firm before such request or use. Such data shall be confidential and shall not be accessible or provided, in whole or in part, to another firm or to any government agency which is not part of the group of agencies sharing cost data under this paragraph, except by written permission of the audited firm. If prohibited by law, such cost and rate data shall not be disclosed under any circumstances.
(F) [1] Subparagraphs (B), (C), (D) and (E) herein shall not apply to the States of West Virginia or Minnesota.
(3) Design-build contracting.— 

(A) In general.— 
A State transportation department or local transportation agency may award a design-build contract for a qualified project described in subparagraph (C) using any procurement process permitted by applicable State and local law.
(B) Limitation on final design.— 
Final design under a design-build contract referred to in subparagraph (A) shall not commence before compliance with section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332).
(C) Qualified projects.— 
A qualified project referred to in subparagraph (A) is a project under this chapter (including intermodal projects) for which the Secretary has approved the use of design-build contracting under criteria specified in regulations issued by the Secretary.
(D) Regulatory process.— 
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary shall issue revised regulations under section 1307(c) of the Transportation Equity Act for 21st Century (23 U.S.C. 112 note ; 112 Stat. 230) that
(i) do not preclude a State transportation department or local transportation agency, prior to compliance with section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332), from
(I) issuing requests for proposals;
(II) proceeding with awards of design-build contracts; or
(III) issuing notices to proceed with preliminary design work under design-build contracts;
(ii) require that the State transportation department or local transportation agency receive concurrence from the Secretary before carrying out an activity under clause (i); and
(iii) preclude the design-build contractor from proceeding with final design or construction of any permanent improvement prior to completion of the process under such section 102.
(E) Design-build contract defined.— 
In this paragraph, the term design-build contract means an agreement that provides for design and construction of a project by a contractor, regardless of whether the agreement is in the form of a design-build contract, a franchise agreement, or any other form of contract approved by the Secretary.
(c) The Secretary shall require as a condition precedent to his approval of each contract awarded by competitive bidding pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, and subject to the provisions of this section, a sworn statement, executed by, or on behalf of, the person, firm, association, or corporation to whom such contract is to be awarded, certifying that such person, firm, association, or corporation has not, either directly or indirectly, entered into any agreement, participated in any collusion, or otherwise taken any action in restraint of free competitive bidding in connection with such contract.
(d) No contract awarded by competitive bidding pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, and subject to the provisions of this section, shall be entered into by any State transportation department or local subdivision of the State without compliance with the provisions of this section, and without the prior concurrence of the Secretary in the award thereof.
(e) Standardized Contract Clause Concerning Site Conditions.— 

(1) General rule.— 
The Secretary shall issue regulations establishing and requiring, for inclusion in each contract entered into with respect to any project approved under section 106 of this title a contract clause, developed in accordance with guidelines established by the Secretary, which equitably addresses each of the following:
(A) Site conditions.
(B) Suspensions of work ordered by the State (other than a suspension of work caused by the fault of the contractor or by weather).
(C) Material changes in the scope of work specified in the contract.

The guidelines established by the Secretary shall not require arbitration.

(2) Limitation on applicability.— 

(A) State law.— 
Paragraph (1) shall apply in a State except to the extent that such State adopts or has adopted by statute a formal procedure for the development of a contract clause described in paragraph (1) or adopts or has adopted a statute which does not permit inclusion of such a contract clause.
(B) Design-build contracts.— 
Paragraph (1) shall not apply to any design-build contract approved under subsection (b)(3).
(f) Selection Process.— 
A State may procure, under a single contract, the services of a consultant to prepare any environmental impact assessments or analyses required for a project, including environmental impact statements, as well as subsequent engineering and design work on the project if the State conducts a review that assesses the objectivity of the environmental assessment, environmental analysis, or environmental impact statement prior to its submission to the Secretary.
(g) Temporary Traffic Control Devices.— 

(1) Issuance of regulations.— 
The Secretary, after consultation with appropriate Federal and State officials, shall issue regulations establishing the conditions for the appropriate use of, and expenditure of funds for, uniformed law enforcement officers, positive protective measures between workers and motorized traffic, and installation and maintenance of temporary traffic control devices during construction, utility, and maintenance operations.
(2) Effects of regulations.— 
Based on regulations issued under paragraph (1), a State shall
(A) develop separate pay items for the use of uniformed law enforcement officers, positive protective measures between workers and motorized traffic, and installation and maintenance of temporary traffic control devices during construction, utility, and maintenance operations; and
(B) incorporate such pay items into contract provisions to be included in each contract entered into by the State with respect to a highway project to ensure compliance with section 109 (e)(2).
(3) Limitation.— 
Nothing in the regulations shall prohibit a State from implementing standards that are more stringent than those required under the regulations.
(4) Positive protective measures defined.— 
In this subsection, the term positive protective measures means temporary traffic barriers, crash cushions, and other strategies to avoid traffic accidents in work zones, including full road closures.
[1] So in original.

23 USC 113 - Prevailing rate of wage

(a) The Secretary shall take such action as may be necessary to insure that all laborers and mechanics employed by contractors or subcontractors on the construction work performed on highway projects on the Federal-aid highways authorized under the highway laws providing for the expenditure of Federal funds upon the Federal-aid systems, shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on the same type of work on similar construction in the immediate locality as determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with sections 3141–3144, 3146, and 3147 of title 40.
(b) In carrying out the duties of subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Labor shall consult with the highway department of the State in which a project on any of the Federal-aid systems is to be performed. After giving due regard to the information thus obtained, he shall make a predetermination of the minimum wages to be paid laborers and mechanics in accordance with the provisions of subsection (a) of this section which shall be set out in each project advertisement for bids and in each bid proposal form and shall be made a part of the contract covering the project.
(c) The provisions of the section shall not be applicable to employment pursuant to apprenticeship and skill training programs which have been certified by the Secretary of Transportation as promoting equal employment opportunity in connection with Federal-aid highway construction programs.

23 USC 114 - Construction

(a) Construction Work In General.— 
The construction of any Federal-aid highway or a portion of a Federal-aid highway shall be undertaken by the respective State transportation departments or under their direct supervision. The Secretary shall have the right to conduct such inspections and take such corrective action as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. The construction work and labor in each State shall be performed under the direct supervision of the State transportation department and in accordance with the laws of that State and applicable Federal laws. Construction may be begun as soon as funds are available for expenditure pursuant to subsection (a) of section 118 of this title. After July 1, 1973, the State transportation department shall not erect on any project where actual construction is in progress and visible to highway users any informational signs other than official traffic control devices conforming with standards developed by the Secretary of Transportation.
(b) Convict Labor and Convict Produced Materials.— 

(1) Limitation on convict labor.— 
Convict labor shall not be used in construction of highways or portions of highways located on a Federal-aid system unless it is labor performed by convicts who are on parole, supervised release, or probation.
(2) Limitation on convict produced materials.— 
Materials produced after July 1, 1991, by convict labor may only be used in such construction
(A) if such materials are produced by convicts who are on parole, supervised release, or probation from a prison; or
(B) if such materials are produced by convicts in a qualified prison facility and the amount of such materials produced in such facility for use in such construction during any 12-month period does not exceed the amount of such materials produced in such facility for use in such construction during the 12-month period ending July 1, 1987.
(3) Qualified prison facility defined.— 
As used in this subsection, qualified prison facility means any prison facility in which convicts, during the 12-month period ending July 1, 1987, produced materials for use in construction of highways or portions of highways located on a Federal-aid system.
(c) Construction Work in Alaska.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall ensure that a worker who is employed on a remote project for the construction of a highway or portion of a highway located on a Federal-aid system in the State of Alaska and who is not a domiciled resident of the locality shall receive meals and lodging.
(2) Lodging.— 
The lodging under paragraph (1) shall be in accordance with section 1910.142 of title 29, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to temporary labor camp requirements).
(3) Per diem.— 

(A) In general.— 
Contractors are encouraged to use commercial facilities and lodges on remote projects, however, when such facilities are not available, per diem in lieu of room and lodging may be paid on remote Federal highway projects at a basic rate of $75.00 per day or part of a day the worker is employed on the project. Where the contractor provides or furnishes room and lodging or pays a per diem, the cost of the amount shall not be considered a part of wages and shall be excluded from the calculation of wages.
(B) Secretary of labor.— 
Such per diem rate shall be adopted by the Secretary of Labor for all applicable remote Federal highway projects in Alaska.
(C) Exception.— 
Per diem shall not be allowed on any of the following remote projects for the construction of a highway or portion of a highway located on a Federal-aid system:
(i) West of Livengood on the Elliot Highway.
(ii) Mile 0 on the Dalton Highway to the North Slope of Alaska; north of Mile 20 on the Taylor Highway.
(iii) East of Chicken on the Top of the World Highway and south of Tetlin Junction to the Alaska Canadian border.
(4) Definitions.— 
In this subsection, the following definitions apply:
(A) Remote.— 
The term remote, as used with respect to a project, means that the project is 65 road miles or more from the international airport in Fairbanks, Anchorage, or Juneau, Alaska, as the case may be, or is inaccessible by road in a 2-wheel drive vehicle.
(B) Resident.— 
The term resident, as used with respect to a project, means a person living within 65 road miles of the midpoint of the project for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the award of the project.

23 USC 115 - Advance construction

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary may authorize a State to proceed with a project authorized under this title
(1) without the use of Federal funds; and
(2) in accordance with all procedures and requirements applicable to the project other than those procedures and requirements that limit the State to implementation of a project
(A) with the aid of Federal funds previously apportioned or allocated to the State; or
(B) with obligation authority previously allocated to the State.
(b) Obligation of Federal Share.— 
The Secretary, on the request of a State and execution of a project agreement, may obligate all or a portion of the Federal share of a project authorized to proceed under this section from any category of funds for which the project is eligible.
[(c) Redesignated (d).]
(d) Inclusion in Transportation Improvement Program.— 
The Secretary may approve an application for a project under this section only if the project is included in the transportation improvement program of the State developed under section 135 (f).

23 USC 116 - Maintenance

(a) It shall be the duty of the State transportation department to maintain, or cause to be maintained, any project constructed under the provisions of this chapter or constructed under the provisions of prior Acts. The States obligation to the United States to maintain any such project shall cease when it no longer constitutes a part of a Federal-aid system.
(b) In any State wherein the State transportation department is without legal authority to maintain a project constructed on the Federal-aid secondary system, or within a municipality, such transportation department shall enter into a formal agreement for its maintenance with the appropriate officials of the county or municipality in which such project is located.
(c) If at any time the Secretary shall find that any project constructed under the provisions of this chapter, or constructed under the provisions of prior Acts, is not being properly maintained, he shall call such fact to the attention of the State transportation department. If, within ninety days after receipt of such notice, such project has not been put in proper condition of maintenance, the Secretary shall withhold approval of further projects of all types in the State highway district, municipality, county, other political or administrative subdivision of the State, or the entire State in which such project is located, whichever the Secretary deems most appropriate, until such project shall have been put in proper condition of maintenance.
(d) Preventive Maintenance.— 
A preventive maintenance activity shall be eligible for Federal assistance under this title if the State demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the activity is a cost-effective means of extending the useful life of a Federal-aid highway.

23 USC 117 - High priority projects program

(a) Authorization of High Priority Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary is authorized to carry out high priority projects with funds made available to carry out the high priority projects program under this section.
(2) Availability of funds.— 

(A) For tea–21.— 
Of amounts made available to carry out this section for fiscal years 1998 through 2003, the Secretary, subject to subsection (b), shall make available to carry out each project described in section 1602 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century the amount listed for such project in such section.
(B) For safetea–lu.— 
Of amounts made available to carry out this section for fiscal years 2005 through 2009, the Secretary, subject to subsection (b), shall make available to carry out each project described in section 1702 of the SAFETEALU the amount listed for such project in such section.
(3) Availability of unallocated funds.— 
Any amounts made available to carry out such program that are not allocated for projects described in such section shall be available to the Secretary, subject to subsection (b), to carry out such other high priority projects as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(b) For TEA–21.— 
For each project to be carried out with funds made available to carry out the high priority projects program under this section for fiscal years 1998 through 2003
(1) 11 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 1998;
(2) 15 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 1999;
(3) 18 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2000;
(4) 18 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2001;
(5) 19 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2002; and
(6) 19 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2003.
(c) [1] For SAFETEALU.For each project to be carried out with funds made available to carry out the high priority projects program under this section for fiscal years 2005 through 2009
(1) 20 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2005;
(2) 20 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2006;
(3) 20 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2007;
(4) 20 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2008; and
(5) 20 percent of such amount shall be available for obligation beginning in fiscal year 2009.
(c) [1] Federal Share.The Federal share payable on account of any project carried out with funds made available to carry out this section shall be 80 percent of the total cost thereof; except that the Federal share on account of the project to be carried out under item 1419 of the table contained in section 1602 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (112 Stat. 309), relating to reconstruction of a road and causeway in Shiloh Military Park in Hardin County, Tennessee, shall be 100 percent of the total cost thereof.
(d) Delegation to States.— 
Subject to the provisions of this title, the Secretary shall delegate responsibility for carrying out a project or projects, with funds made available to carry out this section, to the State in which such project or projects are located upon request of such State.
(e) Advance Construction.— 
When a State which has been delegated responsibility for a project under this section
(1) has obligated all funds allocated under this section and section 1602 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century or section 17012 of the SAFETEALU, as the case may be, for such project; and
(2) proceeds to construct such project without the aid of Federal funds in accordance with all procedures and all requirements applicable to such project, except insofar as such procedures and requirements limit the State to the construction of projects with the aid of Federal funds previously allocated to it;

the Secretary, upon the approval of the application of a State, shall pay to the State the Federal share of the cost of construction of the project when additional funds are allocated for such project under this section and such section 1602 or 1702, as the case may be.

(f) Period of Availability.— 
Funds made available to carry out this section shall remain available until expended.
(g) Availability of Obligation Limitation.— 
Obligation authority attributable to funds made available to carry out this section shall only be available for the purposes of this section and shall remain available until obligated pursuant to section 1102(g) of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century or section 1102(g) of the SAFETEALU, as the case may be.
(h) Treatment.— 
Funds allocated to a State in accordance with this section shall be treated as amounts in addition to the amounts a State is apportioned under sections 104, 105, and 144 for programmatic purposes.
[1] So in original. Two subsecs. (c) have been enacted.
[2] So in original. Probably should be “1702”.

23 USC 118 - Availability of funds

(a) Date Available for Obligation.— 
Except as otherwise specifically provided, authorizations from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this title shall be available for obligation on the date of their apportionment or allocation or on October 1 of the fiscal year for which they are authorized, whichever occurs first.
(b) Period of Availability.— 

(1) Interstate construction funds.— 
Funds apportioned or allocated for Interstate construction in a State (other than Massachusetts) shall remain available for obligation in that State until the last day of the fiscal year in which they are apportioned or allocated. Sums not obligated by the last day of the fiscal year in which they are apportioned or allocated shall be allocated to other States, except Massachusetts, at the discretion of the Secretary. All sums apportioned or allocated on or after October 1, 1994, shall remain available in the State until expended. All sums apportioned or allocated to Massachusetts on or after October 1, 1989, shall remain available until expended.
(2) Other funds.— 
Except as otherwise specifically provided, funds apportioned or allocated pursuant to this title (other than for Interstate construction) in a State shall remain available for obligation in that State for a period of 3 years after the last day of the fiscal year for which the funds are authorized. Any amounts so apportioned or allocated that remain unobligated at the end of that period shall lapse.
(c) Set Asides for Interstate Discretionary Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
Before any apportionment is made under section 104 (b)(4), the Secretary shall set aside $100,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 for obligation by the Secretary for projects for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing any route or portion thereof on the Interstate System (other than any highway designated as a part of the Interstate System under section 139 (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century)) and any toll road on the Interstate System not subject to an agreement under section 119 (e) (as in effect on December 17, 1991).
(2) Selection criteria.— 
The amounts set aside under paragraph (1) shall be made available by the Secretary to any State applying for such funds if the Secretary determines that
(A) the State has obligated or demonstrates that it will obligate in the fiscal year all of its apportionments under section 104 (b)(4) other than an amount that, by itself, is insufficient to pay the Federal share of the cost of a project for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing the Interstate System that has been submitted by the State to the Secretary for approval; and
(B) the applicant is willing and able to
(i) obligate the funds within 1 year of the date the funds are made available;
(ii) apply the funds to a ready-to-commence project; and
(iii) in the case of construction work, begin work within 90 days after obligation.
(3) Priority consideration for certain projects.— 
In selecting projects to fund under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall give priority consideration to any project the cost of which exceeds $10,000,000 on any high volume route in an urban area or a high truck-volume route in a rural area.
(4) Period of availability of discretionary funds.— 
Sums made available pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended.
(d) Obligation and Release of Funds.— 

(1) In general.— 
Funds apportioned or allocated to a State for a purpose for any fiscal year shall be considered to be obligated if a sum equal to the total of the funds apportioned or allocated to the State for that purpose for that fiscal year and previous fiscal years is obligated.
(2) Released funds.— 
Any funds released by the final payment for a project, or by modifying the project agreement for a project, shall be
(A) credited to the same class of funds previously apportioned or allocated to the State for the project; and
(B) immediately available for obligation.
(3) Net obligations.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law (including a regulation), obligations recorded against funds made available under this subsection shall be recorded and reported as net obligations.
(e) [1] Funds made available to the State of Alaska and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico under this title may be expended for construction of access and development roads that will serve resource development, recreational, residential, commercial, industrial, or other like purposes.
[1] See 1998 Amendment note below.

23 USC 119 - Interstate maintenance program

(a) In General.— 

(1) Projects.— 
The Secretary may approve projects for resurfacing, restoring, rehabilitating, and reconstructing
(A) routes on the Interstate System designated under section 103 (c)(1) and, in Alaska and Puerto Rico, under section 103 (c)(4)(A);
(B) routes on the Interstate System designated before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century under subsections (a) and (b) of section 139 (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of such Act); and
(C) any segments that become part of the Interstate System under section 1105(e)(5) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991.
(2) Toll roads.— 
The Secretary may approve a project pursuant to this subsection on a toll road only if such road is subject to a Secretarial agreement provided for in section 129 or continued in effect by section 1012(d) of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 1939) and not voided by the Secretary under section 120(c) of the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987 (101 Stat. 159).
(3) Funding.— 
Sums authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be out of the Highway Trust Fund and shall be apportioned in accordance with section 104 (b)(4).
(b) Transfer of Interstate Construction Apportionments.— 
Upon application by a State (other than the State of Massachusetts) and approval by the Secretary, the Secretary may transfer to the apportionments to such State under section 104 (b)(1) or 104 (b)(4) any amount of the funds apportioned to such State for any fiscal year under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the date before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) if such amount does not exceed the Federal share of the costs of construction of segments of the Interstate System open to traffic in such State (other than high occupancy vehicle lanes) included in the most recent interstate cost estimate. Upon transfer of such amount, the construction on which such amount is based on open-to-traffic segments of the Interstate System in such State as included in the latest interstate cost estimate shall be ineligible and shall not be included in future interstate cost estimates approved or adjusted under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the date before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century).
(c) Transfer of Funds for Surface Transportation Program Projects.— 

(1) Upon certification acceptance.— 
If a State certifies to the Secretary that any part of the sums apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(4) of this title are in excess of the needs of the State for resurfacing, restoring, or rehabilitating Interstate System routes and the State is adequately maintaining the Interstate System and the Secretary accepts such certification, the State may transfer such excess part to its apportionment under sections 104 (b)(1) and 104 (b)(3).
(2) Unconditional.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), a State may transfer to its apportionment under sections 104 (b)(1) and 104 (b)(3) of this title
(A) in fiscal year 1987, an amount not to exceed 20 percent of the funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(4) which are not obligated at the time of the transfer; and
(B) in any fiscal year thereafter, an amount not to exceed 20 percent of the funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(4) for such fiscal year.
(d) Limitation on New Capacity.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the portion of the cost of any project undertaken pursuant to this section that is attributable to the expansion of the capacity of any Interstate highway or bridge, where such new capacity consists of one or more new travel lanes that are not high-occupancy vehicle lanes or auxiliary lanes, shall not be eligible for funding under this section.

23 USC 120 - Federal share payable

(a) Interstate System Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the Federal share payable on account of any project on the Interstate System (including a project to add high occupancy vehicle lanes and a project to add auxiliary lanes but excluding a project to add any other lanes) shall be 90 percent of the total cost thereof, plus a percentage of the remaining 10 percent of such cost in any State containing unappropriated and unreserved public lands and nontaxable Indian lands, individual and tribal, exceeding 5 percent of the total area of all lands therein, equal to the percentage that the area of such lands in such State is of its total area; except that such Federal share payable on any project in any State shall not exceed 95 percent of the total cost of such project.
(2) State-determined lower federal share.— 
In the case of any project subject to paragraph (1), a State may determine a lower Federal share than the Federal share determined under such paragraph.
(b) Other Projects.— 
Except as otherwise provided in this title, the Federal share payable on account of any project or activity carried out under this title (other than a project subject to subsection (a)) shall be
(1) 80 percent of the cost thereof, except that in the case of any State containing nontaxable Indian lands, individual and tribal, and public domain lands (both reserved and unreserved) exclusive of national forests and national parks and monuments, exceeding 5 percent of the total area of all lands therein, the Federal share, for purposes of this chapter, shall be increased by a percentage of the remaining cost equal to the percentage that the area of all such lands in such State, is of its total area; or
(2) 80 percent of the cost thereof, except that in the case of any State containing nontaxable Indian lands, individual and tribal, public domain lands (both reserved and unreserved), national forests, and national parks and monuments, the Federal share, for purposes of this chapter, shall be increased by a percentage of the remaining cost equal to the percentage that the area of all such lands in such State is of its total area;

except that the Federal share payable on any project in a State shall not exceed 95 percent of the total cost of any such project. In any case where a State elects to have the Federal share provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the State must enter into an agreement with the Secretary covering a period of not less than 1 year, requiring such State to use solely for purposes eligible for assistance under this title (other than paying its share of projects approved under this title) during the period covered by such agreement the difference between the States share as provided in paragraph (2) and what its share would be if it elected to pay the share provided in paragraph (1) for all projects subject to such agreement. In the case of any project subject to this subsection, a State may determine a lower Federal share than the Federal share determined under the preceding sentences of this subsection.

(c) Increased Federal Share.— 

(1) Certain safety projects.— 
The Federal share payable on account of any project for traffic control signalization, traffic circles (also known as roundabouts), safety rest areas, pavement marking, commuter carpooling and vanpooling, rail-highway crossing closure, or installation of traffic signs, traffic lights, guardrails, impact attenuators, concrete barrier endtreatments, breakaway utility poles, or priority control systems for emergency vehicles or transit vehicles at signalized intersections may amount to 100 percent of the cost of construction of such projects; except that not more than 10 percent of all sums apportioned for all the Federal-aid systems for any fiscal year in accordance with section 104 of this title shall be used under this subsection. In this subsection, the term safety rest area means an area where motor vehicle operators can park their vehicles and rest, where food, fuel, and lodging services are not available, and that is located on a segment of highway with respect to which the Secretary determines there is a shortage of public and private areas at which motor vehicle operators can park their vehicles and rest.
(2) CMAQ projects.— 
The Federal share payable on account of a project or program carried out under section 149 with funds obligated in fiscal year 2008 or 2009, or both, shall be not less than 80 percent and, at the discretion of the State, may be up to 100 percent of the cost thereof.
(d) The Secretary may rely on a statement from the Secretary of the Interior as to the area of the lands referred to in subsections (a) and (b) of this section. The Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to provide such statement annually.
(e) Emergency Relief.— 
The Federal share payable on account of any repair or reconstruction provided for by funds made available under section 125 of this title on account of any project on a Federal-aid highway, including the Interstate System, shall not exceed the Federal share payable on a project on such highway as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this section; except that
(1)  the Federal share payable for eligible emergency repairs to minimize damage, protect facilities, or restore essential traffic accomplished within 180 days after the actual occurrence of the natural disaster or catastrophic failure may amount to 100 percent of the costs thereof; and
(2)  the Federal share payable on account of any repair or reconstruction of forest highways, forest development roads and trails, park roads and trails, parkways, public lands highways, public lands development roads and trails, and Indian reservation roads may amount to 100 percent of the cost thereof. The total cost of a project may not exceed the cost of repair or reconstruction of a comparable facility. As used in this section with respect to bridges and in section 144 of this title, a comparable facility shall mean a facility which meets the current geometric and construction standards required for the types and volume of traffic which such facility will carry over its design life.
(f) The Secretary is authorized to cooperate with the State transportation departments and with the Department of the Interior in the construction of Federal-aid highways within Indian reservations and national parks and monuments under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior and to pay the amount assumed therefor from the funds apportioned in accordance with section 104 of this title to the State wherein the reservations and national parks and monuments are located.
(g) At the request of any State, the Secretary may from time to time enter into agreements with such State to reimburse the State for the Federal share of the costs of preliminary and construction engineering at an agreed percentage of actual construction costs for each project, in lieu of the actual engineering costs for such project. The Secretary shall annually review each such agreement to insure that such percentage reasonably represents the engineering costs actually incurred by such State.
(h) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section or of this title, the Federal share payable on account of any project under this title in the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be 100 per centum of the total cost of the project.
(i) Increased Non-Federal Share.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title and subject to such criteria as the Secretary may establish, a State may contribute an amount in excess of the non-Federal share of a project under this title so as to decrease the Federal share payable on such project.
(j) Credit for Non-Federal Share.— 

(1) Eligibility.— 

(A) In general.— 
A State may use as a credit toward the non-Federal share requirement for any funds made available to carry out this title (other than the emergency relief program authorized by section 125 and the Appalachian development highway system program under section 14501 of title 40) or chapter 53 of title 49 toll revenues that are generated and used by public, quasi-public, and private agencies to build, improve, or maintain highways, bridges, or tunnels that serve the public purpose of interstate commerce.
(B) Special rule for use of federal funds.— 
If the public, quasi-public, or private agency has built, improved, or maintained the facility using Federal funds, the credit under this paragraph shall be reduced by a percentage equal to the percentage of the total cost of building, improving, or maintaining the facility that was derived from Federal funds.
(C) Federal funds defined.— 
In this paragraph, the term Federal funds does not include loans of Federal funds or other financial assistance that must be repaid to the Government.
(2) Maintenance of effort.— 

(A) In general.— 
The credit for any non-Federal share provided under this subsection shall not reduce nor replace State funds required to match Federal funds for any program under this title.
(B) Condition on receipt of credit.— 
To receive a credit under paragraph (1) for a fiscal year, a State shall enter into such agreement as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its non-Federal transportation capital expenditures in such fiscal year at or above the average level of such expenditures for the preceding 3 fiscal years; except that if, for any 1 of the preceding 3 fiscal years, the non-Federal transportation capital expenditures of the State were at a level that was greater than 130 percent of the average level of such expenditures for the other 2 of the preceding 3 fiscal years, the agreement shall ensure that the State will maintain its non-Federal transportation capital expenditures in the fiscal year of the credit at or above the average level of such expenditures for the other 2 fiscal years.
(C) Transportation capital expenditures defined.— 
In subparagraph (B), the term non-Federal transportation capital expenditures includes any payments made by the State for issuance of transportation-related bonds.
(3) Treatment.— 

(A) Limitation on liability.— 
Use of a credit for a non-Federal share under this subsection that is received from a public, quasi-public, or private agency
(i) shall not expose the agency to additional liability, additional regulation, or additional administrative oversight; and
(ii) shall not subject the agency to any additional Federal design standards or laws (including regulations) as a result of providing the non-Federal share other than those to which the agency is already subject.
(B) Chartered multistate agencies.— 
When a credit that is received from a chartered multistate agency is applied to a non-Federal share under this subsection, such credit shall be applied equally to all charter States.
(k) Use of Federal Land Management Agency Funds.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the funds appropriated to any Federal land management agency may be used to pay the non-Federal share of the cost of any project the Federal share of which is funded under this title or chapter 53 of title 49.
(l) Use of Federal Lands Highways Program Funds.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Federal lands highways program under section 204 may be used to pay the non-Federal share of the cost of any project that is funded under this title or chapter 53 of title 49 and that provides access to or within Federal or Indian lands.

23 USC 121 - Payment to States for construction

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary, from time to time as the work progresses, may make payments to a State for costs of construction incurred by the State on a project. Such payments may also be made for the value of the materials
(1) that have been stockpiled in the vicinity of the construction in conformity to plans and specifications for the projects; and
(2) that are not in the vicinity of the construction if the Secretary determines that because of required fabrication at an off-site location the material cannot be stockpiled in such vicinity.
(b) Project Agreement.— 
No payment shall be made under this chapter except for a project covered by a project agreement. After completion of the project in accordance with the project agreement, a State shall be entitled to payment out of the appropriate sums apportioned or allocated to the State of the unpaid balance of the Federal share payable for such project.
(c) Such payments shall be made to such official or officials or depository as may be designated by the State transportation department and authorized under the laws of the State to receive public funds of the State.

23 USC 122 - Payments to States for bond and other debt instrument financing

(a) Definition of Eligible Debt Financing Instrument.— 
In this section, the term eligible debt financing instrument means a bond or other debt financing instrument, including a note, certificate, mortgage, or lease agreement, issued by a State or political subdivision of a State or a public authority, the proceeds of which are used for an eligible project under this title.
(b) Federal Reimbursement.— 
Subject to subsections (c) and (d), the Secretary may reimburse a State for expenses and costs incurred by the State or a political subdivision of the State and reimburse a public authority for expenses and costs incurred by the public authority for
(1) interest payments under an eligible debt financing instrument;
(2) the retirement of principal of an eligible debt financing instrument;
(3) the cost of the issuance of an eligible debt financing instrument;
(4) the cost of insurance for an eligible debt financing instrument; and
(5) any other cost incidental to the sale of an eligible debt financing instrument (as determined by the Secretary).
(c) Conditions on Payment.— 
The Secretary may reimburse a State or public authority under subsection (b) with respect to a project funded by an eligible debt financing instrument after the State or public authority has complied with this title with respect to the project to the extent and in the manner that would be required if payment were to be made under section 121.
(d) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project payable under this section shall not exceed the Federal share of the cost of the project as determined under section 120.
(e) Statutory Construction.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the eligibility of an eligible debt financing instrument for reimbursement under subsection (b) shall not
(1) constitute a commitment, guarantee, or obligation on the part of the United States to provide for payment of principal or interest on the eligible debt financing instrument; or
(2) create any right of a third party against the United States for payment under the eligible debt financing instrument.

23 USC 123 - Relocation of utility facilities

(a) When a State shall pay for the cost of relocation of utility facilities necessitated by the construction of a project on any Federal-aid system, Federal funds may be used to reimburse the State for such cost in the same proportion as Federal funds are expended on the project. Federal funds shall not be used to reimburse the State under this section when the payment to the utility violates the law of the State or violates a legal contract between the utility and the State. Such reimbursement shall be made only after evidence satisfactory to the Secretary shall have been presented to him substantiating the fact that the State has paid such cost from its own funds with respect to Federal-aid highway projects for which Federal funds are obligated subsequent to April 16, 1958, for work, including relocation of utility facilities.
(b) The term utility, for the purposes of this section, shall include publicly, privately, and cooperatively owned utilities.
(c) The term cost of relocation, for the purposes of this section, shall include the entire amount paid by such utility properly attributable to such relocation after deducting therefrom any increase in the value of the new facility and any salvage value derived from the old facility.

23 USC 124 - Advances to States

If the Secretary shall determine that it is necessary for the expeditious completion of projects on any of the Federal-aid systems, including the Interstate System, he may advance to any State out of any existing appropriations the Federal share of the cost of construction thereof to enable the State transportation department to make prompt payments for acquisition of rights-of-way, and for the construction as it progresses. The sums so advanced shall be deposited in a special revolving trust fund, by the State official authorized under the laws of the State to receive Federal-aid highway funds, to be disbursed solely upon vouchers approved by the State transportation department for rights-of-way which have been or are being acquired, and for construction which has been actually performed and approved by the Secretary pursuant to this chapter. Upon determination by the Secretary that any part of the funds advanced to any State under the provisions of this section are no longer required, the amount of the advance, which is determined to be in excess of current requirements of the State, shall be repaid upon his demand, and such repayments shall be returned to the credit of the appropriation from which the funds were advanced. Any sum advanced and not repaid on demand shall be deducted from sums due the State for the Federal pro rata share of the cost of construction of Federal-aid projects.

23 USC 125 - Emergency relief

(a) General Eligibility.— 
Subject to this section and section 120, an emergency fund is authorized for expenditure by the Secretary for the repair or reconstruction of highways, roads, and trails, in any part of the United States, including Indian reservations, that the Secretary finds have suffered serious damage as a result of
(1) natural disaster over a wide area, such as by a flood, hurricane, tidal wave, earthquake, severe storm, or landslide; or
(2) catastrophic failure from any external cause.
(b) Restriction on Eligibility.— 
In no event shall funds be used pursuant to this section for the repair or reconstruction of bridges that have been permanently closed to all vehicular traffic by the State or responsible local official because of imminent danger of collapse due to a structural deficiency or physical deterioration.
(c) Funding.— 
Subject to the following limitations, there are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) such sums as may be necessary to establish the fund authorized by this section and to replenish it on an annual basis:
(1) Not more than $100,000,000 is authorized to be obligated in any 1 fiscal year commencing after September 30, 1980, to carry out the provisions of this section; except that, if in any fiscal year the total of all obligations under this section is less than the amount authorized to be obligated in such fiscal year, the unobligated balance of such amount shall remain available until expended and shall be in addition to amounts otherwise available to carry out this section each year.
(2) Pending such appropriation or replenishment, the Secretary may obligate from any funds heretofore or hereafter appropriated for obligation in accordance with this title, including existing Federal-aid appropriations, such sums as may be necessary for the immediate prosecution of the work herein authorized. Funds obligated under this paragraph shall be reimbursed from such appropriation or replenishment.
(d) The Secretary may expend funds from the emergency fund herein authorized for the repair or reconstruction of highways on Federal-aid highways in accordance with the provisions of this chapter: Provided, That
(1)  obligations for projects under this section, including those on highways, roads, and trails mentioned in subsection (e) of this section, resulting from a single natural disaster or a single catastrophic failure in a State shall not exceed $100,000,000, and
(2)  the total obligations for projects under this section in any fiscal year in the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall not exceed $20,000,000. Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter actual and necessary costs of maintenance and operation of ferryboats providing temporary substitute highway traffic service, less the amount of fares charged, may be expended from the emergency fund herein authorized on Federal-aid highways. Except as to highways, roads, and trails mentioned in subsection (e) of this section, no funds shall be so expended unless the Secretary has received an application therefor from the State transportation department, and unless an emergency has been declared by the Governor of the State and concurred in by the Secretary, except that if the President has declared such emergency to be a major disaster for the purposes of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) concurrence of the Secretary is not required.
(e) The Secretary may expend funds from the emergency fund herein authorized, either independently or in cooperation with any other branch of the Government, State agency, organization, or person, for the repair or reconstruction of forest highways, forest development roads and trails, park roads and trails, parkways, public lands highways, public lands development roads and trails, and Indian reservation roads, whether or not such highways, roads, or trails are Federal-aid highways.
(f) Treatment of Territories.— 
For purposes of this section, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be considered to be States and parts of the United States, and the chief executive officer of each such territory shall be considered to be a Governor of a State.

23 USC 126 - Uniform transferability of Federal-aid highway funds

(a) General Rule.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law but subject to subsections (b) and (c), if at least 50 percent of a States apportionment under section 104 or 144 for a fiscal year or at least 50 percent of the funds set-aside under section 133 (d) from the States apportionment under section 104 (b)(3) may not be transferred to any other apportionment of the State under section 104 or 144 for such fiscal year, then the State may transfer not to exceed 50 percent of such apportionment or set aside to any other apportionment of such State under section 104 or 144 for such fiscal year.
(b) Application to Certain Set-Asides.— 
No funds may be transferred under this section that are subject to the last sentence of section 133 (d)(1)1 or to section 104 (f) or to section 133 (d)(3). The maximum amount that a State may transfer under this section of the States set-aside under section 133 (d)(1)1 or 133 (d)(2) for a fiscal year may not exceed 25 percent of
(1)  the amount of such set-aside, less
(2)  the amount of the States set-aside under such section for fiscal year 1997.
(c) Application to Certain CMAQ Funds.— 
The maximum amount that a State may transfer under this section of the States apportionment under section 104 (b)(2) for a fiscal year may not exceed 50 percent of
(1)  the amount of such apportionment, less
(2)  the amount that the States apportionment under section 104 (b)(2) for such fiscal year would have been had the program been funded at $1,350,000,000. Any such funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(2) and transferred under this section may only be obligated in geographic areas eligible for the obligation of funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(2).
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 127 - Vehicle weight limitations - Interstate System

(a) In General.— 

(1) No funds shall be apportioned in any fiscal year under section 104 (b)(1) of this title to any State which does not permit the use of The Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways within its boundaries by vehicles with a weight of twenty thousand pounds carried on any one axle, including enforcement tolerances, or with a tandem axle weight of thirty-four thousand pounds, including enforcement tolerances, or a gross weight of at least eighty thousand pounds for vehicle combinations of five axles or more.
(2) However, the maximum gross weight to be allowed by any State for vehicles using The Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways shall be twenty thousand pounds carried on one axle, including enforcement tolerances, and a tandem axle weight of thirty-four thousand pounds, including enforcement tolerances and with an overall maximum gross weight, including enforcement tolerances, on a group of two or more consecutive axles produced by application of the following formula: LN W=500AXXXXX+12N+36B N1 where W equals overall gross weight on any group of two or more consecutive axles to the nearest five hundred pounds, L equals distance in feet between the extreme of any group of two or more consecutive axles, and N equals number of axles in group under consideration, except that two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a gross load of thirty-four thousand pounds each providing the overall distance between the first and last axles of such consecutive sets of tandem axles
(1)  is thirty-six feet or more, or
(2)  in the case of a motor vehicle hauling any tank trailer, dump trailer, or ocean transport container before September 1, 1989, is 30 feet or more: Provided, That such overall gross weight may not exceed eighty thousand pounds, including all enforcement tolerances, except for vehicles using Interstate Route 29 between Sioux City, Iowa, and the border between Iowa and South Dakota or vehicles using Interstate Route 129 between Sioux City, Iowa, and the border between Iowa and Nebraska, and except for those vehicles and loads which cannot be easily dismantled or divided and which have been issued special permits in accordance with applicable State laws, or the corresponding maximum weights permitted for vehicles using the public highways of such State under laws or regulations established by appropriate State authority in effect on July 1, 1956, except in the case of the overall gross weight of any group of two or more consecutive axles on any vehicle (other than a vehicle comprised of a motor vehicle hauling any tank trailer, dump trailer, or ocean transport container on or after September 1, 1989), on the date of enactment of the Federal-Aid Highway Amendments of 1974, whichever is the greater.
(3) Any amount which is withheld from apportionment to any State pursuant to the foregoing provisions shall lapse if not released and obligated within the availability period specified in section 118 (b)(2) of this title.
(4) This section shall not be construed to deny apportionment to any State allowing the operation within such State of any vehicles or combinations thereof, other than vehicles or combinations subject to subsection (d) of this section, which the State determines could be lawfully operated within such State on July 1, 1956, except in the case of the overall gross weight of any group of two or more consecutive axles, on the date of enactment of the Federal-Aid Highway Amendments of 1974.
(5) With respect to the State of Hawaii, laws or regulations in effect on February 1, 1960, shall be applicable for the purposes of this section in lieu of those in effect on July 1, 1956.
(6) With respect to the State of Colorado, vehicles designed to carry 2 or more precast concrete panels shall be considered a nondivisible load.
(7) With respect to the State of Michigan, laws or regulations in effect on May 1, 1982, shall be applicable for the purposes of this subsection.
(8) With respect to the State of Maryland, laws and regulations in effect on June 1, 1993, shall be applicable for the purposes of this subsection.
(9) The State of Louisiana may allow, by special permit, the operation of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 100,000 pounds for the hauling of sugarcane during the harvest season, not to exceed 100 days annually.
(10) With respect to Interstate Routes 89, 93, and 95 in the State of New Hampshire, State laws (including regulations) concerning vehicle weight limitations that were in effect on January 1, 1987, and are applicable to State highways other than the Interstate System, shall be applicable in lieu of the requirements of this subsection.
(11) With respect to that portion of the Maine Turnpike designated Interstate Route 95 and 495, and that portion of Interstate Route 95 from the southern terminus of the Maine Turnpike to the New Hampshire State line, laws (including regulations) of the State of Maine concerning vehicle weight limitations that were in effect on October 1, 1995, and are applicable to State highways other than the Interstate System, shall be applicable in lieu of the requirements of this subsection.
(12) Heavy duty vehicles.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), in order to promote reduction of fuel use and emissions because of engine idling, the maximum gross vehicle weight limit and the axle weight limit for any heavy-duty vehicle equipped with an idle reduction technology shall be increased by a quantity necessary to compensate for the additional weight of the idle reduction system.
(B) Maximum weight increase.— 
The weight increase under subparagraph (A) shall be not greater than 400 pounds.
(C) Proof.— 
On request by a regulatory agency or law enforcement agency, the vehicle operator shall provide proof (through demonstration or certification) that
(i) the idle reduction technology is fully functional at all times; and
(ii) the 400-pound gross weight increase is not used for any purpose other than the use of idle reduction technology described in subparagraph (A).
(b) Reasonable Access.— 
No State may enact or enforce any law denying reasonable access to motor vehicles subject to this title to and from the Interstate Highway System to terminals and facilities for food, fuel, repairs, and rest.
(c) Ocean Transport Container Defined.— 
For purposes of this section, the term ocean transport container has the meaning given the term freight container by the International Standards Organization in Series 1, Freight Containers, 3rd Edition (reference number IS06681979(E)) as in effect on the date of the enactment of this subsection.
(d) Longer Combination Vehicles.— 

(1) Prohibition.— 

(A) General continuation rule.— 
A longer combination vehicle may continue to operate only if the longer combination vehicle configuration type was authorized by State officials pursuant to State statute or regulation conforming to this section and in actual lawful operation on a regular or periodic basis (including seasonal operations) on or before June 1, 1991, or pursuant to section 335 of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1991 (104 Stat. 2186).
(B) Applicability of state laws and regulations.— 
All such operations shall continue to be subject to, at the minimum, all State statutes, regulations, limitations and conditions, including, but not limited to, routing-specific and configuration-specific designations and all other restrictions, in force on June 1, 1991; except that subject to such regulations as may be issued by the Secretary pursuant to paragraph (5) of this subsection, the State may make minor adjustments of a temporary and emergency nature to route designations and vehicle operating restrictions in effect on June 1, 1991, for specific safety purposes and road construction.
(C) Wyoming.— 
In addition to those vehicles allowed under subparagraph (A), the State of Wyoming may allow the operation of additional vehicle configurations not in actual operation on June 1, 1991, but authorized by State law not later than November 3, 1992, if such vehicle configurations comply with the single axle, tandem axle, and bridge formula limits set forth in subsection (a) and do not exceed 117,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
(D) Ohio.— 
In addition to vehicles which the State of Ohio may continue to allow to be operated under subparagraph (A), such State may allow longer combination vehicles with 3 cargo carrying units of 281/2 feet each (not including the truck tractor) not in actual operation on June 1, 1991, to be operated within its boundaries on the 1-mile segment of Ohio State Route 7 which begins at and is south of exit 16 of the Ohio Turnpike.
(E) Alaska.— 
In addition to vehicles which the State of Alaska may continue to allow to be operated under subparagraph (A), such State may allow the operation of longer combination vehicles which were not in actual operation on June 1, 1991, but which were in actual operation prior to July 5, 1991.
(F) Iowa.— 
In addition to vehicles that the State of Iowa may continue to allow to be operated under subparagraph (A), the State may allow longer combination vehicles that were not in actual operation on June 1, 1991, to be operated on Interstate Route 29 between Sioux City, Iowa, and the border between Iowa and South Dakota or Interstate Route 129 between Sioux City, Iowa, and the border between Iowa and Nebraska.
(2) Additional state restrictions.— 

(A) In general.— 
Nothing in this subsection shall prevent any State from further restricting in any manner or prohibiting the operation of longer combination vehicles otherwise authorized under this subsection; except that such restrictions or prohibitions shall be consistent with the requirements of sections 31111–31114 of title 49.
(B) Minor adjustments.— 
Any State further restricting or prohibiting the operations of longer combination vehicles or making minor adjustments of a temporary and emergency nature as may be allowed pursuant to regulations issued by the Secretary pursuant to paragraph (5) of this subsection, shall, within 30 days, advise the Secretary of such action, and the Secretary shall publish a notice of such action in the Federal Register.
(3) Publication of list.— 

(A) Submission to secretary.— 
Within 60 days of the date of the enactment of this subsection, each State
(i)  shall submit to the Secretary for publication in the Federal Register a complete list of
(I)  all operations of longer combination vehicles being conducted as of June 1, 1991, pursuant to State statutes and regulations;
(II)  all limitations and conditions, including, but not limited to, routing-specific and configuration-specific designations and all other restrictions, governing the operation of longer combination vehicles otherwise prohibited under this subsection; and
(III)  such statutes, regulations, limitations, and conditions; and
(ii)  shall submit to the Secretary copies of such statutes, regulations, limitations, and conditions.
(B) Interim list.— 
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall publish an interim list in the Federal Register, consisting of all information submitted pursuant to subparagraph (A). The Secretary shall review for accuracy all information submitted by the States pursuant to subparagraph (A) and shall solicit and consider public comment on the accuracy of all such information.
(C) Limitation.— 
No statute or regulation shall be included on the list submitted by a State or published by the Secretary merely on the grounds that it authorized, or could have authorized, by permit or otherwise, the operation of longer combination vehicles, not in actual operation on a regular or periodic basis on or before June 1, 1991.
(D) Final list.— 
Except as modified pursuant to paragraph (1)(C) of this subsection, the list shall be published as final in the Federal Register not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection. In publishing the final list, the Secretary shall make any revisions necessary to correct inaccuracies identified under subparagraph (B). After publication of the final list, longer combination vehicles may not operate on the Interstate System except as provided in the list.
(E) Review and correction procedure.— 
The Secretary, on his or her own motion or upon a request by any person (including a State), shall review the list issued by the Secretary pursuant to subparagraph (D). If the Secretary determines there is cause to believe that a mistake was made in the accuracy of the final list, the Secretary shall commence a proceeding to determine whether the list published pursuant to subparagraph (D) should be corrected. If the Secretary determines that there is a mistake in the accuracy of the list the Secretary shall correct the publication under subparagraph (D) to reflect the determination of the Secretary.
(4) Longer combination vehicle defined.— 
For purposes of this section, the term longer combination vehicle means any combination of a truck tractor and 2 or more trailers or semitrailers which operates on the Interstate System at a gross vehicle weight greater than 80,000 pounds.
(5) Regulations regarding minor adjustments.— 
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall issue regulations establishing criteria for the States to follow in making minor adjustments under paragraph (1)(B).
(e) Operation of Certain Specialized Hauling Vehicles on Interstate Route 68.— 
The single axle, tandem axle, and bridge formula limits set forth in subsection (a) shall not apply to the operation on Interstate Route 68 in Garrett and Allegany Counties, Maryland, of any specialized vehicle equipped with a steering axle and a tridem axle and used for hauling coal, logs, and pulpwood if such vehicle is of a type of vehicle as was operating in such counties on United States Route 40 or 48 for such purpose on August 1, 1991.
(f) Operation of Certain Specialized Hauling Vehicles on Certain Wisconsin Highways.— 
If the 104-mile portion of Wisconsin State Route 78 and United States Route 51 between Interstate Route 94 near Portage, Wisconsin, and Wisconsin State Route 29 south of Wausau, Wisconsin, is designated as part of the Interstate System under section 103 (c)(4)(A), the single axle weight, tandem axle weight, gross vehicle weight, and bridge formula limits set forth in subsection (a) shall not apply to the 104-mile portion with respect to the operation of any vehicle that could legally operate on the 104-mile portion before the date of the enactment of this subsection.
(g) Operation of Certain Specialized Hauling Vehicles on Certain Pennsylvania Highways.— 
If the segment of United States Route 220 between Bedford and Bald Eagle, Pennsylvania, is designated as part of the Interstate System, the single axle weight, tandem axle weight, gross vehicle weight, and bridge formula limits set forth in subsection (a) shall not apply to that segment with respect to the operation of any vehicle which could have legally operated on that segment before the date of the enactment of this subsection.
(h) Waiver for a Route in State of Maine During Periods of National Emergency.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, may waive or limit the application of any vehicle weight limit established under this section with respect to the portion of Interstate Route 95 in the State of Maine between Augusta and Bangor for the purpose of making bulk shipments of jet fuel to the Air National Guard Base at Bangor International Airport during a period of national emergency in order to respond to the effects of the national emergency.
(2) Applicability.— 
Emergency limits established under paragraph (1) shall preempt any inconsistent State vehicle weight limits.

23 USC 128 - Public hearings

(a) Any State transportation department which submits plans for a Federal-aid highway project involving the by passing of or, going through any city, town, or village, either incorporated or unincorporated, shall certify to the Secretary that it has had public hearings, or has afforded the opportunity for such hearings, and has considered the economic and social effects of such a location, its impact on the environment, and its consistency with the goals and objectives of such urban planning as has been promulgated by the community. Any State transportation department which submits plans for an Interstate System project shall certify to the Secretary that it has had public hearings at a convenient location, or has afforded the opportunity for such hearings for the purpose of enabling persons in rural areas through or contiguous to whose property the highway will pass to express any objections they may have to the proposed locations of such highway. Such certification shall be accompanied by a report which indicates the consideration given to the economic, social, environmental and other effects of the plan or highway location or design and various alternatives which were raised during the hearing or which were otherwise considered.
(b) When hearings have been held under subsection (a), the State transportation department shall submit a copy of the transcript of said hearings to the Secretary, together with the certification and report.

23 USC 129 - Toll roads, bridges, tunnels, and ferries

(a) Basic Program.— 

(1) Authorization for federal participation.— 
Notwithstanding section 301 of this title and subject to the provisions of this section, the Secretary shall permit Federal participation in
(A) initial construction of a toll highway, bridge, or tunnel (other than a highway, bridge, or tunnel on the Interstate System) or approach thereto;
(B) reconstructing, resurfacing, restoring, and rehabilitating a toll highway, bridge, or tunnel (including a toll highway, bridge, or tunnel subject to an agreement entered into under this section or section 119 (e) as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991) or approach thereto;
(C) reconstruction or replacement of a toll-free bridge or tunnel and conversion of the bridge or tunnel to a toll facility;
(D) reconstruction of a toll-free Federal-aid highway (other than a highway on the Interstate System) and conversion of the highway to a toll facility; and
(E) preliminary studies to determine the feasibility of a toll facility for which Federal participation is authorized under subparagraph (A), (B), (C), or (D);

on the same basis and in the same manner as in the construction of free highways under this chapter.

(2) Ownership.— 
Each highway, bridge, tunnel, or approach thereto constructed under this subsection must
(A) be publicly owned, or
(B) be privately owned if the public authority having jurisdiction over the highway, bridge, tunnel, or approach has entered into a contract with a private person or persons to design, finance, construct, and operate the facility and the public authority will be responsible for complying with all applicable requirements of this title with respect to the facility.
(3) Limitations on use of revenues.— 
Before the Secretary may permit Federal participation under this subsection in construction of a highway, bridge, or tunnel located in a State, the public authority (including the State transportation department) having jurisdiction over the highway, bridge, or tunnel must enter into an agreement with the Secretary which provides that all toll revenues received from operation of the toll facility will be used first for debt service, for reasonable return on investment of any private person financing the project, and for the costs necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of the toll facility, including reconstruction, resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation. If the State certifies annually that the tolled facility is being adequately maintained, the State may use any toll revenues in excess of amounts required under the preceding sentence for any purpose for which Federal funds may be obligated by a State under this title.
(4) Special rule for funding.— 
In the case of a toll highway, bridge, or tunnel under the jurisdiction of a public authority of a State (other than the State transportation department), upon request of the State transportation department and subject to such terms and conditions as such department and public authority may agree, the Secretary shall reimburse such public authority for the Federal share of the costs of construction of the project carried out on the toll facility under this subsection in the same manner and to the same extent as such department would be reimbursed if such project was being carried out by such department. The reimbursement of funds under this paragraph shall be from sums apportioned to the State under this chapter and available for obligations on projects on the Federal-aid system in such State on which the project is being carried out.
(5) Limitation on federal share.— 
The Federal share payable for a project described in paragraph (1) shall be a percentage determined by the State but not to exceed 80 percent.
(6) Modifications.— 
If a public authority (including a State transportation department) having jurisdiction over a toll highway, bridge, or tunnel subject to an agreement under this section or section 119 (e), as in effect on the day before the effective date of title I of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, requests modification of such agreement, the Secretary shall modify such agreement to allow the continuation of tolls in accordance with paragraph (3) without repayment of Federal funds.
(7) Loans.— 

(A) In general.— 
A State may loan to a public or private entity constructing or proposing to construct under this section a toll facility or non-toll facility with a dedicated revenue source an amount equal to all or part of the Federal share of the cost of the project if the project has a revenue source specifically dedicated to it. Dedicated revenue sources for non-toll facilities include excise taxes, sales taxes, motor vehicle use fees, tax on real property, tax increment financing, and such other dedicated revenue sources as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(B) Compliance with federal laws.— 
As a condition of receiving a loan under this paragraph, the public or private entity that receives the loan shall ensure that the project will be carried out in accordance with this title and any other applicable Federal law, including any applicable provision of a Federal environmental law.
(C) Subordination of debt.— 
The amount of any loan received for a project under this paragraph may be subordinated to any other debt financing for the project.
(D) Obligation of funds loaned.— 
Funds loaned under this paragraph may only be obligated for projects under this paragraph.
(E) Repayment.— 
The repayment of a loan made under this paragraph shall commence not later than 5 years after date on which the facility that is the subject of the loan is open to traffic.
(F) Term of loan.— 
The term of a loan made under this paragraph shall not exceed 30 years from the date on which the loan funds are obligated.
(G) Interest.— 
A loan made under this paragraph shall bear interest at or below market interest rates, as determined by the State, to make the project that is the subject of the loan feasible.
(H) Reuse of funds.— 
Amounts repaid to a State from a loan made under this paragraph may be obligated
(i) for any purpose for which the loan funds were available under this title; and
(ii) for the purchase of insurance or for use as a capital reserve for other forms of credit enhancement for project debt in order to improve credit market access or to lower interest rates for projects eligible for assistance under this title.
(I) Guidelines.— 
The Secretary shall establish procedures and guidelines for making loans under this paragraph.
(8) Initial construction defined.— 
For purposes of this subsection, the term initial construction means the construction of a highway, bridge, or tunnel at any time before it is open to traffic and does not include any improvement to a highway, bridge, or tunnel after it is open to traffic.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of section 301 of this title, the Secretary may permit Federal participation under this title in the construction of a project constituting an approach to a ferry, whether toll or free, the route of which is a public road and has not been designated as a route on the Interstate System. Such ferry may be either publicly or privately owned and operated, but the operating authority and the amount of fares charged for passage shall be under the control of a State agency or official, and all revenues derived from publicly owned or operated ferries shall be applied to payment of the cost of construction or acquisition thereof, including debt service, and to actual and necessary costs of operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement.
(c) Notwithstanding section 301 of this title, the Secretary may permit Federal participation under this title in the construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities, whether toll or free, subject to the following conditions:
(1) It is not feasible to build a bridge, tunnel, combination thereof, or other normal highway structure in lieu of the use of such ferry.
(2) The operation of the ferry shall be on a route classified as a public road within the State and which has not been designated as a route on the Interstate System. Projects under this subsection may be eligible for both ferry boats carrying cars and passengers and ferry boats carrying passengers only.
(3) Such ferry boat or ferry terminal facility shall be publicly owned or operated or majority publicly owned if the Secretary determines with respect to a majority publicly owned ferry or ferry terminal facility that such ferry boat or ferry terminal facility provides substantial public benefits.
(4) The operating authority and the amount of fares charged for passage on such ferry shall be under the control of the State or other public entity, and all revenues derived therefrom shall be applied to actual and necessary costs of operation, maintenance, and[1] repair, debt service, negotiated management fees, and, in the case of a privately operated toll ferry, for a reasonable rate of return.
(5) Such ferry may be operated only within the State (including the islands which comprise the State of Hawaii and the islands which comprise any territory of the United States) or between adjoining States or between a point in a State and a point in the Dominion of Canada. Except with respect to operations between the islands which comprise the State of Hawaii, operations between the islands which comprise any territory of the United States, operations between a point in a State and a point in the Dominion of Canada, and operations between any two points in Alaska and between Alaska and Washington, including stops at appropriate points in the Dominion of Canada, no part of such ferry operation shall be in any foreign or international waters.
(6) No such ferry shall be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of without the approval of the Secretary. The Federal share of any proceeds from such a disposition shall be credited to the unprogramed balance of Federal-aid highway funds of the same class last apportioned to such State. Any amount so credited shall be in addition to all other funds then apportioned to such State and available for expenditure in accordance with the provisions of this title.
[1] So in original. The word “and” probably should not appear.

23 USC 131 - Control of outdoor advertising

(a) The Congress hereby finds and declares that the erection and maintenance of outdoor advertising signs, displays, and devices in areas adjacent to the Interstate System and the primary system should be controlled in order to protect the public investment in such highways, to promote the safety and recreational value of public travel, and to preserve natural beauty.
(b) Federal-aid highway funds apportioned on or after January 1, 1968, to any State which the Secretary determines has not made provision for effective control of the erection and maintenance along the Interstate System and the primary system of outdoor advertising signs, displays, and devices which are within six hundred and sixty feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and visible from the main traveled way of the system, and Federal-aid highway funds apportioned on or after January 1, 1975, or after the expiration of the next regular session of the State legislature, whichever is later, to any State which the Secretary determines has not made provision for effective control of the erection and maintenance along the Interstate System and the primary system of those additional outdoor advertising signs, displays, and devices which are more than six hundred and sixty feet off the nearest edge of the right-of-way, located outside of urban areas, visible from the main traveled way of the system, and erected with the purpose of their message being read from such main traveled way, shall be reduced by amounts equal to 10 per centum of the amounts which would otherwise be apportioned to such State under section 104 of this title, until such time as such State shall provide for such effective control. Any amount which is withheld from apportionment to any State hereunder shall be reapportioned to the other States. Whenever he determines it to be in the public interest, the Secretary may suspend, for such periods as he deems necessary, the application of this subsection to a State.
(c) Effective control means that such signs, displays, or devices after January 1, 1968, if located within six hundred and sixty feet of the right-of-way and, on or after July 1, 1975, or after the expiration of the next regular session of the State legislature, whichever is later, if located beyond six hundred and sixty feet of the right-of-way located outside of urban areas, visible from the main traveled way of the system, and erected with the purpose of their message being read from such main traveled way, shall, pursuant to this section, be limited to
(1)  directional and official signs and notices, which signs and notices shall include, but not be limited to, signs and notices pertaining to natural wonders, scenic and historical attractions, which are required or authorized by law, which shall conform to national standards hereby authorized to be promulgated by the Secretary hereunder, which standards shall contain provisions concerning lighting, size, number, and spacing of signs, and such other requirements as may be appropriate to implement this section,
(2)  signs, displays, and devices advertising the sale or lease of property upon which they are located,
(3)  signs, displays, and devices, including those which may be changed at reasonable intervals by electronic process or by remote control, advertising activities conducted on the property on which they are located,
(4)  signs lawfully in existence on October 22, 1965, determined by the State, subject to the approval of the Secretary, to be landmark signs, including signs on farm structures or natural surfaces, or historic or artistic significance the preservation of which would be consistent with the purposes of this section, and
(5)  signs, displays, and devices advertising the distribution by nonprofit">nonprofit organizations of free coffee to individuals traveling on the Interstate System or the primary system. For the purposes of this subsection, the term free coffee shall include coffee for which a donation may be made, but is not required.
(d) In order to promote the reasonable, orderly and effective display of outdoor advertising while remaining consistent with the purposes of this section, signs, displays, and devices whose size, lighting and spacing, consistent with customary use is to be determined by agreement between the several States and the Secretary, may be erected and maintained within six hundred and sixty feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way within areas adjacent to the Interstate and primary systems which are zoned industrial or commercial under authority of State law, or in unzoned commercial or industrial areas as may be determined by agreement between the several States and the Secretary. The States shall have full authority under their own zoning laws to zone areas for commercial or industrial purposes, and the actions of the States in this regard will be accepted for the purposes of this Act. Whenever a bona fide State, county, or local zoning authority has made a determination of customary use, such determination will be accepted in lieu of controls by agreement in the zoned commercial and industrial areas within the geographical jurisdiction of such authority. Nothing in this subsection shall apply to signs, displays, and devices referred to in clauses (2) and (3) of subsection (c) of this section.
(e) Any sign, display, or device lawfully in existence along the Interstate System or the Federal-aid primary system on September 1, 1965, which does not conform to this section shall not be required to be removed until July 1, 1970. Any other sign, display, or device lawfully erected which does not conform to this section shall not be required to be removed until the end of the fifth year after it becomes nonconforming.
(f) The Secretary shall, in consultation with the States, provide within the rights-of-way for areas at appropriate distances from interchanges on the Interstate System, on which signs, displays, and devices giving specific information in the interest of the traveling public may be erected and maintained. The Secretary may also, in consultation with the States, provide within the rights-of-way of the primary system for areas in which signs, displays, and devices giving specific information in the interest of the traveling public may be erected and maintained. Such signs shall conform to national standards to be promulgated by the Secretary.
(g) Just compensation shall be paid upon the removal of any outdoor advertising sign, display, or device lawfully erected under State law and not permitted under subsection (c) of this section, whether or not removed pursuant to or because of this section. The Federal share of such compensation shall be 75 per centum. Such compensation shall be paid for the following:
(A) The taking from the owner of such sign, display, or device of all right, title, leasehold, and interest in such sign, display, or device; and
(B) The taking from the owner of the real property on which the sign, display, or device is located, of the right to erect and maintain such signs, displays, and devices thereon.
(h) All public lands or reservations of the United States which are adjacent to any portion of the Interstate System and the primary system shall be controlled in accordance with the provisions of this section and the national standards promulgated by the Secretary.
(i) In order to provide information in the specific interest of the traveling public, the State transportation departments are authorized to maintain maps and to permit information directories and advertising pamphlets to be made available at safety rest areas. Subject to the approval of the Secretary, a State may also establish information centers at safety rest areas and other travel information systems within the rights-of-way for the purpose of informing the public of places of interest within the State and providing such other information as a State may consider desirable. The Federal share of the cost of establishing such an information center or travel information system shall be that which is provided in section 120 for a highway project on that Federal-aid system to be served by such center or system.
(j) Any State transportation department which has, under this section as in effect on June 30, 1965, entered into an agreement with the Secretary to control the erection and maintenance of outdoor advertising signs, displays, and devices in areas adjacent to the Interstate System shall be entitled to receive the bonus payments as set forth in the agreement, but no such State transportation department shall be entitled to such payments unless the State maintains the control required under such agreement: Provided, That permission by a State to erect and maintain information displays which may be changed at reasonable intervals by electronic process or remote control and which provide public service information or advertise activities conducted on the property on which they are located shall not be considered a breach of such agreement or the control required thereunder. Such payments shall be paid only from appropriations made to carry out this section. The provisions of this subsection shall not be construed to exempt any State from controlling outdoor advertising as otherwise provided in this section.
(k) Subject to compliance with subsection (g) of this section for the payment of just compensation, nothing in this section shall prohibit a State from establishing standards imposing stricter limitations with respect to signs, displays, and devices on the Federal-aid highway systems than those established under this section.
(l) Not less than sixty days before making a final determination to withhold funds from a State under subsection (b) of this section, or to do so under subsection (b) of section 136, or with respect to failing to agree as to the size, lighting, and spacing of signs, displays, and devices or as to unzoned commercial or industrial areas in which signs, displays, and devices may be erected and maintained under subsection (d) of this section, or with respect to failure to approve under subsection (g) of section 136, the Secretary shall give written notice to the State of his proposed determination and a statement of the reasons therefor, and during such period shall give the State an opportunity for a hearing on such determination. Following such hearing the Secretary shall issue a written order setting forth his final determination and shall furnish a copy of such order to the State. Within forty-five days of receipt of such order, the State may appeal such order to any United States district court for such State, and upon the filing of such appeal such order shall be stayed until final judgment has been entered on such appeal. Summons may be served at any place in the United States. The court shall have jurisdiction to affirm the determination of the Secretary or to set it aside, in whole or in part. The judgment of the court shall be subject to review by the United States court of appeals for the circuit in which the State is located and to the Supreme Court of the United States upon certiorari or certification as provided in title 28, United States Code, section 1254. If any part of an apportionment to a State is withheld by the Secretary under subsection (b) of this section or subsection (b) of section 136, the amount so withheld shall not be reapportioned to the other States as long as a suit brought by such State under this subsection is pending. Such amount shall remain available for apportionment in accordance with the final judgment and this subsection. Funds withheld from apportionment and subsequently apportioned or reapportioned under this section shall be available for expenditure for three full fiscal years after the date of such apportionment or reapportionment as the case may be.
(m) There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the provisions of this section, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, not to exceed $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1966, not to exceed $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1967, not to exceed $2,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1970, not to exceed $27,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1971, not to exceed $20,500,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1972, and not to exceed $50,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1973. The provisions of this chapter relating to the obligation, period of availability and expenditure of Federal-aid primary highway funds shall apply to the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section after June 30, 1967. Subject to approval by the Secretary in accordance with the program of projects approval process of section 105,1 a State may use any funds apportioned to it under section 104 of this title for removal of any sign, display, or device lawfully erected which does not conform to this section.
(n) No sign, display, or device shall be required to be removed under this section if the Federal share of the just compensation to be paid upon removal of such sign, display, or device is not available to make such payment. Funds apportioned to a State under section 104 of this title shall not be treated for purposes of the preceding sentence as being available to the State for making such a payment except to the extent that the State, in its discretion, expends such funds for such a payment.
(o) The Secretary may approve the request of a State to permit retention in specific areas defined by such State of directional signs, displays, and devices lawfully erected under State law in force at the time of their erection which do not conform to the requirements of subsection (c), where such signs, displays, and devices are in existence on the date of enactment of this subsection and where the State demonstrates that such signs, displays, and devices
(1)  provide directional information about goods and services in the interest of the traveling public, and
(2)  are such that removal would work a substantial economic hardship in such defined area.
(p) In the case of any sign, display, or device required to be removed under this section prior to the date of enactment of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1974, which sign, display, or device was after its removal lawfully relocated and which as a result of the amendments made to this section by such Act is required to be removed, the United States shall pay 100 per centum of the just compensation for such removal (including all relocation costs).
(q) 
(1) During the implementation of State laws enacted to comply with this section, the Secretary shall encourage and assist the States to develop sign controls and programs which will assure that necessary directional information about facilities providing goods and services in the interest of the traveling public will continue to be available to motorists. To this end the Secretary shall restudy and revise as appropriate existing standards for directional signs authorized under subsections 131(c)(1) and 131(f) to develop signs which are functional and esthetically compatible with their surroundings. He shall employ the resources of other Federal departments and agencies, including the National Endowment for the Arts, and employ maximum participation of private industry in the development of standards and systems of signs developed for those purposes.
(2) Among other things the Secretary shall encourage States to adopt programs to assure that removal of signs providing necessary directional information, which also were providing directional information on June 1, 1972, about facilities in the interest of the traveling public, be deferred until all other nonconforming signs are removed.
(r) Removal of Illegal Signs.— 

(1) By owners.— 
Any sign, display, or device along the Interstate System or the Federal-aid primary system which was not lawfully erected, shall be removed by the owner of such sign, display, or device not later than the 90th day following the effective date of this subsection.
(2) By states.— 
If any owner does not remove a sign, display, or device in accordance with paragraph (1), the State within the borders of which the sign, display, or device is located shall remove the sign, display, or device. The owner of the removed sign, display, or device shall be liable to the State for the costs of such removal. Effective control under this section includes compliance with the first sentence of this paragraph.
(s) Scenic Byway Prohibition.— 
If a State has a scenic byway program, the State may not allow the erection along any highway on the Interstate System or Federal-aid primary system which before, on, or after the effective date of this subsection, is designated as a scenic byway under such program of any sign, display, or device which is not in conformance with subsection (c) of this section. Control of any sign, display, or device on such a highway shall be in accordance with this section. In designating a scenic byway for purposes of this section and section 1047 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, a State may exclude from such designation any segment of a highway that is inconsistent with the States criteria for designating State scenic byways. Nothing in the preceding sentence shall preclude a State from signing any such excluded segment, including such segment on a map, or carrying out similar activities, solely for purposes of system continuity.
(t) Primary System Defined.— 
For purposes of this section, the terms primary system and Federal-aid primary system mean the Federal-aid primary system in existence on June 1, 1991, and any highway which is not on such system but which is on the National Highway System.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 132 - Payments on Federal-aid projects undertaken by a Federal agency

(a) In General.— 
In a case in which a proposed Federal-aid project is to be undertaken by a Federal agency in accordance with an agreement between a State and the Federal agency, the State may
(1) direct the Secretary to transfer the funds for the Federal share of the project directly to the Federal agency; or
(2) make such deposit with, or payment to, the Federal agency as is required to meet the obligation of the State under the agreement for the work undertaken or to be undertaken by the Federal agency.
(b) Reimbursement.— 
On execution with a State of a project agreement described in subsection (a), the Secretary may reimburse the State, using any available funds, for the estimated Federal share under this title of the obligation of the State deposited or paid under subsection (a)(2).
(c) Recovery and Crediting of Funds.— 
Any sums reimbursed to the State under this section which may be in excess of the Federal pro rata share under the provisions of this title of the States share of the cost as set forth in the approved final voucher submitted by the State shall be recovered and credited to the same class of funds from which the Federal payment under this section was made.

23 USC 133 - Surface transportation program

(a) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish a surface transportation program in accordance with this section.
(b) Eligible Projects.— 
A State may obligate funds apportioned to it under section 104 (b)(3) for the surface transportation program only for the following:
(1) Construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, resurfacing, restoration, and operational improvements for highways (including Interstate highways) and bridges (including bridges on public roads of all functional classifications), including any such construction or reconstruction necessary to accommodate other transportation modes, and including the seismic retrofit and painting of and application of calcium magnesium acetate, sodium acetate/formate, or other environmentally acceptable, minimally corrosive anti-icing and de-icing compositions on bridges and approaches thereto and other elevated structures, mitigation of damage to wildlife, habitat, and ecosystems caused by a transportation project funded under this title.
(2) Capital costs for transit projects eligible for assistance under chapter 53 of title 49, including vehicles and facilities, whether publicly or privately owned, that are used to provide intercity passenger service by bus.
(3) Carpool projects, fringe and corridor parking facilities and programs, bicycle transportation and pedestrian walkways in accordance with section 217, and the modification of public sidewalks to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).
(4) Highway and transit safety infrastructure improvements and programs, hazard eliminations, projects to mitigate hazards caused by wildlife, and railway-highway grade crossings.
(5) Highway and transit research and development and technology transfer programs.
(6) Capital and operating costs for traffic monitoring, management, and control facilities and programs, including advanced truck stop electrification systems.
(7) Surface transportation planning programs.
(8) Transportation enhancement activities.
(9) Transportation control measures listed in section 108 (f)(1)(A) (other than clause (xvi)) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7408 (f)(1)(A)).
(10) Development and establishment of management systems under section 303.
(11) In accordance with all applicable Federal law and regulations, participation in natural habitat and wetlands mitigation efforts related to projects funded under this title, which may include participation in natural habitat and wetlands mitigation banks; contributions to statewide and regional efforts to conserve, restore, enhance, and create natural habitats and wetlands; and development of statewide and regional natural habitat and wetlands conservation and mitigation plans, including any such banks, efforts, and plans authorized pursuant to the Water Resources Development Act of 1990 (including crediting provisions). Contributions to such mitigation efforts may take place concurrent with or in advance of project construction. Contributions toward these efforts may occur in advance of project construction only if such efforts are consistent with all applicable requirements of Federal law and regulations and State transportation planning processes. With respect to participation in a natural habitat or wetland mitigation effort related to a project funded under this title that has an impact that occurs within the service area of a mitigation bank, preference shall be given, to the maximum extent practicable, to the use of the mitigation bank if the bank contains sufficient available credits to offset the impact and the bank is approved in accordance with the Federal Guidance for the Establishment, Use and Operation of Mitigation Banks (60 Fed. Reg. 58605 (November 28, 1995)) or other applicable Federal law (including regulations).
(12) Projects relating to intersections that
(A) have disproportionately high accident rates;
(B) have high levels of congestion, as evidenced by
(i) interrupted traffic flow at the intersection; and
(ii) a level of service rating that is not better than F during peak travel hours, calculated in accordance with the Highway Capacity Manual issued by the Transportation Research Board; and
(C) are located on a Federal-aid highway.
(13) Infrastructure-based intelligent transportation systems capital improvements.
(14) Environmental restoration and pollution abatement in accordance with section 328.
(15) Control of noxious weeds and aquatic noxious weeds and establishment of native species in accordance with section 329.
(c) Location of Projects.— 
Except as provided in subsection (b)(1), surface transportation program projects (other than those described in subsections (b)(3) and (4)) may not be undertaken on roads functionally classified as local or rural minor collectors, unless such roads are on a Federal-aid highway system on January 1, 1991, and except as approved by the Secretary.
(d) Allocations of Apportioned Funds.— 

[(1) Repealed. Pub. L. 109–59, title I, § 1113(b)(1), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1172.]
(2) For transportation enhancement activities.— 
In a fiscal year, the greater of 10 percent of the funds apportioned to a State under section 104 (b)(3) for such fiscal year, or the amount set aside under this paragraph with respect to the State for fiscal year 2005, shall only be available for transportation enhancement activities.
(3) Division between urbanized areas of over 200,000 population and other areas.— 

(A) General rule.— 
Except as provided in subparagraph (C), 62.5 percent of the remaining 90 percent of the funds apportioned to a State under section 104 (b)(3) for a fiscal year shall be obligated under this section
(i) in urbanized areas of the State with an urbanized area population of over 200,000, and
(ii) in other areas of the State,

in proportion to their relative share of the States population. The remaining 37.5 percent may be obligated in any area of the State. Funds attributed to an urbanized area under clause (i) may be obligated in the metropolitan area established under section 134 which encompasses the urbanized area.

(B) Special rule for areas of less than 5,000 population.— 
Of the amounts required to be obligated under subparagraph (A)(ii), the State shall obligate in areas of the State (other than urban areas with a population greater than 5,000) an amount which is not less than 110 percent of the amount of funds apportioned to the State for the Federal-aid secondary system for fiscal year 1991.
(C) Noncontiguous states exemption.— 
Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to Hawaii and Alaska.
(D) Distribution between urbanized areas of over 200,000 population.— 
The amount of funds which a State is required to obligate under subparagraph (A)(i) shall be obligated in urbanized areas described in subparagraph (A)(i) based on the relative population of such areas; except that the State may obligate such funds based on other factors if the State and the relevant metropolitan planning organizations jointly apply to the Secretary for the permission to do so and the Secretary grants the request.
(4) Applicability of planning requirements.— 
Programming and expenditure of funds for projects under this section shall be consistent with the requirements of sections 134 and 135 of this title.
(5) Applicability of certain requirements to third party sellers.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), in the case of a transportation enhancement activity funded from the allocation required under paragraph (2), if real property or an interest in real property is to be acquired from a qualified organization exclusively for conservation purposes (as determined under section 170(h) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986), the organization shall be considered to be the owner of the property for the purpose of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4601 et seq.).
(B) Federal approval prior to involvement of qualified organization.— 
If Federal approval of the acquisition of the real property or interest predates the involvement of a qualified organization described in subparagraph (A) in the acquisition of the property, the organization shall be considered to be an acquiring agency or person as described in section 24.101(a)(2) of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, for the purpose of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970.
(C) Acquisitions on behalf of recipients of federal funds.— 
If a qualified organization described in subparagraph (A) has contracted with a State transportation department or other recipient of Federal funds to acquire the real property or interest on behalf of the recipient, the organization shall be considered to be an agent of the recipient for the purpose of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970.
(e) Administration.— 

(1) Noncompliance.— 
If the Secretary determines that a State or local government has failed to comply substantially with any provision of this section, the Secretary shall notify the State that, if the State fails to take corrective action within 60 days from the date of receipt of the notification, the Secretary will withhold future apportionments under section 104 (b)(3) until the Secretary is satisfied that appropriate corrective action has been taken.
(2) Program approval.— 

(A) Submission of project agreement.— 
For each fiscal year, each State shall submit a project agreement that
(i) certifies that the State will meet all the requirements of this section; and
(ii) notifies the Secretary of the amount of obligations needed to carry out the program under this section.
(B) Request for adjustments of amounts.— 
Each State shall request from the Secretary such adjustments to the amount of obligations referred to in subparagraph (A)(ii) as the State determines to be necessary.
(C) Effect of approval by the secretary.— 
Approval by the Secretary of a project agreement under subparagraph (A) shall be deemed a contractual obligation of the United States to pay surface transportation program funds made available under this title.
(3) Payments.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall make payments to a State of costs incurred by the State for the surface transportation program in accordance with procedures to be established by the Secretary.
(B) Advance payment option for transportation enhancement activities.— 

(i) In general.— 
The Secretary may advance funds to the State for transportation enhancement activities funded from the allocation required by subsection (d)(2) for a fiscal year.
(ii) Limitation on amounts.— 
Amounts advanced under this subparagraph shall be limited to such amounts as are necessary to make prompt payments for project costs.
(iii) Effect on other requirements.— 
This subparagraph shall not exempt a State from other requirements of this title relating to the surface transportation program.
(4) Population determinations.— 
The Secretary shall use estimates prepared by the Secretary of Commerce when determining population figures for purposes of this section.
(5) Transportation enhancement activities.— 

(A) Categorical exclusions.— 
To the extent appropriate, the Secretary shall develop categorical exclusions from the requirement that an environmental assessment or an environmental impact statement under section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332) be prepared for transportation enhancement activities funded from the allocation required by subsection (d)(2).
(B) Nationwide programmatic agreement.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation established under title II of the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470i et seq.), shall develop a nationwide programmatic agreement governing the review of transportation enhancement activities funded from the allocation required by subsection (d)(2), in accordance with
(i) section 106 of such Act (16 U.S.C. 470f); and
(ii) the regulations of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.
(C) Cost sharing.— 

(i) Required aggregate non-federal share.— 
The average annual non-Federal share of the total cost of all projects to carry out transportation enhancement activities in a State for a fiscal year shall be not less than the non-Federal share authorized for the State under section 120 (b).
(ii) Innovative financing.— 
Subject to clause (i), notwithstanding section 120
(I) funds from other Federal agencies and the value of other contributions (as determined by the Secretary) may be credited toward the non-Federal share of the costs of a project to carry out a transportation enhancement activity;
(II) the non-Federal share for such a project may be calculated on a project, multiple-project, or program basis; and
(III) the Federal share of the cost of an individual project to which subclause (I) or (II) applies may be up to 100 percent.
(f) Obligation Authority.— 

(1) In general.— 
A State that is required to obligate in an urbanized area with an urbanized area population of over 200,000 individuals under subsection (d) funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(3) shall make available during the period of fiscal years 2004 through 2006 and the period of fiscal years 2007 through 2009 an amount of obligation authority distributed to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for use in the area that is equal to the amount obtained by multiplying
(A) the aggregate amount of funds that the State is required to obligate in the area under subsection (d) during the period; and
(B) the ratio that
(i) the aggregate amount of obligation authority distributed to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs during the period; bears to
(ii) the total of the sums apportioned to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs (excluding sums not subject to an obligation limitation) during the period.
(2) Joint responsibility.— 
Each State, each affected metropolitan planning organization, and the Secretary shall jointly ensure compliance with paragraph (1).

23 USC 134 - Metropolitan transportation planning

(a) Policy.— 
It is in the national interest to
(1) encourage and promote the safe and efficient management, operation, and development of surface transportation systems that will serve the mobility needs of people and freight and foster economic growth and development within and between States and urbanized areas, while minimizing transportation-related fuel consumption and air pollution through metropolitan and statewide transportation planning processes identified in this chapter; and
(2) encourage the continued improvement and evolution of the metropolitan and statewide transportation planning processes by metropolitan planning organizations, State departments of transportation, and public transit operators as guided by the planning factors identified in subsection (h) and section 135 (d).
(b) Definitions.— 
In this section and section 135, the following definitions apply:
(1) Metropolitan planning area.— 
The term metropolitan planning area means the geographic area determined by agreement between the metropolitan planning organization for the area and the Governor under subsection (e).
(2) Metropolitan planning organization.— 
The term metropolitan planning organization means the policy board of an organization created as a result of the designation process in subsection (d).
(3) Nonmetropolitan area.— 
The term nonmetropolitan area means a geographic area outside designated metropolitan planning areas.
(4) Nonmetropolitan local official.— 
The term nonmetropolitan local official means elected and appointed officials of general purpose local government in a nonmetropolitan area with responsibility for transportation.
(5) TIP.— 
The term TIP means a transportation improvement program developed by a metropolitan planning organization under subsection (j).
(6) Urbanized area.— 
The term urbanized area means a geographic area with a population of 50,000 or more, as designated by the Bureau of the Census.
(c) General Requirements.— 

(1) Development of long-range plans and tips.— 
To accomplish the objectives in subsection (a), metropolitan planning organizations designated under subsection (d), in cooperation with the State and public transportation operators, shall develop long-range transportation plans and transportation improvement programs for metropolitan planning areas of the State.
(2) Contents.— 
The plans and TIPs for each metropolitan area shall provide for the development and integrated management and operation of transportation systems and facilities (including accessible pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities) that will function as an intermodal transportation system for the metropolitan planning area and as an integral part of an intermodal transportation system for the State and the United States.
(3) Process of development.— 
The process for developing the plans and TIPs shall provide for consideration of all modes of transportation and shall be continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive to the degree appropriate, based on the complexity of the transportation problems to be addressed.
(d) Designation of Metropolitan Planning Organizations.— 

(1) In general.— 
To carry out the transportation planning process required by this section, a metropolitan planning organization shall be designated for each urbanized area with a population of more than 50,000 individuals
(A) by agreement between the Governor and units of general purpose local government that together represent at least 75 percent of the affected population (including the largest incorporated city (based on population) as named by the Bureau of the Census); or
(B) in accordance with procedures established by applicable State or local law.
(2) Structure.— 
Each metropolitan planning organization that serves an area designated as a transportation management area, when designated or redesignated under this subsection, shall consist of
(A) local elected officials;
(B) officials of public agencies that administer or operate major modes of transportation in the metropolitan area; and
(C) appropriate State officials.
(3) Limitation on statutory construction.— 
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to interfere with the authority, under any State law in effect on December 18, 1991, of a public agency with multimodal transportation responsibilities to
(A) develop the plans and TIPs for adoption by a metropolitan planning organization; and
(B) develop long-range capital plans, coordinate transit services and projects, and carry out other activities pursuant to State law.
(4) Continuing designation.— 
A designation of a metropolitan planning organization under this subsection or any other provision of law shall remain in effect until the metropolitan planning organization is redesignated under paragraph (5).
(5) Redesignation procedures.— 
A metropolitan planning organization may be redesignated by agreement between the Governor and units of general purpose local government that together represent at least 75 percent of the existing planning area population (including the largest incorporated city (based on population) as named by the Bureau of the Census) as appropriate to carry out this section.
(6) Designation of more than 1 metropolitan planning organization.— 
More than 1 metropolitan planning organization may be designated within an existing metropolitan planning area only if the Governor and the existing metropolitan planning organization determine that the size and complexity of the existing metropolitan planning area make designation of more than 1 metropolitan planning organization for the area appropriate.
(e) Metropolitan Planning Area Boundaries.— 

(1) In general.— 
For the purposes of this section, the boundaries of a metropolitan planning area shall be determined by agreement between the metropolitan planning organization and the Governor.
(2) Included area.— 
Each metropolitan planning area
(A) shall encompass at least the existing urbanized area and the contiguous area expected to become urbanized within a 20-year forecast period for the transportation plan; and
(B) may encompass the entire metropolitan statistical area or consolidated metropolitan statistical area, as defined by the Bureau of the Census.
(3) Identification of new urbanized areas within existing planning area boundaries.— 
The designation by the Bureau of the Census of new urbanized areas within an existing metropolitan planning area shall not require the redesignation of the existing metropolitan planning organization.
(4) Existing metropolitan planning areas in nonattainment.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (2), in the case of an urbanized area designated as a nonattainment area for ozone or carbon monoxide under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) as of the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the boundaries of the metropolitan planning area in existence as of such date of enactment shall be retained; except that the boundaries may be adjusted by agreement of the Governor and affected metropolitan planning organizations in the manner described in subsection (d)(5).
(5) New metropolitan planning areas in nonattainment.— 
In the case of an urbanized area designated after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, as a nonattainment area for ozone or carbon monoxide, the boundaries of the metropolitan planning area
(A) shall be established in the manner described in subsection (d)(1);
(B) shall encompass the areas described in paragraph (2)(A);
(C) may encompass the areas described in paragraph (2)(B); and
(D) may address any nonattainment area identified under the Clean Air Act for ozone or carbon monoxide.
(f) Coordination in Multistate Areas.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall encourage each Governor with responsibility for a portion of a multistate metropolitan area and the appropriate metropolitan planning organizations to provide coordinated transportation planning for the entire metropolitan area.
(2) Interstate compacts.— 
The consent of Congress is granted to any two or more States
(A) to enter into agreements or compacts, not in conflict with any law of the United States, for cooperative efforts and mutual assistance in support of activities authorized under this section as the activities pertain to interstate areas and localities within the States; and
(B) to establish such agencies, joint or otherwise, as the States may determine desirable for making the agreements and compacts effective.
(3) Lake tahoe region.— 

(A) Definition.— 
In this paragraph, the term Lake Tahoe region has the meaning given the term region in subdivision (a) of article II of the Tahoe Regional Planning Compact, as set forth in the first section of Public Law 96551 (94 Stat. 3234).
(B) Transportation planning process.— 
The Secretary shall
(i) establish with the Federal land management agencies that have jurisdiction over land in the Lake Tahoe region a transportation planning process for the region; and
(ii) coordinate the transportation planning process with the planning process required of State and local governments under this section and section 135.
(C) Interstate compact.— 

(i) In general.— 
Subject to clause (ii), and notwithstanding subsection (b), to carry out the transportation planning process required by this section, the consent of Congress is granted to the States of California and Nevada to designate a metropolitan planning organization for the Lake Tahoe region, by agreement between the Governors of the States of California and Nevada and units of general purpose local government that together represent at least 75 percent of the affected population (including the central city or cities (as defined by the Bureau of the Census)), or in accordance with procedures established by applicable State or local law.
(ii) Involvement of federal land management agencies.— 

(I) Representation.— 
The policy board of a metropolitan planning organization designated under clause (i) shall include a representative of each Federal land management agency that has jurisdiction over land in the Lake Tahoe region.
(II) Funding.— 
In addition to funds made available to the metropolitan planning organization for the Lake Tahoe region under other provisions of this title and under chapter 53 of title 49, 1 percent of the funds allocated under section 202 shall be used to carry out the transportation planning process for the Lake Tahoe region under this subparagraph.
(D) Activities.— 
Highway projects included in transportation plans developed under this paragraph
(i) shall be selected for funding in a manner that facilitates the participation of the Federal land management agencies that have jurisdiction over land in the Lake Tahoe region; and
(ii) may, in accordance with chapter 2, be funded using funds allocated under section 202.
(4) Reservation of rights.— 
The right to alter, amend, or repeal interstate compacts entered into under this subsection is expressly reserved.
(g) MPO Consultation in Plan and TIP Coordination.— 

(1) Nonattainment areas.— 
If more than 1 metropolitan planning organization has authority within a metropolitan area or an area which is designated as a nonattainment area for ozone or carbon monoxide under the Clean Air Act, each metropolitan planning organization shall consult with the other metropolitan planning organizations designated for such area and the State in the coordination of plans and TIPs required by this section.
(2) Transportation improvements located in multiple mpos.— 
If a transportation improvement, funded from the Highway Trust Fund or authorized under chapter 53 of title 49, is located within the boundaries of more than 1 metropolitan planning area, the metropolitan planning organizations shall coordinate plans and TIPs regarding the transportation improvement.
(3) Relationship with other planning officials.— 
The Secretary shall encourage each metropolitan planning organization to consult with officials responsible for other types of planning activities that are affected by transportation in the area (including State and local planned growth, economic development, environmental protection, airport operations, and freight movements) or to coordinate its planning process, to the maximum extent practicable, with such planning activities. Under the metropolitan planning process, transportation plans and TIPs shall be developed with due consideration of other related planning activities within the metropolitan area, and the process shall provide for the design and delivery of transportation services within the metropolitan area that are provided by
(A) recipients of assistance under chapter 53 of title 49;
(B) governmental agencies and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations (including representatives of the agencies and organizations) that receive Federal assistance from a source other than the Department of Transportation to provide nonemergency transportation services; and
(C) recipients of assistance under section 204.
(h) Scope of Planning Process.— 

(1) In general.— 
The metropolitan planning process for a metropolitan planning area under this section shall provide for consideration of projects and strategies that will
(A) support the economic vitality of the metropolitan area, especially by enabling global competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency;
(B) increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and nonmotorized users;
(C) increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and nonmotorized users;
(D) increase the accessibility and mobility of people and for freight;
(E) protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and economic development patterns;
(F) enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes, for people and freight;
(G) promote efficient system management and operation; and
(H) emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system.
(2) Failure to consider factors.— 
The failure to consider any factor specified in paragraph (1) shall not be reviewable by any court under this title or chapter 53 of title 49, subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5, or chapter 7 of title 5 in any matter affecting a transportation plan, a TIP, a project or strategy, or the certification of a planning process.
(i) Development of Transportation Plan.— 

(1) In general.— 
Each metropolitan planning organization shall prepare and update a transportation plan for its metropolitan planning area in accordance with the requirements of this subsection. The metropolitan planning organization shall prepare and update such plan every 4 years (or more frequently, if the metropolitan planning organization elects to update more frequently) in the case of each of the following:
(A) Any area designated as nonattainment, as defined in section 107(d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7407 (d)).
(B) Any area that was nonattainment and subsequently designated to attainment in accordance with section 107(d)(3) of that Act (42 U.S.C. 7407 (d)(3)) and that is subject to a maintenance plan under section 175A of that Act (42 U.S.C. 7505a).

In the case of any other area required to have a transportation plan in accordance with the requirements of this subsection, the metropolitan planning organization shall prepare and update such plan every 5 years unless the metropolitan planning organization elects to update more frequently.

(2) Transportation plan.— 
A transportation plan under this section shall be in a form that the Secretary determines to be appropriate and shall contain, at a minimum, the following:
(A) Identification of transportation facilities.— 
An identification of transportation facilities (including major roadways, transit, multimodal and intermodal facilities, and intermodal connectors) that should function as an integrated metropolitan transportation system, giving emphasis to those facilities that serve important national and regional transportation functions. In formulating the transportation plan, the metropolitan planning organization shall consider factors described in subsection (h) as such factors relate to a 20-year forecast period.
(B) Mitigation activities.— 

(i) In general.— 
A long-range transportation plan shall include a discussion of types of potential environmental mitigation activities and potential areas to carry out these activities, including activities that may have the greatest potential to restore and maintain the environmental functions affected by the plan.
(ii) Consultation.— 
The discussion shall be developed in consultation with Federal, State, and tribal wildlife, land management, and regulatory agencies.
(C) Financial plan.— 
A financial plan that demonstrates how the adopted transportation plan can be implemented, indicates resources from public and private sources that are reasonably expected to be made available to carry out the plan, and recommends any additional financing strategies for needed projects and programs. The financial plan may include, for illustrative purposes, additional projects that would be included in the adopted transportation plan if reasonable additional resources beyond those identified in the financial plan were available. For the purpose of developing the transportation plan, the metropolitan planning organization, transit operator, and State shall cooperatively develop estimates of funds that will be available to support plan implementation.
(D) Operational and management strategies.— 
Operational and management strategies to improve the performance of existing transportation facilities to relieve vehicular congestion and maximize the safety and mobility of people and goods.
(E) Capital investment and other strategies.— 
Capital investment and other strategies to preserve the existing and projected future metropolitan transportation infrastructure and provide for multimodal capacity increases based on regional priorities and needs.
(F) Transportation and transit enhancement activities.— 
Proposed transportation and transit enhancement activities.
(3) Coordination with clean air act agencies.— 
In metropolitan areas which are in nonattainment for ozone or carbon monoxide under the Clean Air Act, the metropolitan planning organization shall coordinate the development of a transportation plan with the process for development of the transportation control measures of the State implementation plan required by the Clean Air Act.
(4) Consultation.— 

(A) In general.— 
In each metropolitan area, the metropolitan planning organization shall consult, as appropriate, with State and local agencies responsible for land use management, natural resources, environmental protection, conservation, and historic preservation concerning the development of a long-range transportation plan.
(B) Issues.— 
The consultation shall involve, as appropriate
(i) comparison of transportation plans with State conservation plans or maps, if available; or
(ii) comparison of transportation plans to inventories of natural or historic resources, if available.
(5) Participation by interested parties.— 

(A) In general.— 
Each metropolitan planning organization shall provide citizens, affected public agencies, representatives of public transportation employees, freight shippers, providers of freight transportation services, private providers of transportation, representatives of users of public transportation, representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, and other interested parties with a reasonable opportunity to comment on the transportation plan.
(B) Contents of participation plan.— 
A participation plan
(i) shall be developed in consultation with all interested parties; and
(ii) shall provide that all interested parties have reasonable opportunities to comment on the contents of the transportation plan.
(C) Methods.— 
In carrying out subparagraph (A), the metropolitan planning organization shall, to the maximum extent practicable
(i) hold any public meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times;
(ii) employ visualization techniques to describe plans; and
(iii) make public information available in electronically accessible format and means, such as the World Wide Web, as appropriate to afford reasonable opportunity for consideration of public information under subparagraph (A).
(6) Publication.— 
A transportation plan involving Federal participation shall be published or otherwise made readily available by the metropolitan planning organization for public review, including (to the maximum extent practicable) in electronically accessible formats and means, such as the World Wide Web, approved by the metropolitan planning organization and submitted for information purposes to the Governor at such times and in such manner as the Secretary shall establish.
(7) Selection of projects from illustrative list.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (2)(C), a State or metropolitan planning organization shall not be required to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan under paragraph (2)(C).
(j) Metropolitan TIP.— 

(1) Development.— 

(A) In general.— 
In cooperation with the State and any affected public transportation operator, the metropolitan planning organization designated for a metropolitan area shall develop a TIP for the area for which the organization is designated.
(B) Opportunity for comment.— 
In developing the TIP, the metropolitan planning organization, in cooperation with the State and any affected public transportation operator, shall provide an opportunity for participation by interested parties in the development of the program, in accordance with subsection (i)(5).
(C) Funding estimates.— 
For the purpose of developing the TIP, the metropolitan planning organization, public transportation agency, and State shall cooperatively develop estimates of funds that are reasonably expected to be available to support program implementation.
(D) Updating and approval.— 
The TIP shall be updated at least once every 4 years and shall be approved by the metropolitan planning organization and the Governor.
(2) Contents.— 

(A) Priority list.— 
The TIP shall include a priority list of proposed federally supported projects and strategies to be carried out within each 4-year period after the initial adoption of the TIP.
(B) Financial plan.— 
The TIP shall include a financial plan that
(i) demonstrates how the TIP can be implemented;
(ii) indicates resources from public and private sources that are reasonably expected to be available to carry out the program;
(iii) identifies innovative financing techniques to finance projects, programs, and strategies; and
(iv) may include, for illustrative purposes, additional projects that would be included in the approved TIP if reasonable additional resources beyond those identified in the financial plan were available.
(C) Descriptions.— 
Each project in the TIP shall include sufficient descriptive material (such as type of work, termini, length, and other similar factors) to identify the project or phase of the project.
(3) Included projects.— 

(A) Projects under this title and chapter 53 of title 49.— 
A TIP developed under this subsection for a metropolitan area shall include the projects within the area that are proposed for funding under chapter 1 of this title and chapter 53 of title 49.
(B) Projects under chapter 2.— 

(i) Regionally significant projects.— 
Regionally significant projects proposed for funding under chapter 2 shall be identified individually in the transportation improvement program.
(ii) Other projects.— 
Projects proposed for funding under chapter 2 that are not determined to be regionally significant shall be grouped in one line item or identified individually in the transportation improvement program.
(C) Consistency with long-range transportation plan.— 
Each project shall be consistent with the long-range transportation plan developed under subsection (i) for the area.
(D) Requirement of anticipated full funding.— 
The program shall include a project, or an identified phase of a project, only if full funding can reasonably be anticipated to be available for the project within the time period contemplated for completion of the project.
(4) Notice and comment.— 
Before approving a TIP, a metropolitan planning organization, in cooperation with the State and any affected public transportation operator, shall provide an opportunity for participation by interested parties in the development of the program, in accordance with subsection (i)(5).
(5) Selection of projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as otherwise provided in subsection (k)(4) and in addition to the TIP development required under paragraph (1), the selection of federally funded projects in metropolitan areas shall be carried out, from the approved TIP
(i) by
(I) in the case of projects under this title, the State; and
(II) in the case of projects under chapter 53 of title 49, the designated recipients of public transportation funding; and
(ii) in cooperation with the metropolitan planning organization.
(B) Modifications to project priority.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, action by the Secretary shall not be required to advance a project included in the approved TIP in place of another project in the program.
(6) Selection of projects from illustrative list.— 

(A) No required selection.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (2)(B)(iv), a State or metropolitan planning organization shall not be required to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan under paragraph (2)(B)(iv).
(B) Required action by the secretary.— 
Action by the Secretary shall be required for a State or metropolitan planning organization to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan under paragraph (2)(B)(iv) for inclusion in an approved TIP.
(7) Publication.— 

(A) Publication of tips.— 
A TIP involving Federal participation shall be published or otherwise made readily available by the metropolitan planning organization for public review.
(B) Publication of annual listings of projects.— 
An annual listing of projects, including investments in pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, for which Federal funds have been obligated in the preceding year shall be published or otherwise made available by the cooperative effort of the State, transit operator, and metropolitan planning organization for public review. The listing shall be consistent with the categories identified in the TIP.
(k) Transportation Management Areas.— 

(1) Identification and designation.— 

(A) Required identification.— 
The Secretary shall identify as a transportation management area each urbanized area (as defined by the Bureau of the Census) with a population of over 200,000 individuals.
(B) Designations on request.— 
The Secretary shall designate any additional area as a transportation management area on the request of the Governor and the metropolitan planning organization designated for the area.
(2) Transportation plans.— 
In a metropolitan planning area serving a transportation management area, transportation plans shall be based on a continuing and comprehensive transportation planning process carried out by the metropolitan planning organization in cooperation with the State and public transportation operators.
(3) Congestion management process.— 
Within a metropolitan planning area serving a transportation management area, the transportation planning process under this section shall address congestion management through a process that provides for effective management and operation, based on a cooperatively developed and implemented metropolitan-wide strategy, of new and existing transportation facilities eligible for funding under this title and chapter 53 of title 49 through the use of travel demand reduction and operational management strategies. The Secretary shall establish an appropriate phase-in schedule for compliance with the requirements of this section but no sooner than 1 year after the identification of a transportation management area.
(4) Selection of projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
All federally funded projects carried out within the boundaries of a metropolitan planning area serving a transportation management area under this title (excluding projects carried out on the National Highway System and projects carried out under the bridge program or the Interstate maintenance program) or under chapter 53 of title 49 shall be selected for implementation from the approved TIP by the metropolitan planning organization designated for the area in consultation with the State and any affected public transportation operator.
(B) National highway system projects.— 
Projects carried out within the boundaries of a metropolitan planning area serving a transportation management area on the National Highway System and projects carried out within such boundaries under the bridge program or the Interstate maintenance program under this title shall be selected for implementation from the approved TIP by the State in cooperation with the metropolitan planning organization designated for the area.
(5) Certification.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Secretary shall
(i) ensure that the metropolitan planning process of a metropolitan planning organization serving a transportation management area is being carried out in accordance with applicable provisions of Federal law; and
(ii) subject to subparagraph (B), certify, not less often than once every 4 years, that the requirements of this paragraph are met with respect to the metropolitan planning process.
(B) Requirements for certification.— 
The Secretary may make the certification under subparagraph (A) if
(i) the transportation planning process complies with the requirements of this section and other applicable requirements of Federal law; and
(ii) there is a TIP for the metropolitan planning area that has been approved by the metropolitan planning organization and the Governor.
(C) Effect of failure to certify.— 

(i) Withholding of project funds.— 
If a metropolitan planning process of a metropolitan planning organization serving a transportation management area is not certified, the Secretary may withhold up to 20 percent of the funds attributable to the metropolitan planning area of the metropolitan planning organization for projects funded under this title and chapter 53 of title 49.
(ii) Restoration of withheld funds.— 
The withheld funds shall be restored to the metropolitan planning area at such time as the metropolitan planning process is certified by the Secretary.
(D) Review of certification.— 
In making certification determinations under this paragraph, the Secretary shall provide for public involvement appropriate to the metropolitan area under review.
(l) Abbreviated Plans for Certain Areas.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), in the case of a metropolitan area not designated as a transportation management area under this section, the Secretary may provide for the development of an abbreviated transportation plan and TIP for the metropolitan planning area that the Secretary determines is appropriate to achieve the purposes of this section, taking into account the complexity of transportation problems in the area.
(2) Nonattainment areas.— 
The Secretary may not permit abbreviated plans or TIPs for a metropolitan area that is in nonattainment for ozone or carbon monoxide under the Clean Air Act.
(m) Additional Requirements for Certain Nonattainment Areas.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this title or chapter 53 of title 49, for transportation management areas classified as nonattainment for ozone or carbon monoxide pursuant to the Clean Air Act, Federal funds may not be advanced in such area for any highway project that will result in a significant increase in the carrying capacity for single-occupant vehicles unless the project is addressed through a congestion management process.
(2) Applicability.— 
This subsection applies to a nonattainment area within the metropolitan planning area boundaries determined under subsection (e).
(n) Limitation on Statutory Construction.— 
Nothing in this section shall be construed to confer on a metropolitan planning organization the authority to impose legal requirements on any transportation facility, provider, or project not eligible under this title or chapter 53 of title 49.
(o) Funding.— 
Funds set aside under section 104 (f) of this title or section 5305 (g) of title 49 shall be available to carry out this section.
(p) Continuation of Current Review Practice.— 
Since plans and TIPs described in this section are subject to a reasonable opportunity for public comment, since individual projects included in plans and TIPs are subject to review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and since decisions by the Secretary concerning plans and TIPs described in this section have not been reviewed under such Act as of January 1, 1997, any decision by the Secretary concerning a plan or TIP described in this section shall not be considered to be a Federal action subject to review under such Act.

23 USC 135 - Statewide transportation planning

(a) General Requirements.— 

(1) Development of plans and programs.— 
To accomplish the objectives stated in section 134 (a), each State shall develop a statewide transportation plan and a statewide transportation improvement program for all areas of the State, subject to section 134.
(2) Contents.— 
The statewide transportation plan and the transportation improvement program developed for each State shall provide for the development and integrated management and operation of transportation systems and facilities (including accessible pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities) that will function as an intermodal transportation system for the State and an integral part of an intermodal transportation system for the United States.
(3) Process of development.— 
The process for developing the statewide plan and the transportation improvement program shall provide for consideration of all modes of transportation and the policies stated in section 134 (a), and shall be continuing, cooperative, and comprehensive to the degree appropriate, based on the complexity of the transportation problems to be addressed.
(b) Coordination With Metropolitan Planning; State Implementation Plan.— 
A State shall
(1) coordinate planning carried out under this section with the transportation planning activities carried out under section 134 for metropolitan areas of the State and with statewide trade and economic development planning activities and related multistate planning efforts; and
(2) develop the transportation portion of the State implementation plan as required by the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.).
(c) Interstate Agreements.— 

(1) In general.— 
The consent of Congress is granted to two or more States entering into agreements or compacts, not in conflict with any law of the United States, for cooperative efforts and mutual assistance in support of activities authorized under this section related to interstate areas and localities in the States and establishing authorities the States consider desirable for making the agreements and compacts effective.
(2) Reservation of rights.— 
The right to alter, amend, or repeal interstate compacts entered into under this subsection is expressly reserved.
(d) Scope of Planning Process.— 

(1) In general.— 
Each State shall carry out a statewide transportation planning process that provides for consideration and implementation of projects, strategies, and services that will
(A) support the economic vitality of the United States, the States, nonmetropolitan areas, and metropolitan areas, especially by enabling global competitiveness, productivity, and efficiency;
(B) increase the safety of the transportation system for motorized and nonmotorized users;
(C) increase the security of the transportation system for motorized and nonmotorized users;
(D) increase the accessibility and mobility of people and freight;
(E) protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and State and local planned growth and economic development patterns;
(F) enhance the integration and connectivity of the transportation system, across and between modes throughout the State, for people and freight;
(G) promote efficient system management and operation; and
(H) emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system.
(2) Failure to consider factors.— 
The failure to consider any factor specified in paragraph (1) shall not be reviewable by any court under this title or chapter 53 of title 49, subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5, or chapter 7 of title 5 in any matter affecting a statewide transportation plan, the transportation improvement program, a project or strategy, or the certification of a planning process.
(e) Additional Requirements.— 
In carrying out planning under this section, each State shall consider, at a minimum
(1) with respect to nonmetropolitan areas, the concerns of affected local officials with responsibility for transportation;
(2) the concerns of Indian tribal governments and Federal land management agencies that have jurisdiction over land within the boundaries of the State; and
(3) coordination of transportation plans, the transportation improvement program, and planning activities with related planning activities being carried out outside of metropolitan planning areas and between States.
(f) Long-Range Statewide Transportation Plan.— 

(1) Development.— 
Each State shall develop a long-range statewide transportation plan, with a minimum 20-year forecast period for all areas of the State, that provides for the development and implementation of the intermodal transportation system of the State.
(2) Consultation with governments.— 

(A) Metropolitan areas.— 
The statewide transportation plan shall be developed for each metropolitan area in the State in cooperation with the metropolitan planning organization designated for the metropolitan area under section 134.
(B) Nonmetropolitan areas.— 
With respect to nonmetropolitan areas, the statewide transportation plan shall be developed in consultation with affected nonmetropolitan officials with responsibility for transportation. The Secretary shall not review or approve the consultation process in each State.
(C) Indian tribal areas.— 
With respect to each area of the State under the jurisdiction of an Indian tribal government, the statewide transportation plan shall be developed in consultation with the tribal government and the Secretary of the Interior.
(D) Consultation, comparison, and consideration.— 

(i) In general.— 
The long-range transportation plan shall be developed, as appropriate, in consultation with State, tribal, and local agencies responsible for land use management, natural resources, environmental protection, conservation, and historic preservation.
(ii) Comparison and consideration.— 
Consultation under clause (i) shall involve comparison of transportation plans to State and tribal conservation plans or maps, if available, and comparison of transportation plans to inventories of natural or historic resources, if available.
(3) Participation by interested parties.— 

(A) In general.— 
In developing the statewide transportation plan, the State shall provide citizens, affected public agencies, representatives of public transportation employees, freight shippers, private providers of transportation, representatives of users of public transportation, representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, providers of freight transportation services, and other interested parties with a reasonable opportunity to comment on the proposed plan.
(B) Methods.— 
In carrying out subparagraph (A), the State shall, to the maximum extent practicable
(i) hold any public meetings at convenient and accessible locations and times;
(ii) employ visualization techniques to describe plans; and
(iii) make public information available in electronically accessible format and means, such as the World Wide Web, as appropriate to afford reasonable opportunity for consideration of public information under subparagraph (A).
(4) Mitigation activities.— 

(A) In general.— 
A long-range transportation plan shall include a discussion of potential environmental mitigation activities and potential areas to carry out these activities, including activities that may have the greatest potential to restore and maintain the environmental functions affected by the plan.
(B) Consultation.— 
The discussion shall be developed in consultation with Federal, State, and tribal wildlife, land management, and regulatory agencies.
(5) Financial plan.— 
The statewide transportation plan may include a financial plan that demonstrates how the adopted statewide transportation plan can be implemented, indicates resources from public and private sources that are reasonably expected to be made available to carry out the plan, and recommends any additional financing strategies for needed projects and programs. The financial plan may include, for illustrative purposes, additional projects that would be included in the adopted statewide transportation plan if reasonable additional resources beyond those identified in the financial plan were available.
(6) Selection of projects from illustrative list.— 
A State shall not be required to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan described in paragraph (5).
(7) Existing system.— 
The statewide transportation plan should include capital, operations and management strategies, investments, procedures, and other measures to ensure the preservation and most efficient use of the existing transportation system.
(8) Publication of long-range transportation plans.— 
Each long-range transportation plan prepared by a State shall be published or otherwise made available, including (to the maximum extent practicable) in electronically accessible formats and means, such as the World Wide Web.
(g) Statewide Transportation Improvement Program.— 

(1) Development.— 
Each State shall develop a statewide transportation improvement program for all areas of the State. Such program shall cover a period of 4 years and be updated every 4 years or more frequently if the Governor elects to update more frequently.
(2) Consultation with governments.— 

(A) Metropolitan areas.— 
With respect to each metropolitan area in the State, the program shall be developed in cooperation with the metropolitan planning organization designated for the metropolitan area under section 134.
(B) Nonmetropolitan areas.— 
With respect to each nonmetropolitan area in the State, the program shall be developed in consultation with affected nonmetropolitan local officials with responsibility for transportation. The Secretary shall not review or approve the specific consultation process in the State.
(C) Indian tribal areas.— 
With respect to each area of the State under the jurisdiction of an Indian tribal government, the program shall be developed in consultation with the tribal government and the Secretary of the Interior.
(3) Participation by interested parties.— 
In developing the program, the State shall provide citizens, affected public agencies, representatives of public transportation employees, freight shippers, private providers of transportation, providers of freight transportation services, representatives of users of public transportation, representatives of users of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities, representatives of the disabled, and other interested parties with a reasonable opportunity to comment on the proposed program.
(4) Included projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
A transportation improvement program developed under this subsection for a State shall include federally supported surface transportation expenditures within the boundaries of the State.
(B) Listing of projects.— 
An annual listing of projects for which funds have been obligated in the preceding year in each metropolitan planning area shall be published or otherwise made available by the cooperative effort of the State, transit operator, and the metropolitan planning organization for public review. The listing shall be consistent with the funding categories identified in each metropolitan transportation improvement program.
(C) Projects under chapter 2.— 

(i) Regionally significant projects.— 
Regionally significant projects proposed for funding under chapter 2 shall be identified individually in the transportation improvement program.
(ii) Other projects.— 
Projects proposed for funding under chapter 2 that are not determined to be regionally significant shall be grouped in one line item or identified individually in the transportation improvement program.
(D) Consistency with statewide transportation plan.— 
Each project shall be
(i) consistent with the statewide transportation plan developed under this section for the State;
(ii) identical to the project or phase of the project as described in an approved metropolitan transportation plan; and
(iii) in conformance with the applicable State air quality implementation plan developed under the Clean Air Act, if the project is carried out in an area designated as nonattainment for ozone, particulate matter, or carbon monoxide under such Act.
(E) Requirement of anticipated full funding.— 
The transportation improvement program shall include a project, or an identified phase of a project, only if full funding can reasonably be anticipated to be available for the project within the time period contemplated for completion of the project.
(F) Financial plan.— 
The transportation improvement program may include a financial plan that demonstrates how the approved transportation improvement program can be implemented, indicates resources from public and private sources that are reasonably expected to be made available to carry out the transportation improvement program, and recommends any additional financing strategies for needed projects and programs. The financial plan may include, for illustrative purposes, additional projects that would be included in the adopted transportation plan if reasonable additional resources beyond those identified in the financial plan were available.
(G) Selection of projects from illustrative list.— 

(i) No required selection.— 
Notwithstanding subparagraph (F), a State shall not be required to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan under subparagraph (F).
(ii) Required action by the secretary.— 
Action by the Secretary shall be required for a State to select any project from the illustrative list of additional projects included in the financial plan under subparagraph (F) for inclusion in an approved transportation improvement program.
(H) Priorities.— 
The transportation improvement program shall reflect the priorities for programming and expenditures of funds, including transportation enhancement activities, required by this title and chapter 53 of title 49.
(5) Project selection for areas of less than 50,000 population.— 
Projects carried out in areas with populations of less than 50,000 individuals shall be selected, from the approved transportation improvement program (excluding projects carried out on the National Highway System and projects carried out under the bridge program or the Interstate maintenance program under this title or under sections 5310, 5311, 5316, and 5317 of title 49), by the State in cooperation with the affected nonmetropolitan local officials with responsibility for transportation. Projects carried out in areas with populations of less than 50,000 individuals on the National Highway System or under the bridge program or the Interstate maintenance program under this title or under sections 5310, 5311, 5316, and 5317 of title 49 shall be selected, from the approved statewide transportation improvement program, by the State in consultation with the affected nonmetropolitan local officials with responsibility for transportation.
(6) Transportation improvement program approval.— 
Every 4 years, a transportation improvement program developed under this subsection shall be reviewed and approved by the Secretary if based on a current planning finding.
(7) Planning finding.— 
A finding shall be made by the Secretary at least every 4 years that the transportation planning process through which statewide transportation plans and programs are developed is consistent with this section and section 134.
(8) Modifications to project priority.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, action by the Secretary shall not be required to advance a project included in the approved transportation improvement program in place of another project in the program.
(h) Funding.— 
Funds set aside pursuant to section 104 (f) of this title and section 5305 (g) of title 49, shall be available to carry out this section.
(i) Treatment of Certain State Laws as Congestion Management Processes.— 
For purposes of this section and section 134, and sections 5303 and 5304 of title 49, State laws, rules, or regulations pertaining to congestion management systems or programs may constitute the congestion management process under this section and section 134, and sections 5303 and 5304 of title 49, if the Secretary finds that the State laws, rules, or regulations are consistent with, and fulfill the intent of, the purposes of this section and section 134 and sections 5303 and 5304 of title 49, as appropriate.
(j) Continuation of Current Review Practice.— 
Since the statewide transportation plan and the transportation improvement program described in this section are subject to a reasonable opportunity for public comment, since individual projects included in the statewide transportation plans and the transportation improvement program are subject to review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), and since decisions by the Secretary concerning statewide transportation plans or the transportation improvement program described in this section have not been reviewed under such Act as of January 1, 1997, any decision by the Secretary concerning a metropolitan or statewide transportation plan or the transportation improvement program described in this section shall not be considered to be a Federal action subject to review under such Act.

23 USC 136 - Control of junkyards

(a) The Congress hereby finds and declares that the establishment and use and maintenance of junkyards in areas adjacent to the Interstate System and the primary system should be controlled in order to protect the public investment in such highways, to promote the safety and recreational value of public travel, and to preserve natural beauty.
(b) Federal-aid highway funds apportioned on or after January 1, 1968, to any State which the Secretary determines has not made provision for effective control of the establishment and maintenance along the Interstate System and the primary system of outdoor junkyards, which are within one thousand feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and visible from the main traveled way of the system, shall be reduced by amounts equal to 10 per centum of the amounts which would otherwise be apportioned to such State under section 104 of this title, until such time as such State shall provide for such effective control. Any amount which is withheld from apportionment to any State hereunder shall be reapportioned to the other States. Whenever he determines it to be in the public interest, the Secretary may suspend, for such periods as he deems necessary, the application of this subsection to a State.
(c) Effective control means that by January 1, 1968, such junkyards shall be screened by natural objects, plantings, fences, or other appropriate means so as not to be visible from the main traveled way of the system, or shall be removed from sight.
(d) The term junk shall mean old or scrap copper, brass, rope, rags, batteries, paper, trash, rubber debris, waste, or junked, dismantled, or wrecked automobiles, or parts thereof, iron, steel, and other old or scrap ferrous or nonferrous material.
(e) The term automobile graveyard shall mean any establishment or place of business which is maintained, used, or operated for storing, keeping, buying, or selling wrecked, scrapped, ruined, or dismantled motor vehicles or motor vehicle parts.
(f) The term junkyard shall mean an establishment or place of business which is maintained, operated, or used for storing, keeping, buying, or selling junk, or for the maintenance or operation of an automobile graveyard, and the term shall include garbage dumps and sanitary fills.
(g) Notwithstanding any provision of this section, junkyards, auto graveyards, and scrap metal processing facilities may be operated within areas adjacent to the Interstate System and the primary system which are within one thousand feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and which are zoned industrial under authority of State law, or which are not zoned under authority of State law, but are used for industrial activities, as determined by the several States subject to approval by the Secretary.
(h) Notwithstanding any provision of this section, any junkyard in existence on the date of enactment of this section which does not conform to the requirements of this section and which the Secretary finds as a practical matter cannot be screened, shall not be required to be removed until July 1, 1970.
(i) The Federal share of landscaping and screening costs under this section shall be 75 per centum.
(j) Just compensation shall be paid the owner for the relocation, removal, or disposal of junkyards lawfully established under State law. The Federal share of such compensation shall be 75 per centum.
(k) All public lands or reservations of the United States which are adjacent to any portion of the interstate and primary systems shall be effectively controlled in accordance with the provisions of this section.
(l) Nothing in this section shall prohibit a State from establishing standards imposing stricter limitations with respect to outdoor junkyards on the Federal-aid highway systems than those established under this section.
(m) There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, not to exceed $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1966, not to exceed $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1967, not to exceed $3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1970, not to exceed $3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1971, not to exceed $3,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1972, and not to exceed $5,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1973. The provisions of this chapter relating to the obligation, period of availability, and expenditure of Federal-aid primary highway funds shall apply to the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section after June 30, 1967.

23 USC 137 - Fringe and corridor parking facilities

(a) The Secretary may approve as a project on a Federal-aid highway the acquisition of land adjacent to the right-of-way outside a central business district, as defined by the Secretary, and the construction of publicly owned parking facilities thereon or within such right-of-way, including the use of the air space above and below the established grade line of the highway pavement, to serve an urban area of fifty thousand population or more. Such parking facility shall be located and designed in conjunction with existing or planned public transportation facilities. In the event fees are charged for the use of any such facility, the rate thereof shall not be in excess of that required for maintenance and operation (including compensation to any person for operating such facility).
(b) The Secretary shall not approve any project under this section until
(1) he has determined that the State, or the political subdivision thereof, where such project is to be located, or any agency or instrumentality of such State or political subdivision, has the authority and capability of constructing, maintaining, and operating the facility;
(2) he has entered into an agreement governing the financing, maintenance, and operation of the parking facility with such State, political subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, including necessary requirements to insure that adequate public transportation services will be available to persons using such facility; and
(3) he has approved design standards for constructing such facility developed in cooperation with the State transportation department.
(c) The term parking facilities for purposes of this section shall include access roads, buildings, structures, equipment, improvements, and interests in lands.
(d) Nothing in this section, or in any rule or regulation issued under this section, or in any agreement required by this section, shall prohibit
(1)  any State, political subdivision, or agency or instrumentality thereof, from contracting with any person to operate any parking facility constructed under this section, or
(2)  any such person from so operating such facility.
(e) The Secretary shall not approve any project under this section unless he determines that it is based on a continuing comprehensive transportation planning process carried on in accordance with section 134 of this title.
(f) 
(1) The Secretary may approve for Federal financial assistance from funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(4), projects for designating existing facilities, or for acquisition of rights of way or construction of new facilities, for use as preferential parking for carpools, provided that such facilities
(A)  are located outside of a central business district and within an interstate highway corridor, and
(B)  have as their primary purpose the reduction of vehicular traffic on the interstate highway.
(2) Nothing in this subsection, or in any rule or regulation issued under this subsection, or in any agreement required by this subsection, shall prohibit
(A)  any State, political subdivision, or agency or instrumentality thereof, from contracting with any person to operate any parking facility designated or constructed under this subsection, or
(B)  any such person from so operating such facility. Any fees charged for the use of any such facility in connection with the purpose of this subsection shall not be in excess of the amount required for operation and maintenance, including compensation to any person for operating the facility.
(3) For the purposes of this subsection, the terms facilities and parking facilities are synonymous and shall have the same meaning given parking facilities in subsection (c) of this section.

23 USC 138 - Preservation of parklands

(a) Declaration of Policy.— 
It is declared to be the national policy that special effort should be made to preserve the natural beauty of the countryside and public park and recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, and historic sites. The Secretary of Transportation shall cooperate and consult with the Secretaries of the Interior, Housing and Urban Development, and Agriculture, and with the States in developing transportation plans and programs that include measures to maintain or enhance the natural beauty of the lands traversed. After the effective date of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1968, the Secretary shall not approve any program or project (other than any project for a park road or parkway under section 204 of this title) which requires the use of any publicly owned land from a public park, recreation area, or wildlife and waterfowl refuge of national, State, or local significance as determined by the Federal, State, or local officials having jurisdiction thereof, or any land from an historic site of national, State, or local significance as so determined by such officials unless
(1)  there is no feasible and prudent alternative to the use of such land, and
(2)  such program includes all possible planning to minimize harm to such park, recreational area, wildlife and waterfowl refuge, or historic site resulting from such use. In carrying out the national policy declared in this section the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior and appropriate State and local officials, is authorized to conduct studies as to the most feasible Federal-aid routes for the movement of motor vehicular traffic through or around national parks so as to best serve the needs of the traveling public while preserving the natural beauty of these areas.
(b) De Minimis Impacts.— 

(1) Requirements.— 

(A) Requirements for historic sites.— 
The requirements of this section shall be considered to be satisfied with respect to an area described in paragraph (2) if the Secretary determines, in accordance with this subsection, that a transportation program or project will have a de minimis impact on the area.
(B) Requirements for parks, recreation areas, and wildlife or waterfowl refuges.— 
The requirements of subsection (a)(1) shall be considered to be satisfied with respect to an area described in paragraph (3) if the Secretary determines, in accordance with this subsection, that a transportation program or project will have a de minimis impact on the area. The requirements of subsection (a)(2) with respect to an area described in paragraph (3) shall not include an alternatives analysis.
(C) Criteria.— 
In making any determination under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider to be part of a transportation program or project any avoidance, minimization, mitigation, or enhancement measures that are required to be implemented as a condition of approval of the transportation program or project.
(2) Historic sites.— 
With respect to historic sites, the Secretary may make a finding of de minimis impact only if
(A) the Secretary has determined, in accordance with the consultation process required under section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470f), that
(i) the transportation program or project will have no adverse effect on the historic site; or
(ii) there will be no historic properties affected by the transportation program or project;
(B) the finding of the Secretary has received written concurrence from the applicable State historic preservation officer or tribal historic preservation officer (and from the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation if the Council is participating in the consultation process); and
(C) the finding of the Secretary has been developed in consultation with parties consulting as part of the process referred to in subparagraph (A).
(3) Parks, recreation areas, and wildlife or waterfowl refuges.— 
With respect to parks, recreation areas, or wildlife or waterfowl refuges, the Secretary may make a finding of de minimis impact only if
(A) the Secretary has determined, after public notice and opportunity for public review and comment, that the transportation program or project will not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes of the park, recreation area, or wildlife or waterfowl refuge eligible for protection under this section; and
(B) the finding of the Secretary has received concurrence from the officials with jurisdiction over the park, recreation area, or wildlife or waterfowl refuge.

23 USC 139 - Efficient environmental reviews for project decisionmaking

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Agency.— 
The term agency means any agency, department, or other unit of Federal, State, local, or Indian tribal government.
(2) Environmental impact statement.— 
The term environmental impact statement means the detailed statement of environmental impacts required to be prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(3) Environmental review process.— 

(A) In general.— 
The term environmental review process means the process for preparing for a project an environmental impact statement, environmental assessment, categorical exclusion, or other document prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(B) Inclusions.— 
The term environmental review process includes the process for and completion of any environmental permit, approval, review, or study required for a project under any Federal law other than the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(4) Lead agency.— 
The term lead agency means the Department of Transportation and, if applicable, any State or local governmental entity serving as a joint lead agency pursuant to this section.
(5) Multimodal project.— 
The term multimodal project means a project funded, in whole or in part, under this title or chapter 53 of title 49 and involving the participation of more than one Department of Transportation administration or agency.
(6) Project.— 
The term project means any highway project, public transportation capital project, or multimodal project that requires the approval of the Secretary.
(7) Project sponsor.— 
The term project sponsor means the agency or other entity, including any private or public-private entity, that seeks approval of the Secretary for a project.
(8) State transportation department.— 
The term State transportation department means any statewide agency of a State with responsibility for one or more modes of transportation.
(b) Applicability.— 

(1) In general.— 
The project development procedures in this section are applicable to all projects for which an environmental impact statement is prepared under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and may be applied, to the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, to other projects for which an environmental document is prepared pursuant to such Act.
(2) Flexibility.— 
Any authorities granted in this section may be exercised for a project, class of projects, or program of projects.
(c) Lead Agencies.— 

(1) Federal lead agency.— 
The Department of Transportation shall be the Federal lead agency in the environmental review process for a project.
(2) Joint lead agencies.— 
Nothing in this section precludes another agency from being a joint lead agency in accordance with regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969.
(3) Project sponsor as joint lead agency.— 
Any project sponsor that is a State or local governmental entity receiving funds under this title or chapter 53 of title 49 for the project shall serve as a joint lead agency with the Department for purposes of preparing any environmental document under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and may prepare any such environmental document required in support of any action or approval by the Secretary if the Federal lead agency furnishes guidance in such preparation and independently evaluates such document and the document is approved and adopted by the Secretary prior to the Secretary taking any subsequent action or making any approval based on such document, whether or not the Secretarys action or approval results in Federal funding.
(4) Ensuring compliance.— 
The Secretary shall ensure that the project sponsor complies with all design and mitigation commitments made jointly by the Secretary and the project sponsor in any environmental document prepared by the project sponsor in accordance with this subsection and that such document is appropriately supplemented if project changes become necessary.
(5) Adoption and use of documents.— 
Any environmental document prepared in accordance with this subsection may be adopted or used by any Federal agency making any approval to the same extent that such Federal agency could adopt or use a document prepared by another Federal agency.
(6) Roles and responsibility of lead agency.— 
With respect to the environmental review process for any project, the lead agency shall have authority and responsibility
(A) to take such actions as are necessary and proper, within the authority of the lead agency, to facilitate the expeditious resolution of the environmental review process for the project; and
(B) to prepare or ensure that any required environmental impact statement or other document required to be completed under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 is completed in accordance with this section and applicable Federal law.
(d) Participating Agencies.— 

(1) In general.— 
The lead agency shall be responsible for inviting and designating participating agencies in accordance with this subsection.
(2) Invitation.— 
The lead agency shall identify, as early as practicable in the environmental review process for a project, any other Federal and non-Federal agencies that may have an interest in the project, and shall invite such agencies to become participating agencies in the environmental review process for the project. The invitation shall set a deadline for responses to be submitted. The deadline may be extended by the lead agency for good cause.
(3) Federal participating agencies.— 
Any Federal agency that is invited by the lead agency to participate in the environmental review process for a project shall be designated as a participating agency by the lead agency unless the invited agency informs the lead agency, in writing, by the deadline specified in the invitation that the invited agency
(A) has no jurisdiction or authority with respect to the project;
(B) has no expertise or information relevant to the project; and
(C) does not intend to submit comments on the project.
(4) Effect of designation.— 
Designation as a participating agency under this subsection shall not imply that the participating agency
(A) supports a proposed project; or
(B) has any jurisdiction over, or special expertise with respect to evaluation of, the project.
(5) Cooperating agency.— 
A participating agency may also be designated by a lead agency as a cooperating agency under the regulations contained in part 1500 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations.
(6) Designations for categories of projects.— 
The Secretary may exercise the authorities granted under this subsection for a project, class of projects, or program of projects.
(7) Concurrent reviews.— 
Each Federal agency shall, to the maximum extent practicable
(A) carry out obligations of the Federal agency under other applicable law concurrently, and in conjunction, with the review required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), unless doing so would impair the ability of the Federal agency to carry out those obligations; and
(B) formulate and implement administrative, policy, and procedural mechanisms to enable the agency to ensure completion of the environmental review process in a timely, coordinated, and environmentally responsible manner.
(e) Project Initiation.— 
The project sponsor shall notify the Secretary of the type of work, termini, length and general location of the proposed project, together with a statement of any Federal approvals anticipated to be necessary for the proposed project, for the purpose of informing the Secretary that the environmental review process should be initiated.
(f) Purpose and Need.— 

(1) Participation.— 
As early as practicable during the environmental review process, the lead agency shall provide an opportunity for involvement by participating agencies and the public in defining the purpose and need for a project.
(2) Definition.— 
Following participation under paragraph (1), the lead agency shall define the projects purpose and need for purposes of any document which the lead agency is responsible for preparing for the project.
(3) Objectives.— 
The statement of purpose and need shall include a clear statement of the objectives that the proposed action is intended to achieve, which may include
(A) achieving a transportation objective identified in an applicable statewide or metropolitan transportation plan;
(B) supporting land use, economic development, or growth objectives established in applicable Federal, State, local, or tribal plans; and
(C) serving national defense, national security, or other national objectives, as established in Federal laws, plans, or policies.
(4) Alternatives analysis.— 

(A) Participation.— 
As early as practicable during the environmental review process, the lead agency shall provide an opportunity for involvement by participating agencies and the public in determining the range of alternatives to be considered for a project.
(B) Range of alternatives.— 
Following participation under paragraph (1), the lead agency shall determine the range of alternatives for consideration in any document which the lead agency is responsible for preparing for the project.
(C) Methodologies.— 
The lead agency also shall determine, in collaboration with participating agencies at appropriate times during the study process, the methodologies to be used and the level of detail required in the analysis of each alternative for a project.
(D) Preferred alternative.— 
At the discretion of the lead agency, the preferred alternative for a project, after being identified, may be developed to a higher level of detail than other alternatives in order to facilitate the development of mitigation measures or concurrent compliance with other applicable laws if the lead agency determines that the development of such higher level of detail will not prevent the lead agency from making an impartial decision as to whether to accept another alternative which is being considered in the environmental review process.
(g) Coordination and Scheduling.— 

(1) Coordination plan.— 

(A) In general.— 
The lead agency shall establish a plan for coordinating public and agency participation in and comment on the environmental review process for a project or category of projects. The coordination plan may be incorporated into a memorandum of understanding.
(B) Schedule.— 

(i) In general.— 
The lead agency may establish as part of the coordination plan, after consultation with each participating agency for the project and with the State in which the project is located (and, if the State is not the project sponsor, with the project sponsor), a schedule for completion of the environmental review process for the project.
(ii) Factors for consideration.— 
In establishing the schedule, the lead agency shall consider factors such as
(I) the responsibilities of participating agencies under applicable laws;
(II) resources available to the cooperating agencies;
(III) overall size and complexity of the project;
(IV) the overall schedule for and cost of the project; and
(V) the sensitivity of the natural and historic resources that could be affected by the project.
(C) Consistency with other time periods.— 
A schedule under subparagraph (B) shall be consistent with any other relevant time periods established under Federal law.
(D) Modification.— 
The lead agency may
(i) lengthen a schedule established under subparagraph (B) for good cause; and
(ii) shorten a schedule only with the concurrence of the affected cooperating agencies.
(E) Dissemination.— 
A copy of a schedule under subparagraph (B), and of any modifications to the schedule, shall be
(i) provided to all participating agencies and to the State transportation department of the State in which the project is located (and, if the State is not the project sponsor, to the project sponsor); and
(ii) made available to the public.
(2) Comment deadlines.— 
The lead agency shall establish the following deadlines for comment during the environmental review process for a project:
(A) For comments by agencies and the public on a draft environmental impact statement, a period of not more than 60 days after publication in the Federal Register of notice of the date of public availability of such document, unless
(i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the lead agency, the project sponsor, and all participating agencies; or
(ii) the deadline is extended by the lead agency for good cause.
(B) For all other comment periods established by the lead agency for agency or public comments in the environmental review process, a period of no more than 30 days from availability of the materials on which comment is requested, unless
(i) a different deadline is established by agreement of the lead agency, the project sponsor, and all participating agencies; or
(ii) the deadline is extended by the lead agency for good cause.
(3) Deadlines for decisions under other laws.— 
In any case in which a decision under any Federal law relating to a project (including the issuance or denial of a permit or license) is required to be made by the later of the date that is 180 days after the date on which the Secretary made all final decisions of the lead agency with respect to the project, or 180 days after the date on which an application was submitted for the permit or license, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives
(A) as soon as practicable after the 180-day period, an initial notice of the failure of the Federal agency to make the decision; and
(B) every 60 days thereafter until such date as all decisions of the Federal agency relating to the project have been made by the Federal agency, an additional notice that describes the number of decisions of the Federal agency that remain outstanding as of the date of the additional notice.
(4) Involvement of the public.— 
Nothing in this subsection shall reduce any time period provided for public comment in the environmental review process under existing Federal law, including a regulation.
(h) Issue Identification and Resolution.— 

(1) Cooperation.— 
The lead agency and the participating agencies shall work cooperatively in accordance with this section to identify and resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or could result in denial of any approvals required for the project under applicable laws.
(2) Lead agency responsibilities.— 
The lead agency shall make information available to the participating agencies as early as practicable in the environmental review process regarding the environmental and socioeconomic resources located within the project area and the general locations of the alternatives under consideration. Such information may be based on existing data sources, including geographic information systems mapping.
(3) Participating agency responsibilities.— 
Based on information received from the lead agency, participating agencies shall identify, as early as practicable, any issues of concern regarding the projects potential environmental or socioeconomic impacts. In this paragraph, issues of concern include any issues that could substantially delay or prevent an agency from granting a permit or other approval that is needed for the project.
(4) Issue resolution.— 

(A) Meeting of participating agencies.— 
At any time upon request of a project sponsor or the Governor of a State in which the project is located, the lead agency shall promptly convene a meeting with the relevant participating agencies, the project sponsor, and the Governor (if the meeting was requested by the Governor) to resolve issues that could delay completion of the environmental review process or could result in denial of any approvals required for the project under applicable laws.
(B) Notice that resolution cannot be achieved.— 
If a resolution cannot be achieved within 30 days following such a meeting and a determination by the lead agency that all information necessary to resolve the issue has been obtained, the lead agency shall notify the heads of all participating agencies, the project sponsor, the Governor, the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the Council on Environmental Quality, and shall publish such notification in the Federal Register.
(i) Performance Measurement.— 
The Secretary shall establish a program to measure and report on progress toward improving and expediting the planning and environmental review process.
(j) Assistance to Affected State and Federal Agencies.— 

(1) In general.— 
For a project that is subject to the environmental review process established under this section and for which funds are made available to a State under this title or chapter 53 of title 49, the Secretary may approve a request by the State to provide funds so made available under this title or such chapter 53 to affected Federal agencies (including the Department of Transportation), State agencies, and Indian tribes participating in the environmental review process for the projects in that State or participating in a State process that has been approved by the Secretary for that State. Such funds may be provided only to support activities that directly and meaningfully contribute to expediting and improving transportation project planning and delivery for projects in that State.
(2) Activities eligible for funding.— 
Activities for which funds may be provided under paragraph (1) include transportation planning activities that precede the initiation of the environmental review process, dedicated staffing, training of agency personnel, information gathering and mapping, and development of programmatic agreements.
(3) Use of federal lands highway funds.— 
The Secretary may also use funds made available under section 204 for a project for the purposes specified in this subsection with respect to the environmental review process for the project.
(4) Amounts.— 
Requests under paragraph (1) may be approved only for the additional amounts that the Secretary determines are necessary for the Federal agencies, State agencies, or Indian tribes participating in the environmental review process to meet the time limits for environmental review.
(5) Condition.— 
A request under paragraph (1) to expedite time limits for environmental review may be approved only if such time limits are less than the customary time necessary for such review.
(k) Judicial Review and Savings Clause.— 

(1) Judicial review.— 
Except as set forth under subsection (l), nothing in this section shall affect the reviewability of any final Federal agency action in a court of the United States or in the court of any State.
(2) Savings clause.— 
Nothing in this section shall be construed as superseding, amending, or modifying the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 or any other Federal environmental statute or affect the responsibility of any Federal officer to comply with or enforce any such statute.
(3) Limitations.— 
Nothing in this section shall preempt or interfere with
(A) any practice of seeking, considering, or responding to public comment; or
(B) any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, or authority that a Federal, State, or local government agency, metropolitan planning organization, Indian tribe, or project sponsor has with respect to carrying out a project or any other provisions of law applicable to projects, plans, or programs.
(l) Limitations on Claims.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a claim arising under Federal law seeking judicial review of a permit, license, or approval issued by a Federal agency for a highway or public transportation capital project shall be barred unless it is filed within 180 days after publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the permit, license, or approval is final pursuant to the law under which the agency action is taken, unless a shorter time is specified in the Federal law pursuant to which judicial review is allowed. Nothing in this subsection shall create a right to judicial review or place any limit on filing a claim that a person has violated the terms of a permit, license, or approval.
(2) New information.— 
The Secretary shall consider new information received after the close of a comment period if the information satisfies the requirements for a supplemental environmental impact statement under section 771.130 of title 23, Code of Federal Regulations. The preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement when required shall be considered a separate final agency action and the deadline for filing a claim for judicial review of such action shall be 180 days after the date of publication of a notice in the Federal Register announcing such action.

23 USC 140 - Nondiscrimination

(a) Prior to approving any programs for projects as provided for in section 135, the Secretary shall require assurances from any State desiring to avail itself of the benefits of this chapter that employment in connection with proposed projects will be provided without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, or sex. The Secretary shall require that each State shall include in the advertised specifications, notification of the specific equal employment opportunity responsibilities of the successful bidder. In approving programs for projects on any of the Federal-aid systems, the Secretary[1] if necessary to ensure equal employment opportunity, shall require certification by any State desiring to avail itself of the benefits of this chapter that there are in existence and available on a regional, statewide, or local basis, apprenticeship, skill improvement or other upgrading programs, registered with the Department of Labor or the appropriate State agency, if any, which provide equal opportunity for training and employment without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, or sex. In implementing such programs, a State may reserve training positions for persons who receive welfare assistance from such State; except that the implementation of any such program shall not cause current employees to be displaced or current positions to be supplanted or preclude workers that are participating in an apprenticeship, skill improvement, or other upgrading program registered with the Department of Labor or the appropriate State agency from being referred to, or hired on, projects funded under this title without regard to the length of time of their participation in such program. The Secretary shall periodically obtain from the Secretary of Labor and the respective State transportation departments information which will enable the Secretary to judge compliance with the requirements of this section and the Secretary of Labor shall render to the Secretary such assistance and information as the Secretary of Transportation shall deem necessary to carry out the equal employment opportunity program required hereunder.
(b) The Secretary, in cooperation with any other department or agency of the Government, State agency, authority, association, institution, Indian tribal government, corporation (profit or nonprofit">nonprofit), or any other organization or person, is authorized to develop, conduct, and administer surface transportation and technology training, including skill improvement programs, and to develop and fund summer transportation institutes. Whenever apportionments are made under section 104 (b)(3) of this title, the Secretary shall deduct such sums as necessary, not to exceed $10,000,000 per fiscal year, for the administration of this subsection. Such sums so deducted shall remain available until expended. The provisions of section 3709 of the Revised Statutes, as amended (41 U.S.C. 5), shall not be applicable to contracts and agreements made under the authority herein granted to the Secretary. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, not to exceed 1/2 of 1 percent of funds apportioned to a State for the surface transportation program under section 104 (b) and the bridge program under section 144 may be available to carry out this subsection upon request of the State transportation department to the Secretary.
(c) The Secretary, in cooperation with any other department or agency of the Government, State agency, authority, association, institution, Indian tribal government, corporation (profit or nonprofit">nonprofit), or any other organization or person, is authorized to develop, conduct, and administer training programs and assistance programs in connection with any program under this title in order that minority businesses may achieve proficiency to compete, on an equal basis, for contracts and subcontracts. Whenever apportionments are made under section 104 (b)(3), the Secretary shall deduct such sums as necessary, not to exceed $10,000,000 per fiscal year, for the administration of this subsection. The provisions of section 3709 of the Revised Statutes, as amended (41 U.S.C. 5), shall not be applicable to contracts and agreements made under the authority herein granted to the Secretary notwithstanding the provisions of section 302(e)2 of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (41 U.S.C. 252 (e)).
(d) Indian Employment.— 
Consistent with section 703(i) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e–2 (i)), nothing in this section shall preclude the preferential employment of Indians living on or near a reservation on projects and contracts on Indian reservation roads. States may implement a preference for employment of Indians on projects carried out under this title near Indian reservations. The Secretary shall cooperate with Indian tribal governments and the States to implement this subsection.
[1] So in original. Probably should be followed by a comma.
[2] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 141 - Enforcement of requirements

(a) Each State shall certify to the Secretary before January 1 of each year that it is enforcing all State laws respecting maximum vehicle size and weights permitted on the Federal-aid primary system, the Federal-aid urban system, and the Federal-aid secondary system, including the Interstate System in accordance with section 127 of this title. Each State shall also certify that it is enforcing and complying with the provisions of section 127 (d) of this title and section 31112 of title 49.
(b) 
(1) Each State shall submit to the Secretary such information as the Secretary shall, by regulation, require as necessary, in his opinion, to verify the certification of such State under subsection (b) of this section.
(2) If a State fails to certify as required by subsection (b) of this section or if the Secretary determines that a State is not adequately enforcing all State laws respecting such maximum vehicle size and weights, notwithstanding such a certification, then Federal-aid highway funds apportioned to such State for such fiscal year shall be reduced by amounts equal to 10 per centum of the amount which would otherwise be apportioned to such State under section 104 of this title.
(3) If within one year from the date that the apportionment for any State is reduced in accordance with paragraph (2) of this subsection the Secretary determines that such State is enforcing all State laws respecting maximum size and weights, the apportionment of such State shall be increased by an amount equal to such reduction. If the Secretary does not make such a determination within such one-year period, the amounts so withheld shall be reapportioned to all other eligible States.
(c) The Secretary shall reduce the States apportionment of Federal-aid highway funds under section 104 (b)(4) in an amount up to 25 per centum of the amount to be apportioned in any fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1984, during which heavy vehicles, subject to the use tax imposed by section 4481 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, may be lawfully registered in the State without having presented proof of payment, in such form as may be prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury, of the use tax imposed by section 4481 of such Code. Amounts withheld from apportionment to a State under this subsection shall be apportioned to the other States pursuant to the formulas of section 104 (b)(4) and shall be available in the same manner and to the same extent as other Interstate funds apportioned at the same time to other States.

23 USC 142 - Public transportation

(a) 
(1) To encourage the development, improvement, and use of public mass transportation systems operating motor vehicles (other than on rail) on Federal-aid highways for the transportation of passengers (hereafter in this section referred to as buses), so as to increase the traffic capacity of the Federal-aid systems for the movement of persons, the Secretary may approve as a project on any Federal-aid system the construction of exclusive or preferential high occupancy vehicle lanes, highway traffic control devices, bus passenger loading areas and facilities (including shelters), and fringe and transportation corridor parking facilities to serve high occupancy vehicle and public mass transportation passengers, and sums apportioned under section 104 (b) of this title shall be available to finance the cost of projects under this paragraph. If fees are charged for the use of any parking facility constructed under this section, the rate thereof shall not be in excess of that required for maintenance and operation of the facility and the cost of providing shuttle service to and from the facility (including compensation to any person for operating the facility and for providing such shuttle service).
(2) In addition to the projects under paragraph (1), the Secretary may approve as a project on the the[1] surface transportation program for payment from sums apportioned under section 104 (b)(3) for carrying out any capital transit project eligible for assistance under chapter 53 of title 49, capital improvement to provide access and coordination between intercity and rural bus service, and construction of facilities to provide connections between highway transportation and other modes of transportation.
(b) Sums apportioned in accordance with section 104 (b)(4) shall be available to finance the Federal share of projects for exclusive or preferential high occupancy vehicle, truck, and emergency vehicle routes or lanes. Routes constructed under this subsection shall not be subject to the third sentence of section 109 (b) of this title.
(c) Accommodation of Other Modes of Transportation.— 
The Secretary may approve as a project on any Federal-aid system for payment from sums apportioned under section 104 (b) modifications to existing highway facilities on such system necessary to accommodate other modes of transportation if such modifications will not adversely affect automotive safety.
(d) Metropolitan Planning.— 
Any project carried out under this section in an urbanized area shall be subject to the metropolitan planning requirements of section 134.
(e) 
(1) For all purposes of this title, a project authorized by subsection (a)(1) of this section shall be deemed to be a highway project.
(2) Notwithstanding section 209(f)(1) of the Highway Revenue Act of 1956, the Highway Trust Fund shall be available for making expenditures to meet obligations resulting from projects authorized by subsection (a)(2) of this section and such projects shall be subject to, and governed in accordance with, all provisions of this title applicable to projects on the surface transportation program, except to the extent determined inconsistent by the Secretary.
(3) The Federal share payable on account of projects authorized by subsection (a) of this section shall be that provided in section 120 of this title.
(f) Availability of Rights-of-Way.— 
In any case where sufficient land or air space exits[2] within the publicly acquired rights-of-way of any highway, constructed in whole or in part with Federal-aid highway funds, to accommodate needed passenger, commuter, or high speed rail, magnetic levitation systems, and highway and nonhighway public mass transit facilities, the Secretary shall authorize a State to make such lands, air space, and rights-of-way available with or without charge to a publicly or privately owned authority or company or any other person for such purposes if such accommodation will not adversely affect automotive safety.
(g) The provision of assistance under subsection (a)(2) shall not be construed as bringing within the application of chapter 15 of title 5, United States Code, any non-supervisory employee of an urban mass transportation system (or of any other agency or entity performing related functions) to whom such chapter is otherwise inapplicable.
(h) Funds available for expenditure to carry out the purposes of subsection (a)(2) of this section shall be supplementary to and not in substitution for funds authorized and available for obligation pursuant to chapter 53 of title 49.
(i) The provisions of section 5323 (a)(1)(D)3 of title 49 shall apply in carrying out subsection (a)(2) of this section.
[1] So in original.
[2] So in original. Probably should be “exists”.
[3] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 143 - Highway use tax evasion projects

(a) State Defined.— 
In this section, the term State means the 50 States and the District of Columbia.
(b) Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall carry out highway use tax evasion projects in accordance with this subsection.
(2) Allocation of funds.— 
Funds made available to carry out this section may be allocated to the Internal Revenue Service and the States at the discretion of the Secretary; except that of funds so made available for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009, $2,000,000 shall be available only to carry out intergovernmental enforcement efforts, including research and training.
(3) Conditions on funds allocated to internal revenue service.— 
Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Secretary shall not impose any condition on the use of funds allocated to the Internal Revenue Service under this subsection.
(4) Limitation on use of funds.— 
Funds made available to carry out this section shall be used only
(A) to expand efforts to enhance motor fuel tax enforcement;
(B) to fund additional Internal Revenue Service staff, but only to carry out functions described in this paragraph;
(C) to supplement motor fuel tax examinations and criminal investigations;
(D) to develop automated data processing tools to monitor motor fuel production and sales;
(E) to evaluate and implement registration and reporting requirements for motor fuel taxpayers;
(F) to reimburse State expenses that supplement existing fuel tax compliance efforts;
(G) to analyze and implement programs to reduce tax evasion associated with other highway use taxes;
(H) to support efforts between States and Indian tribes to address issues relating to State motor fuel taxes; and
(I) to analyze and implement programs to reduce tax evasion associated with foreign imported fuel.
(5) Maintenance of effort.— 
The Secretary may not make an allocation to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year unless the State certifies that the aggregate expenditure of funds of the State, exclusive of Federal funds, for motor fuel tax enforcement activities will be maintained at a level that does not fall below the average level of such expenditure for the preceding 2 fiscal years of the State.
(6) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out under this subsection shall be 100 percent.
(7) Period of availability.— 
Funds authorized to carry out this section shall remain available for obligation for a period of 3 years after the last day of the fiscal year for which the funds are authorized.
(8) Use of surface transportation program funding.— 
In addition to funds made available to carry out this section, a State may expend up to 1/4 of 1 percent of the funds apportioned to the State for a fiscal year under section 104 (b)(3) on initiatives to halt the evasion of payment of motor fuel taxes.
(9) Reports.— 
The Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service and each State shall submit to the Secretary an annual report that describes the projects, examinations, and criminal investigations funded by and carried out under this section. Such report shall specify the estimated annual yield from such projects, examinations, and criminal investigations.
(c) Excise Tax Fuel Reporting.— 

(1) In general.— 
Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service for the purposes of
(A) the additional development of capabilities needed to support new reporting requirements and databases established under such Act and the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 (Public Law 108357), and such other reporting requirements and database development as may be determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service, to be useful in the enforcement of fuel excise taxes, including provisions recommended by the Fuel Tax Enforcement Advisory Committee,
(B) the completion of requirements needed for the electronic reporting of fuel transactions from carriers and terminal operators,
(C) the operation and maintenance of an excise summary terminal activity reporting system and other systems used to provide strategic analyses of domestic and foreign motor fuel distribution trends and patterns,
(D) the collection, analysis, and sharing of information on fuel distribution and compliance or noncompliance with fuel taxes, and
(E) the development, completion, operation, and maintenance of an electronic claims filing system and database and an electronic database of heavy vehicle highway use payments.
(2) Elements of memorandum of understanding.— 
The memorandum of understanding shall provide that
(A) the Internal Revenue Service shall develop and maintain any system under paragraph (1) through contracts,
(B) any system under paragraph (1) shall be under the control of the Internal Revenue Service, and
(C) any system under paragraph (1) shall be made available for use by appropriate State and Federal revenue, tax, and law enforcement authorities, subject to section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
(3) Funding.— 
Of the amounts made available to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009, the Secretary shall make available to the Internal Revenue Service such funds as may be necessary to complete, operate, and maintain the systems under paragraph (1) in accordance with this subsection.
(4) Reports.— 
Not later than September 30 of each year, the Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service shall provide reports to the Secretary on the status of the Internal Revenue Service projects funded under this subsection.

23 USC 144 - Highway bridge replacement and rehabilitation program

(a) Finding and Declaration.— 
Congress finds and declares that it is in the vital interest of the United States that a highway bridge program be carried out to enable States to improve the condition of their highway bridges over waterways, other topographical barriers, other highways, and railroads through replacement and rehabilitation of bridges that the States and the Secretary determine are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete and through systematic preventive maintenance of bridges.
(b) The Secretary, in consultation with the States, shall
(1)  inventory all those highway bridges on any Federal-aid system which are bridges over waterways, other topographical barriers, other highways, and railroads;
(2)  classify them according to serviceability, safety, and essentiality for public use;
(3)  based on that classification, assign each a priority for replacement or rehabilitation; and
(4)  determine the cost of replacing each such bridge with a comparable facility or of rehabilitating such bridge.
(c) 
(1) The Secretary, in consultation with the States, shall (1) inventory all those highway bridges on public roads, other than those on any Federal-aid system, which are bridges over waterways, other topographical barriers, other highways, and railroads, (2) classify them according to serviceability, safety, and essentiality for public use, (3) based on the classification, assign each a priority for replacement or rehabilitation and (4) determine the cost of replacing each such bridge with a comparable facility or of rehabilitating such bridge.
(2) The Secretary may, at the request of a State, inventory bridges, on and off the Federal-aid system, for historic significance.
(3) Inventory of indian reservation and park bridges.— 
As part of the activities carried out under paragraph (1), the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall
(A)  inventory all those highway bridges on Indian reservation roads and park roads which are bridges over waterways, other topographical barriers, other highways, and railroads,
(B)  classify them according to serviceability, safety, and essentiality for public use,
(C)  based on the classification, assign each a priority for replacement or rehabilitation, and
(D)  determine the cost of replacing each such bridge with a comparable facility or of rehabilitating such bridge.
(d) Participation.— 

(1) Bridge replacement and rehabilitation.— 
On application by a State or States to the Secretary for assistance for a highway bridge that has been determined to be eligible for replacement or rehabilitation under subsection (b) or (c), the Secretary may approve Federal participation in
(A) replacing the bridge with a comparable facility; or
(B) rehabilitating the bridge.
(2) Types of assistance.— 
On application by a State or States to the Secretary, the Secretary may approve Federal assistance for any of the following activities for a highway bridge that has been determined to be eligible for replacement or rehabilitation under subsection (b) or (c):
(A) Painting.
(B) Seismic retrofit.
(C) Systematic preventive maintenance.
(D) Installation of scour countermeasures.
(E) Application of calcium magnesium acetate, sodium acetate/formate, or other environmentally acceptable, minimally corrosive anti-icing and de-icing compositions.
(3) Basis for determination.— 
The Secretary shall determine the eligibility of highway bridges for replacement or rehabilitation for each State based on structurally deficient and functionally obsolete highway bridges in the State.
(4) Special rule for preventive maintenance.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this subsection, a State may carry out a project under paragraph (2)(B), (2)(C), or (2)(D) for a highway bridge without regard to whether the bridge is eligible for replacement or rehabilitation under this section.
(e) Funds authorized to carry out this section shall be apportioned among the several States on October 1 of the fiscal year for which authorized in accordance with this subsection. Each deficient bridge shall be placed into one of the following categories:
(1)  Federal-aid system bridges eligible for replacement,
(2)  Federal-aid system bridges eligible for rehabilitation,
(3)  off-system bridges eligible for replacement, and
(4)  off-system bridges eligible for rehabilitation. The deck area of deficient bridges in each category shall be multiplied by the respective unit price on a State-by-State basis, as determined by the Secretary; and the total cost in each State divided by the total cost of the deficient bridges in all States shall determine the apportionment factors. For purposes of the preceding sentence, if a State transfers funds apportioned to the State under this section in a fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1997, to any other apportionment of funds to such State under this title, the total cost of deficient bridges in such State and in all States to be determined for the succeeding fiscal year shall be reduced by the amount of such transferred funds. No State shall receive more than 10 per centum or less than 0.25 per centum of the total apportionment for any one fiscal year. The Secretary shall make these determinations based upon the latest available data, which shall be updated annually. Funds apportioned under this section shall be available for expenditure for the period specified in section 118 (b)(2). Any funds not obligated at the expiration of such period shall be reapportioned by the Secretary to the other States in accordance with this subsection. The use of funds authorized under this section to carry out a project for the seismic retrofit of a bridge shall not affect the apportionment of funds under this section.
(f) The Federal share payable on account of any project under this section shall be 80 per centum of the cost thereof.
(g) Bridge Set-asides.— 

(1) Designated projects.— 

(A) In general.— 
Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated to carry out the bridge program under this section for each of the fiscal years 2006 through 2009, all but $100,000,000 shall be apportioned as provided in subsection (e). Such $100,000,000 shall be available as follows:
(i) $12,500,000 per fiscal year for the Golden Gate Bridge.
(ii) $18,750,000 per fiscal year for the construction of a bridge joining the Island of Gravina to the community of Ketchikan in Alaska.
(iii) $12,500,000 per fiscal year to the State of Nevada for construction of a replacement of the federally owned bridge over the Hoover Dam in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
(iv) $12,500,000 per fiscal year to the State of Missouri for construction of a structure over the Mississippi River to connect the City of St. Louis, Missouri, to the State of Illinois.
(v) $12,500,000 per fiscal year for replacement and reconstruction of State maintained bridges in the State of Oklahoma.
(vi) $4,500,000 per fiscal year for replacement of the Missisquoi Bay Bridge, Vermont.
(vii) $8,000,000 per fiscal year for replacement and reconstruction of State-maintained bridges in the State of Vermont.
(viii) $8,750,000 per fiscal year for design, planning, and right-of-way acquisition for the Interstate Route 74 bridge from Bettendorf, Iowa, to Moline, Illinois.
(ix) $10,000,000 per fiscal year for replacement and reconstruction of State-maintained bridges in the State of Oregon.
(B) Gravina access scoring.— 
The project described in subparagraph (A)(ii) shall not be counted for purposes of the reduction set forth in the fourth sentence of subsection (e).
(C) Period of availability.— 
Amounts made available to a State under this paragraph shall remain available until expended.
(2) Off-system bridges.— 

(A) In general.— 
Not less than 15 percent of the amount apportioned to each State in each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 shall be expended for projects to replace, rehabilitate, paint, perform systematic preventive maintenance or seismic retrofit of, or apply calcium magnesium acetate, sodium acetate/formate, or other environmentally acceptable, minimally corrosive anti-icing and de-icing compositions to, or install scour countermeasures to, highway bridges located on public roads, other than those on a Federal-aid highway, or to complete the Warwick Intermodal Station (including the construction of a people mover between the Station and the T.F. Green Airport).
(B) Reduction of expenditures.— 
The Secretary, after consultation with State and local officials, may reduce the requirement for expenditure for bridges not on a Federal-aid highway under subparagraph (A) with respect to the State if the Secretary determines that the State has inadequate needs to justify the expenditure.
(h) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the General Bridge Act of 1946 (33 U.S.C. 525–533) shall apply to bridges authorized to be replaced, in whole or in part, by this section, except that subsection (b) of section 502 of such Act of 1946 and section 9 of the Act of March 3, 1899 (30 Stat. 1151) shall not apply to any bridge constructed, reconstructed, rehabilitated, or replaced with assistance under this title, if such bridge is over waters (1) which are not used and are not susceptible to use in their natural condition or by reasonable improvement as a means to transport interstate or foreign commerce, and (2) which are (a) not tidal, or (b) if tidal, used only by recreational boating, fishing, and other small vessels less than 21 feet in length.
(i) Inventories and Reports.— 
The Secretary shall
(1) report to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives on projects approved under this section;
(2) annually revise the current inventories authorized by subsections (b) and (c) of this section;
(3) report to such committees on such inventories; and
(4) report to such committees such recommendations as the Secretary may have for improvements of the program authorized by this section.

Such reports shall be submitted to such committees biennially.

(j) Sums apportioned to a State under this section shall be made available for obligation throughout such State on a fair and equitable basis.
(k) Not later than six months after the date of enactment of this subsection, and periodically thereafter, the Secretary shall review the procedure used in approving or disapproving applications submitted under this section to determine what changes, if any, may be made to expedite such procedure. Any such changes shall be implemented by the Secretary as soon as possible. Not later than nine months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall submit a report to Congress which describes such review and such changes, including any recommendations for legislative changes.
(l) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any bridge which is owned and operated by an agency
(1)  which does not have taxing powers,
(2)  whose functions include operating a federally assisted public transit system subsidized by toll revenues, shall be eligible for assistance under this section but the amount of such assistance shall in no event exceed the cumulative amount which such agency has expended for capital and operating costs to subsidize such transit system. Before authorizing an expenditure of funds under this subsection, the Secretary shall determine that the applicant agency has insufficient reserves, surpluses, and projected revenues (over and above those required for bridge and transit capital and operating costs) to fund the necessary bridge replacement or rehabilitation project. Any non-Federal funds expended for the seismic retrofit of the bridge may be credited toward the non-Federal share required as a condition of receipt of any Federal funds for seismic retrofit of the bridge made available after the date of the expenditure.
(m) Replacement of Destroyed Bridges and Ferryboat Service.— 

(1) General rule.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section or of any other provision of law, a State may utilize any of the funds provided under this section to construct any bridge which
(A) replaces any low water crossing (regardless of the length of such low water crossing),
(B) replaces any bridge which was destroyed prior to 1965,
(C) replaces any ferry which was in existence on January 1, 1984, or
(D) replaces any road bridges rendered obsolete as a result of United States Corps of Engineers flood control or channelization projects and not rebuilt with funds from the United States Corps of Engineers.
(2) Federal share.— 
The Federal share payable on any bridge construction carried out under paragraph (1) shall be 80 percent of the cost of such construction.
(n) Off-System Bridge Program.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, with respect to any project not on a Federal-aid highway for the replacement of a bridge or rehabilitation of a bridge which is wholly funded from State and local sources, is eligible for Federal funds under this section, is noncontroversial, is certified by the State to have been carried out in accordance with all standards applicable to such projects under this section, and is determined by the Secretary upon completion to be no longer a deficient bridge, any amount expended after the date of the enactment of this subsection from State and local sources for such project in excess of 20 percent of the cost of construction thereof may be credited to the non-Federal share of the cost of the projects in such State which are eligible for Federal funds under this section. Such crediting shall be in accordance with such procedures as the Secretary may establish.
(o) Historic Bridge Program.— 

(1) Coordination.— 
The Secretary shall, in cooperation with the States, implement the programs described in this section in a manner that encourages the inventory, retention, rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, and future study of historic bridges.
(2) State inventory.— 
The Secretary shall require each State to complete an inventory of all bridges on and off the Federal-aid system to determine their historic significance.
(3) Eligibility.— 
Reasonable costs associated with actions to preserve, or reduce the impact of a project under this chapter on, the historic integrity of historic bridges shall be eligible as reimbursable project costs under this title (including this section) if the load capacity and safety features of the bridge are adequate to serve the intended use for the life of the bridge; except that in the case of a bridge which is no longer used for motorized vehicular traffic, the costs eligible as reimbursable project costs pursuant to this subsection shall not exceed the estimated cost of demolition of such bridge.
(4) Preservation.— 
Any State which proposes to demolish a historic bridge for a replacement project with funds made available to carry out this section shall first make the bridge available for donation to a State, locality, or responsible private entity if such State, locality, or responsible entity enters into an agreement to
(A) maintain the bridge and the features that give it its historic significance; and
(B) assume all future legal and financial responsibility for the bridge, which may include an agreement to hold the State highway agency harmless in any liability action.

Costs incurred by the State to preserve the historic bridge, including funds made available to the State, locality, or private entity to enable it to accept the bridge, shall be eligible as reimbursable project costs under this chapter up to an amount not to exceed the cost of demolition. Any bridge preserved pursuant to this paragraph shall thereafter not be eligible for any other funds authorized pursuant to this title.

(5) Historic bridge defined.— 
As used in this subsection, historic bridge means any bridge that is listed on, or eligible for listing on, the National Register of Historic Places.
(p) Applicability of State Standards for Projects.— 
A project not on a Federal-aid highway under this section shall be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained in accordance with State laws, regulations, directives, safety standards, design standards, and construction standards.
(q) As used in this section the term rehabilitate in any of its forms means major work necessary to restore the structural integrity of a bridge as well as work necessary to correct a major safety defect.
(r) Annual Materials Report on New Bridge Construction and Bridge Rehabilitation.— 
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a report describing construction materials used in new Federal-aid bridge construction and bridge rehabilitation projects.
(s) Federal Share.— 

(1) In general.— 
Except as provided under paragraph (2), the Federal share of the cost of a project payable from funds made available to carry out this section shall be determined under section 120 (b).
(2) Interstate system.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project on the Interstate System payable from funds made available to carry out this section shall be determined under section 120 (a).

23 USC 145 - Federal-State relationship

(a) Protection of State Sovereignty.— 
The authorization of the appropriation of Federal funds or their availability for expenditure under this chapter shall in no way infringe on the sovereign rights of the States to determine which projects shall be federally financed. The provisions of this chapter provide for a federally assisted State program.
(b) Purpose of Projects.— 
The projects described in section 1702 of the SAFETEALU, section 1602 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, sections 1103 through 1108 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 2027 et seq.), and section 149(a) of the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987 (101 Stat. 181 et seq.) are intended to establish eligibility for Federal-aid highway funds made available for such projects by section 1101(a)(16) of the SAFETEALU, section 1101(a)(13) of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, section 117 of this title, sections 1103 through 1108 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, and subsections (b), (c), and (d) of section 149 of the Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act of 1987, respectively, and are not intended to define the scope or limits of Federal action in a manner inconsistent with subsection (a).

23 USC 146 - Carpool and vanpool projects

(a) In order to conserve fuel, decrease traffic congestion during rush hours, improve air quality, and enhance the use of existing highways and parking facilities, the Secretary may approve for Federal financial assistance from funds apportioned under sections 104 (b)(1) and 104 (b)(3) of this title, projects designed to encourage the use of carpools and vanpools. (As used hereafter in this section, the term carpool includes a vanpool.) Such a project may include, but is not limited to, such measures as providing carpooling opportunities to the elderly and handicapped, systems for locating potential riders and informing them of convenient carpool opportunities, acquiring vehicles appropriate for carpool use, designating existing highway lanes as preferential carpool highway lanes, providing related traffic control devices, and designating existing facilities for use as preferential parking for carpools.
(b) A project authorized by this section shall be subject to and carried out in accordance with all provisions of this title, except those provisions which the Secretary determines are inconsistent with this section.

23 USC 147 - Construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall carry out a program for construction of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities in accordance with section 129 (c).
(b) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of construction of ferry boats, ferry terminals, and ferry maintenance facilities under this section shall be 80 percent.
(c) Allocation of Funds.— 
The Secretary shall give priority in the allocation of funds under this section to those ferry systems, and public entities responsible for developing ferries, that
(1) provide critical access to areas that are not well-served by other modes of surface transportation;
(2) carry the greatest number of passengers and vehicles; or
(3) carry the greatest number of passengers in passenger-only service.
(d) Set-Aside for Projects on NHS.— 

(1) In general.— 
$20,000,000 of the amount made available to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 shall be obligated for the construction or refurbishment of ferry boats and ferry terminal facilities and approaches to such facilities within marine highway systems that are part of the National Highway System.
(2) Alaska.— 
$10,000,000 of the $20,000,000 for a fiscal year made available under paragraph (1) shall be made available to the State of Alaska.
(3) New jersey.— 
$5,000,000 of the $20,000,000 for a fiscal year made available under paragraph (1) shall be made available to the State of New Jersey.
(4) Washington.— 
$5,000,000 of the $20,000,000 for a fiscal year made available under paragraph (1) shall be made available to the State of Washington.
(e) Period of Availability.— 
Notwithstanding section 118 (b), funds made available to carry out this section shall remain available until expended.
(f) Applicability.— 
All provisions of this chapter that are applicable to the National Highway System, other than provisions relating to apportionment formula and Federal share, shall apply to funds made available to carry out this section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with this section.

23 USC 148 - Highway safety improvement program

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) High risk rural road.— 
The term high risk rural road means any roadway functionally classified as a rural major or minor collector or a rural local road
(A) on which the accident rate for fatalities and incapacitating injuries exceeds the statewide average for those functional classes of roadway; or
(B) that will likely have increases in traffic volume that are likely to create an accident rate for fatalities and incapacitating injuries that exceeds the statewide average for those functional classes of roadway.
(2) Highway safety improvement program.— 
The term highway safety improvement program means the program carried out under this section.
(3) Highway safety improvement project.— 

(A) In general.— 
The term highway safety improvement project means a project described in the State strategic highway safety plan that
(i) corrects or improves a hazardous road location or feature; or
(ii) addresses a highway safety problem.
(B) Inclusions.— 
The term highway safety improvement project includes a project for one or more of the following:
(i) An intersection safety improvement.
(ii) Pavement and shoulder widening (including addition of a passing lane to remedy an unsafe condition).
(iii) Installation of rumble strips or another warning device, if the rumble strips or other warning devices do not adversely affect the safety or mobility of bicyclists, pedestrians, and the disabled.
(iv) Installation of a skid-resistant surface at an intersection or other location with a high frequency of accidents.
(v) An improvement for pedestrian or bicyclist safety or safety of the disabled.
(vi) Construction of any project for the elimination of hazards at a railway-highway crossing that is eligible for funding under section 130, including the separation or protection of grades at railway-highway crossings.
(vii) Construction of a railway-highway crossing safety feature, including installation of protective devices.
(viii) The conduct of a model traffic enforcement activity at a railway-highway crossing.
(ix) Construction of a traffic calming feature.
(x) Elimination of a roadside obstacle.
(xi) Improvement of highway signage and pavement markings.
(xii) Installation of a priority control system for emergency vehicles at signalized intersections.
(xiii) Installation of a traffic control or other warning device at a location with high accident potential.
(xiv) Safety-conscious planning.
(xv) Improvement in the collection and analysis of crash data.
(xvi) Planning integrated interoperable emergency communications equipment, operational activities, or traffic enforcement activities (including police assistance) relating to workzone safety.
(xvii) Installation of guardrails, barriers (including barriers between construction work zones and traffic lanes for the safety of motorists and workers), and crash attenuators.
(xviii) The addition or retrofitting of structures or other measures to eliminate or reduce accidents involving vehicles and wildlife.
(xix) Installation and maintenance of signs (including fluorescent, yellow-green signs) at pedestrian-bicycle crossings and in school zones.
(xx) Construction and yellow-green signs at pedestrian-bicycle crossings and in school zones.
(xxi) Construction and operational improvements on high risk rural roads.
(4) Safety project under any other section.— 

(A) In general.— 
The term safety project under any other section means a project carried out for the purpose of safety under any other section of this title.
(B) Inclusion.— 
The term safety project under any other section includes a project to promote the awareness of the public and educate the public concerning highway safety matters (including motorcyclist safety) and a project to enforce highway safety laws.
(5) State highway safety improvement program.— 
The term State highway safety improvement program means projects or strategies included in the State strategic highway safety plan carried out as part of the State transportation improvement program under section 135 (g).
(6) State strategic highway safety plan.— 
The term State strategic highway safety plan means a plan developed by the State transportation department that
(A) is developed after consultation with
(i) a highway safety representative of the Governor of the State;
(ii) regional transportation planning organizations and metropolitan planning organizations, if any;
(iii) representatives of major modes of transportation;
(iv) State and local traffic enforcement officials;
(v) persons responsible for administering section 130 at the State level;
(vi) representatives conducting Operation Lifesaver;
(vii) representatives conducting a motor carrier safety program under section 31102, 31106, or 31309 of title 49;
(viii) motor vehicle administration agencies; and
(ix) other major State and local safety stakeholders;
(B) analyzes and makes effective use of State, regional, or local crash data;
(C) addresses engineering, management, operation, education, enforcement, and emergency services elements (including integrated, interoperable emergency communications) of highway safety as key factors in evaluating highway projects;
(D) considers safety needs of, and high-fatality segments of, public roads;
(E) considers the results of State, regional, or local transportation and highway safety planning processes;
(F) describes a program of projects or strategies to reduce or eliminate safety hazards;
(G) is approved by the Governor of the State or a responsible State agency; and
(H) is consistent with the requirements of section 135 (g).
(b) Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall carry out a highway safety improvement program.
(2) Purpose.— 
The purpose of the highway safety improvement program shall be to achieve a significant reduction in traffic fatalities and serious injuries on public roads.
(c) Eligibility.— 

(1) In general.— 
To obligate funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(5) to carry out this section, a State shall have in effect a State highway safety improvement program under which the State
(A) develops and implements a State strategic highway safety plan that identifies and analyzes highway safety problems and opportunities as provided in paragraph (2);
(B) produces a program of projects or strategies to reduce identified safety problems;
(C) evaluates the plan on a regular basis to ensure the accuracy of the data and priority of proposed improvements; and
(D) submits to the Secretary an annual report that
(i) describes, in a clearly understandable fashion, not less than 5 percent of locations determined by the State, using criteria established in accordance with paragraph (2)(B)(ii), as exhibiting the most severe safety needs; and
(ii) contains an assessment of
(I) potential remedies to hazardous locations identified;
(II) estimated costs associated with those remedies; and
(III) impediments to implementation other than cost associated with those remedies.
(2) Identification and analysis of highway safety problems and opportunities.— 
As part of the State strategic highway safety plan, a State shall
(A) have in place a crash data system with the ability to perform safety problem identification and countermeasure analysis;
(B) based on the analysis required by subparagraph (A)
(i) identify hazardous locations, sections, and elements (including roadside obstacles, railway-highway crossing needs, and unmarked or poorly marked roads) that constitute a danger to motorists (including motorcyclists), bicyclists, pedestrians, and other highway users; and
(ii) using such criteria as the State determines to be appropriate, establish the relative severity of those locations, in terms of accidents, injuries, deaths, traffic volume levels, and other relevant data;
(C) adopt strategic and performance-based goals that
(i) address traffic safety, including behavioral and infrastructure problems and opportunities on all public roads;
(ii) focus resources on areas of greatest need; and
(iii) are coordinated with other State highway safety programs;
(D) advance the capabilities of the State for traffic records data collection, analysis, and integration with other sources of safety data (such as road inventories) in a manner that
(i) complements the State highway safety program under chapter 4 and the commercial vehicle safety plan under section 31102 of title 49;
(ii) includes all public roads;
(iii) identifies hazardous locations, sections, and elements on public roads that constitute a danger to motorists (including motorcyclists), bicyclists, pedestrians, the disabled, and other highway users; and
(iv) includes a means of identifying the relative severity of hazardous locations described in clause (iii) in terms of accidents, injuries, deaths, and traffic volume levels;
(E) 
(i) determine priorities for the correction of hazardous road locations, sections, and elements (including railway-highway crossing improvements), as identified through crash data analysis;
(ii) identify opportunities for preventing the development of such hazardous conditions; and
(iii) establish and implement a schedule of highway safety improvement projects for hazard correction and hazard prevention; and
(F) 
(i) establish an evaluation process to analyze and assess results achieved by highway safety improvement projects carried out in accordance with procedures and criteria established by this section; and
(ii) use the information obtained under clause (i) in setting priorities for highway safety improvement projects.
(d) Eligible Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
A State may obligate funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(5) to carry out
(A) any highway safety improvement project on any public road or publicly owned bicycle or pedestrian pathway or trail; or
(B) as provided in subsection (e), other safety projects.
(2) Use of other funding for safety.— 

(A) Effect of section.— 
Nothing in this section prohibits the use of funds made available under other provisions of this title for highway safety improvement projects.
(B) Use of other funds.— 
States are encouraged to address the full scope of their safety needs and opportunities by using funds made available under other provisions of this title (except a provision that specifically prohibits that use).
(e) Flexible Funding for States With a Strategic Highway Safety Plan.— 

(1) In general.— 
To further the implementation of a State strategic highway safety plan, a State may use up to 10 percent of the amount of funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(5) for a fiscal year to carry out safety projects under any other section as provided in the State strategic highway safety plan if the State certifies that
(A) the State has met needs in the State relating to railway-highway crossings; and
(B) the State has met the States infrastructure safety needs relating to highway safety improvement projects.
(2) Other transportation and highway safety plans.— 
Nothing in this subsection requires a State to revise any State process, plan, or program in effect on the date of enactment of this section.
(f) High Risk Rural Roads.— 

(1) In general.— 
After making an apportionment under section 104 (b)(5) for a fiscal year beginning after September 30, 2005, the Secretary shall ensure, from amounts made available to carry out this section for such fiscal year, that a total of $90,000,000 of such apportionment is set aside by the States, proportionally according to the share of each State of the total amount so apportioned, for use only for construction and operational improvements on high risk rural roads.
(2) Special rule.— 
A State may use funds apportioned to the State pursuant to this subsection for any project under this section if the State certifies to the Secretary that the State has met all of State needs for construction and operational improvements on high risk rural roads.
(g) Reports.— 

(1) In general.— 
A State shall submit to the Secretary a report that
(A) describes progress being made to implement highway safety improvement projects under this section;
(B) assesses the effectiveness of those improvements; and
(C) describes the extent to which the improvements funded under this section contribute to the goals of
(i) reducing the number of fatalities on roadways;
(ii) reducing the number of roadway-related injuries;
(iii) reducing the occurrences of roadway-related crashes;
(iv) mitigating the consequences of roadway-related crashes; and
(v) reducing the occurrences of crashes at railway-highway crossings.
(2) Contents; schedule.— 
The Secretary shall establish the content and schedule for a report under paragraph (1).
(3) Transparency.— 
The Secretary shall make reports submitted under subsection (c)(1)(D) available to the public through
(A) the Web site of the Department; and
(B) such other means as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(4) Discovery and admission into evidence of certain reports, surveys, and information.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data compiled or collected for any purpose directly relating to paragraph (1) or subsection (c)(1)(D), or published by the Secretary in accordance with paragraph (3), shall not be subject to discovery or admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for other purposes in any action for damages arising from any occurrence at a location identified or addressed in such reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or other data.
(h) Federal Share of Highway Safety Improvement Projects.— 
Except as provided in sections 120 and 130, the Federal share of the cost of a highway safety improvement project carried out with funds apportioned to a State under section 104 (b)(5) shall be 90 percent.

23 USC 149 - Congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program

(a) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish and implement a congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program in accordance with this section.
(b) Eligible Projects.— 
Except as provided in subsection (c), a State may obligate funds apportioned to it under section 104 (b)(2) for the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program only for a transportation project or program if the project or program is for an area in the State that is or was designated as a nonattainment area for ozone, carbon monoxide, or particulate matter under section 107(d) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7407 (d)) and classified pursuant to section 181(a), 186(a), 188(a), or 188(b) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7511 (a), 7512 (a), 7513 (a), or 7513 (b)) or is or was designated as a nonattainment area under such section 107 (d) after December 31, 1997, or is required to prepare, and file with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, maintenance plans under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) and
(1) 
(A) 
(i) if the Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator determines, on the basis of information published by the Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to section 108(f)(1)(A) of the Clean Air Act (other than clause (xvi)) that the project or program is likely to contribute to
(I) the attainment of a national ambient air quality standard; or
(II) the maintenance of a national ambient air quality standard in a maintenance area; and
(ii) a high level of effectiveness in reducing air pollution, in cases of projects or programs where sufficient information is available in the database established pursuant to subsection (h) to determine the relative effectiveness of such projects or programs; or,
(B) in any case in which such information is not available, if the Secretary, after such consultation, determines that the project or program is part of a program, method, or strategy described in such section 108 (f)(1)(A);
(2) if the project or program is included in a State implementation plan that has been approved pursuant to the Clean Air Act and the project will have air quality benefits;
(3) the Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, determines that the project or program is likely to contribute to the attainment of a national ambient air quality standard, whether through reductions in vehicle miles traveled, fuel consumption, or through other factors;
(4) to establish or operate a traffic monitoring, management, and control facility or program, including advanced truck stop electrification systems, if the Secretary, after consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, determines that the facility or program is likely to contribute to the attainment of a national ambient air quality standard;
(5) if the program or project improves traffic flow, including projects to improve signalization, construct high occupancy vehicle lanes, improve intersections, improve transportation systems management and operations that mitigate congestion and improve air quality, and implement intelligent transportation system strategies and such other projects that are eligible for assistance under this section on the day before the date of enactment of this paragraph;
(6) if the project or program involves the purchase of integrated, interoperable emergency communications equipment; or
(7) if the project or program is for
(A) the purchase of diesel retrofits that are
(i) for motor vehicles (as defined in section 216 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7550)); or
(ii) published in the list under subsection (f)(2) for non-road vehicles and non-road engines (as defined in section 216 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7550)) that are used in construction projects that are
(I) located in nonattainment or maintenance areas for ozone, PM10, or PM2.5 (as defined under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.)); and
(II) funded, in whole or in part, under this title; or
(B) the conduct of outreach activities that are designed to provide information and technical assistance to the owners and operators of diesel equipment and vehicles regarding the purchase and installation of diesel retrofits.

No funds may be provided under this section for a project which will result in the construction of new capacity available to single occupant vehicles unless the project consists of a high occupancy vehicle facility available to single occupant vehicles only at other than peak travel times. In areas of a State which are nonattainment for ozone or carbon monoxide, or both, and for PM10 resulting from transportation activities, the State may obligate such funds for any project or program under paragraph (1) or (2) without regard to any limitation of the Department of Transportation relating to the type of ambient air quality standard such project or program addresses.

(c) States Receiving Minimum Apportionment.— 

(1) States without a nonattainment area.— 
If a State does not have, and never has had, a nonattainment area designated under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.), the State may use funds apportioned to the State under section 104 (b)(2) for any project in the State that
(A) would otherwise be eligible under this section as if the project were carried out in a nonattainment or maintenance area; or
(B) is eligible under the surface transportation program under section 133.
(2) States with a nonattainment area.— 
If a State has a nonattainment area or maintenance area and receives funds under section 104 (b)(2)(D) above the amount of funds that the State would have received based on its nonattainment and maintenance area population under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section 104 (b)(2), the State may use that portion of the funds not based on its nonattainment and maintenance area population under subparagraphs (B) and (C) of section 104 (b)(2) for any project in the State that
(A) would otherwise be eligible under this section as if the project were carried out in a nonattainment or maintenance area; or
(B) is eligible under the surface transportation program under section 133.
(d) Applicability of Planning Requirements.— 
Programming and expenditure of funds for projects under this section shall be consistent with the requirements of sections 134 and 135 of this title.
(e) Partnerships With Nongovernmental Entities.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title and in accordance with this subsection, a metropolitan planning organization, State transportation department, or other project sponsor may enter into an agreement with any public, private, or nonprofit">nonprofit entity to cooperatively implement any project carried out under this section.
(2) Forms of participation by entities.— 
Participation by an entity under paragraph (1) may consist of
(A) ownership or operation of any land, facility, vehicle, or other physical asset associated with the project;
(B) cost sharing of any project expense;
(C) carrying out of administration, construction management, project management, project operation, or any other management or operational duty associated with the project; and
(D) any other form of participation approved by the Secretary.
(3) Allocation to entities.— 
A State may allocate funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(2) to an entity described in paragraph (1).
(4) Alternative fuel projects.— 
In the case of a project that will provide for the use of alternative fuels by privately owned vehicles or vehicle fleets, activities eligible for funding under this subsection
(A) may include the costs of vehicle refueling infrastructure, including infrastructure that would support the development, production, and use of emerging technologies that reduce emissions of air pollutants from motor vehicles, and other capital investments associated with the project;
(B) shall include only the incremental cost of an alternative fueled vehicle, as compared to a conventionally fueled vehicle, that would otherwise be borne by a private party; and
(C) shall apply other governmental financial purchase contributions in the calculation of net incremental cost.
(5) Prohibition on federal participation with respect to required activities.— 
A Federal participation payment under this subsection may not be made to an entity to fund an obligation imposed under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) or any other Federal law.
(f) Cost-Effective Emission Reduction Guidance.— 

(1) Definitions.— 
In this subsection, the following definitions apply:
(A) Administrator.— 
The term Administrator means the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
(B) Diesel retrofit.— 
The term diesel retrofit means a replacement, repowering, rebuilding, after treatment, or other technology, as determined by the Administrator.
(2) Emission reduction guidance.— 
The Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary, shall publish a list of diesel retrofit technologies and supporting technical information for
(A) diesel emission reduction technologies certified or verified by the Administrator, the California Air Resources Board, or any other entity recognized by the Administrator for the same purpose;
(B) diesel emission reduction technologies identified by the Administrator as having an application and approvable test plan for verification by the Administrator or the California Air Resources Board that is submitted not later that 18 months of the date of enactment of this subsection;
(C) available information regarding the emission reduction effectiveness and cost effectiveness of technologies identified in this paragraph, taking into consideration air quality and health effects.
(3) Priority.— 

(A) In general.— 
States and metropolitan planning organizations shall give priority in distributing funds received for congestion mitigation and air quality projects and programs from apportionments derived from application of sections 104 (b)(2)(B) and 104 (b)(2)(C) to
(i) diesel retrofits, particularly where necessary to facilitate contract compliance, and other cost-effective emission reduction activities, taking into consideration air quality and health effects; and
(ii) cost-effective congestion mitigation activities that provide air quality benefits.
(B) Savings.— 
This paragraph is not intended to disturb the existing authorities and roles of governmental agencies in making final project selections.
(4) No effect on authority or restrictions.— 
Nothing in this subsection modifies or otherwise affects any authority or restriction established under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.) or any other law (other than provisions of this title relating to congestion mitigation and air quality).
(g) Interagency Consultation.— 
The Secretary shall encourage States and metropolitan planning organizations to consult with State and local air quality agencies in nonattainment and maintenance areas on the estimated emission reductions from proposed congestion mitigation and air quality improvement programs and projects.
(h) Evaluation and Assessment of Projects.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, shall evaluate and assess a representative sample of projects funded under the congestion mitigation and air quality program to
(A) determine the direct and indirect impact of the projects on air quality and congestion levels; and
(B) ensure the effective implementation of the program.
(2) Database.— 
Using appropriate assessments of projects funded under the congestion mitigation and air quality program and results from other research, the Secretary shall maintain and disseminate a cumulative database describing the impacts of the projects.
(3) Consideration.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with the Administrator, shall consider the recommendations and findings of the report submitted to Congress under section 1110(e) of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (112 Stat. 144), including recommendations and findings that would improve the operation and evaluation of the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program.

23 USC 150 - Repealed. Pub. L. 105178, title I, 1103(l)(5), as added Pub. L. 105206, title IX, 9002(c)(1), July 22, 1998, 112 Stat. 834]

Section, added Pub. L. 93–87, title I, § 157(a), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 277; amended Pub. L. 97–424, title I, § 124, Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2113, related to allocation of urban system funds.

23 USC 151 - National bridge inspection program

(a) National Bridge Inspection Standards.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with the State transportation departments and interested and knowledgeable private organizations and individuals, shall establish national bridge inspection standards for the proper safety inspection and evaluation of all highway bridges.
(b) Minimum Requirements of Inspection Standards.— 
The standards established under subsection (a) shall, at a minimum
(1) specify, in detail, the method by which such inspections shall be carried out by the States;
(2) establish the maximum time period between inspections;
(3) establish the qualification for those charged with carrying out the inspections;
(4) require each State to maintain and make available to the Secretary upon request
(A) written reports on the results of highway bridge inspections together with notations of any action taken pursuant to the findings of such inspections; and
(B) current inventory data for all highway bridges reflecting the findings of the most recent highway bridge inspections conducted; and
(5) establish a procedure for national certification of highway bridge inspectors.
(c) Training Program for Bridge Inspectors.— 
The Secretary, in cooperation with the State transportation departments, shall establish a program designed to train appropriate governmental employees to carry out highway bridge inspections. Such training program shall be revised from time to time to take into account new and improved techniques.
(d) Availability of Funds.— 
To carry out this section, the Secretary may use funds made available pursuant to the provisions of section 104 (a), section 502, and section 144 of this title.

23 USC 152 - Hazard elimination program

(a) In General.— 

(1) Program.— 
Each State shall conduct and systematically maintain an engineering survey of all public roads to identify hazardous locations, sections, and elements, including roadside obstacles and unmarked or poorly marked roads, which may constitute a danger to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, assign priorities for the correction of such locations, sections, and elements, and establish and implement a schedule of projects for their improvement.
(2) Hazards.— 
In carrying out paragraph (1), a State may, at its discretion
(A) identify, through a survey, hazards to motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and users of highway facilities; and
(B) develop and implement projects and programs to address the hazards.
(b) The Secretary may approve as a project under this section any safety improvement project, including a project described in subsection (a).
(c) Funds authorized to carry out this section shall be available for expenditure on
(1) any public road;
(2) any public surface transportation facility or any publicly owned bicycle or pedestrian pathway or trail; or
(3) any traffic calming measure.
(d) The Federal share payable on account of any project under this section shall be 90 percent of the cost thereof.
(e) Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be available for obligation in the same manner and to the same extent as if such funds were apportioned under section 104 (b), except that the Secretary is authorized to waive provisions he deems inconsistent with the purposes of this section.
(f) Each State shall establish an evaluation process approved by the Secretary, to analyze and assess results achieved by safety improvement projects carried out in accordance with procedures and criteria established by this section. Such evaluation process shall develop cost-benefit data for various types of corrections and treatments which shall be used in setting priorities for safety improvement projects.
(g) Each State shall report to the Secretary of Transportation not later than December 30 of each year, on the progress being made to implement safety improvement projects for hazard elimination and the effectiveness of such improvements. Each State report shall contain an assessment of the cost of, and safety benefits derived from, the various means and methods used to mitigate or eliminate hazards and the previous and subsequent accident experience at these locations. The Secretary of Transportation shall submit a report to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives not later than April 1 of each year on the progress being made by the States in implementing the hazard elimination program (including but not limited to any projects for pavement marking). The report shall include, but not be limited to, the number of projects undertaken, their distribution by cost range, road system, means and methods used, and the previous and subsequent accident experience at improved locations. In addition, the Secretarys report shall analyze and evaluate each State program, identify any State found not to be in compliance with the schedule of improvements required by subsection (a) and include recommendations for future implementation of the hazard elimination program.
(h) For the purposes of this section the term State shall have the meaning given it in section 401 of this title.

23 USC 153 - Use of safety belts and motorcycle helmets

(a) Authority To Make Grants.— 
The Secretary may make grants to a State in a fiscal year in accordance with this section if the State has in effect in such fiscal year
(1) a law which makes unlawful throughout the State the operation of a motorcycle if any individual on the motorcycle is not wearing a motorcycle helmet; and
(2) a law which makes unlawful throughout the State the operation of a passenger vehicle whenever an individual in a front seat of the vehicle (other than a child who is secured in a child restraint system) does not have a safety belt properly fastened about the individuals body.
(b) Use of Grants.— 
A grant made to a State under this section shall be used to adopt and implement a traffic safety program to carry out the following purposes:
(1) Education.— 
To educate the public about motorcycle and passenger vehicle safety and motorcycle helmet, safety belt, and child restraint system use and to involve public health education agencies and other related agencies in these efforts.
(2) Training.— 
To train law enforcement officers in the enforcement of State laws described in subsection (a).
(3) Monitoring.— 
To monitor the rate of compliance with State laws described in subsection (a).
(4) Enforcement.— 
To enforce State laws described in subsection (a).
(c) Maintenance of Effort.— 
A grant may not be made to a State under this section in any fiscal year unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all other sources for any traffic safety program described in subsection (b) at or above the average level of such expenditures in the States 2 fiscal years preceding the date of the enactment of this section.
(d) Federal Share.— 
A State may not receive a grant under this section in more than 3 fiscal years. The Federal share payable for a grant under this section shall not exceed
(1) in the first fiscal year the State receives a grant, 75 percent of the cost of implementing in such fiscal year a traffic safety program described in subsection (b);
(2) in the second fiscal year the State receives a grant, 50 percent of the cost of implementing in such fiscal year such traffic safety program; and
(3) in the third fiscal year the State receives a grant, 25 percent of the cost of implementing in such fiscal year such traffic safety program.
(e) Maximum Aggregate Amount of Grants.— 
The aggregate amount of grants made to a State under this section shall not exceed 90 percent of the amount apportioned to such State for fiscal year 1990 under section 402.
(f) Eligibility for Grants.— 

(1) General rule.— 
A State is eligible in a fiscal year for a grant under this section only if the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State implements in such fiscal year a traffic safety program described in subsection (b).
(2) Second-year grants.— 
A State is eligible for a grant under this section in a fiscal year succeeding the first fiscal year in which a State receives a grant under this section only if the State in the preceding fiscal year
(A) had in effect at all times a State law described in subsection (a)(1) and achieved a rate of compliance with such law of not less than 75 percent; and
(B) had in effect at all times a State law described in subsection (a)(2) and achieved a rate of compliance with such law of not less than 50 percent.
(3) Third-year grants.— 
A State is eligible for a grant under this section in a fiscal year succeeding the second fiscal year in which a State receives a grant under this section only if the State in the preceding fiscal year
(A) had in effect at all times a State law described in subsection (a)(1) and achieved a rate of compliance with such law of not less than 85 percent; and
(B) had in effect at all times a State law described in subsection (a)(2) and achieved a rate of compliance with such law of not less than 70 percent.
(g) Measurements of Rates of Compliance.— 
For the purposes of subsections (f)(2) and (f)(3), a State shall measure compliance with State laws described in subsection (a) using methods which conform to guidelines issued by the Secretary ensuring that such measurements are accurate and representative.
(h) Penalty.— 

(1) Fiscal year 1994.— 
If, at any time in fiscal year 1994, a State does not have in effect a law described in subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall transfer 11/2 percent of the funds apportioned to the State for fiscal year 1995 under each of subsections (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of section 104 of this title to the apportionment of the State under section 402 of this title.
(2) Thereafter.— 
If, at any time in a fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1994, a State does not have in effect a law described in subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall transfer 3 percent of the funds apportioned to the State for the succeeding fiscal year under each of subsections (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of section 104 of this title to the apportionment of the State under section 402 of this title.
(3) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of any project carried out under section 402 with funds transferred to the apportionment of section 402 shall be 100 percent.
(4) Transfer of obligation authority.— 
If the Secretary transfers under this subsection any funds to the apportionment of a State under section 402 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate an amount of obligation authority distributed for such fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for carrying out only projects under section 402 which is determined by multiplying
(A) the amount of funds transferred to the apportionment of section 402 of the State under section 402 for such fiscal year; by
(B) the ratio of the amount of obligation authority distributed for such fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs to the total of the sums apportioned to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction (excluding sums not subject to any obligation limitation) for such fiscal year.
(5) Limitation on applicability of highway safety obligations.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no limitation on the total of obligations for highway safety programs carried out by the Federal Highway Administration under section 402 shall apply to funds transferred under this subsection to the apportionment of section 402.
(i) Definitions.— 
For the purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Motorcycle.— 
The term motorcycle means a motor vehicle which is designed to travel on not more than 3 wheels in contact with the surface.
(2) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle has the meaning such term has under section 1541 of this title.
(3) Passenger vehicle.— 
The term passenger vehicle means a motor vehicle which is designed for transporting 10 individuals or less, including the driver, except that such term does not include a vehicle which is constructed on a truck chassis, a motorcycle, a trailer, or any motor vehicle which is not required on the date of the enactment of this section under a Federal motor vehicle safety standard to be equipped with a belt system.
(4) Safety belt.— 
The term safety belt means
(A) with respect to open-body passenger vehicles, including convertibles, an occupant restraint system consisting of a lap belt or a lap belt and a detachable shoulder belt; and
(B) with respect to other passenger vehicles, an occupant restraint system consisting of integrated lap shoulder belts.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $17,000,000 for fiscal year 1992. From sums made available to carry out section 402 of this title, the Secretary shall make available $17,000,000 for fiscal year 1992 and $24,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1993 and 1994 to carry out this section.
(k) Applicability of Chapter 1 Provisions.— 
All provisions of this chapter that are applicable to National Highway System funds, other than provisions relating to the apportionment formula and provisions limiting the expenditures of such funds to Federal-aid systems, shall apply to funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with this section and except that sums authorized by this section shall remain available until expended.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 154 - Open container requirements

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Alcoholic beverage.— 
The term alcoholic beverage has the meaning given the term in section 158 (c).
(2) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle means a vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power and manufactured primarily for use on public highways, but does not include a vehicle operated exclusively on a rail or rails.
(3) Open alcoholic beverage container.— 
The term open alcoholic beverage container means any bottle, can, or other receptacle
(A) that contains any amount of alcoholic beverage; and
(B) 
(i) that is open or has a broken seal; or
(ii) the contents of which are partially removed.
(4) Passenger area.— 
The term passenger area shall have the meaning given the term by the Secretary by regulation.
(b) Open Container Laws.— 

(1) In general.— 
For the purposes of this section, each State shall have in effect a law that prohibits the possession of any open alcoholic beverage container, or the consumption of any alcoholic beverage, in the passenger area of any motor vehicle (including possession or consumption by the driver of the vehicle) located on a public highway, or the right-of-way of a public highway, in the State.
(2) Motor vehicles designed to transport many passengers.— 
For the purposes of this section, if a State has in effect a law that makes unlawful the possession of any open alcoholic beverage container by the driver (but not by a passenger)
(A) in the passenger area of a motor vehicle designed, maintained, or used primarily for the transportation of persons for compensation; or
(B) in the living quarters of a house coach or house trailer, the State shall be deemed to have in effect a law described in this subsection with respect to such a motor vehicle for each fiscal year during which the law is in effect.
(c) Transfer of Funds.— 

(1) Fiscal years 2001 and 2002.— 
On October 1, 2000, and October 1, 2001, if a State has not enacted or is not enforcing an open container law described in subsection (b), the Secretary shall transfer an amount equal to 11/2 percent of the funds apportioned to the State on that date under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) to the apportionment of the State under section 402
(A) to be used for alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures; or
(B) to be directed to State and local law enforcement agencies for enforcement of laws prohibiting driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence and other related laws (including regulations), including the purchase of equipment, the training of officers, and the use of additional personnel for specific alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures, dedicated to enforcement of the laws (including regulations).
(2) Fiscal year 2003 and fiscal years thereafter.— 
On October 1, 2002, and each October 1 thereafter, if a State has not enacted or is not enforcing an open container law described in subsection (b), the Secretary shall transfer an amount equal to 3 percent of the funds apportioned to the State on that date under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) to the apportionment of the State under section 402 to be used or directed as described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1).
(3) Use for hazard elimination program.— 
A State may elect to use all or a portion of the funds transferred under paragraph (1) or (2) for activities eligible under section 148.
(4) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out with funds transferred under paragraph (1) or (2), or used under paragraph (3), shall be 100 percent.
(5) Derivation of amount to be transferred.— 
The amount to be transferred under paragraph (1) or (2) may be derived from one or more of the following:
(A) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(1).
(B) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(3).
(C) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(4).
(6) Transfer of obligation authority.— 

(A) In general.— 
If the Secretary transfers under this subsection any funds to the apportionment of a State under section 402 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall transfer an amount, determined under subparagraph (B), of obligation authority distributed for the fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for carrying out projects under section 402.
(B) Amount.— 
The amount of obligation authority referred to in subparagraph (A) shall be determined by multiplying
(i) the amount of funds transferred under subparagraph (A) to the apportionment of the State under section 402 for the fiscal year, by
(ii) the ratio that
(I) the amount of obligation authority distributed for the fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs, bears to
(II) the total of the sums apportioned to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs (excluding sums not subject to any obligation limitation) for the fiscal year.
(7) Limitation on applicability of obligation limitation.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no limitation on the total of obligations for highway safety programs under section 402 shall apply to funds transferred under this subsection to the apportionment of a State under such section.

23 USC 155 - Access highways to public recreation areas on certain lakes

(a) The Secretary is authorized to construct or reconstruct access highways to public recreation areas on lakes in order to accommodate present and projected traffic density. The Secretary shall develop guidelines and standards for the designation of routes and the allocation of funds for the purpose of this section which shall include the following criteria:
(1) No portion of any access highway constructed or reconstructed under this section shall exceed thirty-five miles in length nor shall any portion of such highway be located more than thirty-five miles from the nearest part of such recreation area.
(2) Routes shall be designated by the Secretary on the recommendation of the State and responsible local officials, after consultation with the head of the Federal agency (if any) having jurisdiction over the public recreation area involved.
(b) The Federal share payable on account of any project authorized pursuant to this section shall not exceed 75 per centum of the cost of construction or reconstruction of such project.
(c) All of the provisions of this title applicable to highways on the Federal-aid system (other than the Interstate System) determined appropriate by the Secretary, except those provisions which the Secretary determines are inconsistent with this section, shall apply to any highway designated under this section which is not a part of the Federal-aid system when so designated.
(d) For the purpose of this section the term lake means any lake, reservoir, pool, or other body of water resulting from the construction of any lock, dam, or similar structure by the Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army, or the Bureau of Reclamation, Department of the Interior, or the Tennessee Valley Authority, and any multipurpose lake resulting from construction assistance of the Soil Conservation Service, Department of Agriculture. This section shall apply to lakes heretofore or hereafter constructed or authorized for construction.
(e) There is authorized to be appropriated not to exceed $25,000,000 for the fiscal year 1976 to carry out this section. Amounts authorized by this subsection for a fiscal year shall be available for that fiscal year and for the two succeeding fiscal years.

23 USC 156 - Proceeds from the sale or lease of real property

(a) Minimum Charge.— 
Subject to section 142 (f), a State shall charge, at a minimum, fair market value for the sale, use, lease, or lease renewal (other than for utility use and occupancy or for a transportation project eligible for assistance under this title) of real property acquired with Federal assistance made available from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account).
(b) Exceptions.— 
The Secretary may grant an exception to the requirement of subsection (a) for a social, environmental, or economic purpose.
(c) Use of Federal Share of Income.— 
The Federal share of net income from the revenues obtained by a State under subsection (a) shall be used by the State for projects eligible under this title.

23 USC 157 - Safety incentive grants for use of seat belts

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle means a vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power and manufactured primarily for use on public highways, but does not include a vehicle operated solely on a rail line.
(2) Multipurpose passenger motor vehicle.— 
The term multipurpose passenger motor vehicle means a motor vehicle with motive power (except a trailer), designed to carry not more than 10 individuals, that is constructed on a truck chassis or is constructed with special features for occasional off-road operation.
(3) National average seat belt use rate.— 
The term national average seat belt use rate means, in the case of each of calendar years 1996 through 2003, the national average seat belt use rate for that year, as determined by the Secretary.
(4) Passenger car.— 
The term passenger car means a motor vehicle with motive power (except a multipurpose passenger motor vehicle, motorcycle, or trailer) designed to carry not more than 10 individuals.
(5) Passenger motor vehicle.— 
The term passenger motor vehicle means a passenger car or a multipurpose passenger motor vehicle.
(6) Savings to the federal government.— 
The term savings to the Federal Government means the amount of Federal budget savings relating to Federal medical costs (including savings under the medicare and medicaid programs under titles XVIII and XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.)), as determined by the Secretary.
(7) Seat belt.— 
The term seat belt means
(A) with respect to an open-body passenger motor vehicle, including a convertible, an occupant restraint system consisting of a lap belt or a lap belt and a detachable shoulder belt; and
(B) with respect to any other passenger motor vehicle, an occupant restraint system consisting of integrated lap and shoulder belts.
(8) State seat belt use rate.— 
The term State seat belt use rate means the rate of use of seat belts in passenger motor vehicles in a State, as measured and submitted to the Secretary
(A) for each of calendar years 1996 and 1997, by the State, as weighted by the Secretary to ensure national consistency in methods of measurement (as determined by the Secretary); and
(B) for each of calendar years 1998 through 2003, by the State in a manner consistent with the criteria established by the Secretary under subsection (e).
(b) Determinations by the Secretary.— 
Not later than September 1, 1998, and September 1 of each calendar year thereafter through September 1, 2005, the Secretary shall determine
(1) 
(A) which States had, for each of the previous calendar years (in this subsection referred to as the previous calendar year) and the year preceding the previous calendar year, a State seat belt use rate greater than the national average seat belt use rate for that year; and
(B) in the case of each State described in subparagraph (A), the amount that is equal to the savings to the Federal Government due to the amount by which the State seat belt use rate for the previous calendar year exceeds the national average seat belt use rate for that year; and
(2) in the case of each State that is not a State described in paragraph (1)(A)
(A) the base seat belt use rate of the State, which shall be equal to the highest State seat belt use rate for the State for any calendar year during the period of 1996 through the calendar year preceding the previous calendar year; and
(B) the amount that is equal to the savings to the Federal Government due to any increase in the State seat belt use rate for the previous calendar year over the base seat belt use rate determined under subparagraph (A).
(c) Allocations.— 

(1) States with greater than the national average seat belt use rate.— 
Not later than October 1, 1998, and each October 1 thereafter through October 1, 2004, the Secretary shall allocate to each State described in subsection (b)(1)(A) an amount equal to the amount determined for the State under subsection (b)(1)(B).
(2) Other states.— 
Not later than October 1, 1998, and each October 1 thereafter through October 1, 2004, the Secretary shall allocate to each State described in subsection (b)(2) an amount equal to the amount determined for the State under subsection (b)(2)(B).
(d) Use of Amounts.— 
For each fiscal year, each State that is allocated an amount under this section shall use the amount for projects eligible for assistance under this title.
(e) Criteria.— 
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish criteria for the measurement of State seat belt use rates by States to ensure that the measurements are accurate and representative.
(f) Innovative Seat Belt Project Allocations.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall use amounts made available under subsection (g)(3) to make allocations to States to carry out innovative projects to promote increased seat belt use rates.
(2) Determination of eligibility.— 
To be eligible to receive an allocation under this subsection for a fiscal year, a State shall
(A) develop a plan for innovative projects described in paragraph (1); and
(B) submit the plan to the Secretary not later than March 1 of the fiscal year.
(3) Plan selection.— 

(A) Criteria.— 
Not later than December 1, 1998, the Secretary shall establish criteria for the selection of State plans for allocations under this subsection.
(B) Selection.— 
The Secretary shall select State plans for allocations under this subsection in accordance with the criteria established under subparagraph (A).
(C) States.— 
In carrying out this paragraph, the Secretary shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, demographic and geographic diversity and a diversity of seat belt use rates among the States selected for allocations.
(4) Allocation.— 
Not later than October 1, 1999, and each October 1 thereafter through October 1, 2004, the Secretary shall allocate funds to the States whose plans were selected under paragraph (3).
(5) Amount of allocations.— 
Subject to the availability of unallocated amounts under subsection (g)(3), the amount of each allocation to a State under this subsection shall be not less than $100,000 for each fiscal year that is covered by a State plan.
(6) Use of allocations.— 
An allocation to a State under this subsection shall be used to carry out the innovative seat belt projects described in the State plan for which the allocation is awarded.
(7) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of an innovative seat belt project under this section shall be 100 percent.
(8) Period of availability.— 
Amounts allocated to a State under this subsection shall remain available for obligation in the State for a period of 3 years after the last day of the fiscal year for which the amounts are allocated.
(g) Funding.— 

(1) In general.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $82,000,000 for fiscal year 1999, $92,000,000 for fiscal year 2000, $102,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $112,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, $112,000,000 for fiscal year 2003, $112,000,000 for fiscal year 2004, and $112,000,000 for fiscal year 2005.
(2) Proportionate adjustment.— 
If the total amounts to be allocated under subsection (c) for any fiscal year would exceed the amounts authorized for the fiscal year under paragraph (1), the allocation to each State under subsection (c) shall be reduced proportionately.
(3) Use of unallocated funds.— 

(A) Fiscal year 1999.— 
To the extent that the amounts made available for fiscal year 1999 under paragraph (1) exceed the total amounts to be allocated under subsection (c) for fiscal year 1999, the excess amounts
(i) shall be apportioned in accordance with section 104 (b)(3);
(ii) shall be considered to be sums made available for expenditure on the surface transportation program, except that the amounts shall not be subject to section 133 (d); and
(iii) shall be available for any purpose eligible for funding under section 133.
(B) Fiscal years 2000 through 2005.— 
To the extent that the amounts made available for any of fiscal years 2000 through 2005 under paragraph (1) exceed the total amounts to be allocated under subsection (c) for the fiscal year, the excess amounts shall be used to make allocations under subsection (f).

23 USC 158 - National minimum drinking age

(a) Withholding of Funds for Noncompliance.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall withhold 10 per centum of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under each of sections 104 (b)(1), 104 (b)(3), and 104 (b)(4) of this title on the first day of each fiscal year after the second fiscal year beginning after September 30, 1985, in which the purchase or public possession in such State of any alcoholic beverage by a person who is less than twenty-one years of age is lawful.
(2) State grandfather law as complying.— 
If, before the later of
(A)  October 1, 1986, or
(B)  the tenth day following the last day of the first session the legislature of a State convenes after the date of the enactment of this paragraph, such State has in effect a law which makes unlawful the purchase and public possession in such State of any alcoholic beverage by a person who is less than 21 years of age (other than any person who is 18 years of age or older on the day preceding the effective date of such law and at such time could lawfully purchase or publicly possess any alcoholic beverage in such State), such State shall be deemed to be in compliance with paragraph (1) in each fiscal year in which such law is in effect.
(b) Effect of Withholding of Funds.— 
No funds withheld under this section from apportionment to any State after September 30, 1988, shall be available for apportionment to that State.
(c) Alcoholic Beverage Defined.— 
As used in this section, the term alcoholic beverage means
(1) beer as defined in section 5052(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
(2) wine of not less than one-half of 1 per centum of alcohol by volume, or
(3) distilled spirits as defined in section 5002(a)(8) of such Code.

23 USC 159 - Revocation or suspension of drivers licenses of individuals convicted of drug offenses

(a) Withholding of Apportionments for Noncompliance.— 

(1) Beginning in fiscal year 1994.— 
For each fiscal year the Secretary shall withhold 5 percent of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (5) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) of section 104 (b) on the first day of each fiscal year which begins after the second calendar year following the effective date of this section if the State does not meet the requirements of paragraph (3) on such date.
(2) Beginning in fiscal year 1996.— 
The Secretary shall withhold 10 percent (including any amounts withheld under paragraph (1)) of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (5) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) of section 104 (b) on the first day of each fiscal year which begins after the fourth calendar year following the effective date of this section if the State does not meet the requirements of paragraph (3) on the first day of such fiscal year.
(3) Requirements.— 
A State meets the requirements of this paragraph if
(A) the State has enacted and is enforcing a law that requires in all circumstances, or requires in the absence of compelling circumstances warranting an exception
(i) the revocation, or suspension for at least 6 months, of the drivers license of any individual who is convicted, after the enactment of such law, of
(I) any violation of the Controlled Substances Act, or
(II) any drug offense; and
(ii) a delay in the issuance or reinstatement of a drivers license to such an individual for at least 6 months after the individual applies for the issuance or reinstatement of a drivers license if the individual does not have a drivers license, or the drivers license of the individual is suspended, at the time the individual is so convicted; or
(B) the Governor of the State
(i) submits to the Secretary no earlier than the adjournment sine die of the first regularly scheduled session of the States legislature which begins after the effective date of this section a written certification stating that the Governor is opposed to the enactment or enforcement in the State of a law described in subparagraph (A), relating to the revocation, suspension, issuance, or reinstatement of drivers licenses to convicted drug offenders; and
(ii) submits to the Secretary a written certification that the legislature (including both Houses where applicable) has adopted a resolution expressing its opposition to a law described in clause (i).
(b) Period of Availability; Effect of Compliance and Noncompliance.— 

(1) Period of availability of withheld funds.— 

(A) Funds withheld on or before september 30, 1995.— 
Any funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment to any State on or before September 30, 1995, shall remain available for apportionment to such State as follows:
(i) If such funds would have been apportioned under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) but for this section, such funds shall remain available until the end of the fiscal year for which such funds are authorized to be appropriated.
(ii) If such funds would have been apportioned under section 104 (b)(5)(B) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) but for this section, such funds shall remain available until the end of the second fiscal year following the fiscal year for which such funds are authorized to be appropriated.
(iii) If such funds would have been apportioned under paragraph (1), (3), or (5) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) of section 104 (b) but for this section, such funds shall remain available until the end of the third fiscal year following the fiscal year for which such funds are authorized to be appropriated.
(B) Funds withheld after september 30, 1995.— 
No funds withheld under this section from apportionment to any State after September 30, 1995, shall be available for apportionment to such State.
(2) Apportionment of withheld funds after compliance.— 
If, before the last day of the period for which funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment are to remain available for apportionment to a State under paragraph (1), the State meets the requirements of subsection (a)(3), the Secretary shall, on the first day on which the State meets the requirements of subsection (a)(3), apportion to the State the funds withheld under subsection (a) that remain available for apportionment to the State.
(3) Period of availability of subsequently apportioned funds.— 
Any funds apportioned pursuant to paragraph (2) shall remain available for expenditure as follows:
(A) Funds which would have been originally apportioned under section 104 (b)(5)(A) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) shall remain available until the end of the fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year in which such funds are apportioned under paragraph (2).
(B) Funds which would have been originally apportioned under paragraph (1), (3), or (5)(B) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century) of section 104 (b) shall remain available until the end of the third fiscal year succeeding the fiscal year in which such funds are so apportioned.

Sums not obligated at the end of such period shall lapse or, in the case of funds apportioned under section 104 (b)(5) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century), shall lapse and be made available by the Secretary for projects in accordance with section 118 (b).

(4) Effect of noncompliance.— 
If, at the end of the period for which funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment are available for apportionment to a State under paragraph (1), the State does not meet the requirements of subsection (a)(3), such funds shall lapse or, in the case of funds withheld from apportionment under section 104 (b)(5) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century), such funds shall lapse and be made available by the Secretary for projects in accordance with section 118 (b).
(c) Definitions.— 
For purposes of this section
(1) Driver’s license.— 
The term drivers license means a license issued by a State to any individual that authorizes the individual to operate a motor vehicle on highways.
(2) Drug offense.— 
The term drug offense means any criminal offense which proscribes
(A) the possession, distribution, manufacture, cultivation, sale, transfer, or the attempt or conspiracy to possess, distribute, manufacture, cultivate, sell, or transfer any substance the possession of which is prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act; or
(B) the operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of such a substance.
(3) Convicted.— 
The term convicted includes adjudicated under juvenile proceedings.

23 USC 160 - Reimbursement for segments of the Interstate System constructed without Federal assistance

(a) General Authority.— 
The Secretary shall allocate to the States in each of fiscal years 1996 and 1997 amounts determined under subsection (b) for reimbursement of their original contributions to construction of segments of the Interstate System which were constructed without Federal financial assistance.
(b) Determination of Reimbursement Amount.— 
The amount to be reimbursed to a State in each of fiscal years 1996 and 1997 under this section shall be determined by multiplying the amount made available for carrying out this section for such fiscal year by the reimbursement percentage set forth in the table contained in subsection (c).
(c) Reimbursement Table.— 
For purposes of carrying out this section, the reimbursement percentage, the original cost for constructing the Interstate System, and the total reimbursable amount for each State is set forth in the following table:
(d) Transfer of Reimbursable Amounts to STP Apportionment.— 
Subject to subsection (e) of this section, the Secretary shall transfer amounts allocated to a State pursuant to this section to the apportionment of such State under section 104 (b)(3) for the surface transportation program.
(e) Limitation on Applicability of Certain Requirements of STP Program.— 
The following provisions of section 133 of this title shall not apply to 1/2 of the amounts transferred under subsection (d) to the apportionment of the State for the surface transportation program:
(1) Subsection (d)(1).[1]
(2) Subsection (d)(2).
(3) Subsection (d)(3).
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated, out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account), $2,000,000,000 per fiscal year for each of fiscal years 1996 and 1997 to carryout this section.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 161 - Operation of motor vehicles by intoxicated minors

(a) Withholding of Apportionments for Noncompliance.— 

(1) Fiscal year 1999.— 
The Secretary shall withhold 5 percent of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) on October 1, 1998, if the State does not meet the requirement of paragraph (3) on that date.
(2) Thereafter.— 
The Secretary shall withhold 10 percent (including any amounts withheld under paragraph (1)) of the amount required to be apportioned to any State under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) on October 1, 1999, and on October 1 of each fiscal year thereafter, if the State does not meet the requirement of paragraph (3) on that date.
(3) Requirement.— 
A State meets the requirement of this paragraph if the State has enacted and is enforcing a law that considers an individual under the age of 21 who has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 percent or greater while operating a motor vehicle in the State to be driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence of alcohol.
(b) Period of Availability; Effect of Compliance and Noncompliance.— 

(1) Period of availability of withheld funds.— 

(A) Funds withheld on or before september 30, 2000.— 
Any funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment to any State on or before September 30, 2000, shall remain available until the end of the third fiscal year following the fiscal year for which the funds are authorized to be appropriated.
(B) Funds withheld after september 30, 2000.— 
No funds withheld under this section from apportionment to any State after September 30, 2000, shall be available for apportionment to the State.
(2) Apportionment of withheld funds after compliance.— 
If, before the last day of the period for which funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment are to remain available for apportionment to a State under paragraph (1), the State meets the requirement of subsection (a)(3), the Secretary shall, on the first day on which the State meets the requirement, apportion to the State the funds withheld under subsection (a) that remain available for apportionment to the State.
(3) Period of availability of subsequently apportioned funds.— 
Any funds apportioned pursuant to paragraph (2) shall remain available for expenditure until the end of the third fiscal year following the fiscal year in which the funds are so apportioned. Sums not obligated at the end of that period shall lapse.
(4) Effect of noncompliance.— 
If, at the end of the period for which funds withheld under subsection (a) from apportionment are available for apportionment to a State under paragraph (1), the State does not meet the requirement of subsection (a)(3), the funds shall lapse.

23 USC 162 - National scenic byways program

(a) Designation of Roads.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall carry out a national scenic byways program that recognizes roads having outstanding scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational, and archaeological qualities by designating the roads as
(A) National Scenic Byways;
(B) All-American Roads; or
(C) Americas Byways.
(2) Criteria.— 
The Secretary shall designate roads to be recognized under the national scenic byways program in accordance with criteria developed by the Secretary.
(3) Nomination.— 

(A) In general.— 
To be considered for a designation, a road must be nominated by a State, an Indian tribe, or a Federal land management agency and must first be designated as a State scenic byway, an Indian tribe scenic byway, or, in the case of a road on Federal land, as a Federal land management agency byway.
(B) Nomination by indian tribes.— 
An Indian tribe may nominate a road as a National Scenic Byway under subparagraph (A) only if a Federal land management agency (other than the Bureau of Indian Affairs), a State, or a political subdivision of a State does not have
(i) jurisdiction over the road; or
(ii) responsibility for managing the road.
(C) Safety.— 
An Indian tribe shall maintain the safety and quality of roads nominated by the Indian tribe under subparagraph (A).
(4) Reciprocal notification.— 
States, Indian tribes, and Federal land management agencies shall notify each other regarding nominations made under this subsection for roads that
(A) are within the jurisdictional boundary of the State, Federal land management agency, or Indian tribe; or
(B) directly connect to roads for which the State, Federal land management agency, or Indian tribe is responsible.
(b) Grants and Technical Assistance.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall make grants and provide technical assistance to States and Indian tribes to
(A) implement projects on highways designated as
(i) National Scenic Byways;
(ii) All-American Roads;
(iii) Americas Byways;
(iv) State scenic byways; or
(v) Indian tribe scenic byways; and
(B) plan, design, and develop a State or Indian tribe scenic byway program.
(2) Priorities.— 
In making grants, the Secretary shall give priority to
(A) each eligible project that is associated with a highway that has been designated as a National Scenic Byway, All-American Road, or 1 of Americas Byways and that is consistent with the corridor management plan for the byway;
(B) each eligible project along a State or Indian tribe scenic byway that is consistent with the corridor management plan for the byway, or is intended to foster the development of such a plan, and is carried out to make the byway eligible for designation as
(i) a National Scenic Byway;
(ii) an All-American Road; or
(iii) 1 of Americas Byways; and
(C) each eligible project that is associated with the development of a State or Indian tribe scenic byway program.
(c) Eligible Projects.— 
The following are projects that are eligible for Federal assistance under this section:
(1) An activity related to the planning, design, or development of a State or Indian tribe scenic byway program.
(2) Development and implementation of a corridor management plan to maintain the scenic, historical, recreational, cultural, natural, and archaeological characteristics of a byway corridor while providing for accommodation of increased tourism and development of related amenities.
(3) Safety improvements to a State scenic byway, Indian tribe scenic byway, National Scenic Byway, or All-American Road to the extent that the improvements are necessary to accommodate increased traffic and changes in the types of vehicles using the highway as a result of the designation as a State scenic byway, Indian tribe scenic byway, National Scenic Byway, or All-American Road.
(4) Construction along a scenic byway of a facility for pedestrians and bicyclists, rest area, turnout, highway shoulder improvement, overlook, or interpretive facility.
(5) An improvement to a scenic byway that will enhance access to an area for the purpose of recreation, including water-related recreation.
(6) Protection of scenic, historical, recreational, cultural, natural, and archaeological resources in an area adjacent to a scenic byway.
(7) Development and provision of tourist information to the public, including interpretive information about a scenic byway.
(8) Development and implementation of a scenic byway marketing program.
(d) Limitation.— 
The Secretary shall not make a grant under this section for any project that would not protect the scenic, historical, recreational, cultural, natural, and archaeological integrity of a highway and adjacent areas.
(e) Savings Clause.— 
The Secretary shall not withhold any grant or impose any requirement on a State or Indian tribe as a condition of providing a grant or technical assistance for any scenic byway unless the requirement is consistent with the authority provided in this chapter.
(f) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of carrying out a project under this section shall be 80 percent, except that, in the case of any scenic byway project along a public road that provides access to or within Federal or Indian land, a Federal land management agency may use funds authorized for use by the agency as the non-Federal share.

23 USC 163 - Safety incentives to prevent operation of motor vehicles by intoxicated persons

(a) General Authority.— 
The Secretary shall make a grant, in accordance with this section, to any State that has enacted and is enforcing a law that provides that any person with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or greater while operating a motor vehicle in the State shall be deemed to have committed a per se offense of driving while intoxicated (or an equivalent per se offense).
(b) Grants.— 
For each fiscal year, funds authorized to carry out this section shall be apportioned to each State that has enacted and is enforcing a law meeting the requirements of subsection (a) in an amount determined by multiplying
(1) the amount authorized to carry out this section for the fiscal year; by
(2) the ratio that the amount of funds apportioned to each such State under section 402 for such fiscal year bears to the total amount of funds apportioned to all such States under section 402 for such fiscal year.
(c) Use of Grants.— 
A State may obligate funds apportioned under subsection (b) for any project eligible for assistance under this title.
(d) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project funded under this section shall be 100 percent.
(e) Penalty.— 

(1) In general.— 
On October 1, 2003, and October 1 of each fiscal year thereafter, if a State has not enacted or is not enforcing a law described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall withhold from amounts apportioned to the State on that date under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) an amount equal to the amount specified in paragraph (2).
(2) Amount to be withheld.— 
If a State is subject to a penalty under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall withhold for a fiscal year from the apportionments of the State described in paragraph (1) an amount equal to a percentage of the funds apportioned to the State under paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) for fiscal year 2003. The percentage shall be as follows:
(A) For fiscal year 2004, 2 percent.
(B) For fiscal year 2005, 4 percent.
(C) For fiscal year 2006, 6 percent.
(D) For fiscal year 2007, and each fiscal year thereafter, 8 percent.
(3) Failure to comply.— 
If, within 4 years from the date that an apportionment for a State is withheld in accordance with this subsection, the Secretary determines that the State has enacted and is enforcing a law described in subsection (a), the apportionment of the State shall be increased by an amount equal to the amount withheld. If, at the end of such 4-year period, any State has not enacted or is not enforcing a law described in subsection (a) any amounts so withheld from such State shall lapse.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.— 

(1) In general.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $55,000,000 for fiscal year 1998, $65,000,000 for fiscal year 1999, $80,000,000 for fiscal year 2000, $90,000,000 for fiscal year 2001, $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, $110,000,000 for fiscal year 2003, $110,000,000 for fiscal year 2004, and $110,000,000 for fiscal year 2005 $91,315,068 for the period of October 1, 2004, through July 30, 2005.[1]
(2) Availability of funds.— 
Notwithstanding section 118 (b)(2), the funds authorized by this subsection shall remain available until expended.
[1] So in original. The words “$91,315,068 for the period of October 1, 2004, through July 30, 2005” probably should not appear.

23 USC 164 - Minimum penalties for repeat offenders for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Alcohol concentration.— 
The term alcohol concentration means grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.
(2) Driving while intoxicated; driving under the influence.— 
The terms driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence mean driving or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while having an alcohol concentration above the permitted limit as established by each State.
(3) License suspension.— 
The term license suspension means the suspension of all driving privileges.
(4) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle means a vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power and manufactured primarily for use on public highways, but does not include a vehicle operated solely on a rail line or a commercial vehicle.
(5) Repeat intoxicated driver law.— 
The term repeat intoxicated driver law means a State law that provides, as a minimum penalty, that an individual convicted of a second or subsequent offense for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence after a previous conviction for that offense shall
(A) receive a drivers license suspension for not less than 1 year;
(B) be subject to the impoundment or immobilization of each of the individuals motor vehicles or the installation of an ignition interlock system on each of the motor vehicles;
(C) receive an assessment of the individuals degree of abuse of alcohol and treatment as appropriate; and
(D) receive
(i) in the case of the second offense
(I) an assignment of not less than 30 days of community service; or
(II) not less than 5 days of imprisonment; and
(ii) in the case of the third or subsequent offense
(I) an assignment of not less than 60 days of community service; or
(II) not less than 10 days of imprisonment.
(b) Transfer of Funds.— 

(1) Fiscal years 2001 and 2002.— 
On October 1, 2000, and October 1, 2001, if a State has not enacted or is not enforcing a repeat intoxicated driver law, the Secretary shall transfer an amount equal to 11/2 percent of the funds apportioned to the State on that date under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) to the apportionment of the State under section 402
(A) to be used for alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures; or
(B) to be directed to State and local law enforcement agencies for enforcement of laws prohibiting driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence and other related laws (including regulations), including the purchase of equipment, the training of officers, and the use of additional personnel for specific alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures, dedicated to enforcement of the laws (including regulations).
(2) Fiscal year 2003 and fiscal years thereafter.— 
On October 1, 2002, and each October 1 thereafter, if a State has not enacted or is not enforcing a repeat intoxicated driver law, the Secretary shall transfer an amount equal to 3 percent of the funds apportioned to the State on that date under each of paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 104 (b) to the apportionment of the State under section 402 to be used or directed as described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph (1).
(3) Use for hazard elimination program.— 
A State may elect to use all or a portion of the funds transferred under paragraph (1) or (2) for activities eligible under section 148.
(4) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out with funds transferred under paragraph (1) or (2), or used under paragraph (3), shall be 100 percent.
(5) Derivation of amount to be transferred.— 
The amount to be transferred under paragraph (1) or (2) may be derived from one or more of the following:
(A) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(1).
(B) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(3).
(C) The apportionment of the State under section 104 (b)(4).
(6) Transfer of obligation authority.— 

(A) In general.— 
If the Secretary transfers under this subsection any funds to the apportionment of a State under section 402 for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall transfer an amount, determined under subparagraph (B), of obligation authority distributed for the fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs for carrying out projects under section 402.
(B) Amount.— 
The amount of obligation authority referred to in subparagraph (A) shall be determined by multiplying
(i) the amount of funds transferred under subparagraph (A) to the apportionment of the State under section 402 for the fiscal year, by
(ii) the ratio that
(I) the amount of obligation authority distributed for the fiscal year to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs, bears to
(II) the total of the sums apportioned to the State for Federal-aid highways and highway safety construction programs (excluding sums not subject to any obligation limitation) for the fiscal year.
(7) Limitation on applicability of obligation limitation.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no limitation on the total of obligations for highway safety programs under section 402 shall apply to funds transferred under this subsection to the apportionment of a State under such section.

23 USC 165 - Puerto Rico highway program

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall allocate funds made available to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to carry out a highway program in the Commonwealth.
(b) Applicability of Title.— 
Amounts made available by section 1101(a)(14) of the SAFETEALU shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under this chapter.
(c) Treatment of Funds.— 
Amounts made available to carry out this section for a fiscal year shall be administered as follows:
(1) Apportionment.— 
For the purpose of imposing any penalty under this title or title 49, the amounts shall be treated as being apportioned to Puerto Rico under sections 104 (b) and 144, for each program funded under those sections in an amount determined by multiplying
(A) the aggregate of the amounts for the fiscal year; by
(B) the ratio that
(i) the amount of funds apportioned to Puerto Rico for each such program for fiscal year 1997; bears to
(ii) the total amount of funds apportioned to Puerto Rico for all such programs for fiscal year 1997.
(2) Penalty.— 
The amounts treated as being apportioned to Puerto Rico under each section referred to in paragraph (1) shall be deemed to be required to be apportioned to Puerto Rico under that section for purposes of the imposition of any penalty under this title or title 49.
(d) Effect on Allocations and Apportionments.— 
Subject to subsection (c)(2), nothing in this section affects any allocation under section 105 and any apportionment under sections 104 and 144.

23 USC 166 - HOV facilities

(a) In General.— 

(1) Authority of state agencies.— 
A State agency that has jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility shall establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility.
(2) Occupancy requirement.— 
Except as otherwise provided by this section, no fewer than two occupants per vehicle may be required for use of a HOV facility.
(b) Exceptions.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding the occupancy requirement of subsection (a)(2), the exceptions in paragraphs (2) through (5) shall apply with respect to a State agency operating a HOV facility.
(2) Motorcycles and bicycles.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to subparagraph (B), the State agency shall allow motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility.
(B) Safety exception.— 

(i) In general.— 
A State agency may restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if the agency certifies to the Secretary that such use would create a safety hazard and the Secretary accepts the certification.
(ii) Acceptance of certification.— 
The Secretary may accept a certification under this subparagraph only after the Secretary publishes notice of the certification in the Federal Register and provides an opportunity for public comment.
(3) Public transportation vehicles.— 
The State agency may allow public transportation vehicles to use the HOV facility if the agency
(A) establishes requirements for clearly identifying the vehicles; and
(B) establishes procedures for enforcing the restrictions on the use of the facility by the vehicles.
(4) High occupancy toll vehicles.— 
The State agency may allow vehicles not otherwise exempt pursuant to this subsection to use the HOV facility if the operators of the vehicles pay a toll charged by the agency for use of the facility and the agency
(A) establishes a program that addresses how motorists can enroll and participate in the toll program;
(B) develops, manages, and maintains a system that will automatically collect the toll; and
(C) establishes policies and procedures to
(i) manage the demand to use the facility by varying the toll amount that is charged; and
(ii) enforce violations of use of the facility.
(5) Low emission and energy-efficient vehicles.— 

(A) Inherently low emission vehicle.— 
Before September 30, 2009, the State agency may allow vehicles that are certified as inherently low-emission vehicles pursuant to section 88.31193 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), and are labeled in accordance with section 88.31293 of such title (or successor regulations), to use the HOV facility if the agency establishes procedures for enforcing the restrictions on the use of the facility by the vehicles.
(B) Other low emission and energy-efficient vehicles.— 
Before September 30, 2009, the State agency may allow vehicles certified as low emission and energy-efficient vehicles under subsection (e), and labeled in accordance with subsection (e), to use the HOV facility if the operators of the vehicles pay a toll charged by the agency for use of the facility and the agency
(i) establishes a program that addresses the selection of vehicles under this paragraph; and
(ii) establishes procedures for enforcing the restrictions on the use of the facility by the vehicles.
(C) Amount of tolls.— 
Under subparagraph (B), a State agency may charge no toll or may charge a toll that is less than tolls charged under paragraph (3).[1]
(c) Requirements Applicable to Tolls.— 

(1) In general.— 
Tolls may be charged under paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (b) notwithstanding section 301 and, except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), subject to the requirements of section 129.
(2) HOV facilities on the interstate system.— 
Notwithstanding section 129, tolls may be charged under paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (b) on a HOV facility on the Interstate System.
(3) Excess toll revenues.— 
If a State agency makes a certification under section 129 (a)(3) with respect to toll revenues collected under paragraphs (4) and (5) of subsection (b), the State, in the use of toll revenues under that sentence, shall give priority consideration to projects for developing alternatives to single occupancy vehicle travel and projects for improving highway safety.
(d) HOV Facility Management, Operation, Monitoring, and Enforcement.— 

(1) In general.— 
A State agency that allows vehicles to use a HOV facility under paragraph (4) or (5) of subsection (b) in a fiscal year shall certify to the Secretary that the agency will carry out the following responsibilities with respect to the facility in the fiscal year:
(A) Establishing, managing, and supporting a performance monitoring, evaluation, and reporting program for the facility that provides for continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting on the impacts that the vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways.
(B) Establishing, managing, and supporting an enforcement program that ensures that the facility is being operated in accordance with the requirements of this section.
(C) Limiting or discontinuing the use of the facility by the vehicles if the presence of the vehicles has degraded the operation of the facility.
(2) Degraded facility.— 

(A) Definition of minimum average operating speed.— 
In this paragraph, the term minimum average operating speed means
(i) 45 miles per hour, in the case of a HOV facility with a speed limit of 50 miles per hour or greater; and
(ii) not more than 10 miles per hour below the speed limit, in the case of a HOV facility with a speed limit of less than 50 miles per hour.
(B) Standard for determining degraded facility.— 
For purposes of paragraph (1), the operation of a HOV facility shall be considered to be degraded if vehicles operating on the facility are failing to maintain a minimum average operating speed 90 percent of the time over a consecutive 180-day period during morning or evening weekday peak hour periods (or both).
(C) Management of low emission and energy-efficient vehicles.— 
In managing the use of HOV lanes by low emission and energy-efficient vehicles that do not meet applicable occupancy requirements, a State agency may increase the percentages described in subsection (f)(3)(B)(i).
(e) Certification of Low Emission and Energy-Efficient Vehicles.— 
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency shall
(1) issue a final rule establishing requirements for certification of vehicles as low emission and energy-efficient vehicles for purposes of this section and requirements for the labeling of the vehicles; and
(2) establish guidelines and procedures for making the vehicle comparisons and performance calculations described in subsection (f)(3)(B), in accordance with section 32908 (b) of title 49.
(f) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Alternative fuel vehicle.— 
The term alternative fuel vehicle means a vehicle that is operating on
(A) methanol, denatured ethanol, or other alcohols;
(B) a mixture containing at least 85 percent of methanol, denatured ethanol, and other alcohols by volume with gasoline or other fuels;
(C) natural gas;
(D) liquefied petroleum gas;
(E) hydrogen;
(F) coal derived liquid fuels;
(G) fuels (except alcohol) derived from biological materials;
(H) electricity (including electricity from solar energy); or
(I) any other fuel that the Secretary prescribes by regulation that is not substantially petroleum and that would yield substantial energy security and environmental benefits, including fuels regulated under section 490 of title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations).
(2) HOV facility.— 
The term HOV facility means a high occupancy vehicle facility.
(3) Low emission and energy-efficient vehicle.— 
The term low emission and energy-efficient vehicle means a vehicle that
(A) has been certified by the Administrator as meeting the Tier II emission level established in regulations prescribed by the Administrator under section 202(i) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7521 (i)) for that make and model year vehicle; and
(B) 
(i) is certified by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in consultation with the manufacturer, to have achieved not less than a 50-percent increase in city fuel economy or not less than a 25-percent increase in combined city-highway fuel economy (or such greater percentage of city or city-highway fuel economy as may be determined by a State under subsection (d)(2)(C)) relative to a comparable vehicle that is an internal combustion gasoline fueled vehicle (other than a vehicle that has propulsion energy from onboard hybrid sources); or
(ii) is an alternative fuel vehicle.
(4) Public transportation vehicle.— 
The term public transportation vehicle means a vehicle that
(A) provides designated public transportation (as defined in section 221 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12141) or provides school">public school transportation (to and from public or private primary, secondary, or tertiary schools); and
(B) 
(i) is owned or operated by a public entity;
(ii) is operated under a contract with a public entity; or
(iii) is operated pursuant to a license by the Secretary or a State agency to provide motorbus or school vehicle transportation services to the public.
(5) State agency.— 

(A) In general.— 
The term State agency, as used with respect to a HOV facility, means an agency of a State or local government having jurisdiction over the operation of the facility.
(B) Inclusion.— 
The term State agency includes a State transportation department.
[1] So in original. Probably should be paragraph “(4)”.

181 to 190. Renumbered 601 to 610]

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 2 - OTHER HIGHWAYS

23 USC 201 - Authorizations

The provision of this title shall apply to all unappropriated authorizations contained in prior Acts, and also to all unexpended appropriations heretofore made, providing for the expenditure of Federal funds on the following classes of highways: Forest highways, forest development roads and trails, park road, parkways, Indian reservation roads, refuge roads, public lands highways, and defense access roads. All such authorizations and appropriations shall continue in full force and effect, but hereafter obligations entered into and expenditures made pursuant thereto shall be subject to the provisions of this title.

23 USC 202 - Allocations

(a) Allocation Based on Need.— 

(1) In general.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate sums authorized to be appropriated for the fiscal year for forest development roads and trails according to the relative needs of the various national forests and grasslands.
(2) Planning.— 
The allocation under paragraph (1) shall be consistent with the renewable resource and land use planning for the various national forests.
(b) Allocation for Public Lands Highways.— 

(1) Public lands highways.— 

(A) In general.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate 34 percent of the sums authorized to be appropriated for that fiscal year for public lands highways among those States having unappropriated or unreserved public lands, nontaxable Indian lands, or other Federal reservations, on the basis of need in the States, respectively, as determined by the Secretary, on application of the State transportation departments of the respective States.
(B) Preference.— 
In making the allocation under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall give preference to those projects that are significantly impacted by Federal land and resource management activities that are proposed by a State that contains at least 3 percent of the total public land in the United States.
(2) Forest highways.— 

(A) In general.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate 66 percent of the funds authorized to be appropriated for public lands highways for forest highways in accordance with section 134 of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1987 (23 U.S.C. 202 note ; 101 Stat. 173).
(B) Public access to and within national forest system.— 
In making the allocation under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall give equal consideration to projects that provide access to and within the National Forest System, as identified by the Secretary of Agriculture through
(i) renewable resource and land use planning; and
(ii) assessments of the impact of that planning on transportation facilities.
(c) On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate the sums authorized to be appropriated for such fiscal year for park roads and parkways each according to the relative needs of the various elements of the national park system, taking into consideration the need for access as identified through land use planning and the impact of such planning on existing transportation facilities.
(d) Indian Reservation Roads.— 

(1) For fiscal years ending before october 1, 1999.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year ending before October 1, 1999, the Secretary shall allocate the sums authorized to be appropriated for such fiscal year for Indian reservation roads according to the relative needs of the various reservations as jointly identified by the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior.
(2) Fiscal year 2000 and thereafter.— 

(A) In general.— 
All funds authorized to be appropriated for Indian reservation roads shall be allocated among Indian tribes for fiscal year 2000 and each subsequent fiscal year in accordance with a formula established by the Secretary of the Interior under a negotiated rulemaking procedure under subchapter III of chapter 5 of title 5.
(B) Regulations.— 
Notwithstanding sections 563 (a) and 565 (a) of title 5, the Secretary of the Interior shall issue regulations governing the Indian reservation roads program, and establishing the funding formula for fiscal year 2000 and each subsequent fiscal year under this paragraph, in accordance with a negotiated rulemaking procedure under subchapter III of chapter 5 of title 5. The regulations shall be issued in final form not later than April 1, 1999, and shall take effect not later than October 1, 1999.
(C) Negotiated rulemaking committee.— 
In establishing a negotiated rulemaking committee to carry out subparagraph (B), the Secretary of the Interior shall
(i) apply the procedures under subchapter III of chapter 5 of title 5 in a manner that reflects the unique government-to-government relationship between the Indian tribes and the United States; and
(ii) ensure that the membership of the committee includes only representatives of the Federal Government and of geographically diverse small, medium, and large Indian tribes.
(D) Basis for funding formula.— 
The funding formula established for fiscal year 2000 and each subsequent fiscal year under this paragraph shall be based on factors that reflect
(i) the relative needs of the Indian tribes, and reservation or tribal communities, for transportation assistance; and
(ii) the relative administrative capacities of, and challenges faced by, various Indian tribes, including the cost of road construction in each Bureau of Indian Affairs area, geographic isolation and difficulty in maintaining all-weather access to employment, commerce, health, safety, and educational resources.
(E) Transferred funds.— 

(i) In general.— 
Not later than 30 days after the date on which funds are made available to the Secretary of the Interior under this paragraph, the funds shall be distributed to, and available for immediate use by, the eligible Indian tribes, in accordance with the formula for distribution of funds under the Indian reservation roads program.
(ii) Use of funds.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, funds available to Indian tribes for Indian reservation roads shall be expended on projects identified in a transportation improvement program approved by the Secretary.
(F) Administrative expenses.— 

(i) In general.— 
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated for Indian reservation roads, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2006, $22,000,000 for fiscal year 2007, $24,500,000 for fiscal year 2008, and $27,000,000 for fiscal year 2009 may be used by the Secretary of the Interior for program management and oversight and project-related administrative expenses.
(ii) Health and safety assurances.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an Indian tribal government may approve plans, specifications, and estimates and commence road and bridge construction with funds made available for Indian reservation roads under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (Public Law 105178) and SAFETEALU through a contract or agreement under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b et seq.)[1] if the Indian tribal government
(I) provides assurances in the contract or agreement that the construction will meet or exceed applicable health and safety standards;
(II) obtains the advance review of the plans and specifications from a State-licensed civil engineer that has certified that the plans and specifications meet or exceed the applicable health and safety standards; and
(III) provides a copy of the certification under subclause (I) to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Tribal Government Affairs or the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, as appropriate.
(G) National tribal transportation facility inventory.— 

(i) In general.— 
Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, shall complete a comprehensive national inventory of transportation facilities that are eligible for assistance under the Indian reservation roads program.
(ii) Transportation facilities included in the inventory.— 
For purposes of identifying the tribal transportation system and determining the relative transportation needs among Indian tribes, the Secretary shall include, at a minimum, transportation facilities that are eligible for assistance under the Indian reservation roads program that a tribe has requested, including facilities that
(I) were included in the Bureau of Indian Affairs system inventory for funding formula purposes in 1992 or any subsequent fiscal year;
(II) were constructed or reconstructed with funds from the Highway Trust Funds (other than the Mass Transit Account) under the Indian reservation roads program since 1983;
(III) are owned by an Indian tribal government; or
(IV) are community streets or bridges within the exterior boundary of Indian reservations, Alaska Native villages, and other recognized Indian communities (including communities in former Indian reservations in Oklahoma) in which the majority of residents are American Indians or Alaska Natives; or
(V) are primary access routes proposed by tribal governments, including roads between villages, roads to landfills, roads to drinking water sources, roads to natural resources identified for economic development, and roads that provide access to intermodal termini, such as airports, harbors, or boat landings.
(iii) Limitation on primary access routes.— 
For purposes of this subparagraph, a proposed primary access route is the shortest practicable route connecting 2 points of the proposed route.
(iv) Additional facilities.— 
Nothing in this subparagraph shall preclude the Secretary from including additional transportation facilities that are eligible for funding under the Indian reservation roads program in the inventory used for the national funding allocation if such additional facilities are included in the inventory in a uniform and consistent manner nationally.
(v) Report to congress.— 
Not later than 90 days after the date of completion of the inventory under this subparagraph, the Secretary shall prepare and submit a report to Congress that includes the data gathered and the results of the inventory.
(3) Contracts and agreements with indian tribes.— 

(A) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law or any interagency agreement, program guideline, manual, or policy directive, all funds made available under this chapter and section 125 (e) for Indian reservation roads and for highway bridges located on Indian reservation roads to pay for the costs of programs, services, functions, and activities, or portions thereof, that are specifically or functionally related to the cost of planning, research, engineering, and construction of any highway, road, bridge, parkway, or transit facility that provides access to or is located within the reservation or community of an Indian tribe shall be made available, upon request of the Indian tribal government, to the Indian tribal government for contracts and agreements for such planning, research, engineering, and construction in accordance with the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act.
(B) Exclusion of agency participation.— 
Funds for programs, functions, services, or activities, or portions thereof, including supportive administrative functions that are otherwise contractible to which subparagraph (A) applies, shall be paid in accordance with subparagraph (A) without regard to the organizational level at which the Department of the Interior that has previously carried out such programs, functions, services, or activities.
(4) Reservation of funds.— 

(A) Nationwide priority program.— 
The Secretary shall establish a nationwide priority program for improving deficient Indian reservation road bridges.
(B) Funding.— 

(i) Authorization of appropriations.— 
In addition to any other funds made available for Indian reservation roads for each fiscal year, there is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) $14,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 to carry out planning, design, engineering, preconstruction, construction, and inspection of projects to replace, rehabilitate, seismically retrofit, paint, apply calcium magnesium acetate, sodium acetate/formate, or other environmentally acceptable, minimally corrosive anti-icing and de-icing compositions or install scour countermeasures for deficient Indian reservation road bridges, including multiple-pipe culverts.
(ii) Availability.— 
Funds made available to carry out this subparagraph shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1.
(C) Eligible bridges.— 
To be eligible to receive funding under this subsection, a bridge described in subparagraph (A) must
(i) have an opening of 20 feet or more;
(ii) be on an Indian reservation road;
(iii) be structurally deficient or functionally obsolete; and
(iv) be recorded in the national bridge inventory administered by the Secretary under subsection (b).
(D) Approval requirement.— 

(i) In general.— 
Subject to clause (ii), on request by an Indian tribe or the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary may make funds available under this subsection for preliminary engineering for Indian reservation road bridge projects.
(ii) Construction and construction engineering.— 
The Secretary may make funds available under clause (i) for construction and construction engineering after approval of applicable plans, specifications, and estimates in accordance with this title.
(5) Contracts and agreements with indian tribes.— 

(A) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law or any interagency agreement, program guideline, manual, or policy directive, all funds made available to an Indian tribal government under this chapter for a highway, road, bridge, parkway, or transit facility program or project that is located on an Indian reservation or provides access to the reservation or a community of the Indian tribe shall be made available, on the request of the Indian tribal government, to the Indian tribal government for use in carrying out, in accordance with the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450 et seq.), contracts and agreements for the planning, research, design, engineering, construction, and maintenance relating to the program or project.
(B) Exclusion of agency participation.— 
In accordance with subparagraph (A), all funds for a program or project to which subparagraph (A) applies shall be paid to the Indian tribal government without regard to the organizational level at which the Department of the Interior has previously carried out, or the Department of Transportation has previously carried out under the Federal lands highway programs, the programs, functions, services, or activities involved.
(C) Consortia.— 
Two or more Indian tribes that are otherwise eligible to participate in a program or project to which this chapter applies may form a consortium to be considered as a single Indian tribe for the purpose of participating in the project under this section.
(D) Secretary as signatory.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary is authorized to enter into a funding agreement with an Indian tribal government to carry out a highway, road, bridge, parkway, or transit program or project under subparagraph (A) that is located on an Indian reservation or provides access to the reservation or a community of the Indian tribe.
(E) Funding.— 
The amount an Indian tribal government receives for a program or project under subparagraph (A) shall equal the sum of the funding that the Indian tribal government would otherwise receive for the program or project in accordance with the funding formula established under this subsection and such additional amounts as the Secretary determines equal the amounts that would have been withheld for the costs of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for administration of the program or project.
(F) Eligibility.— 

(i) In general.— 
Subject to clause (ii), funds may be made available under subparagraph (A) to an Indian tribal government for a program or project in a fiscal year only if the Indian tribal government requesting such funds demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary financial stability and financial management capability during the 3 fiscal years immediately preceding the fiscal year for which the request is being made.
(ii) Criteria for determining financial stability and financial management capability.— 
An Indian tribal government that had no uncorrected significant and material audit exceptions in the required annual audit of the Indian tribal government self-determination contracts or self-governance funding agreements with any Federal agency during the 3-fiscal year period referred in clause (i) shall be conclusive evidence of the financial stability and financial management capability for purposes of clause (i).
(G) Assumption of functions and duties.— 
An Indian tribal government receiving funding under subparagraph (A) for a program or project shall assume all functions and duties that the Secretary of the Interior would have performed with respect to a program or project under this chapter, other than those functions and duties that inherently cannot be legally transferred under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b et seq.).[1]
(H) Powers.— 
An Indian tribal government receiving funding under subparagraph (A) for a program or project shall have all powers that the Secretary of the Interior would have exercised in administering the funds transferred to the Indian tribal government for such program or project under this section if the funds had not been transferred, except to the extent that such powers are powers that inherently cannot be legally transferred under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b et seq.).[1]
(I) Dispute resolution.— 
In the event of a disagreement between the Secretary or the Secretary of the Interior and an Indian tribe over whether a particular function, duty, or power may be lawfully transferred under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 450b et seq.),[1] the Indian tribe shall have the right to pursue all alternative dispute resolutions and appeal procedures authorized by such Act, including regulations issued to carry out such Act.
(J) Termination of contract or agreement.— 
On the date of the termination of a contract or agreement under this section by an Indian tribal government, the Secretary shall transfer all funds that would have been allocated to the Indian tribal government under the contract or agreement to the Secretary of the Interior to provide continued transportation services in accordance with applicable law.
(e) Refuge Roads.— 
On October 1 of each fiscal year, the Secretary shall allocate the sums made available for that fiscal year for refuge roads according to the relative needs of the various refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System, and taking into consideration
(1) the comprehensive conservation plan for each refuge;
(2) the need for access as identified through land use planning; and
(3) the impact of land use planning on existing transportation facilities.
[1] See References in Text note below.

23 USC 203 - Availability of funds

Funds authorized for forest development roads and trails, public lands development roads and trails, park road, parkways, refuge roads, Indian reservation roads, and public lands highways shall be available for contract upon apportionment, or on October 1, of the fiscal year for which authorized if no apportionment is required. Any amount remaining unexpended for a period of three years after the close of the fiscal year for which authorized shall lapse. The Secretary of the Department charged with the administration of such funds is granted authority to incur obligations, approve projects, and enter into contracts under such authorizations and his action in doing so shall be deemed a contractual obligation of the United States for the payment of the cost thereof and such funds shall be deemed to have been expended when so obligated. Any funds heretofore or hereafter authorized for any fiscal year for forest development roads and trails, public lands development roads and trails, park road, parkways, refuge roads, Indian roads, and public lands highways shall be deemed to have been expended if a sum equal to the total of the sums authorized for such fiscal year and previous fiscal years since and including the fiscal year ending June 30, 1955, shall have been obligated. Any of such funds released by payment of final voucher or modification of project authorizations shall be credited to the balance of unobligated authorizations and be immediately available for expenditure. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the authorization by the Secretary of engineering and related work for a Federal lands highways program project, or the approval by the Secretary of plans, specifications, and estimates for construction of a Federal lands highways program project, shall be deemed to constitute a contractual obligation of the Federal Government to pay the Federal share of the cost of the project.

23 USC 204 - Federal Lands Highways Program

(a) Establishment.— 

(1) In general.— 
Recognizing the need for all Federal roads that are public roads to be treated under uniform policies similar to the policies that apply to Federal-aid highways, there is established a coordinated Federal lands highways program that shall apply to public lands highways, park roads and parkways, refuge roads, and Indian reservation roads and bridges.
(2) Transportation planning procedures.— 
In consultation with the Secretary of each appropriate Federal land management agency, the Secretary shall develop, by rule, transportation planning procedures that are consistent with the metropolitan and statewide planning processes required under sections 134 and 135.
(3) Approval of transportation improvement program.— 
The transportation improvement program developed as a part of the transportation planning process under this section shall be approved by the Secretary.
(4) Inclusion in other plans.— 
All regionally significant Federal lands highways program projects
(A) shall be developed in cooperation with States and metropolitan planning organizations; and
(B) shall be included in appropriate Federal lands highways program, State, and metropolitan plans and transportation improvement programs.
(5) Inclusion in state programs.— 
The approved Federal lands highways program transportation improvement program shall be included in appropriate State and metropolitan planning organization plans and programs without further action on the transportation improvement program.
(6) Development of systems.— 
The Secretary and the Secretary of each appropriate Federal land management agency shall, to the extent appropriate, develop by rule safety, bridge, pavement, and congestion management systems for roads funded under the Federal lands highways program.
(b) Use of Funds.— 

(1) In general.— 
Funds made available for public lands highways, park roads and parkways, and Indian reservation roads shall be used by the Secretary and the Secretary of the appropriate Federal land management agency to pay the cost of
(A) transportation planning, research, and engineering and construction of, highways, roads, parkways, and transit facilities located on public lands, national parks, and Indian reservations; and
(B) operation and maintenance of transit facilities located on public lands, national parks, and Indian reservations.
(2) Contract.— 
In connection with an activity described in paragraph (1), the Secretary and the Secretary of the appropriate Federal land management agency may enter into a contract or other appropriate agreement with respect to such activity with
(A) a State (including a political subdivision of a State); or
(B) an Indian tribe.
(3) Indian reservation roads.— 
In the case of an Indian reservation road
(A) Indian labor may be employed, in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be promulgated by the Secretary of the Interior, to carry out any construction or other activity described in paragraph (1); and
(B) funds made available to carry out this section may be used to pay bridge preconstruction costs (including planning, design, and engineering).
(4) Federal employment.— 
No maximum limitation on Federal employment shall be applicable to construction or improvement of Indian reservation roads.
(5) Availability of funds.— 
Funds made available under this section for each class of Federal lands highways shall be available for any transportation project eligible for assistance under this title that is within or adjacent to, or that provides access to, the areas served by the particular class of Federal lands highways.
(6) Reservation of funds.— 
The Secretary of the Interior may reserve funds from administrative funds of the Bureau of Indian Affairs that are associated with the Indian reservation roads program to finance Indian technical centers under section 504 (b).
(c) Before approving as a project on an Indian reservation road any project eligible for funds apportioned under section 104 or section 144 of this title in a State, the Secretary must determine that the obligation of funds for such project is supplementary to and not in lieu of the obligation, for projects on Indian reservation roads, of a fair and equitable share of funds apportioned to such State under section 104 of this title. Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, of the amount of funds allocated for Indian reservation roads from the Highway Trust Fund, not more than 25 percent of the funds allocated to an Indian tribe may be expended for the purpose of maintenance, excluding road sealing which shall not be subject to any limitation. The Bureau of Indian Affairs shall continue to retain primary responsibility, including annual funding request responsibility, for road maintenance programs on Indian reservations. The Secretary shall ensure that funding made available under this subsection for maintenance of Indian reservation roads for each fiscal year is supplementary to and not in lieu of any obligation of funds by the Bureau of Indian Affairs for road maintenance programs on Indian reservations.
(d) Cooperation of States, counties, or other local subdivisions may be accepted in construction and improvement, and any funds received from a State, county, or local subdivision shall be credited to appropriations available for the class of Federal lands highways to which such funds were contributed.
(e) Construction of each project shall be performed by contract awarded by competitive bidding, unless the Secretary or the Secretary of the appropriate Federal land management agency shall affirmatively find that, under the circumstances relating to such project, some other method is in the public interest. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the provisions of section 23 of the Buy Indian Act of June 25, 1910 (36 Stat. 891), and the provisions of section 7(b) of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (88 Stat. 2205) shall apply to all funds administered by the Secretary of the Interior which are appropriated for the construction and improvement of Indian reservation roads.
(f) All appropriations for the construction and improvement of each class of Federal lands highways shall be administered in conformity with regulations and agreements jointly approved by the Secretary and the Secretary of the appropriate Federal land managing agency.
(g) The Secretary shall transfer to the Secretary of Agriculture from appropriations for forest highways such amounts as may be needed to cover necessary administrative expenses of the Forest Service in connection with forest highways.
(h) Eligible Projects.— 
Funds available for each class of Federal lands highways may be available for the following:
(1) Transportation planning for tourism and recreational travel including the National Forest Scenic Byways Program, Bureau of Land Management Back Country Byways Program, National Trail System Program, and other similar Federal programs that benefit recreational development.
(2) Adjacent vehicular parking areas.
(3) Interpretive signage.
(4) Acquisition of necessary scenic easements and scenic or historic sites.
(5) Provision for pedestrians and bicycles.
(6) Construction and reconstruction of roadside rest areas including sanitary and water facilities.
(7) Other appropriate public road facilities such as visitor centers as determined by the Secretary.
(8) A project to build a replacement of the federally owned bridge over the Hoover Dam in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area between Nevada and Arizona.
(i) Transfers of Costs to Secretaries of Federal Land Management Agencies.— 

(1) Administrative costs.— 
The Secretary shall transfer to the appropriate Federal land management agency from amounts made available for public lands highways such amounts as are necessary to pay necessary administrative costs of the agency in connection with public lands highways.
(2) Transportation planning costs.— 
The Secretary shall transfer to the appropriate Federal land management agency from amounts made available for public lands highways such amounts as are necessary to pay the cost to the agency to conduct necessary transportation planning for Federal lands, if funding for the planning is not otherwise provided under this section.
(j) Indian Reservation Roads Planning.— 
Up to 2 percent of funds made available for Indian reservation roads for each fiscal year shall be allocated to those Indian tribal governments applying for transportation planning pursuant to the provisions of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. The Indian tribal government, in cooperation with the Secretary of the Interior, and as appropriate, with a State, local government, or metropolitan planning organization, shall carry out a transportation planning process in accordance with subsection (a). Projects shall be selected by the Indian tribal government from the transportation improvement program and shall be subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary.
(k) Refuge Roads.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, funds made available for refuge roads shall be used by the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior only to pay the cost of
(A) maintenance and improvements of refuge roads;
(B) maintenance and improvements of eligible projects described in paragraphs (2), (3), (5), and (6) of subsection (h) that are located in or adjacent to wildlife refuges;
(C) administrative costs associated with such maintenance and improvements;
(D) the non-Federal share of the cost of any project funded under this title or chapter 53 of title 49 that provides access to or within a wildlife refuge; and
(E) maintenance and improvement of recreational trails; except that expenditures on trails under this subparagraph shall not exceed 5 percent of available funds for each fiscal year.
(2) Contracts.— 
In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior, as appropriate, may enter into contracts with a State or civil subdivision of a State or Indian tribe as is determined advisable.
(3) Compliance with other law.— 
Funds made available for refuge roads shall be used only for projects that are in compliance with the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.).
(l) Tribal-State Road Maintenance Agreements.— 

(1) In general.— 
An Indian tribe and a State may enter into a road maintenance agreement under which an Indian tribe assumes the responsibilities of the State for
(A) Indian reservation roads; and
(B) roads providing access to Indian reservation roads.
(2) Tribal-state agreements.— 
Agreements entered into under paragraph (1)
(A) shall be negotiated between the State and the Indian tribe; and
(B) shall not require the approval of the Secretary.
(3) Annual report.— 
Effective beginning with fiscal year 2005, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to Congress an annual report that identifies
(A) the Indian tribes and States that have entered into agreements under paragraph (1);
(B) the number of miles of roads for which Indian tribes have assumed maintenance responsibilities; and
(C) the amount of funding transferred to Indian tribes for the fiscal year under agreements entered into under paragraph (1).

23 USC 205 - Forest development roads and trails

(a) Funds available for forest development roads and trails shall be used by the Secretary of Agriculture to pay for the costs of construction and maintenance thereof, including roads and trails on experimental and other areas under Forest Service administration. In connection therewith, the Secretary of Agriculture may enter into contracts with a State or civil subdivision thereof, and issue such regulations as he deems advisable.
(b) Cooperation of States, counties, or other local subdivisions may be accepted but shall not be required by the Secretary of Agriculture.
(c) Construction estimated to cost $50,000 or more per mile or $50,000 or more per project for projects with a length of less than one mile, exclusive of bridges and engineering, shall be advertised and let to contract. If such estimated cost is less than $50,000 per mile or $50,000 per project for projects with a length of less than one mile or if, after proper advertising, no acceptable bid is received or the bids are deemed excessive, the work may be done by the Secretary of Agriculture on his own account.
(d) Funds available for forest development roads and trails shall be available for adjacent vehicular parking areas and for sanitary, water, and fire control facilities.

23 USC 206 - Recreational trails program

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Motorized recreation.— 
The term motorized recreation means off-road recreation using any motor-powered vehicle, except for a motorized wheelchair.
(2) Recreational trail.— 
The term recreational trail means a thoroughfare or track across land or snow, used for recreational purposes such as
(A) pedestrian activities, including wheelchair use;
(B) skating or skateboarding;
(C) equestrian activities, including carriage driving;
(D) nonmotorized snow trail activities, including skiing;
(E) bicycling or use of other human-powered vehicles;
(F) aquatic or water activities; and
(G) motorized vehicular activities, including all-terrain vehicle riding, motorcycling, snowmobiling, use of off-road light trucks, or use of other off-road motorized vehicles.
(b) Program.— 
In accordance with this section, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture, shall carry out a program to provide and maintain recreational trails.
(c) State Responsibilities.— 
To be eligible for apportionments under this section
(1) the Governor of the State shall designate the State agency or agencies that will be responsible for administering apportionments made to the State under this section; and
(2) the State shall establish a State recreational trail advisory committee that represents both motorized and nonmotorized recreational trail users, which shall meet not less often than once per fiscal year.
(d) Use of Apportioned Funds.— 

(1) In general.— 
Funds apportioned to a State to carry out this section shall be obligated for recreational trails and related projects that
(A) have been planned and developed under the laws, policies, and administrative procedures of the State; and
(B) are identified in, or further a specific goal of, a recreational trail plan, or a statewide comprehensive outdoor recreation plan required by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (16 U.S.C. 460l–4 et seq.), that is in effect.
(2) Permissible uses.— 
Permissible uses of funds apportioned to a State for a fiscal year to carry out this section include
(A) maintenance and restoration of existing recreational trails;
(B) development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages for recreational trails;
(C) purchase and lease of recreational trail construction and maintenance equipment;
(D) construction of new recreational trails, except that, in the case of new recreational trails crossing Federal lands, construction of the trails shall be
(i) permissible under other law;
(ii) necessary and recommended by a statewide comprehensive outdoor recreation plan that is required by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (16 U.S.C. 460l–4 et seq.) and that is in effect;
(iii) approved by the administering agency of the State designated under subsection (c)(1); and
(iv) approved by each Federal agency having jurisdiction over the affected lands under such terms and conditions as the head of the Federal agency determines to be appropriate, except that the approval shall be contingent on compliance by the Federal agency with all applicable laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1600 et seq.), and the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.);
(E) acquisition of easements and fee simple title to property for recreational trails or recreational trail corridors;
(F) assessment of trail conditions for accessibility and maintenance;
(G) development and dissemination of publications and operation of educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection, (as those objectives relate to one or more of the use of recreational trails, supporting non-law enforcement trail safety and trail use monitoring patrol programs, and providing trail-related training), but in an amount not to exceed 5 percent of the apportionment made to the State for the fiscal year; and
(H) payment of costs to the State incurred in administering the program, but in an amount not to exceed 7 percent of the apportionment made to the State for the fiscal year.
(3) Use of apportionments.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraphs (B), (C), and (D), of the apportionments made to a State for a fiscal year to carry out this section
(i) 40 percent shall be used for recreational trail or related projects that facilitate diverse recreational trail use within a recreational trail corridor, trailside, or trailhead, regardless of whether the project is for diverse motorized use, for diverse nonmotorized use, or to accommodate both motorized and nonmotorized recreational trail use;
(ii) 30 percent shall be used for uses relating to motorized recreation; and
(iii) 30 percent shall be used for uses relating to nonmotorized recreation.
(B) Small state exclusion.— 
Any State with a total land area of less than 3,500,000 acres shall be exempt from the requirements of clauses (ii) and (iii) of subparagraph (A).
(C) State administrative costs.— 
State administrative costs eligible for funding under paragraph (2)(H) shall be exempt from the requirements of subparagraph (A).
(4) Grants.— 

(A) In general.— 
A State may use funds apportioned to the State to carry out this section to make grants to private organizations, municipal, county, State, and Federal Government entities, and other government entities as approved by the State after considering guidance from the State recreational trail advisory committee established under subsection (c)(2), for uses consistent with this section.
(B) Compliance.— 
A State that makes grants under subparagraph (A) shall establish measures to verify that recipients of the grants comply with the conditions of the program for the use of grant funds.
(e) Environmental Benefit or Mitigation.— 
To the extent practicable and consistent with the other requirements of this section, a State should give consideration to project proposals that provide for the redesign, reconstruction, nonroutine maintenance, or relocation of recreational trails to benefit the natural environment or to mitigate and minimize the impact to the natural environment.
(f) Federal Share.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to the other provisions of this subsection, the Federal share of the cost of a project and the Federal share of the administrative costs of a State under this section shall be determined in accordance with section 120 (b).
(2) Federal agency project sponsor.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a Federal agency that sponsors a project under this section may contribute additional Federal funds toward the cost of a project, except that
(A) the share attributable to the Secretary of Transportation may not exceed the amount determined in accordance with section 120 (b) for the cost of a project under this section; and
(B) the share attributable to the Secretary and the Federal agency sponsoring the project may not exceed 95 percent of the cost of a project under this section.
(3) Use of funds from federal programs to provide non-federal share.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the non-Federal share of the cost of the project may include amounts made available by the Federal Government under any Federal program that are
(A) expended in accordance with the requirements of the Federal program relating to activities funded and populations served; and
(B) expended on a project that is eligible for assistance under this section.
(4) Use of recreational trails program funds to match other federal program funds.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds made available under this section may be used toward the non-Federal matching share for other Federal program funds that are
(A) expended in accordance with the requirements of the Federal program relating to activities funded and populations served; and
(B) expended on a project that is eligible for assistance under this section.
(5) Programmatic non-federal share.— 
A State may allow adjustments to the non-Federal share of an individual project for a fiscal year under this section if the Federal share of the cost of all projects carried out by the State under the program (excluding projects funded under paragraph (2) or (3)) using funds apportioned to the State for the fiscal year does not exceed the Federal share as determined in accordance with section 120 (b).
(g) Uses Not Permitted.— 
A State may not obligate funds apportioned to carry out this section for
(1) condemnation of any kind of interest in property;
(2) construction of any recreational trail on National Forest System land for any motorized use unless
(A) the land has been designated for uses other than wilderness by an approved forest land and resource management plan or has been released to uses other than wilderness by an Act of Congress; and
(B) the construction is otherwise consistent with the management direction in the approved forest land and resource management plan;
(3) construction of any recreational trail on Bureau of Land Management land for any motorized use unless the land
(A) has been designated for uses other than wilderness by an approved Bureau of Land Management resource management plan or has been released to uses other than wilderness by an Act of Congress; and
(B) the construction is otherwise consistent with the management direction in the approved management plan; or
(4) upgrading, expanding, or otherwise facilitating motorized use or access to recreational trails predominantly used by nonmotorized recreational trail users and on which, as of May 1, 1991, motorized use was prohibited or had not occurred.
(h) Project Administration.— 

(1) Credit for donations of funds, materials, services, or new right-of-way.— 

(A) In general.— 
Nothing in this title or other law shall prevent a project sponsor from offering to donate funds, materials, services, or a new right-of-way for the purposes of a project eligible for assistance under this section. Any funds, or the fair market value of any materials, services, or new right-of-way, may be donated by any project sponsor and shall be credited to the non-Federal share in accordance with subsection (f).
(B) Federal project sponsors.— 
Any funds or the fair market value of any materials or services may be provided by a Federal project sponsor and shall be credited to the Federal agencys share in accordance with subsection (f).
(C) Planning and environmental assessment costs incurred prior to project approval.— 
The Secretary may allow preapproval planning and environmental compliance costs to be credited toward the non-Federal share of the cost of a project described in subsection (d)(2) (other than subparagraph (H)) in accordance with subsection (f), limited to costs incurred less than 18 months prior to project approval.
(2) Recreational purpose.— 
A project funded under this section is intended to enhance recreational opportunity and is not subject to section 138 of this title or section 303 of title 49.
(3) Continuing recreational use.— 
At the option of each State, funds apportioned to the State to carry out this section may be treated as Land and Water Conservation Fund apportionments for the purposes of section 6(f)(3) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (16 U.S.C. 460l–8 (f)(3)).
(4) Cooperation by private persons.— 

(A) Written assurances.— 
As a condition of making available apportionments for work on recreational trails that would affect privately owned land, a State shall obtain written assurances that the owner of the land will cooperate with the State and participate as necessary in the activities to be conducted.
(B) Public access.— 
Any use of the apportionments to a State to carry out this section on privately owned land must be accompanied by an easement or other legally binding agreement that ensures public access to the recreational trail improvements funded by the apportionments.
(i) Contract Authority.— 
Funds authorized to carry out this section shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if the funds were apportioned under chapter 1, except that the Federal share of the cost of a project under this section shall be determined in accordance with this section.

207 to 209. Repealed. Pub. L. 97424, title I, 126(d), Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2115]

Section 207, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 908; Pub. L. 93–87, title I, § 150, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 275, provided for use of funds for construction and improvement of parkways, including acquisition of rights-of-way and related scenic easements, administration of such funds according to regulations jointly approved by the Secretary and the Secretary of the Interior, and that parkway projects on a Federal-aid system be subject to all requirements of this title and of any other law applicable to highways on such system. Section 208, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 908; Pub. L. 87–282, Sept. 22, 1961, 75 Stat. 584; Pub. L. 93–643, § 102(c), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2281, provided for use of funds for construction and improvement of Indian reservation roads and bridges, supervision of such projects by the Secretary, that such funds be only supplementary to funds apportioned under section 104 of this title, for use of Indian labor in such projects, and for cooperation with States and localities. Section 209, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 908; Pub. L. 88–423, § 4(b), Aug. 13, 1964, 78 Stat. 397, provided for use of funds for construction and maintenance of public lands highways, cooperation with State agencies, the application of section 112 of this title to public lands highways, and for use of such funds for adjacent ancillary facilities and services.

23 USC 210 - Defense access roads

(a) The Secretary is authorized, out of the funds appropriated for defense access roads, to provide for the construction and maintenance of defense access roads (including bridges, tubes, and tunnels thereon) to military reservations, to defense industries and defense industry sites, and to the sources of raw materials when such roads are certified to the Secretary as important to the national defense by the Secretary of Defense or such other official as the President may designate, and for replacing existing highways and highway connections that are shut off from the general public use by necessary closures or restrictions at military reservations and defense industry sites.
(b) Funds appropriated for the purposes of this section shall be available, without regard to apportionment among the several States, for paying all or any part of the cost of the construction and maintenance of defense access roads.
(c) Funds appropriated for defense maneuvers and exercises, may be used by the Secretary in areas certified to him by the Secretary of Defense as maneuver areas for such construction, maintenance, and repair work as may be necessary to keep the highways therein, which have been or may be used for training of the Armed Forces, in suitable condition for such training purposes and for repairing the damage caused to such highways by the operations of men and equipment in such training.
(d) Whenever any project for the construction of a circumferential highway around a city or of a radial intracity route thereto submitted by any State is certified by the Secretary of Defense, or such other official as the President may designate, as being important for civilian or military defense, such project may be constructed out of the funds heretofore or hereafter authorized to be appropriated for defense access roads.
(e) If the Secretary shall determine that the State transportation department of any State is unable to obtain possession and the right to enter upon and use the required rights-of-way, lands, or interest in lands, improved or unimproved, required for any project authorized by this section with sufficient promptness, the Secretary is authorized to acquire, enter upon, take possession thereof, and expend funds for projects thereon, prior to approval of title by the Attorney General, in the name of the United States, such rights-of-way, lands, or interest in lands as may be required in such State for such projects by purchase, donation, condemnation, or otherwise in accordance with the laws of the United States (including sections 3114 to 3116 and 3118 of title 40). The cost incurred by the Secretary in acquiring any such rights-of-way, lands, or interest in lands may include the cost of examination and abstract of title, certificate of title, advertising, and any fees incidental to such acquisition; and shall be payable out of the funds available for paying the cost or the Federal share of the cost of the project for which such rights-of-way, lands, or interests in lands are acquired. The Secretary is further authorized and directed by proper deed executed in the name of the United States to convey any lands or interests in lands acquired in any State under the provisions of prior Acts or of this section to the State transportation department of such State or to such political subdivision thereof as its laws may provide, upon such terms and conditions as may be agreed upon by the Secretary and the State transportation department, or political subdivisions to which the conveyance is to be made.
(f) The provisions of section 112 of this title are applicable to defense access roads.
(g) If the Secretary shall determine that it is necessary for the expeditious completion of any defense access road project he may advance to any State out of funds appropriated for defense access roads transferred and available to the Department of Transportation the Federal share of the cost of construction thereof to enable the State transportation department to make prompt payments for acquisition of rights-of-way, and for the construction as it progresses. The sums so advanced shall be deposited in a special fund by the State official authorized by State law to receive such funds, to be disbursed solely upon vouchers approved by the State transportation department for rights-of-way which have been or are being acquired and for construction which has been actually performed under this section. Upon determination by the Secretary that funds advanced to any State under the provisions of this subsection are no longer required, the amount of the advance which is determined to be in excess of requirements for the project shall be repaid upon his demand, and such repayments shall be returned to the credit of the appropriation from which the funds were advanced.
(h) Funds appropriated for the purposes of this section shall be available to pay the cost of repairing damage caused to highways by the operation of vehicles and equipment in the construction of classified military installations and facilities for ballistic missiles if the Secretary shall determine that the State transportation department of any State is, or has been, unable to prevent such damage by restrictions upon the use of such highways without interference with, or delay in, the completion of a contract for the construction of such military reservations or installations. This subsection shall apply notwithstanding any provision of contract holding a party thereto responsible for such damage, if the Secretary of Defense or his designee shall determine, in fact, that construction estimates and the bid of such party did not include allowance for repairing such damage. This subsection shall apply to damage caused by construction work commenced prior to June 1, 1961, and still in progress on that date and construction work which is commenced or for which a contract is awarded on or after June 1, 1961.

23 USC 211 - Repealed. Pub. L. 10017, title I, 133(e)(1), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 173]

Section, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 909, related to timber access road hearings.

23 USC 212 - Inter-American Highway

(a) Funds appropriated for the Inter-American Highway shall be used to enable the United States to cooperate with the Governments of the American Republics situated in Central Americathat is, with the Governments of the Republic of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panamain the survey and construction of the Inter-American Highway within the borders of the aforesaid Republics, respectively. Not to exceed one-third of the appropriation authorized for each fiscal year may be expended without requiring the country or countries in which such funds may be expended to match any part thereof, if the Secretary of State shall find that the cost of constructing said highway in such country or countries will be beyond their reasonable capacity to bear. The remainder of such authorized appropriations shall be available for expenditure only when matched to the extent required by this section by the country in which such expenditure may be made. Expenditures from the funds available on a matching basis shall not be made for the survey and construction of any portion of said highway within the borders of any country named herein unless such country shall provide and make available for expenditure in conjunction therewith a sum equal to at least one-third of the expenditures that may be incurred by that Government and the United States on such portion of the highway. All expenditures by the United States under the provisions of this section for material, equipment, and supplies shall, whenever practicable, be made for products of the United States or of the country in which such survey or construction work is being carried on. Construction work to be performed under contract shall be advertised for a reasonable period by the Minister of Public Works, or other similar official, of the government concerned in each of the participating countries and contracts shall be awarded pursuant to such advertisements with the approval of the Secretary. No part of the appropriations authorized shall be available for obligation or expenditure for work on said highway in any cooperating country unless the government of said country shall have assented to the provisions of this section; shall have furnished satisfactory assurances that it has an organization adequately qualified to administer the functions required of such country under the provisions hereof; and then only as such country may submit requests, from time to time, for the construction of any portion of the highway to standards adequate to meet present and future traffic needs. No part of said appropriations shall be available for obligation or expenditure in any such country until the government of that country shall have entered into an agreement with the United States which shall provide, in part, that said country
(1) will provide, without participation of funds authorized, all necessary rights-of-way for the construction of said highway, which rights-of-way shall be of a minimum width where practicable of one hundred meters in rural areas and fifty meters in municipalities and shall forever be held inviolate as a part of the highway for public use;
(2) will not impose any highway toll, or permit any such toll to be charged, for use by vehicles or persons of any portion of said highway constructed under the provisions of this section;
(3) will not levy or assess, directly or indirectly, any fee, tax, or other charge for the use of said highway by vehicles or persons from the United States that does not apply equally to vehicles or persons of such country;
(4) will continue to grant reciprocal recognition of vehicle registration and drivers licenses in accordance with the provisions of the Convention for the Regulation of Inter-American Automotive Traffic, which was opened for signature at the Pan American Union in Washington on December 15, 1943, and to which such country and the United States are parties, or of any other treaty or international convention establishing similar reciprocal recognition; and
(5) will provide for the maintenance of said highway after its completion in condition adequately to serve the needs of present and future traffic.
(b) The survey and construction work authorized by this section shall be under the administration of the Secretary, who shall consult with the appropriate officials of the Department of State with respect to matters involving the foreign relations of this Government, and such negotiations with the Governments of the American Republics named in subsection (a) of this section as may be required to carry out the purposes of this section shall be conducted through, or as authorized by, the Department of State.
(c) The provisions of this section shall not create nor authorize the creation of any obligations on the part of the Government of the United States with respect to any expenditures for highway construction or survey heretofore or hereafter undertaken in any of the countries enumerated in subsection (a) of this section, other than the expenditures authorized by the provisions of this section.
(d) Appropriations made pursuant to any authorizations heretofore, or hereafter enacted for the Inter-American Highway shall be considered available for expenditure by the Secretary for necessary administrative and engineering expenses in connection with the Inter-American Highway program.

23 USC 213 - Repealed. Pub. L. 10017, title I, 133(e)(1), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 173]

Section, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 911, related to construction of Rama Road in Republic of Nicaragua.

23 USC 214 - Public lands development roads and trails

(a) Funds available for public lands development roads and trails shall be used to pay the cost of construction and improvement of such roads and trails.
(b) Funds available for public lands development roads and trails shall be available for adjacent vehicular parking areas and for sanitary, water, and fire control facilities.

23 USC 215 - Territorial highway program

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Program.— 
The term program means the territorial highway program established under subsection (b).
(2) Territory.— 
The term territory means any of the following territories of the United States:
(A) American Samoa.
(B) The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
(C) Guam.
(D) The United States Virgin Islands.
(b) Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
Recognizing the mutual benefits that will accrue to the territories and the United States from the improvement of highways in the territories, the Secretary may carry out a program to assist each government of a territory in the construction and improvement of a system of arterial and collector highways, and necessary inter-island connectors, that is
(A) designated by the Governor or chief executive officer of each territory; and
(B) approved by the Secretary.
(2) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of Federal financial assistance provided to territories under this section shall be in accordance with section 120 (h).
(c) Technical Assistance.— 

(1) In general.— 
To continue a long-range highway development program, the Secretary may provide technical assistance to the governments of the territories to enable the territories to, on a continuing basis
(A) engage in highway planning;
(B) conduct environmental evaluations;
(C) administer right-of-way acquisition and relocation assistance programs; and
(D) design, construct, operate, and maintain a system of arterial and collector highways, including necessary inter-island connectors.
(2) Form and terms of assistance.— 
Technical assistance provided under paragraph (1), and the terms for the sharing of information among territories receiving the technical assistance, shall be included in the agreement required by subsection (e).
(d) Nonapplicability of Certain Provisions.— 

(1) In general.— 
Except to the extent that provisions of chapter 1 are determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with the needs of the territories and the intent of the program, chapter 1 (other than provisions of chapter 1 relating to the apportionment and allocation of funds) shall apply to funds authorized to be appropriated for the program.
(2) Applicable provisions.— 
The agreement required by subsection (e) for each territory shall identify the sections of chapter 1 that are applicable to that territory and the extent of the applicability of those sections.
(e) Agreement.— 

(1) In general.— 
Except as provided in paragraph (4), none of the funds made available for the program shall be available for obligation or expenditure with respect to any territory until the chief executive officer of the territory enters into an agreement with the Secretary (not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of SAFETEALU), providing that the government of the territory shall
(A) implement the program in accordance with applicable provisions of chapter 1 and subsection (d);
(B) design and construct a system of arterial and collector highways, including necessary inter-island connectors, in accordance with standards that are
(i) appropriate for each territory; and
(ii) approved by the Secretary;
(C) provide for the maintenance of facilities constructed or operated under this section in a condition to adequately serve the needs of present and future traffic; and
(D) implement standards for traffic operations and uniform traffic control devices that are approved by the Secretary.
(2) Technical assistance.— 
The agreement required by paragraph (1) shall
(A) specify the kind of technical assistance to be provided under the program;
(B) include appropriate provisions regarding information sharing among the territories; and
(C) delineate the oversight role and responsibilities of the territories and the Secretary.
(3) Review and revision of agreement.— 
The agreement entered into under paragraph (1) shall be reevaluated and, as necessary, revised, at least every 2 years.
(4) Existing agreements.— 
With respect to an agreement under the section between the Secretary and the chief executive officer of a territory that is in effect as of the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU
(A) the agreement shall continue in force until replaced by an agreement entered into in accordance with paragraph (1); and
(B) amounts made available for the program under the existing agreement shall be available for obligation or expenditure so long as the agreement, or the existing agreement entered into under paragraph (1), is in effect.
(f) Permissible Uses of Funds.— 

(1) In general.— 
Funds made available for the program may be used only for the following projects and activities carried out in a territory:
(A) Eligible surface transportation program projects described in section 133 (b).
(B) Cost-effective, preventive maintenance consistent with section 116 (d).
(C) Ferry boats, terminal facilities, and approaches, in accordance with subsections (b) and (c) of section 129.
(D) Engineering and economic surveys and investigations for the planning, and the financing, of future highway programs.
(E) Studies of the economy, safety, and convenience of highway use.
(F) The regulation and equitable taxation of highway use.
(G) Such research and development as are necessary in connection with the planning, design, and maintenance of the highway system.
(2) Prohibition on use of funds for routine maintenance.— 
None of the funds made available for the program shall be obligated or expended for routine maintenance.
(g) Location of Projects.— 
Territorial highway projects (other than those described in paragraphs (1), (3), and (4) of section 133 (b)) may not be undertaken on roads functionally classified as local.

23 USC 216 - Darien Gap Highway

(a) The United States shall cooperate with the Government of the Republic of Panama and with the Government of Colombia in the construction of approximately two hundred and fifty miles of highway in such countries in the location known as the Darien Gap to connect the Inter-American Highway authorized by section 212 of this title with the Pan American Highway System of South America. Such highway shall be known as the Darien Gap Highway. Funds authorized by this section shall be obligated and expended subject to the same terms, conditions, and requirements with respect to the Darien Gap Highway as are funds authorized for the Inter-American Highway by subsection (a) of section 212 of this title.
(b) The construction authorized by this section shall be under the administration of the Secretary, who shall consult with the appropriate officials of the Department of State with respect to matters involving the foreign relations of this Government, and such negotiations with the Governments of the Republic of Panama and Colombia as may be required to carry out the purposes of this section shall be conducted through, or authorized by, the Department of State.
(c) The provisions of this section shall not create nor authorize the creation of any obligations on the part of the Government of the United States with respect to any expenditures for highway survey or construction heretofore or hereafter undertaken in Panama or Colombia, other than the expenditures authorized by the provision of this section.
(d) Appropriations made pursuant to any authorization for the Darien Gap Highway shall be available for expenditure by the Secretary for necessary administrative and engineering expenses in connection with the Darien Gap Highway program.
(e) For the purposes of this section the term construction does not include any costs of rights-of-way, relocation assistance, or the elimination of hazards of railway grade crossings.

23 USC 217 - Bicycle transportation and pedestrian walkways

(a) Use of STP and Congestion Mitigation Program Funds.— 
Subject to project approval by the Secretary, a State may obligate funds apportioned to it under sections 104 (b)(2) and 104 (b)(3) of this title for construction of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities and for carrying out nonconstruction projects related to safe bicycle use.
(b) Use of National Highway System Funds.— 
Subject to project approval by the Secretary, a State may obligate funds apportioned to it under section 104 (b)(1) of this title for construction of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities on land adjacent to any highway on the National Highway System.
(c) Use of Federal Lands Highway Funds.— 
Funds authorized for forest highways, forest development roads and trails, public lands development roads and trails, park roads, parkways, Indian reservation roads, and public lands highways shall be available, at the discretion of the department charged with the administration of such funds, for the construction of pedestrian walkways and bicycle transportation facilities.
(d) State Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinators.— 
Each State receiving an apportionment under sections 104 (b)(2) and 104 (b)(3) of this title shall use such amount of the apportionment as may be necessary to fund in the State department of transportation a position of bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for promoting and facilitating the increased use of nonmotorized modes of transportation, including developing facilities for the use of pedestrians and bicyclists and public education, promotional, and safety programs for using such facilities.
(e) Bridges.— 
In any case where a highway bridge deck being replaced or rehabilitated with Federal financial participation is located on a highway on which bicycles are permitted to operate at each end of such bridge, and the Secretary determines that the safe accommodation of bicycles can be provided at reasonable cost as part of such replacement or rehabilitation, then such bridge shall be so replaced or rehabilitated as to provide such safe accommodations.
(f) Federal Share.— 
For all purposes of this title, construction of a pedestrian walkway and a bicycle transportation facility shall be deemed to be a highway project and the Federal share payable on account of such construction shall be determined in accordance with section 120 (b).
(g) Planning and Design.— 

(1) In general.— 
Bicyclists and pedestrians shall be given due consideration in the comprehensive transportation plans developed by each metropolitan planning organization and State in accordance with sections 134 and 135, respectively. Bicycle transportation facilities and pedestrian walkways shall be considered, where appropriate, in conjunction with all new construction and reconstruction of transportation facilities, except where bicycle and pedestrian use are not permitted.
(2) Safety considerations.— 
Transportation plans and projects shall provide due consideration for safety and contiguous routes for bicyclists and pedestrians. Safety considerations shall include the installation, where appropriate, and maintenance of audible traffic signals and audible signs at street crossings.
(h) Use of Motorized Vehicles.— 
Motorized vehicles may not be permitted on trails and pedestrian walkways under this section, except for
(1) maintenance purposes;
(2) when snow conditions and State or local regulations permit, snowmobiles;
(3) motorized wheelchairs;
(4) when State or local regulations permit, electric bicycles; and
(5) such other circumstances as the Secretary deems appropriate.
(i) Transportation Purpose.— 
No bicycle project may be carried out under this section unless the Secretary has determined that such bicycle project will be principally for transportation, rather than recreation, purposes.
(j) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Bicycle transportation facility.— 
The term bicycle transportation facility means a new or improved lane, path, or shoulder for use by bicyclists and a traffic control device, shelter, or parking facility for bicycles.
(2) Electric bicycle.— 
The term electric bicycle means any bicycle or tricycle with a low-powered electric motor weighing under 100 pounds, with a top motor-powered speed not in excess of 20 miles per hour.
(3) Pedestrian.— 
The term pedestrian means any person traveling by foot and any mobility-impaired person using a wheelchair.
(4) Wheelchair.— 
The term wheelchair means a mobility aid, usable indoors, and designed for and used by individuals with mobility impairments, whether operated manually or motorized.

23 USC 218 - Alaska Highway

(a) Recognizing the benefits that will accrue to the State of Alaska and to the United States from the reconstruction of the Alaska Highway from the Alaskan border to Haines Junction in Canada and the Haines Cutoff Highway from Haines Junction in Canada to Haines, the Secretary is authorized out of the funds appropriated for the purpose of this section to provide for necessary reconstruction of such highway. Such appropriations shall remain available until expended. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, in addition to such funds, upon agreement with the State of Alaska, the Secretary is authorized to expend on such highway or the Alaska Marine Highway System any Federal-aid highway funds apportioned to the State of Alaska under this title at a Federal share of 100 per centum. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any obligation limitation enacted for fiscal year 1983 or for any other fiscal year thereafter, including any portion of any other fiscal year thereafter, shall not apply to projects authorized by the preceding sentence. No expenditures shall be made for the construction of the portion of such highways that are in Canada until an agreement has been reached by the Government of Canada and the Government of the United States which shall provide, in part, that the Canadian Government
(1) will provide, without participation of funds authorized under this title, all necessary right-of-way for the reconstruction of such highways;
(2) will not impose any highway toll, or permit any such toll to be charged for the use of such highways by vehicles or persons;
(3) will not levy or assess, directly or indirectly, any fee, tax, or other charge for the use of such highways by vehicles or persons from the United States that does not apply equally to vehicles or persons of Canada;
(4) will continue to grant reciprocal recognition of vehicle registration and drivers licenses in accordance with agreements between the United States and Canada; and
(5) will maintain such highways after their completion in proper condition adequately to serve the needs of present and future traffic.
(b) The survey and construction work undertaken in Canada pursuant to this section shall be under the general supervision of the Secretary.
(c) For purposes of this section, the term Alaska Marine Highway System includes all existing or planned transportation facilities and equipment in Alaska, including the lease, purchase, or construction of vessels, terminals, docks, floats, ramps, staging areas, parking lots, bridges and approaches thereto, and necessary roads.

23 USC 219 - Repealed. Pub. L. 10017, title I, 133(e)(1), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 173]

Section, added Pub. L. 93–643, § 122(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2289; amended Pub. L. 94–280, title I, § 135(a), May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 441; Pub. L. 95–599, title I, § 168(d), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2723; Pub. L. 96–106, § 10(a), Nov. 9, 1979, 93 Stat. 798, related to projects for safer off-system roads.

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 3 - GENERAL PROVISIONS

23 USC 301 - Freedom from tolls

Except as provided in section 129 of this title with respect to certain toll bridges and toll tunnels, all highways constructed under the provisions of this title shall be free from tolls of all kinds.

23 USC 302 - State transportation department

(a) Any State desiring to avail itself of the provisions of this title shall have a State transportation department which shall have adequate powers, and be suitably equipped and organized to discharge to the satisfaction of the Secretary the duties required by this title. In meeting the provisions of this subsection, a State may engage, to the extent necessary or desirable, the services of private engineering firms.
(b) Effect of Compliance.— 
Compliance with subsection (a) shall have no effect on the eligibility of costs.

23 USC 303 - Management systems

(a) Regulations.— 
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue regulations for State development, establishment, and implementation of a system for managing each of the following:
(1) Highway pavement of Federal-aid highways.
(2) Bridges on and off Federal-aid highways.
(3) Highway safety.
(4) Traffic congestion.
(5) Public transportation facilities and equipment.
(6) Intermodal transportation facilities and systems.

In metropolitan areas, such systems shall be developed and implemented in cooperation with metropolitan planning organizations. Such regulations may include a compliance schedule for development, establishment, and implementation of each such system and minimum standards for each such system.

(b) Traffic Monitoring.— 
Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall issue guidelines and requirements for the State development, establishment, and implementation of a traffic monitoring system for highways and public transportation facilities and equipment.
(c) State Election.— 
A State may elect, at any time, not to implement, in whole or in part, 1 or more of the management systems required under this section. The Secretary may not impose any sanction on, or withhold any benefit from, a State on the basis of such an election.
(d) Procedural Requirements.— 
In developing and implementing a management system under this section, each State shall cooperate with metropolitan planning organizations for urbanized areas of the State and affected agencies receiving assistance under chapter 53 of title 49 and shall consider the results of the management systems in making project selection decisions under this title and under chapter 53.
(e) Intermodal Requirements.— 
The management system required under this section for intermodal transportation facilities and systems shall provide for improvement and integration of all of a States transportation systems and shall include methods of achieving the optimum yield from such systems, methods for increasing productivity in the State, methods for increasing use of advanced technologies, and methods to encourage the use of innovative marketing techniques, such as just-in-time deliveries.
(f) Reports.— 

(1) Annual reports.— 
Not later than January 1 of each calendar year beginning after December 31, 1992, the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the progress being made by the Secretary and the States in carrying out this section.
(2) Report on implementation.— 
Not later than October 1, 1996, the Comptroller General, in consultation with States, shall transmit to Congress a report on the management systems under this section, including recommendations as to whether, to what extent, and how the management systems should be implemented.
(g) Funding.— 
Subject to project approval by the Secretary, a State may obligate funds apportioned after September 30, 1991, under subsections (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of section 104 of this title for developing and establishing management systems required by this section and funds apportioned under section 144 of this title for developing and establishing the bridge management system required by this section.
(h) Review of Regulations.— 
Not later than 10 days after the date of issuance of any regulation under this section, the Secretary shall transmit a copy of such regulation to Congress for review.

23 USC 304 - Participation by small business enterprises

It is declared to be in the national interest to encourage and develop the actual and potential capacity of small business and to utilize this important segment of our economy to the fullest practicable extent in construction of the Federal-aid highway systems, including the Interstate System. In order to carry out that intent and encourage full and free competition, the Secretary should assist, insofar as feasible, small business enterprises in obtaining contracts in connection with the prosecution of the highway program.

23 USC 305 - Archeological and paleontological salvage

Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this title to the extent approved as necessary by the highway department of any State, may be used for archeological and paleontological salvage in that State in compliance with the Act entitled An Act for the preservation of American antiquities, approved June 8, 1906 (34 Stat. 225), and State laws where applicable,

23 USC 306 - Mapping

(a) In General.— 
In carrying out the provisions of this title, the Secretary may, wherever practicable, authorize the use of photogrammetric methods in mapping, and the utilization of commercial enterprise for such services.
(b) Guidance.— 
The Secretary shall issue guidance to encourage States to utilize, to the maximum extent practicable, private sector sources for surveying and mapping services for projects under this title. In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall recommend appropriate roles for State and private mapping and surveying activities, including
(1) preparation of standards and specifications;
(2) research in surveying and mapping instrumentation and procedures and technology transfer to the private sector;
(3) providing technical guidance, coordination, and administration of State surveying and mapping activities; and
(4) recommending methods for increasing the use by the States of private sector sources for surveying and mapping activities.

23 USC 307 - Repealed. Pub. L. 105178, title V, 5119(b), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 452]

Section, Pub. L. 85–767, Aug. 27, 1958, 72 Stat. 913; Pub. L. 87–866, § 11, Oct. 23, 1962, 76 Stat. 1148; Pub. L. 88–157, § 6, Oct. 24, 1963, 77 Stat. 277; Pub. L. 89–564, title I, § 103, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 735; Pub. L. 91–605, title I, §§ 115(c), 126, 136 (c), Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1723, 1729, 1735; Pub. L. 93–87, title I, § 151, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 276; Pub. L. 96–470, title I, § 112(b)(2), Oct. 19, 1980, 94 Stat. 2239; Pub. L. 97–424, title I, §§ 156(a), (b), (d), 160 (a), Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2134, 2135; Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §§ 128, 129, 133 (b)(17), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 167, 169, 172; Pub. L. 102–240, title VI, §§ 6001, 6005, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2162, 2170; Pub. L. 103–429, § 3(10), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4378; Pub. L. 104–59, title III, § 325(d), Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 592, related to research and planning.

23 USC 308 - Cooperation with Federal and State agencies and foreign countries

(a) The Secretary is authorized to perform by contract or otherwise, authorized engineering or other services in connection with the survey, construction, maintenance, or improvement of highways for other Government agencies, cooperating foreign countries, and State cooperating agencies, and reimbursement for such services, which may include depreciation on engineering and roadbuilding equipment used, shall be credited to the appropriation concerned.
(b) Appropriations for the work of the Federal Highway Administration shall be available for expenses of warehouse maintenance and the procurement, care, and handling of supplies, materials, and equipment for distribution to projects under the supervision of the Federal Highway Administration, or for sale or distribution to other Government agencies, cooperating foreign countries, and State cooperating agencies, and the cost of such supplies and materials or the value of such equipment, including the cost of transportation and handling, may be reimbursed to current applicable appropriations.

23 USC 309 - Cooperation with other American Republics

The President is authorized to utilize the services of the Federal Highway Administration in fulfilling the obligations of the United States under the Convention on the Pan-American Highway Between the United States and Other American Republics (51 Stat. 152), cooperating with several governments, members of the Organization of American States, in connection with the survey and construction of the Inter-American Highway, and for performing engineering service in the other American Republics for and upon the request of any agency or governmental corporation of the United States. To the extent authorized in appropriation acts, administrative funds available in accordance with subsection (a) of section 104 of this title shall be available annually for the purpose of this section.

23 USC 310 - Civil defense

In order to assure that adequate consideration is given to civil defense aspects in the planning and construction of highways constructed or reconstructed with the aid of Federal funds, the Secretary of Transportation is authorized and directed to consult, from time to time, with the Federal Civil Defense Administrator relative to the civil defense aspects of highways so constructed or reconstructed.

23 USC 311 - Highway improvements strategically important to the national defense

Funds made available under subsection (a) of section 104 of this title may be used to pay the entire engineering costs of the surveys, plans, specifications, estimates, and supervision of construction of projects for such urgent improvements of highways strategically important from the standpoint of the national defense as may be undertaken on the order of the Secretary and as the result of request of the Secretary of Defense or such other official as the President may designate. With the consent of a State, funds made available under subsection (b) of section 104 of this title may be used to the extent deemed necessary and advisable by the Secretary to carry out the provisions of this section.

23 USC 312 - Detail of Army, Navy, and Air Force officers

The Secretary of Defense, upon request of the Secretary, is authorized to make temporary details to the Federal Highway Administration of officers of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force, without additional compensation, for technical advice and for consultation regarding highway needs for the national defense. Travel and subsistence expenses of officers so detailed shall be paid from appropriations available to the Department of Transportation on the same basis as authorized by law and by regulations of the Department of Defense for such officers.

23 USC 313 - Buy America

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of Transportation shall not obligate any funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 2097) or this title and administered by the Department of Transportation, unless steel, iron, and manufactured products used in such project are produced in the United States.
(b) The provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply where the Secretary finds
(1) that their application would be inconsistent with the public interest;
(2) that such materials and products are not produced in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities and of a satisfactory quality; or
(3) that inclusion of domestic material will increase the cost of the overall project contract by more than 25 percent.
(c) For purposes of this section, in calculating components costs, labor costs involved in final assembly shall not be included in the calculation.
(d) The Secretary of Transportation shall not impose any limitation or condition on assistance provided under the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (96 Stat. 2097) or this title that restricts any State from imposing more stringent requirements than this section on the use of articles, materials, and supplies mined, produced, or manufactured in foreign countries in projects carried out with such assistance or restricts any recipient of such assistance from complying with such State imposed requirements.
(e) Intentional Violations.— 
If it has been determined by a court or Federal agency that any person intentionally
(1) affixed a label bearing a Made in America inscription, or any inscription with the same meaning, to any product used in projects to which this section applies, sold in or shipped to the United States that was not made in the United States; or
(2) represented that any product used in projects to which this section applies, sold in or shipped to the United States that was not produced in the United States, was produced in the United States;

that person shall be ineligible to receive any contract or subcontract made with funds authorized under the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 pursuant to the debarment, suspension, and ineligibility procedures in subpart 9.4 of chapter 1 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations.

(f) Limitation on Applicability of Waivers to Products Produced in Certain Foreign Countries.— 
If the Secretary, in consultation with the United States Trade Representative, determines that
(1) a foreign country is a party to an agreement with the United States and pursuant to that agreement the head of an agency of the United States has waived the requirements of this section, and
(2) the foreign country has violated the terms of the agreement by discriminating against products covered by this section that are produced in the United States and are covered by the agreement,

the provisions of subsection (b) shall not apply to products produced in that foreign country.

23 USC 314 - Relief of employees in hazardous work

The Secretary is authorized in an emergency to use appropriations to the Department of Transportation for carrying out the provisions of this title for medical supplies, services, and other assistance necessary for the immediate relief of employees of the Federal Highway Administration engaged in hazardous work.

23 USC 315 - Rules, regulations, and recommendations

Except as provided in sections 204 (f) and 205 (a) of this title, the Secretary is authorized to prescribe and promulgate all needful rules and regulations for the carrying out of the provisions of this title. The Secretary may make such recommendations to the Congress and State transportation departments as he deems necessary for preserving and protecting the highways and insuring the safety of traffic thereon.

23 USC 316 - Consent by United States to conveyance of property

For the purposes of this title the consent of the United States is given to any railroad or canal company to convey to the State transportation department of any State, or its nominee, any part of its right-of-way or other property in that State acquired by grant from the United States.

23 USC 317 - Appropriation for highway purposes of lands or interests in lands owned by the United States

(a) If the Secretary determines that any part of the lands or interests in lands owned by the United States is reasonably necessary for the right-of-way of any highway, or as a source of materials for the construction or maintenance of any such highway adjacent to such lands or interests in lands, the Secretary shall file with the Secretary of the Department supervising the administration of such lands or interests in lands a map showing the portion of such lands or interests in lands which it is desired to appropriate.
(b) If within a period of four months after such filing, the Secretary of such Department shall not have certified to the Secretary that the proposed appropriation of such land or material is contrary to the public interest or inconsistent with the purposes for which such land or materials have been reserved, or shall have agreed to the appropriation and transfer under conditions which he deems necessary for the adequate protection and utilization of the reserve, then such land and materials may be appropriated and transferred to the State transportation department, or its nominee, for such purposes and subject to the conditions so specified.
(c) If at any time the need for any such lands or materials for such purposes shall no longer exist, notice of the fact shall be given by the State transportation department to the Secretary and such lands or materials shall immediately revert to the control of the Secretary of the Department from which they had been appropriated.
(d) The provisions of this section shall apply only to projects constructed on a Federal-aid system or under the provisions of chapter 2 of this title.

23 USC 318 - Highway relocation due to airport

Federal highway funds shall not be used for the reconstruction or relocation of any highway giving access to an airport constructed or extended after December 20, 1944, or for the reconstruction or relocation of any highway which has been or may be closed or the usefulness of which has been may be impaired by the location or construction of any airport constructed or extended after December 20, 1944, unless, prior to such construction or extension, as the case may be, the State transportation department and the Secretary have concurred with the officials in charge of the airport that the location of such airport or extension thereof and the consequent reconstruction or relocation of the highway are in the public interest.

23 USC 319 - Landscaping and scenic enhancement

(a) Landscape and Roadside Development.— 
The Secretary may approve as a part of the construction of Federal-aid highways the costs of landscape and roadside development, including acquisition and development of publicly owned and controlled rest and recreation areas and sanitary and other facilities reasonably necessary to accommodate the traveling public, and for acquisition of interests in and improvement of strips of land necessary for the restoration, preservation, and enhancement of scenic beauty adjacent to such highways.
(b) Planting of Wildflowers.— 

(1) General rule.— 
The Secretary shall require the planting of native wildflower seeds or seedlings, or both, as part of any landscaping project under this section. At least 1/4 of 1 percent of the funds expended for such landscaping project shall be used for such plantings.
(2) Waiver.— 
The requirements of this subsection may be waived by the Secretary if a State certifies that native wildflowers or seedlings cannot be grown satisfactorily or planting areas are limited or otherwise used for agricultural purposes.
(3) Gifts.— 
Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prohibit the acceptance of native wildflower seeds or seedlings donated by civic organizations or other organizations and individuals to be used in landscaping projects.

23 USC 320 - Bridges on Federal dams

(a) Each executive department, independent establishment, office, board, bureau, commission, authority, administration, corporation wholly owned or controlled by the United States, or other agency of the Government of the United States, hereinafter collectively and individually referred to as agency, which on or after July 29, 1946, has jurisdiction over and custody of any dam constructed or to be constructed and owned by or for the United States, is authorized, with any funds available to it, to design and construct any such dam in such manner that it will constitute and serve as a suitable and adequate foundation to support a public highway bridge upon and across such dam, and to design and construct upon the foundation thus provided a public highway bridge upon and across such dam. The highway department of the State in which such dam shall be located, jointly with the Secretary, shall first determine and certify to such agency that such bridge is economically desirable and needed as a link in the State or Federal-aid highway systems, and shall request such agency to design and construct such dam so that it will serve as a suitable and adequate foundation for a public highway bridge and to design and construct such public highway bridge upon and across such dam, and shall agree to reimburse such agency pursuant to subsection (d) of this section for any additional costs which it may be required to incur because of the design and construction of such dam so that it will serve as a foundation for a public highway bridge and for expenditures which it may find it necessary to make in designing and constructing such public highway bridge upon and across such dam. In no case shall the design and construction of a bridge upon and across such dam be undertaken hereunder except by the agency having jurisdiction over and custody of the dam, acting directly or through contractors employed by it, and after such agency shall determine that it will be structurally feasible and will not interfere with the proper functioning and operation of the dam.
(b) Construction of any bridge upon and across any dam pursuant to this section shall not be commenced unless and until the State in which such bridge is to be located, or the appropriate subdivision of such State, shall enter into an agreement with such agency and with the Secretary to construct, or cause to be constructed, with or without the aid of Federal funds, the approach roads necessary to connect such bridge with existing public highways and to maintain, or cause to be maintained, such approach roads from and after their completion. Such agreement may also provide for the design and construction of such bridge upon and across the dam by such agency of the United States and for reimbursing such agency the costs incurred by it in the design and construction of the bridge as provided in subsection (d) of this section. Any such agency is hereby authorized to convey to the State, or to the appropriate subdivision thereof, without costs, such easements and rights-of-way in its custody or over lands of the United States in its custody and control as may be necessary, convenient, or proper for the location, construction, and maintenance of the approach roads referred to in this section including such roadside parks or recreational areas of limited size as may be deemed necessary for the accommodation of the traveling public. Any bridge constructed pursuant to this section upon and across a dam in the custody and jurisdiction of any agency of the United States, including such portion thereof, if any, as may extend beyond the physical limits of the dam, shall constitute and remain a part of said dam and be maintained by the agency. Any such agency may enter into any such contracts and agreements with the State or its subdivisions respecting public use of any bridge so located and constructed as may be deemed appropriate, but no such bridge shall be closed to public use by the agency except in cases of emergency or when deemed necessary in the interest of national security.
(c) All costs and expenses incurred and expenditures made by any agency in the exercise of the powers and authority conferred by this section (but not including any costs, expenses, or expenditures which would have been required in any event to satisfy a legal road or bridge relocation obligation or to meet operating or other agency needs) shall be recorded and kept separate and apart from the other costs, expenses, and expenditures of such agency, and no portion thereof shall be charged or allocated to flood control, navigation, irrigation, fertilizer production, the national defense, the development of power, or other program, purpose, or function of such agency.
(d) Not to exceed $65,000,000 of any money heretofore or hereafter appropriated for expenditure in accordance with the provisions of this title or prior Acts shall be available for expenditure by the Secretary in accordance with the provisions of this section, as an emergency fund, to reimburse any agency for any additional costs or expenditures which it may be required to incur because of the design and construction of any such dam so that it will constitute and serve as a foundation for a public highway bridge upon and across such dam and to reimburse any such agency for any costs, expenses, or expenditures which it may be required to make in designing and constructing any such bridge upon and across a dam in accordance with the provisions of this section, except such costs, expenses, or expenditures as would have been required of such agency in any event to satisfy a legal obligation to relocate a highway or bridge or to meet operating or other agency needs, and there is authorized to be appropriated any sum or sums necessary to reimburse the funds so expended by the Secretary from time to time under the authority of this section. Of each bridge constructed upon and across a dam under the provisions of this section, there may be financed wholly with Federal funds that portion thereof which is located within the physical limits of the masonry structure, or structures, of the dam, and the Secretary shall in his sole discretion determine what additional portion of the bridge, if any, may be so financed, such determination to be final and conclusive. The remainder of the bridge, and any necessary related approach roads, shall be financed by the State or its appropriate subdivision with or without the aid of Federal funds; but said portion of the bridge so financed by the State or its subdivisions, including such portion thereof, if any, as may extend beyond the physical limits of the dam, shall nevertheless be designed and constructed solely by the agency having custody and jurisdiction of the dam as provided in subsection (a) of this section.
(e) In making, reviewing, or approving the design of any bridge or approach structure to be constructed under this section, the agency shall, in matters relating to roadway design, loadings, clearances and widths, and traffic safeguards, give full consideration to and be guided by the standards and advice of the Secretary.
(f) The authority conferred by this section shall be in addition to and not in limitation of authority conferred upon any agency by any other law, and nothing in this section contained shall affect or be deemed to relate to any bridge, approach structure, or highway constructed or to be constructed by any such agency in furtherance of its lawful purposes and requirements or to satisfy a legal obligation incurred independently of this section.

23 USC 321 - Signs identifying funding sources

If a State has a practice of erecting on projects under actual construction without Federal-aid highway assistance signs which indicate the source or sources of any funds used to carry out such projects, such State shall erect on all projects under actual construction with any funds made available out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) signs which are visible to highway users and which indicate each governmental source of funds being used to carry out such federally assisted projects and the amount of funds being made available by each such source.

23 USC 322 - Magnetic levitation transportation technology deployment program

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Eligible project costs.— 
The term eligible project costs
(A) means the capital cost of the fixed guideway infrastructure of a MAGLEV project, including land, piers, guideways, propulsion equipment and other components attached to guideways, power distribution facilities (including substations), control and communications facilities, access roads, and storage, repair, and maintenance facilities, but not including costs incurred for a new station; and
(B) includes the costs of preconstruction planning activities.
(2) Full project costs.— 
The term full project costs means the total capital costs of a MAGLEV project, including eligible project costs and the costs of stations, vehicles, and equipment.
(3) MAGLEV.— 
The term MAGLEV means transportation systems employing magnetic levitation that would be capable of safe use by the public at a speed in excess of 240 miles per hour.
(4) Partnership potential.— 
The term partnership potential has the meaning given the term in the commercial feasibility study of high-speed ground transportation conducted under section 1036 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (105 Stat. 1978).
(b) Financial Assistance.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall make available financial assistance to pay the Federal share of full project costs of eligible projects selected under this section. Financial assistance made available under this section and projects assisted with the assistance shall be subject to section 5333 (a) of title 49, United States Code.
(2) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of full project costs under paragraph (1) shall be not more than 2/3.
(3) Use of assistance.— 
Financial assistance provided under paragraph (1) shall be used only to pay eligible project costs of projects selected under this section.
(c) Solicitation of Applications for Assistance.— 
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall solicit applications from States, or authorities designated by 1 or more States, for financial assistance authorized by subsection (b) for planning, design, and construction of eligible MAGLEV projects.
(d) Project Eligibility.— 
To be eligible to receive financial assistance under subsection (b), a project shall
(1) involve a segment or segments of a high-speed ground transportation corridor that exhibit partnership potential;
(2) require an amount of Federal funds for project financing that will not exceed the sum of
(A) the amounts made available under subsection (h)(1); and
(B) the amounts made available by States under subsection (h)(3);
(3) result in an operating transportation facility that provides a revenue producing service;
(4) be undertaken through a public and private partnership, with at least 1/3 of full project costs paid using non-Federal funds;
(5) satisfy applicable statewide and metropolitan planning requirements;
(6) be approved by the Secretary based on an application submitted to the Secretary by a State or authority designated by 1 or more States;
(7) to the extent that non-United States MAGLEV technology is used within the United States, be carried out as a technology transfer project; and
(8) be carried out using materials at least 70 percent of which are manufactured in the United States.
(e) Project Selection Criteria.— 
Prior to soliciting applications, the Secretary shall establish criteria for selecting which eligible projects under subsection (d) will receive financial assistance under subsection (b). The criteria shall include the extent to which
(1) a project is nationally significant, including the extent to which the project will demonstrate the feasibility of deployment of MAGLEV technology throughout the United States;
(2) timely implementation of the project will reduce congestion in other modes of transportation and reduce the need for additional highway or airport construction;
(3) States, regions, and localities financially contribute to the project;
(4) implementation of the project will create new jobs in traditional and emerging industries;
(5) the project will augment MAGLEV networks identified as having partnership potential;
(6) financial assistance would foster public and private partnerships for infrastructure development and attract private debt or equity investment;
(7) financial assistance would foster the timely implementation of a project; and
(8) life-cycle costs in design and engineering are considered and enhanced.
(f) Project Selection.— 

(1) Preconstruction planning activities.— 
Not later than 90 days after a deadline established by the Secretary for the receipt of applications, the Secretary shall evaluate the eligible projects in accordance with the selection criteria and select 1 or more eligible projects to receive financial assistance for preconstruction planning activities, including
(A) preparation of such feasibility studies, major investment studies, and environmental impact statements and assessments as are required under State law;
(B) pricing of the final design, engineering, and construction activities proposed to be assisted under paragraph (2); and
(C) such other activities as are necessary to provide the Secretary with sufficient information to evaluate whether a project should receive financial assistance for final design, engineering, and construction activities under paragraph (2).
(2) Final design, engineering, and construction activities.— 
After completion of preconstruction planning activities for all projects assisted under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall select 1 of the projects to receive financial assistance for final design, engineering, and construction activities.
(g) Joint Ventures.— 
A project undertaken by a joint venture of United States and non-United States persons (including a project involving the deployment of non-United States MAGLEV technology in the United States) shall be eligible for financial assistance under this section if the project is eligible under subsection (d) and selected under subsection (f).
(h) Funding.— 

(1) In general.— 

(A) Contract authority; authorization of appropriations.— 

(i) In general.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1999, $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2000, and $25,000,000 for fiscal year 2001.
(ii) Contract authority.— 
Funds authorized by this subparagraph shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if the funds were apportioned under chapter 1, except that
(I) the Federal share of the cost of a project carried out under this section shall be determined in accordance with subsection (b); and
(II) the availability of the funds shall be determined in accordance with paragraph (2).
(B) Noncontract authority authorization of appropriations.— 

(i) In general.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section (other than subsection (i)) $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2000 and 2001, $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2002, and $300,000,000 for fiscal year 2003.
(ii) Availability.— 
Notwithstanding section 118 (a), funds made available under clause (i) shall not be available in advance of an annual appropriation.
(2) Availability of funds.— 
Funds made available under paragraph (1) shall remain available until expended.
(3) Other federal funds.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds made available to a State to carry out the surface transportation program under section 133 and the congestion mitigation and air quality improvement program under section 149 may be used by the State to pay a portion of the full project costs of an eligible project selected under this section, without requirement for non-Federal funds.
(4) Other assistance.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an eligible project selected under this section shall be eligible for other forms of financial assistance provided under this title and the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, including loans, loan guarantees, and lines of credit.
(i) Low-Speed Project.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, of the funds made available by subsection (h)(1)(A) to carry out this section, $5,000,000 shall be made available to the Secretary to make grants for the research and development of low-speed superconductivity magnetic levitation technology for public transportation purposes in urban areas to demonstrate energy efficiency, congestion mitigation, and safety benefits.
(2) Noncontract authority authorization of appropriations.— 

(A) In general.— 
There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this subsection such sums as are necessary for each of fiscal years 2000 through 2003.
(B) Availability.— 
Notwithstanding section 118 (a), funds made available under subparagraph (A)
(i) shall not be available in advance of an annual appropriation; and
(ii) shall remain available until expended.

23 USC 323 - Donations and credits

(a) Donations of Property Being Acquired.— 
Nothing in this title, or in any other provision of law, shall be construed to prevent a person whose real property is being acquired in connection with a project under this title, after he has been fully informed of his right to receive just compensation for the acquisition of his property, from making a gift or donation of such property, or any part thereof, or of any of the compensation paid therefor, to a Federal agency, a State or a State agency, or a political subdivision of a State, as said person shall determine.
(b) Credit for Acquired Lands.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the State share of the cost of a project with respect to which Federal assistance is provided from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) may be credited in an amount equal to the fair market value of any land that
(A) is lawfully obtained by the State or a unit of local government in the State;
(B) is incorporated into the project;
(C) is not land described in section 138; and
(D) the Secretary determines will not influence the environmental assessment of the project, including
(i) the decision as to the need to construct the project;
(ii) the consideration of alternatives; and
(iii) the selection of a specific location.
(2) Establishment of fair market value.— 
The fair market value of land incorporated into a project and credited under paragraph (1) shall be established in the manner determined by the Secretary, except that
(A) the fair market value shall not include any increase or decrease in the value of donated property caused by the project; and
(B) the fair market value of donated land shall be established as of the earlier of
(i) the date on which the donation becomes effective; or
(ii) the date on which equitable title to the land vests in the State.
(3) Limitation on applicability.— 
This subsection shall not apply to donations made by an agency of the Federal Government.
(4) Limitation on amount of credit.— 
The credit received by a State pursuant to this subsection may not exceed the States matching share for the project.
(c) Credit for Donations of Funds, Materials, or Services.— 
Nothing in this title or any other law shall prevent a person from offering to donate funds, materials, or services, or a local government from offering to donate funds, materials, or services performed by local government employees, in connection with a project eligible for assistance under this title. In the case of such a project with respect to which the Federal Government and the State share in paying the cost, any donated funds, or the fair market value of any donated materials or services, that are accepted and incorporated into the project by the State transportation department shall be credited against the State share.
(d) Procedures.— 
A gift or donation in accordance with subsection (a) may be made at any time during the development of a project. Any document executed as part of such donation prior to the approval of an environmental document prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 shall clearly indicate that
(1) all alternatives to a proposed alignment will be studied and considered pursuant to such Act;
(2) acquisition of property under this section shall not influence the environmental assessment of a project including the decision relative to the need to construct the project or the selection of a specific location; and
(3) any property acquired by gift or donation shall be revested in the grantor or successors in interest if such property is not required for the alignment chosen after public hearings, if required, and completion of the environmental document.

23 USC 324 - Prohibition of discrimination on the basis of sex

No person shall on the ground of sex be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal assistance under this title or carried on under this title. This provision will be enforced through agency provisions and rules similar to those already established, with respect to racial and other discrimination, under title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. However, this remedy is not exclusive and will not prejudice or cut off any other legal remedies available to a discriminatee.

23 USC 325 - State assumption of responsibilities for certain programs and projects

(a) Assumption of Secretary’s Responsibilities Under Applicable Federal Laws.— 

(1) Pilot program.— 

(A) Establishment.— 
The Secretary may establish a pilot program under which States may assume the responsibilities of the Secretary under any Federal laws subject to the requirements of this section.
(B) First 3 fiscal years.— 
In the first 3 fiscal years following the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary may allow up to 5 States to participate in the pilot program.
(2) Scope of program.— 
Under the pilot program, the Secretary may assign, and a State may assume, any of the Secretarys responsibilities (other than responsibilities relating to federally recognized Indian tribes) for environmental reviews, consultation, or decisionmaking or other actions required under any Federal law as such requirements apply to the following projects:
(A) Projects funded under section 104 (h).
(B) Transportation enhancement activities under section 133, as such term is defined in section 101 (a)(35).
(b) Agreements.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall enter into a memorandum of understanding with a State participating in the pilot program setting forth the responsibilities to be assigned under subsection (a)(2) and the terms and conditions under which the assignment is being made.
(2) Certification.— 
Before the Secretary enters into a memorandum of understanding with a State under paragraph (1), the State shall certify that the State has in effect laws (including regulations) applicable to projects carried out and funded under this title and chapter 53 of title 49 that authorize the State to carry out the responsibilities being assumed.
(3) Maximum duration.— 
A memorandum of understanding with a State under this section shall be established for an initial period of no more than 3 years and may be renewed by mutual agreement on a periodic basis for periods of not more than 3 years.
(4) Compliance.— 

(A) In general.— 
After entering into a memorandum of understanding under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall review and determine compliance by the State with the memorandum of understanding.
(B) Renewals.— 
The Secretary shall take into account the performance of a State under the pilot program when considering renewal of a memorandum of understanding with the State under the program.
(5) Sole responsibility.— 
A State that assumes responsibility under subsection (a)(2) with respect to a Federal law shall be solely responsible and solely liable for complying with and carrying out that law, and the Secretary shall have no such responsibility or liability.
(6) Acceptance of jurisdiction.— 
In a memorandum of understanding, the State shall consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts for the compliance, discharge, and enforcement of any responsibility of the Secretary that the State assumes.
(c) Selection of States for Pilot Program.— 

(1) Application.— 
To be eligible to participate in the pilot program, a State shall submit to the Secretary an application that contains such information as the Secretary may require. At a minimum, an application shall include
(A) a description of the projects or classes of projects for which the State seeks to assume responsibilities under subsection (a)(2); and
(B) a certification that the State has the capability to assume such responsibilities.
(2) Public notice.— 
Before entering into a memorandum of understanding allowing a State to participate in the pilot program, the Secretary shall
(A) publish notice in the Federal Register of the Secretarys intent to allow the State to participate in the program, including a copy of the States application to the Secretary and the terms of the proposed agreement with the State; and
(B) provide an opportunity for public comment.
(3) Selection criteria.— 
The Secretary may approve the application of a State to assume responsibilities under the program only if
(A) the requirements under paragraph (2) have been met; and
(B) the Secretary determines that the State has the capability to assume the responsibilities.
(4) Other federal agency views.— 
Before assigning to a State a responsibility of the Secretary that requires the Secretary to consult with another Federal agency, the Secretary shall solicit the views of the Federal agency.
(d) State Defined.— 
With respect to the recreational trails program, the term State means the State agency designated by the Governor of the State in accordance with section 206 (c)(1).
(e) Preservation of Public Interest Consideration.— 
Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the requirements under any applicable law providing for the consideration and preservation of the public interest, including public participation and community values in transportation decisionmaking.

23 USC 326 - State assumption of responsibility for categorical exclusions

(a) Categorical Exclusion Determinations.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary may assign, and a State may assume, responsibility for determining whether certain designated activities are included within classes of action identified in regulation by the Secretary that are categorically excluded from requirements for environmental assessments or environmental impact statements pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Council on Environmental Quality under part 1500 of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on October 1, 2003).
(2) Scope of authority.— 
A determination described in paragraph (1) shall be made by a State in accordance with criteria established by the Secretary and only for types of activities specifically designated by the Secretary.
(3) Criteria.— 
The criteria under paragraph (2) shall include provisions for public availability of information consistent with section 552 of title 5 and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(b) Other Applicable Federal Laws.— 

(1) In general.— 
If a State assumes responsibility under subsection (a), the Secretary may also assign and the State may assume all or part of the responsibilities of the Secretary for environmental review, consultation, or other related actions required under any Federal law applicable to activities that are classified by the Secretary as categorical exclusions, with the exception of government-to-government consultation with Indian tribes, subject to the same procedural and substantive requirements as would be required if that responsibility were carried out by the Secretary.
(2) Sole responsibility.— 
A State that assumes responsibility under paragraph (1) with respect to a Federal law shall be solely responsible and solely liable for complying with and carrying out that law, and the Secretary shall have no such responsibility or liability.
(c) Memoranda of Understanding.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary and the State, after providing public notice and opportunity for comment, shall enter into a memorandum of understanding setting forth the responsibilities to be assigned under this section and the terms and conditions under which the assignments are made, including establishment of the circumstances under which the Secretary would reassume responsibility for categorical exclusion determinations.
(2) Term.— 
A memorandum of understanding
(A) shall have a term of not more than 3 years; and
(B) shall be renewable.
(3) Acceptance of jurisdiction.— 
In a memorandum of understanding, the State shall consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts for the compliance, discharge, and enforcement of any responsibility of the Secretary that the State assumes.
(4) Monitoring.— 
The Secretary shall
(A) monitor compliance by the State with the memorandum of understanding and the provision by the State of financial resources to carry out the memorandum of understanding; and
(B) take into account the performance by the State when considering renewal of the memorandum of understanding.
(d) Termination.— 
The Secretary may terminate any assumption of responsibility under a memorandum of understanding on a determination that the State is not adequately carrying out the responsibilities assigned to the State.
(e) State Agency Deemed to Be Federal Agency.— 
A State agency that is assigned a responsibility under a memorandum of understanding shall be deemed to be a Federal agency for the purposes of the Federal law under which the responsibility is exercised.

23 USC 327 - Surface transportation project delivery pilot program

(a) Establishment.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall carry out a surface transportation project delivery pilot program (referred to in this section as the program).
(2) Assumption of responsibility.— 

(A) In general.— 
Subject to the other provisions of this section, with the written agreement of the Secretary and a State, which may be in the form of a memorandum of understanding, the Secretary may assign, and the State may assume, the responsibilities of the Secretary with respect to one or more highway projects within the State under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(B) Additional responsibility.— 
If a State assumes responsibility under subparagraph (A)
(i) the Secretary may assign to the State, and the State may assume, all or part of the responsibilities of the Secretary for environmental review, consultation, or other action required under any Federal environmental law pertaining to the review or approval of a specific project; but
(ii) the Secretary may not assign
(I) responsibility for any conformity determination required under section 176 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7506); or
(II) any responsibility imposed on the Secretary by section 134 or 135.
(C) Procedural and substantive requirements.— 
A State shall assume responsibility under this section subject to the same procedural and substantive requirements as would apply if that responsibility were carried out by the Secretary.
(D) Federal responsibility.— 
Any responsibility of the Secretary not explicitly assumed by the State by written agreement under this section shall remain the responsibility of the Secretary.
(E) No effect on authority.— 
Nothing in this section preempts or interferes with any power, jurisdiction, responsibility, or authority of an agency, other than the Department of Transportation, under applicable law (including regulations) with respect to a project.
(b) State Participation.— 

(1) Number of participating states.— 
The Secretary may permit not more than 5 States (including the States of Alaska, California, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Texas) to participate in the program.
(2) Application.— 
Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall promulgate regulations that establish requirements relating to information required to be contained in any application of a State to participate in the program, including, at a minimum
(A) the projects or classes of projects for which the State anticipates exercising the authority that may be granted under the program;
(B) verification of the financial resources necessary to carry out the authority that may be granted under the program; and
(C) evidence of the notice and solicitation of public comment by the State relating to participation of the State in the program, including copies of comments received from that solicitation.
(3) Public notice.— 

(A) In general.— 
Each State that submits an application under this subsection shall give notice of the intent of the State to participate in the program not later than 30 days before the date of submission of the application.
(B) Method of notice and solicitation.— 
The State shall provide notice and solicit public comment under this paragraph by publishing the complete application of the State in accordance with the appropriate public notice law of the State.
(4) Selection criteria.— 
The Secretary may approve the application of a State under this section only if
(A) the regulatory requirements under paragraph (2) have been met;
(B) the Secretary determines that the State has the capability, including financial and personnel, to assume the responsibility; and
(C) the head of the State agency having primary jurisdiction over highway matters enters into a written agreement with the Secretary described in subsection (c).
(5) Other federal agency views.— 
If a State applies to assume a responsibility of the Secretary that would have required the Secretary to consult with another Federal agency, the Secretary shall solicit the views of the Federal agency before approving the application.
(c) Written Agreement.— 
A written agreement under this section shall
(1) be executed by the Governor or the top-ranking transportation official in the State who is charged with responsibility for highway construction;
(2) be in such form as the Secretary may prescribe;
(3) provide that the State
(A) agrees to assume all or part of the responsibilities of the Secretary described in subsection (a);
(B) expressly consents, on behalf of the State, to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts for the compliance, discharge, and enforcement of any responsibility of the Secretary assumed by the State;
(C) certifies that State laws (including regulations) are in effect that
(i) authorize the State to take the actions necessary to carry out the responsibilities being assumed; and
(ii) are comparable to section 552 of title 5, including providing that any decision regarding the public availability of a document under those State laws is reviewable by a court of competent jurisdiction; and
(D) agrees to maintain the financial resources necessary to carry out the responsibilities being assumed.
(d) Jurisdiction.— 

(1) In general.— 
The United States district courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any civil action against a State for failure to carry out any responsibility of the State under this section.
(2) Legal standards and requirements.— 
A civil action under paragraph (1) shall be governed by the legal standards and requirements that would apply in such a civil action against the Secretary had the Secretary taken the actions in question.
(3) Intervention.— 
The Secretary shall have the right to intervene in any action described in paragraph (1).
(e) Effect of Assumption of Responsibility.— 
A State that assumes responsibility under subsection (a)(2) shall be solely responsible and solely liable for carrying out, in lieu of the Secretary, the responsibilities assumed under subsection (a)(2), until the program is terminated as provided in subsection (i).
(f) Limitations on Agreements.— 
Nothing in this section permits a State to assume any rulemaking authority of the Secretary under any Federal law.
(g) Audits.— 

(1) In general.— 
To ensure compliance by a State with any agreement of the State under subsection (c) (including compliance by the State with all Federal laws for which responsibility is assumed under subsection (a)(2)), for each State participating in the program under this section, the Secretary shall conduct
(A) semiannual audits during each of the first 2 years of State participation; and
(B) annual audits during each subsequent year of State participation.
(2) Public availability and comment.— 

(A) In general.— 
An audit conducted under paragraph (1) shall be provided to the public for comment.
(B) Response.— 
Not later than 60 days after the date on which the period for public comment ends, the Secretary shall respond to public comments received under subparagraph (A).
(h) Report to Congress.— 
The Secretary shall submit to Congress an annual report that describes the administration of the program.
(i) Termination.— 

(1) In general.— 
Except as provided in paragraph (2), the program shall terminate on the date that is 6 years after the date of enactment of this section.
(2) Termination by secretary.— 
The Secretary may terminate the participation of any State in the program if
(A) the Secretary determines that the State is not adequately carrying out the responsibilities assigned to the State;
(B) the Secretary provides to the State
(i) notification of the determination of noncompliance; and
(ii) a period of at least 30 days during which to take such corrective action as the Secretary determines is necessary to comply with the applicable agreement; and
(C) the State, after the notification and period provided under subparagraph (B), fails to take satisfactory corrective action, as determined by Secretary.

23 USC 328 - Eligibility for environmental restoration and pollution abatement

(a) In General.— 
Subject to subsection (b), environmental restoration and pollution abatement to minimize or mitigate the impacts of any transportation project funded under this title (including retrofitting and construction of stormwater treatment systems to meet Federal and State requirements under sections 401 and 402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1341; 1342)) may be carried out to address water pollution or environmental degradation caused wholly or partially by a transportation facility.
(b) Maximum Expenditure.— 
In a case in which a transportation facility is undergoing reconstruction, rehabilitation, resurfacing, or restoration, the expenditure of funds under this section for environmental restoration or pollution abatement described in subsection (a) shall not exceed 20 percent of the total cost of the reconstruction, rehabilitation, resurfacing, or restoration of the facility.

23 USC 329 - Eligibility for control of noxious weeds and aquatic noxious weeds and establishment of native species

(a) In General.— 
In accordance with all applicable Federal law (including regulations), funds made available to carry out this section may be used for the following activities if such activities are related to transportation projects funded under this title:
(1) Establishment of plants selected by State and local transportation authorities to perform one or more of the following functions: abatement of stormwater runoff, stabilization of soil, and aesthetic enhancement.
(2) Management of plants which impair or impede the establishment, maintenance, or safe use of a transportation system.
(b) Included Activities.— 
The establishment and management under subsection (a)(1) and (a)(2) may include
(1) right-of-way surveys to determine management requirements to control Federal or State noxious weeds as defined in the Plant Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 7701 et seq.) or State law, and brush or tree species, whether native or nonnative, that may be considered by State or local transportation authorities to be a threat with respect to the safety or maintenance of transportation systems;
(2) establishment of plants, whether native or nonnative with a preference for native to the maximum extent possible, for the purposes defined in subsection (a)(1);
(3) control or elimination of plants as defined in subsection (a)(2);
(4) elimination of plants to create fuel breaks for the prevention and control of wildfires; and
(5) training.
(c) Contributions.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), an activity described in subsection (a) may be carried out concurrently with, in advance of, or following the construction of a project funded under this title.
(2) Condition for activities conducted in advance of project construction.— 
An activity described in subsection (a) may be carried out in advance of construction of a project only if the activity is carried out in accordance with all applicable requirements of Federal law (including regulations) and State transportation planning processes.

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 4 - HIGHWAY SAFETY

23 USC 401 - Authority of the Secretary

The Secretary is authorized and directed to assist and cooperate with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local governments, private industry, and other interested parties, to increase highway safety. For the purposes of this chapter, the term State means any one of the fifty States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

23 USC 402 - Highway safety programs

(a) Each State shall have a highway safety program approved by the Secretary, designed to reduce traffic accidents and deaths, injuries, and property damage resulting therefrom. Such programs shall be in accordance with uniform guidelines promulgated by the Secretary. Such uniform guidelines shall be expressed in terms of performance criteria. In addition, such uniform guidelines shall include programs
(1)  to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from motor vehicles being driven in excess of posted speed limits,
(2)  to encourage the proper use of occupant protection devices (including the use of safety belts and child restraint systems) by occupants of motor vehicles,
(3)  to reduce deaths and injuries resulting from persons driving motor vehicles while impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance,
(4)  to prevent accidents and reduce deaths and injuries resulting from accidents involving motor vehicles and motorcycles,
(5)  to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from accidents involving school buses, and[1]
(6)  to reduce accidents resulting from unsafe driving behavior (including aggressive or fatigued driving and distracted driving arising from the use of electronic devices in vehicles)[2]
(7)  to improve law enforcement services in motor vehicle accident prevention, traffic supervision, and post-accident procedures. The Secretary shall establish a highway safety program for the collection and reporting of data on traffic-related deaths and injuries by the States. Under such program, the States shall collect and report such data as the Secretary may require. The purposes of the program are to ensure national uniform data on such deaths and injuries and to allow the Secretary to make determinations for use in developing programs to reduce such deaths and injuries and making recommendations to Congress concerning legislation necessary to implement such programs. The program shall provide for annual reports to the Secretary on the efforts being made by the States in reducing deaths and injuries occurring at highway construction sites and the effectiveness and results of such efforts. The Secretary shall establish minimum reporting criteria for the program. Such criteria shall include, but not be limited to, criteria on deaths and injuries resulting from police pursuits, school bus accidents, aggressive driving, fatigued driving, distracted driving, and speeding, on traffic-related deaths and injuries at highway construction sites and on the configuration of commercial motor vehicles involved in motor vehicle accidents. Such uniform guidelines shall be promulgated by the Secretary so as to improve driver performance (including, but not limited to, driver education, driver testing to determine proficiency to operate motor vehicles, driver examinations (both physical and mental) and driver licensing) and to improve pedestrian performance and bicycle safety. In addition such uniform guidelines shall include, but not be limited to, provisions for an effective record system of accidents (including injuries and deaths resulting therefrom), accident investigations to determine the probable causes of accidents, injuries, and deaths, vehicle registration, operation, and inspection, highway design and maintenance (including lighting, markings, and surface treatment), traffic control, vehicle codes and laws, surveillance of traffic for detection and correction of high or potentially high accident locations, enforcement of light transmission standards of window glazing for passenger motor vehicles and light trucks as necessary to improve highway safety, and emergency services. Such guidelines as are applicable to State highway safety programs shall, to the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, be applicable to federally administered areas where a Federal department or agency controls the highways or supervises traffic operations.
(b) Administration of State Programs.— 

(1) Administrative requirements.— 
The Secretary may not approve a State highway safety program under this section which does not
(A) provide that the Governor of the State shall be responsible for the administration of the program through a State highway safety agency which shall have adequate powers and be suitably equipped and organized to carry out, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, such program;
(B) authorize political subdivisions of the State to carry out local highway safety programs within their jurisdictions as a part of the State highway safety program if such local highway safety programs are approved by the Governor and are in accordance with the minimum standards established by the Secretary under this section;
(C) except as provided in paragraph (3), provide that at least 40 percent of all Federal funds apportioned under this section to the State for any fiscal year will be expended by the political subdivisions of the State, including Indian tribal governments, in carrying out local highway safety programs authorized in accordance with subparagraph (B);
(D) provide adequate and reasonable access for the safe and convenient movement of individuals with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs, across curbs constructed or replaced on or after July 1, 1976, at all pedestrian crosswalks throughout the State; and
(E) provide satisfactory assurances that the State will implement activities in support of national highway safety goals to reduce motor vehicle related fatalities that also reflect the primary data-related crash factors within a State as identified by the State highway safety planning process, including
(i) national law enforcement mobilizations;
(ii) sustained enforcement of statutes addressing impaired driving, occupant protection, and driving in excess of posted speed limits;
(iii) an annual statewide safety belt use survey in accordance with criteria established by the Secretary for the measurement of State safety belt use rates to ensure that the measurements are accurate and representative; and
(iv) development of statewide data systems to provide timely and effective data analysis to support allocation of highway safety resources.
(2) Waiver.— 
The Secretary may waive the requirement of paragraph (1)(C), in whole or in part, for a fiscal year for any State whenever the Secretary determines that there is an insufficient number of local highway safety programs to justify the expenditure in the State of such percentage of Federal funds during the fiscal year.
(3) Use of technology for traffic enforcement.— 
The Secretary may encourage States to use technologically advanced traffic enforcement devices (including the use of automatic speed detection devices such as photo-radar) by law enforcement officers.
(c) Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be used to aid the States to conduct the highway safety programs approved in accordance with subsection (a), including development and implementation of manpower training programs, and of demonstration programs that the Secretary determines will contribute directly to the reduction of accidents, and deaths and injuries resulting therefrom. Such funds shall be apportioned 75 per centum in the ratio which the population of each State bears to the total population of all the States, as shown by the latest available Federal census, and 25 per centum in the ratio which the public road mileage in each State bears to the total public road mileage in all States. For the purposes of this subsection, a public road means any road under the jurisdiction of and maintained by a public authority and open to public travel. Public road mileage as used in this subsection shall be determined as of the end of the calendar year preceding the year in which the funds are apportioned and shall be certified to by the Governor of the State and subject to approval by the Secretary. The annual apportionment to each State shall not be less than one-half of 1 per centum of the total apportionment, except that the apportionment to the Secretary of the Interior shall not be less than 2 percent of the total apportionment and the apportionments to the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall not be less than one-quarter of 1 per centum of the total apportionment. The Secretary shall not apportion any funds under this subsection to any State which is not implementing a highway safety program approved by the Secretary in accordance with this section. For the purpose of the seventh sentence of this subsection, a highway safety program approved by the Secretary shall not include any requirement that a State implement such a program by adopting or enforcing any law, rule, or regulation based on a guideline promulgated by the Secretary under this section requiring any motorcycle operator eighteen years of age or older or passenger eighteen years of age or older to wear a safety helmet when operating or riding a motorcycle on the streets and highways of that State. Implementation of a highway safety program under this section shall not be construed to require the Secretary to require compliance with every uniform guideline, or with every element of every uniform guideline, in every State. Funds apportioned under this section to any State, that does not have a highway safety program approved by the Secretary or that is not implementing an approved program, shall be reduced by amounts equal to not less than 50 per centum of the amounts that would otherwise be apportioned to the State under this section, until such time as the Secretary approves such program or determines that the State is implementing an approved program, as appropriate. The Secretary shall consider the gravity of the States failure to have or implement an approved program in determining the amount of the reduction. The Secretary shall promptly apportion to the State the funds withheld from its apportionment if he approves the States highway safety program or determines that the State has begun implementing an approved program, as appropriate, prior to the end of the fiscal year for which the funds were withheld. If the Secretary determines that the State did not correct its failure within such period, the Secretary shall reapportion the withheld funds to the other States in accordance with the formula specified in this subsection not later than 30 days after such determination.
(d) All provisions of chapter 1 of this title that are applicable to National Highway System highway funds other than provisions relating to the apportionment formula and provisions limiting the expenditure of such funds to the Federal-aid systems, shall apply to the highway safety funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with this section, and except that the aggregate of all expenditures made during any fiscal year by a State and its political subdivisions (exclusive of Federal funds) for carrying out the State highway safety program (other than planning and administration) shall be available for the purpose of crediting such State during such fiscal year for the non-Federal share of the cost of any project under this section (other than one for planning or administration) without regard to whether such expenditures were actually made in connection with such project and except that, in the case of a local highway safety program carried out by an Indian tribe, if the Secretary is satisfied that an Indian tribe does not have sufficient funds available to meet the non-Federal share of the cost of such program, he may increase the Federal share of the cost thereof payable under this Act to the extent necessary. In applying such provisions of chapter 1 in carrying out this section the term State transportation department as used in such provisions shall mean the Governor of a State for the purposes of this section.
(e) Uniform guidelines promulgated by the Secretary to carry out this section shall be developed in cooperation with the States, their political subdivisions, appropriate Federal departments and agencies, and such other public and private organizations as the Secretary deems appropriate.
(f) The Secretary may make arrangements with other Federal departments and agencies for assistance in the preparation of uniform guidelines for the highway safety programs contemplated by subsection (a) and in the administration of such programs. Such departments and agencies are directed to cooperate in such preparation and administration, on a reimbursable basis.
(g) Nothing in this section authorizes the appropriation or expenditure of funds for
(1)  highway construction, maintenance, or design (other than design of safety features of highways to be incorporated into guidelines) or
(2)  any purpose for which funds are authorized by section 403 of this title.
[(h) Repealed. Pub. L. 97–35, title XI, § 1107(c), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 626.]
(i) Application in Indian Country.— 

(1) Use of terms.— 
For the purpose of application of this section in Indian country, the terms State and Governor of a State include the Secretary of the Interior and the term political subdivision of a State includes an Indian tribe.
(2) Expenditures for local highway programs.— 
Notwithstanding subsection (b)(1)(C), 95 percent of the funds apportioned to the Secretary of the Interior under this section shall be expended by Indian tribes to carry out highway safety programs within their jurisdictions.
(3) Access for individuals with disabilities.— 
The requirements of subsection (b)(1)(D) shall be applicable to Indian tribes, except to those tribes with respect to which the Secretary determines that application of such provisions would not be practicable.
(4) Indian country defined.— 
In this subsection, the term Indian country means
(A) all land within the limits of any Indian reservation under the jurisdiction of the United States, notwithstanding the issuance of any patent and including rights-of-way running through the reservation;
(B) all dependent Indian communities within the borders of the United States, whether within the original or subsequently acquired territory thereof and whether within or without the limits of a State; and
(C) all Indian allotments, the Indian titles to which have not been extinguished, including rights-of-way running through such allotments.
(j) Rulemaking Proceeding.— 
The Secretary may periodically conduct a rulemaking process to identify highway safety programs that are highly effective in reducing motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and deaths. Any such rulemaking shall take into account the major role of the States in implementing such programs. When a rule promulgated in accordance with this section takes effect, States shall consider these highly effective programs when developing their highway safety programs.
(k) 
(1) Subject to the provisions of this subsection, the Secretary shall make a grant to any State which includes, as part of its highway safety program under section 402 of this title, the use of a comprehensive computerized safety recordkeeping system designed to correlate data regarding traffic accidents, drivers, motor vehicles, and roadways. Any such grant may only be used by such State to establish and maintain a comprehensive computerized traffic safety recordkeeping system or to obtain and operate components to support highway safety priority programs identified by the Secretary under this section. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, if a report, list, schedule, or survey is prepared by or for a State or political subdivision thereof under this subsection, such report, list, schedule, or survey shall not be admitted as evidence or used in any suit or action for damages arising out of any matter mentioned in such report, list, schedule, or survey.
(2) No State may receive a grant under this subsection in more than two fiscal years.
(3) The amount of the grant to any State under this subsection for the first fiscal year such State is eligible for a grant under this subsection shall equal 10 per centum of the amount apportioned to such State for fiscal year 1985 under this section. The amount of a grant to any State under this subsection for the second fiscal year such State is eligible for a grant under this subsection shall equal 10 per centum of the amount apportioned to such State for fiscal year 1986 under this section.
(4) A State is eligible for a grant under this subsection if
(A) it certifies to the Secretary that it has in operation a computerized traffic safety recordkeeping system and identifies proposed means of upgrading the system acceptable to the Secretary; or
(B) it provides to the Secretary a plan acceptable to the Secretary for establishing and maintaining a computerized traffic safety recordkeeping system.
(5) The Secretary, after making the deduction authorized by the second sentence of subsection (c) of this section for fiscal years 1985 and 1986, shall set aside 10 per centum of the remaining funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section for the purpose of making grants under this subsection. Funds set aside under this subsection shall remain available for the fiscal year authorized and for the succeeding fiscal year and any amounts remaining unexpended at the end of such period shall be apportioned in accordance with the provisions of subsection (c) of this section.
(l) Law Enforcement Vehicular Pursuit Training.— 
A State shall actively encourage all relevant law enforcement agencies in such State to follow the guidelines established for vehicular pursuits issued by the International Association of Chiefs of Police that are in effect on the date of enactment of this subsection or as revised and in effect after such date as determined by the Secretary.
(m) Consolidation of Grant Applications.— 
The Secretary shall establish an approval process by which a State may apply for all grants under this chapter through a single application process with one annual deadline. The Bureau of Indian Affairs shall establish a similar simplified process for applications for grants from Indian tribes under this chapter.
[1] So in original. The word “and” probably should not appear.
[2] So in original. Probably should be followed by “and”.

23 USC 403 - Highway safety research and development

(a) Authority of the Secretary.— 
The Secretary is authorized to use funds appropriated to carry out this section to
(1) conduct research on all phases of highway safety and traffic conditions, including accident causation, highway or driver characteristics, communications, and emergency care;
(2) conduct ongoing research into driver behavior and its effect on traffic safety;
(3) conduct research on, launch initiatives to counter, and conduct demonstration projects on fatigued driving by drivers of motor vehicles and distracted driving in such vehicles, including the effect that the use of electronic devices and other factors deemed relevant by the Secretary have on driving;
(4) conduct training or education programs in cooperation with other Federal departments and agencies, States, private sector persons, highway safety personnel, and law enforcement personnel;
(5) conduct research on, and evaluate the effectiveness of, traffic safety countermeasures, including seat belts and impaired driving initiatives;
(6) conduct research on, evaluate, and develop best practices related to driver education programs (including driver education curricula, instructor training and certification, program administration and delivery mechanisms) and make recommendations for harmonizing driver education and multistage graduated licensing systems;
(7) conduct research, training, and education programs related to older drivers;
(8) conduct demonstration projects; and
(9) conduct research, training, and programs relating to motorcycle safety, including impaired driving.
(b) Drugs and Driver Behavior.— 
In addition to the research authorized by subsection (a), the Secretary, in consultation with other Government and private agencies as may be necessary, is authorized to carry out safety research on the following:
(1) The relationship between the consumption and use of drugs and their effect upon highway safety and drivers of motor vehicles.
(2) Driver behavior research, including the characteristics of driver performance, the relationships of mental and physical abilities or disabilities to the driving task, and the relationship of frequency of driver crash involvement to highway safety.
(3) Measures that may deter drugged driving.
(4) Programs to train law enforcement officers on motor vehicle pursuits conducted by the officers.
(5) Technology to detect drug use and enable States to efficiently process toxicology evidence.
(6) Research on the effects of illicit drugs and the compound effects of alcohol and illicit drugs on impairment.
(c) The research authorized by subsections (a) and (b) of this section may be conducted by the Secretary through grants and contracts with public and private agencies, institutions, and individuals.
(d) The Secretary may, where he deems it to be in furtherance of the purposes of section 402 of this title, vest in State or local agencies, on such terms and conditions as he deems appropriate, title to equipment purchased for demonstration projects with funds authorized by this section.
(e) In addition to the research authorized by subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall, either independently or in cooperation with other Federal departments or agencies, conduct research into, and make grants to or contracts with State or local agencies, institutions, and individuals for projects to demonstrate the administrative adjudication of traffic infractions. Such administrative adjudication demonstration projects shall be designed to improve highway safety by developing fair, efficient, and effective processes and procedures for traffic infraction adjudication, utilizing appropriate punishment, training, and rehabilitative measures for traffic offenders. The Secretary shall report to Congress by July 1, 1975, and each year thereafter during the continuance of the program, on the research and demonstration projects authorized by this subsection, and shall include in such report a comparison of the fairness, efficiency, and effectiveness of administrative adjudication of traffic infractions with other methods of handling such infractions.
(f) Collaborative Research and Development.— 

(1) In general.— 
For the purpose of encouraging innovative solutions to highway safety problems, stimulating voluntary improvements in highway safety, and stimulating the marketing of new highway safety-related technology by private industry, the Secretary is authorized to undertake, on a cost-shared basis, collaborative research and development with non-Federal entities, including State and local governments, colleges, and universities and corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and trade associations that are incorporated or established under the laws of any State or the United States. This collaborative research may include crash data collection and analysis; driver and pedestrian behavior; and demonstrations of technology.
(2) Cooperative agreements.— 
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may enter into cooperative research and development agreements, as defined in section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a); except that in entering into such agreements, the Secretary may agree to provide not more than 50 percent of the cost of any research or development project selected by the Secretary under this subsection.
(3) Project selection.— 
In selecting projects to be conducted under this subsection, the Secretary shall establish a procedure to consider the views of experts and the public concerning the project areas.
(4) Applicability of stevenson-wydler technology innovation act.— 
The research, development, or utilization of any technology pursuant to an agreement under the provisions of this subsection, including the terms under which technology may be licensed and the resulting royalties may be distributed, shall be subject to the provisions of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980.
(g) International Cooperation.— 
The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration may participate and cooperate in international activities to enhance highway safety.

23 USC 404 - National Highway Safety Advisory Committee

(a) 
(1) There is established in the Department of Transportation a National Highway Safety Advisory Committee, composed of the Secretary or an officer of the Department appointed by him, the Federal Highway Administrator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator, and thirty-five members appointed by the President, no more than four of whom shall be Federal officers or employees. The Secretary shall select the Chairman of the Committee from among the Committee members. The appointed members, having due regard for the purposes of this chapter, shall be selected from among representatives of various State and local governments, including State legislatures, of public and private interests contributing to, affected by, or concerned with highway safety, including the national organizations of passenger car, bus, and truck owners, and of other public and private agencies, organizations, or groups demonstrating an active interest in highway safety, as well as research scientists and other individuals who are expert in this field.
(2) 
(A) Each member appointed by the President shall hold office for a term of three years, except that
(i)  any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term, and
(ii)  the terms of office of members first taking office after the date of enactment of this section shall expire as follows: Twelve at the end of one year after the date such committee members are appointed by the President, twelve at the end of two years after the date such committee members are appointed by the President, and eleven at the end of three years after the date such committee members are appointed, as designated by the President at the time of appointment, and
(iii)  the term of any member shall be extended until the date on which the successors appointment is effective. None of the members appointed by the President who has served a three-year term, other than Federal officers or employees, shall be eligible for reappointment within one year following the end of his preceding term.
(B) Members of the Committee who are not officers or employees of the United States shall, while attending meetings or conferences of such Committee or otherwise engaged in the business of such Committee, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate fixed by the Secretary, but not exceeding $100 per diem, including traveltime, and while away from their homes or regular places of business they may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized in section 5 of the Administrative Expenses Act of 1946 (5 U.S.C. 73b–2) for persons in the Government service employed intermittently. Payments under this section shall not render members of the Committee employees or officials of the United States for any purpose.
(b) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall advise, consult with, and make recommendations to, the Secretary on matters relating to the activities and functions of the Department in the field of highway safety. The Committee is authorized
(1)  to review research projects or programs submitted to or recommended by it in the field of highway safety and recommend to the Secretary, for prosecution under this title, any such projects which it believes show promise of making valuable contributions to human knowledge with respect to the cause and prevention of highway accidents; and
(2)  to review, prior to issuance, standards proposed to be issued by order of the Secretary under the provisions of section 402 (a) of this title and to make recommendations thereon. Such recommendations shall be published in connection with the Secretarys determination or order.
(c) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall meet from time to time as the Secretary shall direct, but at least once each year.
(d) The Secretary shall provide to the National Highway Safety Committee from among the personnel and facilities of the Department of Transportation such staff and facilities as are necessary to carry out the functions of such Committee.

23 USC 405 - Occupant protection incentive grants

(a) General Authority.— 

(1) Authority to make grants.— 
Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary shall make grants under this section to States that adopt and implement effective programs to reduce highway deaths and injuries resulting from individuals riding unrestrained or improperly restrained in motor vehicles. Such grants may be used by recipient States only to implement and enforce, as appropriate, such programs.
(2) Maintenance of effort.— 
No grant may be made to a State under this section in any fiscal year unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all other sources for programs described in paragraph (1) at or above the average level of such expenditures in its 2 fiscal years preceding the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU.
(3) Maximum period of eligibility.— 
No State may receive grants under this section in more than 6 fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2003.
(4) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of implementing and enforcing, as appropriate, in a fiscal year a program adopted by a State pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not exceed
(A) in each of the first and second fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2003, in which the State receives a grant under this section, 75 percent;
(B) in each of the third and fourth fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2003, in which the State receives a grant under this section, 50 percent; and
(C) in each of the fifth and sixth fiscal years beginning after September 30, 2003, in which the State receives a grant under this section, 25 percent.
(b) Grant Eligibility.— 
A State shall become eligible for a grant under this section by adopting or demonstrating to the satisfaction of the Secretary at least 4 of the following:
(1) Safety belt use law.— 
The State has in effect a safety belt use law that makes unlawful throughout the State the operation of a passenger motor vehicle whenever an individual (other than a child who is secured in a child restraint system) in the front seat of the vehicle (and, beginning in fiscal year 2001, in any seat in the vehicle) does not have a safety belt properly secured about the individuals body.
(2) Primary safety belt use law.— 
The State provides for primary enforcement of the safety belt use law of the State.
(3) Minimum fine or penalty points.— 
The State imposes a minimum fine or provides for the imposition of penalty points against the drivers license of an individual
(A) for a violation of the safety belt use law of the State; and
(B) for a violation of the child passenger protection law of the State.
(4) Special traffic enforcement program.— 
The State has implemented a statewide special traffic enforcement program for occupant protection that emphasizes publicity for the program.
(5) Child passenger protection education program.— 
The State has implemented a statewide comprehensive child passenger protection education program that includes education programs about proper seating positions for children in air bag equipped motor vehicles and instruction on how to reduce the improper use of child restraint systems.
(6) Child passenger protection law.— 
The State has in effect a law that requires minors who are riding in a passenger motor vehicle to be properly secured in a child safety seat or other appropriate restraint system.
(c) Grant Amounts.— 
The amount of a grant for which a State qualifies under this section for a fiscal year shall equal up to 100 percent of the amount apportioned to the State for fiscal year 2003 under section 402.
[(d) Repealed. Pub. L. 109–59, title II, § 2002(e), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1522.]
(e) Applicability of Chapter 1.— 
The provisions contained in section 402 (d) shall apply to this section.
(f) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Child safety seat.— 
The term child safety seat means any device (except safety belts) designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position a child who weighs 50 pounds or less.
(2) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle means a vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power and manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads, and highways, but does not include a vehicle operated only on a rail line.
(3) Multipurpose passenger vehicle.— 
The term multipurpose passenger vehicle means a motor vehicle with motive power (except a trailer), designed to carry not more than 10 individuals, that is constructed either on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road operation.
(4) Passenger car.— 
The term passenger car means a motor vehicle with motive power (except a multipurpose passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or trailer) designed to carry not more than 10 individuals.
(5) Passenger motor vehicle.— 
The term passenger motor vehicle means a passenger car or a multipurpose passenger motor vehicle.
(6) Safety belt.— 
The term safety belt means
(A) with respect to open-body passenger vehicles, including convertibles, an occupant restraint system consisting of a lap belt or a lap belt and a detachable shoulder belt; and
(B) with respect to other passenger vehicles, an occupant restraint system consisting of integrated lap and shoulder belts.

23 USC 406 - Safety belt performance grants

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall make grants to States in accordance with the provisions of this section to encourage the enactment and enforcement of laws requiring the use of safety belts in passenger motor vehicles.
(b) Grants for Enacting Primary Safety Belt Use Laws.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall make a single grant to each State that either
(A) enacts for the first time after December 31, 2002, and has in effect and is enforcing a conforming primary safety belt use law for all passenger motor vehicles; or
(B) in the case of a State that does not have such a primary safety belt use law, has after December 31, 2005, a State safety belt use rate of 85 percent or more for each of the 2 calendar years immediately preceding the fiscal year of a grant, as measured under criteria determined by the Secretary.
(2) Amount.— 
The amount of a grant available to a State in fiscal year 2006 or in a subsequent fiscal year under paragraph (1) shall equal 475 percent of the amount apportioned to the State under section 402 (c) for fiscal year 2003.
(3) July 1 cut-off.— 
For the purpose of determining the eligibility of a State for a grant under paragraph (1)(A), a conforming primary safety belt use law enacted after June 30th of any year shall
(A) not be considered to have been enacted in the Federal fiscal year in which that June 30th falls; but
(B) be considered as if it were enacted after October 1 of the next Federal fiscal year.
(4) Shortfall.— 
If the total amount of grants provided for by this subsection for a fiscal year exceeds the amount of funds available for such grants for that fiscal year, the Secretary shall make grants under this subsection to States in the order in which
(A) the conforming primary safety belt use law came into effect; or
(B) the States safety belt use rate was 85 percent or more for 2 consecutive calendar years (as measured under by criteria determined by the Secretary), whichever first occurs.
(5) Catch-up grants.— 
The Secretary shall make a grant to any State eligible for a grant under this subsection that did not receive a grant for a fiscal year because of the application of paragraph (4), in the next fiscal year if the States conforming primary safety belt use law remains in effect or its safety belt use rate is 85 percent or more for the 2 consecutive calendar years preceding such next fiscal year (subject to the condition in paragraph (4)).
(c) Grants for Pre-2003 Laws.— 

(1) In general.— 
To the extent that amounts made available for grants under this section for any of fiscal years 2006 through 2009 exceed the total amount of grants to be awarded under subsection (b) for the fiscal year, including amounts to be awarded for catch-up grants under subsection (b)(5), the Secretary shall make a single grant to each State that enacted, has in effect, and is enforcing a conforming primary safety belt use law for all passenger motor vehicles that was in effect before January 1, 2003.
(2) Amount; installments.— 
The amount of a grant available to a State under this subsection shall be equal to 200 percent of the amount of funds apportioned to the State under section 402 (c) for fiscal year 2003. The Secretary may award the grant in annual installments.
(d) Allocation of Unallocated Funds.— 

(1) Additional grants.— 
The Secretary shall make additional grants under this section of any amounts made available for grants under this section that, on July 1, 2009, have not been allocated to States under this section.
(2) Allocation.— 
The additional grants made under this subsection shall be allocated among all States that, as of that date, have enacted, have in effect, and are enforcing conforming primary safety belt laws for all passenger motor vehicles. The allocations shall be made in accordance with the formula for apportioning funds among the States under section 402 (c).
(e) Use of Grant Funds.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), a State may use a grant under this section for any safety purpose under this title or for any project that corrects or improves a hazardous roadway location or feature or proactively addresses highway safety problems, including
(A) intersection improvements;
(B) pavement and shoulder widening;
(C) installation of rumble strips and other warning devices;
(D) improving skid resistance;
(E) improvements for pedestrian or bicyclist safety;
(F) railway-highway crossing safety;
(G) traffic calming;
(H) the elimination of roadside obstacles;
(I) improving highway signage and pavement marking;
(J) installing priority control systems for emergency vehicles at signalized intersections;
(K) installing traffic control or warning devices at locations with high accident potential;
(L) safety-conscious planning; and
(M) improving crash data collection and analysis.
(2) Safety activity requirement.— 
Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that at least $1,000,000 of amounts received by States under this section are obligated for safety activities under this chapter.
(3) Support activity.— 
The Secretary or his designee may engage in activities with States and State legislators to consider proposals related to safety belt use laws.
(f) Carry-Forward of Excess Funds.— 
If the amount available for grants under this section for any fiscal year exceeds the sum of the grants made under this section for that fiscal year, the excess amount and obligational authority shall be carried forward and made available for grants under this section in the succeeding fiscal year.
(g) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share payable for grants under this section shall be 100 percent.
(h) Passenger Motor Vehicle Defined.— 
In this section, the term passenger motor vehicle means
(1) a passenger car;
(2) a pickup truck; and
(3) a van, minivan, or sport utility vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds.

23 USC 407 - Innovative project grants

(a) In addition to other grants authorized by this chapter, the Secretary may make grants in any fiscal year to those States, political subdivisions thereof, and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations which develop innovative approaches to highway safety problems in accordance with criteria to be established by the Secretary in cooperation with the States, political subdivisions thereof, and such nonprofit">nonprofit organizations as the Secretary deems appropriate.
(b) The Secretary shall establish a procedure for the selection of grant applications submitted under this section. In developing such procedure, the Secretary shall consult with the States and political subdivisions thereof, appropriate Federal departments and agencies, and such other public and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations as the Secretary deems appropriate.
(c) Any State, political subdivision thereof, and nonprofit">nonprofit organization may make an application under this section to carry out an innovative project described in subsection (a) of this section. Such application shall be in such form and contain such information as the Secretary, by regulation, prescribes.
(d) Not to exceed 2 per centum of the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be available to the Secretary for the necessary costs of administering the provisions of this section.
(e) The Secretary shall submit an annual report to the Congress which provides a description of each application received for a grant under this section and an evaluation of innovative projects carried out with grants made under this section.

23 USC 408 - State traffic safety information system improvements

(a) Grant Authority.— 
Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary shall make grants to eligible States to support the development and implementation of effective programs by such States to
(1) improve the timeliness, accuracy, completeness, uniformity, integration, and accessibility of the safety data of the State that is needed to identify priorities for national, State, and local highway and traffic safety programs;
(2) evaluate the effectiveness of efforts to make such improvements;
(3) link the State data systems, including traffic records, with other data systems within the State, such as systems that contain medical, roadway, and economic data; and
(4) improve the compatibility and interoperability of the data systems of the State with national data systems and data systems of other States and enhance the ability of the Secretary to observe and analyze national trends in crash occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances.
(b) First-Year Grants.— 
To be eligible for a first-year grant under this section in a fiscal year, a State shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the State has
(1) established a highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee with a multidisciplinary membership that includes, among others, managers, collectors, and users of traffic records and public health and injury control data systems; and
(2) developed a multiyear highway safety data and traffic records system strategic plan
(A) that addresses existing deficiencies in the States highway safety data and traffic records system;
(B) that is approved by the highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee;
(C) that specifies how existing deficiencies in the States highway safety data and traffic records system were identified;
(D) that prioritizes, on the basis of the identified highway safety data and traffic records system deficiencies of the State, the highway safety data and traffic records system needs and goals of the State, including the activities under subsection (a);
(E) that identifies performance-based measures by which progress toward those goals will be determined; and
(F) that specifies how the grant funds and any other funds of the State are to be used to address needs and goals identified in the multiyear plan.
(c) Successive Year Grants.— 
A State shall be eligible for a grant under this subsection in a fiscal year succeeding the first fiscal year in which the State receives a grant under subsection (b) if the State
(1) certifies to the Secretary that an assessment or audit of the States highway safety data and traffic records system has been conducted or updated within the preceding 5 years;
(2) certifies to the Secretary that its highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee continues to operate and supports the multiyear plan;
(3) specifies how the grant funds and any other funds of the State are to be used to address needs and goals identified in the multiyear plan;
(4) demonstrates to the Secretary measurable progress toward achieving the goals and objectives identified in the multiyear plan; and
(5) submits to the Secretary a current report on the progress in implementing the multiyear plan.
(d) Grant Amount.— 
Subject to subsection (e)(3), the amount of a year grant made to a State for a fiscal year under this section shall equal the higher of
(1) the amount determined by multiplying
(A) the amount appropriated to carry out this section for such fiscal year, by
(B) the ratio that the funds apportioned to the State under section 402 for fiscal year 2003 bears to the funds apportioned to all States under such section for fiscal year 2003; or
(2) 
(A) $300,000 in the case of the first fiscal year a grant is made to a State under this section after the date of enactment of this subparagraph; or
(B) $500,000 in the case of a succeeding fiscal year a grant is made to the State under this section after such date of enactment.
(e) Additional Requirements and Limitations.— 

(1) Model data elements.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with States and other appropriate parties, shall determine the model data elements that are useful for the observation and analysis of State and national trends in occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances of motor vehicle traffic accidents. In order to be eligible for a grant under this section, a State shall submit to the Secretary a certification that the State has adopted and uses such model data elements, or a certification that the State will use grant funds provided under this section toward adopting and using the maximum number of such model data elements as soon as practicable.
(2) Data on use of electronic devices.— 
The model data elements required under paragraph (1) shall include data elements, as determined appropriate by the Secretary, in consultation with the States and appropriate elements of the law enforcement community, on the impact on traffic safety of the use of electronic devices while driving.
(3) Maintenance of effort.— 
No grant may be made to a State under this section in any fiscal year unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all other sources for highway safety data programs at or above the average level of such expenditures maintained by such State in the 2 fiscal years preceding the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU.
(4) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of adopting and implementing in a fiscal year a State program described in subsection (a) may not exceed 80 percent.
(5) Limitation on use of grant proceeds.— 
A State may use the proceeds of a grant received under this section only to implement the program described in subsection (a) for which the grant is made.
(f) Applicability of Chapter 1.— 
Section 402 (d) of this title shall apply in the administration of this section.

23 USC 409 - Discovery and admission as evidence of certain reports and surveys

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data compiled or collected for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, or planning the safety enhancement of potential accident sites, hazardous roadway conditions, or railway-highway crossings, pursuant to sections 130, 144, and 148 of this title or for the purpose of developing any highway safety construction improvement project which may be implemented utilizing Federal-aid highway funds shall not be subject to discovery or admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for other purposes in any action for damages arising from any occurrence at a location mentioned or addressed in such reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data.

23 USC 410 - Alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures

(a) General Authority.— 

(1) Authority to make grants.— 
Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary shall make grants to States that adopt and implement effective programs to reduce traffic safety problems resulting from individuals driving while under the influence of alcohol. Such grants may only be used by recipient States to implement and enforce such programs.
(2) Maintenance of effort.— 
No grant may be made to a State under this subsection in any fiscal year unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all other sources for alcohol traffic safety programs at or above the average level of such expenditures in its 2 fiscal years preceding the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU.
(3) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of implementing and enforcing in a fiscal year a program adopted by a State pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not exceed
(A) in each of the first and second fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 75 percent;
(B) in each of the third and fourth fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 50 percent; and
(C) in each of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 25 percent.
(b) Eligibility Requirements.— 
To be eligible for a grant under subsection (a), a State shall
(1) have an alcohol related fatality rate of 0.5 or less per 100,000,000 vehicle miles traveled as of the date of the grant, as determined by the Secretary using the most recent Fatality Analysis Reporting System of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; or
(2) 
(A) for fiscal year 2006 by carrying out 3 of the programs and activities under subsection (c);
(B) for fiscal year 2007 by carrying out 4 of the programs and activities under subsection (c); or
(C) for fiscal years 2008 and 2009 by carrying out 5 of the programs and activities under subsection (c).
(c) State Programs and Activities.— 
The programs and activities referred to in subsection (b) are the following:
(1) Check point, saturation patrol program.— 
A State program to conduct a series of high visibility, statewide law enforcement campaigns in which law enforcement personnel monitor for impaired driving, either through the use of sobriety check points or saturation patrols, on a nondiscriminatory, lawful basis for the purpose of determining whether the operators of the motor vehicles are driving while under the influence of alcohol
(A) if the State organizes the campaigns in cooperation with related periodic national campaigns organized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, except that this subparagraph does not preclude a State from initiating sustained high visibility, Statewide law enforcement campaigns independently of the cooperative efforts; and
(B) if, for each fiscal year, the State demonstrates to the Secretary that the State and the political subdivisions of the State that receive funds under this section have increased, in the aggregate, the total number of impaired driving law enforcement activities at high incident locations (or any other similar activity approved by the Secretary) initiated in such State during the preceding fiscal year by a factor that the Secretary determines meaningful for the State over the number of such activities initiated in such State during the preceding fiscal year.
(2) Prosecution and adjudication outreach program.— 
A State prosecution and adjudication program under which
(A) the State works to reduce the use of diversion programs by educating and informing prosecutors and judges through various outreach methods about the benefits and merits of prosecuting and adjudicating defendants who repeatedly commit impaired driving offenses;
(B) the courts in a majority of the judicial jurisdictions of the State are monitored on the courts adjudication of cases of impaired driving offenses; or
(C) annual statewide outreach is provided for judges and prosecutors on innovative approaches to the prosecution and adjudication of cases of impaired driving offenses that have the potential for significantly improving the prosecution and adjudication of such cases.
(3) Testing of bac.— 
An effective system for increasing from the previous year the rate of blood alcohol concentration testing of motor vehicle drivers involved in fatal accidents.
(4) High risk drivers.— 
A law that establishes stronger sanctions or additional penalties for individuals convicted of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol whose blood alcohol concentration is 0.15 percent or more than for individuals convicted of the same offense but with a lower blood alcohol concentration. For purposes of this paragraph, additional penalties includes
(A) a 1-year suspension of a drivers license, but with the individual whose license is suspended becoming eligible after 45 days of such suspension to obtain a provisional drivers license that would permit the individual to drive
(i) only to and from the individuals place of employment or school; and
(ii) only in an automobile equipped with a certified alcohol ignition interlock device; and
(B) a mandatory assessment by a certified substance abuse official of whether the individual has an alcohol abuse problem with possible referral to counseling if the official determines that such a referral is appropriate.
(5) Programs for effective alcohol rehabilitation and dwi courts.— 
A program for effective inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehabilitation based on mandatory assessment and appropriate treatment for repeat offenders or a program to refer impaired driving cases to courts that specialize in driving while impaired cases that emphasize the close supervision of high-risk offenders.
(6) Underage drinking program.— 
An effective strategy, as determined by the Secretary, for preventing operators of motor vehicles under age 21 from obtaining alcoholic beverages and for preventing persons from making alcoholic beverages available to individuals under age 21. Such a strategy may include
(A) the issuance of tamper-resistant drivers licenses to individuals under age 21 that are easily distinguishable in appearance from drivers licenses issued to individuals age 21 or older; and
(B) a program provided by a nonprofit">nonprofit organization for training point of sale personnel concerning, at a minimum
(i) the clinical effects of alcohol;
(ii) methods of preventing second party sales of alcohol;
(iii) recognizing signs of intoxication;
(iv) methods to prevent underage drinking; and
(v) Federal, State, and local laws that are relevant to such personnel; and
(C) having a law in effect that creates a 0.02 percent blood alcohol content limit for drivers under 21 years old.
(7) Administrative license revocation.— 
An administrative drivers license suspension or revocation system for individuals who operate motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol that requires that
(A) in the case of an individual who, in any 5-year period beginning after the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, is determined on the basis of a chemical test to have been operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or is determined to have refused to submit to such a test as proposed by a law enforcement officer, the State agency responsible for administering drivers licenses, upon receipt of the report of the law enforcement officer
(i) suspend the drivers license of such individual for a period of not less than 90 days if such individual is a first offender in such 5-year period; except that under such suspension an individual may operate a motor vehicle, after the 15-day period beginning on the date of the suspension, to and from employment, school, or an alcohol treatment program if an ignition interlock device is installed on each of the motor vehicles owned or operated, or both, by the individual; and
(ii) suspend the drivers license of such individual for a period of not less than 1 year, or revoke such license, if such individual is a repeat offender in such 5year period; except that such individual to operate a motor vehicle, after the 45-day period beginning on the date of the suspension or revocation, to and from employment, school, or an alcohol treatment program if an ignition interlock device is installed on each of the motor vehicles owned or operated, or both, by the individual; and
(B) the suspension and revocation referred to under clause (i) take effect not later than 30 days after the date on which the individual refused to submit to a chemical test or received notice of having been determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol, in accordance with the procedures of the State.
(8) Self sustaining impaired driving prevention program.— 
A program under which a significant portion of the fines or surcharges collected from individuals who are fined for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol are returned to communities for comprehensive programs for the prevention of impaired driving.
(d) Uses of Grants.— 
Subject to subsection (g)(2), grants made under this section may be used for all programs and activities described in subsection (c), and to defray the following costs:
(1) Labor costs, management costs, and equipment procurement costs for the high visibility, Statewide law enforcement campaigns under subsection (c)(1).
(2) The costs of the training of law enforcement personnel and the procurement of technology and equipment, including video equipment and passive alcohol sensors, to counter directly impaired operation of motor vehicles.
(3) The costs of public awareness, advertising, and educational campaigns that publicize use of sobriety check points or increased law enforcement efforts to counter impaired operation of motor vehicles.
(4) The costs of public awareness, advertising, and educational campaigns that target impaired operation of motor vehicles by persons under 34 years of age.
(5) The costs of the development and implementation of a State impaired operator information system.
(6) The costs of operating programs that result in vehicle forfeiture or impoundment or license plate impoundment.
(e) Additional Authorities for Certain Authorized Uses.— 

(1) Combination of grant proceeds.— 
Grant funds used for a campaign under subsection (d)(3) may be combined, or expended in coordination, with proceeds of grants under section 402.
(2) Coordination of uses.— 
Grant funds used for a campaign under paragraph (3) or (4) of subsection (d) may be expended
(A) in coordination with employers, schools, entities in the hospitality industry, and nonprofit">nonprofit traffic safety groups; and
(B) in coordination with sporting events and concerts and other entertainment events.
(f) Allocation.— 
Subject to subsection (g), funds made available to carry out this section shall be allocated among States that meet the eligibility criteria in subsection (b) on the basis of the apportionment formula under section 402 (c).
(g) Grants to High Fatality Rate States.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall make a separate grant under this section to each State that
(A) is among the 10 States with the highest impaired driving related fatalities as determined by the Secretary using the most recent Fatality Analysis Reporting System of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and
(B) prepares a plan for grant expenditures under this subsection that is approved by the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
(2) Required uses.— 
At least one-half of the amounts allocated to States under this subsection may only be used for the program described in subsection (c)(1).
(3) Allocation.— 
Funds made available under this subsection shall be allocated among States described in paragraph (1) on the basis of the apportionment formula under section 402 (c), except that no State shall be allocated more than 30 percent of the funds made available to carry out this subsection for a fiscal year.
(4) Funding.— 
Not more than 15 percent per fiscal year of amounts made available to carry out this section for a fiscal year shall be made available by the Secretary for making grants under this subsection.
(h) Applicability of Chapter 1.— 
The provisions contained in section 402 (d) shall apply to this section.
(i) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Alcoholic beverage.— 
The term alcoholic beverage has the meaning given such term in section 158 (c).
(2) Controlled substances.— 
The term controlled substances has the meaning given such term in section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802 (6)).
(3) Motor vehicle.— 
The term motor vehicle has the meaning given such term in section 405.
(4) Impaired operator.— 
The term impaired operator means a person who, while operating a motor vehicle
(A) has a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher; or
(B) is under the influence of a controlled substance.
(5) Impaired driving related fatality rate.— 
The term impaired driving related fatality rate means the rate of alcohol related fatalities, as calculated in accordance with regulations which the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall prescribe.

23 USC 411 - State highway safety data improvements

(a) General Authority.— 

(1) Authority to make grants.— 
Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary shall make grants to States that adopt and implement effective programs
(A) to improve the timeliness, accuracy, completeness, uniformity, and accessibility of the data of the State that is needed to identify priorities for national, State, and local highway and traffic safety programs;
(B) to evaluate the effectiveness of efforts to make such improvements;
(C) to link these State data systems, including traffic records, with other data systems within the State, such as systems that contain medical and economic data; and
(D) to improve the compatibility of the data system of the State with national data systems and data systems of other States and to enhance the ability of the Secretary to observe and analyze national trends in crash occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances.

Such grants may be used by recipient States only to implement such programs.

(2) Model data elements.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with States and other appropriate parties, shall determine the model data elements necessary to observe and analyze national trends in crash occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances. In order to become eligible for a grant under this section, a State shall demonstrate how the multiyear highway safety data and traffic records plan of the State described in subsection (b)(1) will be incorporated into data systems of the State.
(3) Maintenance of effort.— 
No grant may be made to a State under this section in any fiscal year unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all other sources for highway safety data programs at or above the average level of such expenditures in its 2 fiscal years preceding the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century.
(4) Maximum period of eligibility.— 
No State may receive grants under this section in more than 6 fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1997.
(5) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of implementing and enforcing, as appropriate, in a fiscal year a program adopted by a State pursuant to paragraph (1) shall not exceed
(A) in the first and second fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 75 percent;
(B) in the third and fourth fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 50 percent; and
(C) in the fifth and sixth fiscal years in which the State receives a grant under this section, 25 percent.
(b) First-Year Grants.— 

(1) Eligibility.— 
A State shall become eligible for a first-year grant under this subsection in a fiscal year if the State either
(A) demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that the State has
(i) established a highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee with a multidisciplinary membership, including the administrators, collectors, and users of such data (including the public health, injury control, and motor carrier communities);
(ii) completed, within the preceding 5 years, a highway safety data and traffic records assessment or an audit of the highway safety data and traffic records system of the State; and
(iii) initiated the development of a multiyear highway safety data and traffic records strategic plan that
(I) identifies and prioritizes the highway safety data and traffic records needs and goals of the State;
(II) identifies performance-based measures by which progress toward those goals will be determined; and
(III) will be submitted to the highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee of the State for approval; or
(B) provides, to the satisfaction of the Secretary
(i) a certification that the State has met the requirements of clauses (i) and (ii) of subparagraph (A);
(ii) a multiyear highway safety data and traffic records strategic plan that
(I) meets the requirements of subparagraph (A)(iii); and
(II) specifies how the incentive funds of the State for the fiscal year will be used to address needs and goals identified in the plan; and
(iii) a certification that the highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee of the State continues to operate and supports the multiyear plan described in clause (ii).
(2) Grant amounts.— 
The amount of a first-year grant made to a State for a fiscal year under this subsection shall equal
(A) if the State is eligible for the grant under paragraph (1)(A), $125,000; and
(B) if the State is eligible for the grant under paragraph (1)(B), an amount determined by multiplying
(i) the amount appropriated to carry out this section for such fiscal year; by
(ii) the ratio that the funds apportioned to the State under section 402 for fiscal year 1997 bears to the funds apportioned to all States under section 402 for fiscal year 1997; except that no State eligible for a grant under paragraph (1)(B) shall receive less than $250,000.
(3) States not meeting criteria.— 
The Secretary may award a grant of up to $25,000 for 1 year to any State that does not meet the criteria established in paragraph (1). The grant may only be used to conduct activities needed to enable the State to qualify for a first-year grant in the next fiscal year.
(c) [1] Succeeding Year Grants.
(1) Eligibility.— 
A State shall be eligible for a grant under this subsection in a fiscal year succeeding the first fiscal year in which the State receives a grant under subsection (b) if the State, to the satisfaction of the Secretary
(A) submits or updates a multiyear highway safety data and traffic records strategic plan that meets the requirements of subsection (b)(1);
(B) certifies that the highway safety data and traffic records coordinating committee of the State continues to operate and supports the multiyear plan; and
(C) reports annually on the progress of the State in implementing the multiyear plan.
(2) Grant amounts.— 
The amount of a succeeding year grant made to the State for a fiscal year under this paragraph shall equal the amount determined by multiplying
(A) the amount appropriated to carry out this section for such fiscal year; by
(B) the ratio that the funds apportioned to the State under section 402 for fiscal year 1997 bears to the funds apportioned to all States under section 402 for fiscal year 1997; except that no State eligible for a grant under this paragraph shall receive less than $225,000.
(c) [1] Administrative Expenses.Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section in a fiscal year shall be subject to a deduction not to exceed 5 percent for the necessary costs of administering the provisions of this section.
(d) Applicability of Chapter 1.— 
The provisions contained in section 402 (d) shall apply to this section.
[1] So in original. Two subsecs. (c) have been enacted.

23 USC 412 - Agency accountability

(a) Triennial State Management Reviews.— 
At least once every 3 years the Secretary shall conduct a review of each State highway safety program. The review shall include a management evaluation of all grant programs funded under this chapter. The Secretary shall provide review-based recommendations on how each State could improve the management and oversight of its grant activities and may provide a management and oversight plan for such grant programs.
(b) Recommendations Before Submission.— 
In order to provide guidance to State highway safety agencies on matters that should be addressed in the goals and initiatives of the State highway safety program before the program is submitted for review, the Secretary shall provide data-based recommendations to each State at least 90 days before the date on which the program is to be submitted for approval.
(c) State Program Review.— 
The Secretary shall
(1) conduct a program improvement review of a highway safety program under this chapter of a State that does not make substantial progress over a 3-year period in meeting its priority program goals; and
(2) provide technical assistance and safety program requirements to be incorporated in the State highway safety program for any goal not achieved.
(d) Regional Harmonization.— 
The Secretary and the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation shall undertake an administrative review of the practices and procedures of the management reviews and program reviews of State highway safety programs under this chapter conducted by the regional offices of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and prepare a written report of best practices and procedures for use by the regional offices in conducting such reviews. The report shall be completed within 180 days after the date of enactment of this section.
(e) Best Practices Guidelines.— 

(1) Uniform guidelines.— 
The Secretary shall issue uniform management review guidelines and program review guidelines based on the report under subsection (d). Each regional office shall use the guidelines in executing its State administrative review duties under this section.
(2) Publication.— 
The Secretary shall make publicly available on the Web site (or successor electronic facility) of the Administration the following documents upon their completion:
(A) The Secretarys management review guidelines and program review guidelines.
(B) All State highway safety programs submitted under this chapter.
(C) State annual accomplishment reports.
(D) The Administrations Summary Report of findings from Management Reviews and Improvement Plans.
(3) Reports to state highway safety agencies.— 
The Secretary may not make publicly available a program, report, or review under paragraph (2) that is directed to a State highway safety agency until after the date on which the program, report, or review is submitted to that agency under this chapter.
(f) GAO Review.— 

(1) Analysis.— 
The Comptroller General shall analyze the effectiveness of the Administrations oversight of traffic safety grants under this chapter by determining the usefulness of the Administrations advice to the States regarding administration and State activities under this chapter, the extent to which the States incorporate the Administrations recommendations into their highway safety programs, and the improvements that result in a States highway safety program that may be attributable to the Administrations recommendations.
(2) Report.— 
Not later than September 30, 2008, the Comptroller General shall submit a report on the results of the analysis to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 5 - RESEARCH, TECHNOLOGY, AND EDUCATION

23 USC 501 - Definitions

In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(1) Federal laboratory.— 
The term Federal laboratory includes a Government-owned, Government-operated laboratory and a Government-owned, contractor-operated laboratory.
(2) Safety.— 
The term safety includes highway and traffic safety systems, research, and development relating to vehicle, highway, driver, passenger, bicyclist, and pedestrian characteristics, accident investigations, communications, emergency medical care, and transportation of the injured.

23 USC 502 - Surface transportation research

(a) Basic Principles Governing Research and Technology Investments.— 

(1) Coverage.— 
Surface transportation research and technology development shall include all activities leading to technology development and transfer, as well as the introduction of new and innovative ideas, practices, and approaches, through such mechanisms as field applications, education and training, and technical support.
(2) Federal responsibility.— 
Funding and conducting surface transportation research and technology transfer activities shall be considered a basic responsibility of the Federal Government when the work
(A) is of national significance;
(B) supports research in which there is a clear public benefit and private sector investment is less than optimal;
(C) supports a Federal stewardship role in assuring that State and local governments use national resources efficiently; or
(D) presents the best means to support Federal policy goals compared to other policy alternatives.
(3) Role.— 
Consistent with these Federal responsibilities, the Secretary shall
(A) conduct research;
(B) support and facilitate research and technology transfer activities by State highway agencies;
(C) share results of completed research; and
(D) support and facilitate technology and innovation deployment.
(4) Program content.— 
A surface transportation research program shall include
(A) fundamental, long-term highway research;
(B) research aimed at significant highway research gaps and emerging issues with national implications; and
(C) research related to policy and planning.
(5) Stakeholder input.— 
Federal surface transportation research and development activities shall address the needs of stakeholders. Stakeholders include States, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments, the private sector, researchers, research sponsors, and other affected parties, including public interest groups.
(6) Competition and peer review.— 
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the Secretary shall award, to the maximum extent practicable, all grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements for research and development under this chapter based on open competition and peer review of proposals.
(7) Performance review and evaluation.— 
To the maximum extent practicable, all surface transportation research and development projects shall include a component of performance measurement and evaluation. Performance measures shall be established during the proposal stage of a research and development project and shall, to the maximum extent possible, be outcome-based. All evaluations shall be made readily available to the public.
(8) Technological innovation.— 
The programs and activities carried out under this section shall be consistent with the surface transportation research and technology development strategic plan developed under section 508.
(b) General Authority.— 

(1) Research, development, and technology transfer activities.— 
The Secretary may carry out research, development, and technology transfer activities with respect to
(A) motor carrier transportation;
(B) all phases of transportation planning and development (including construction, operation, transportation system management and operations, modernization, development, design, maintenance, safety, financing, and traffic conditions); and
(C) the effect of State laws on the activities described in subparagraphs (A) and (B).
(2) Tests and development.— 
The Secretary may test, develop, or assist in testing and developing any material, invention, patented article, or process.
(3) Cooperation, grants, and contracts.— 
The Secretary may carry out research, development, and technology transfer activities related to transportation
(A) independently;
(B) in cooperation with other Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities and Federal laboratories; or
(C) by making grants to, or entering into contracts and cooperative agreements with one or more of the following: the National Academy of Sciences, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, any Federal laboratory, Federal agency, State agency, authority, association, institution, for-profit or nonprofit">nonprofit corporation, organization, foreign country, or any other person.
(4) Technological innovation.— 
The programs and activities carried out under this section shall be consistent with the surface transportation research and technology development strategic plan developed under section 508.
(5) Funds.— 

(A) Special account.— 
In addition to other funds made available to carry out this section, the Secretary shall use such funds as may be deposited by any cooperating organization or person in a special account of the Treasury established for this purpose.
(B) Use of funds.— 
The Secretary shall use funds made available to carry out this section to develop, administer, communicate, and promote the use of products of research, development, and technology transfer programs under this section.
(6) Pooled funding.— 

(A) Cooperation.— 
To promote effective utilization of available resources, the Secretary may cooperate with a State and an appropriate agency in funding research, development, and technology transfer activities of mutual interest on a pooled funds basis.
(B) Secretary as agent.— 
The Secretary may enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants as the agent for all participating parties in carrying out such research, development, or technology transfer activities.
(c) Collaborative Research and Development.— 

(1) In general.— 
To encourage innovative solutions to surface transportation problems and stimulate the deployment of new technology, the Secretary may carry out, on a cost-shared basis, collaborative research and development with
(A) non-Federal entities, including State and local governments, foreign governments, colleges and universities, corporations, institutions, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and trade associations that are incorporated or established under the laws of any State; and
(B) Federal laboratories.
(2) Cooperation, grants, contracts, and agreements.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may directly initiate contracts, cooperative research and development agreements (as defined in section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a)) to fund, and accept funds from, the Transportation Research Board of the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, State departments of transportation, cities, counties, and their agents to conduct joint transportation research and technology efforts.
(3) Federal share.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Federal share of the cost of activities carried out under a cooperative research and development agreement entered into under this subsection shall not exceed 50 percent, except that if there is substantial public interest or benefit, the Secretary may approve a greater Federal share.
(B) Non-federal share.— 
All costs directly incurred by the non-Federal partners, including personnel, travel, and hardware development costs, shall be credited toward the non-Federal share of the cost of the activities described in subparagraph (A).
(4) Use of technology.— 
The research, development, or use of a technology under a cooperative research and development agreement entered into under this subsection, including the terms under which the technology may be licensed and the resulting royalties may be distributed, shall be subject to the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3701 et seq.).
(5) Waiver of advertising requirements.— 
Section 3709 of the Revised Statutes (41 U.S.C. 5) shall not apply to a contract or agreement entered into under this chapter.
(d) Contents of Research Program.— 
The Secretary shall include in surface transportation research, technology development, and technology transfer programs carried out under this title coordinated activities in the following areas:
(1) Development, use, and dissemination of indicators, including appropriate computer programs for collecting and analyzing data on the status of infrastructure facilities, to measure the performance of the surface transportation systems of the United States, including productivity, efficiency, energy use, air quality, congestion, safety, maintenance, and other factors that reflect system performance.
(2) Methods, materials, and testing to improve the durability of surface transportation infrastructure facilities and extend the life of bridge structures, including
(A) new and innovative technologies to reduce corrosion;
(B) tests simulating seismic activity, vibration, and weather; and
(C) the use of innovative recycled materials.
(3) Technologies and practices that reduce costs and minimize disruptions associated with the construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of surface transportation systems, including responses to natural disasters.
(4) Development of nondestructive evaluation equipment for use with existing infrastructure facilities and with next-generation infrastructure facilities that use advanced materials.
(5) Dynamic simulation models of surface transportation systems for
(A) predicting capacity, safety, and infrastructure durability problems;
(B) evaluating planned research projects; and
(C) testing the strengths and weaknesses of proposed revisions to surface transportation system management and operations programs.
(6) Economic highway geometrics, structures, and desirable weight and size standards for vehicles using the public highways and the feasibility of uniformity in State regulations with respect to such standards.
(7) Telecommuting and the linkages between transportation, information technology, and community development and the impact of technological change and economic restructuring on travel demand.
(8) Expansion of knowledge of implementing life cycle cost analysis, including
(A) establishing the appropriate analysis period and discount rates;
(B) learning how to value and properly consider use costs;
(C) determining tradeoffs between reconstruction and rehabilitation; and
(D) establishing methodologies for balancing higher initial costs of new technologies and improved or advanced materials against lower maintenance costs.
(9) Standardized estimates, to be developed in conjunction with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and other appropriate organizations, of useful life under various conditions for advanced materials of use in surface transportation.
(10) Evaluation of traffic calming measures that promote community preservation, transportation mode choice, and safety.
(11) Development and implementation of safety-enhancing equipment, including unobtrusive eyetracking technology.
(12) Investigation and development of various operational methodologies to reduce the occurrence and impact of recurrent congestion and nonrecurrent congestion and increase transportation system reliability.
(13) Investigation of processes, procedures, and technologies to secure container and hazardous material transport, including the evaluation of regulations and the impact of good security practices on commerce and productivity.
(14) Research, development, and technology transfer related to asset management.
(e) Exploratory Advanced Research.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish an exploratory advanced research program, consistent with the surface transportation research and technology development strategic plan developed under section 508 that addresses longer-term, higher-risk research with potentially dramatic breakthroughs for improving the durability, efficiency, environmental impact, productivity, and safety (including bicycle and pedestrian safety) aspects of highway and intermodal transportation systems. In carrying out the program, the Secretary shall strive to develop partnerships with public and private sector entities.
(2) Research areas.— 
In carrying out the program, the Secretary may make grants and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts in such areas of surface transportation research and technology as the Secretary determines appropriate, including the following:
(A) Characterization of materials used in highway infrastructure, including analytical techniques, microstructure modeling, and the deterioration processes.
(B) Assessment of the effects of transportation decisions on human health.
(C) Development of surrogate measures of safety.
(D) Environmental research.
(E) Data acquisition techniques for system condition and performance monitoring.
(F) System performance data and information processing needed to assess the day-to-day operational performance of the system in support of hour-to-hour operational decisionmaking.
(f) Long-Term Pavement Performance Program.— 

(1) Authority.— 
The Secretary shall continue to carry out, through September 30, 2009, tests, monitoring, and data analysis under the long-term pavement performance program.
(2) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 
Under the program, the Secretary shall make grants and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts to
(A) monitor, material-test, and evaluate highway test sections in existence as of the date of the grant, agreement, or contract;
(B) analyze the data obtained under subparagraph (A); and
(C) prepare products to fulfill program objectives and meet future pavement technology needs.
(g) Seismic Research.— 
The Secretary shall
(1) in consultation and cooperation with Federal agencies participating in the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program established by section 5 of the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 (42 U.S.C. 7704), coordinate the conduct of seismic research;
(2) take such actions as are necessary to ensure that the coordination of the research is consistent with
(A) planning and coordination activities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology under section 5(b)(1) of that Act (42 U.S.C. 7704 (b)(1)); and
(B) the plan developed by the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology under section 8(b) of that Act (42 U.S.C. 7705b (b)); and
(3) in cooperation with the Center for Civil Engineering Research at the University of Nevada, Reno, and the National Center for Earthquake Engineering Research at the University of Buffalo, carry out a seismic research program
(A) to study the vulnerability of the Federal-aid system and other surface transportation systems to seismic activity;
(B) to develop and implement cost-effective methods to reduce the vulnerability; and
(C) to conduct seismic research and upgrade earthquake simulation facilities as necessary to carry out the program.
(h) [1] Infrastructure Investment Needs Report.
(1) In general.— 
Not later than January 31, 1999, and January 31 of every second year thereafter, the Secretary shall report to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives on
(A) estimates of the future highway and bridge needs of the United States; and
(B) the backlog of current highway and bridge needs.
(2) Comparison with prior reports.— 
Each report under paragraph (1) shall provide the means, including all necessary information, to relate and compare the conditions and service measures used in the 3 biannual reports published prior to the date of enactment of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century.
(h) [1] Infrastructure Investment Needs Report.
(1) In general.— 
Not later than July 31, 2006, and July 31 of every second year thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that describes
(A) estimates of the future highway, transit, and bridge needs of the United States; and
(B) the backlog of current highway, transit, and bridge needs.
(2) Comparison with prior reports.— 
Each report under paragraph (1) shall provide the means, including all necessary information, to relate and compare the conditions and service measures used in the previous biennial reports.
(i) Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall operate in the Federal Highway Administration a Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center.
(2) Uses of the center.— 
The Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center shall support
(A) the conduct of highway research and development related to new highway technology;
(B) the development of understandings, tools, and techniques that provide solutions to complex technical problems through the development of economical and environmentally sensitive designs, efficient and quality-controlled construction practices, and durable materials; and
(C) the development of innovative highway products and practices.
(j) Long-Term Bridge Performance Program.— 

(1) Authority.— 
The Secretary shall establish a 20-year long-term bridge performance program.
(2) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 
Under the program, the Secretary shall make grants and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts to
(A) monitor, material-test, and evaluate test bridges;
(B) analyze the data obtained under subparagraph (A); and
(C) prepare products to fulfill program objectives and meet future bridge technology needs.
[1] So in original. Two subsecs. (h) have been enacted.

23 USC 503 - Technology deployment

(a) Technology Deployment Program.— 

(1) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall develop and administer a national technology deployment program.
(2) Purpose.— 
The purpose of the program shall be to significantly accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies by the surface transportation community.
(3) Deployment goals.— 

(A) Establishment.— 
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish not more than 5 deployment goals to carry out paragraph (1).
(B) Design.— 
Each of the goals and the program developed to achieve the goals shall be designed to provide tangible benefits, with respect to transportation systems, in the areas of efficiency, safety, reliability, service life, environmental protection, and sustainability.
(C) Strategies for achievement.— 
For each goal, the Secretary, in cooperation with representatives of the transportation community such as States, local governments, the private sector, and academia, shall use domestic and international technology to develop strategies and initiatives to achieve the goal, including technical assistance in deploying technology and mechanisms for sharing information among program participants.
(4) Integration with other programs.— 
The Secretary shall integrate activities carried out under this subsection with the efforts of the Secretary to disseminate the results of research sponsored by the Secretary and to facilitate technology transfer.
(5) Leveraging of federal resources.— 
In selecting projects to be carried out under this subsection, the Secretary shall give preference to projects that leverage Federal funds with other significant public or private resources.
(6) Continuation of shrp partnerships.— 
Under the program, the Secretary shall continue the partnerships established through the strategic highway research program established under section 307 (d) (as in effect on the day before the date of enactment of this section).
(7) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 

(A) In general.— 
Under the program, the Secretary may make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts with, States, other Federal agencies, universities and colleges, private sector entities, and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations to pay the Federal share of the cost of research, development, and technology transfer activities concerning innovative materials.
(B) Applications.— 
To receive a grant under this subsection, an entity described in subparagraph (A) shall submit an application to the Secretary. The application shall be in such form and contain such information as the Secretary may require. The Secretary shall select and approve an application based on whether the project that is the subject of the grant meets the purpose of the program described in paragraph (2).
(8) Technology and information transfer.— 
The Secretary shall ensure that the information and technology resulting from research conducted under paragraph (7) is made available to State and local transportation departments and other interested parties as specified by the Secretary.
(9) Allocation.— 
To the extent appropriate to achieve the goals established under paragraph (3), the Secretary may further allocate funds made available to carry out this section to States for their use.
(b) Innovative Bridge Research and Construction Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program to promote, demonstrate, evaluate, and document the application of innovative designs, materials, and construction methods in the construction, repair, and rehabilitation of bridges and other highway structures.
(2) Goals.— 
The goals of the program shall include
(A) the development of new, cost-effective, innovative highway bridge applications;
(B) the development of construction techniques to increase safety and reduce construction time and traffic congestion;
(C) the development of engineering design criteria for innovative products, materials, and structural systems for use in highway bridges and structures;
(D) the reduction of maintenance costs and life-cycle costs of bridges, including the costs of new construction, replacement, or rehabilitation of deficient bridges;
(E) the development of highway bridges and structures that will withstand natural disasters;
(F) the documentation and wide dissemination of objective evaluations of the performance and benefits of these innovative designs, materials, and construction methods;
(G) the effective transfer of resulting information and technology; and
(H) the development of improved methods to detect bridge scour and economical bridge foundation designs that will withstand bridge scour.
(3) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 

(A) In general.— 
Under the program, the Secretary shall make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts with
(i) States, other Federal agencies, universities and colleges, private sector entities, and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations to pay the Federal share of the cost of research, development, and technology transfer concerning innovative materials; and
(ii) States to pay the Federal share of the cost of repair, rehabilitation, replacement, and new construction of bridges or structures that demonstrate the application of innovative materials.
(B) Applications.— 
To receive a grant under this subsection, an entity described in subparagraph (A) shall submit an application to the Secretary. The application shall be in such form and contain such information as the Secretary may require. The Secretary shall select and approve the applications based on whether the project that is the subject of the grant meets the goals of the program described in paragraph (2).
(4) Technology and information transfer.— 
The Secretary shall take such action as is necessary to ensure that the information and technology resulting from research conducted under paragraph (3) is made available to State and local transportation departments and other interested parties as specified by the Secretary.
(5) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project under this section shall be determined by the Secretary.
(c) Innovative Pavement Research and Deployment Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish and implement a program to promote, demonstrate, support, and document the application of innovative pavement technologies, practices, performance, and benefits.
(2) Goals.— 
The goals of the innovative pavement research and deployment program shall include
(A) the deployment of new, cost-effective, innovative designs, materials, recycled materials (including taconite tailings and foundry sand), and practices to extend pavement life and performance and to improve customer satisfaction;
(B) the reduction of initial costs and life-cycle costs of pavements, including the costs of new construction, replacement, maintenance, and rehabilitation;
(C) the deployment of accelerated construction techniques to increase safety and reduce construction time and traffic disruption and congestion;
(D) the deployment of engineering design criteria and specifications for innovative practices, products, and materials for use in highway pavements;
(E) the deployment of new nondestructive and real-time pavement evaluation technologies and techniques;
(F) the evaluation, refinement, and documentation of the performance and benefits of innovative technologies deployed to improve life, performance, cost effectiveness, safety, and customer satisfaction;
(G) effective technology transfer and information dissemination to accelerate implementation of innovative technologies and to improve life, performance, cost effectiveness, safety, and customer satisfaction; and
(H) the development of designs and materials to reduce storm water runoff.
(3) Research to improve nhs pavement.— 
The Secretary shall obligate for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009 from funds made available to carry out this subsection, $4,100,000 to conduct research to improve asphalt pavement, $4,100,000 to conduct research to improve concrete pavement, $4,100,000 to conduct research to improve alternative materials used in highways (including alternative materials used in highway drainage applications), and $2,450,000 to conduct research to improve aggregates used in highways on the National Highway System.
(d) Safety Innovation Deployment Program.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish and implement a program to demonstrate the application of innovative technologies in highway safety.
(2) Goals.— 
The goals of the program shall include
(A) the deployment and evaluation of safety technologies and innovations at State and local levels; and
(B) the deployment of best practices in training, management, design, and planning.
(3) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 

(A) In general.— 
Under the program, the Secretary shall make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts with, States, other Federal agencies, universities and colleges, private sector entities, and nonprofit">nonprofit organizations for research, development, and technology transfer for innovative safety technologies.
(B) Applications.— 
To receive a grant under this subsection, an entity described in subparagraph (A) shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time and containing such information as the Secretary may require. The Secretary shall select and approve an application based on whether the project that is the subject of the application meets the goals of the program described in paragraph (2).
(4) Technology and information transfer.— 
The Secretary shall take such action as is necessary to ensure that the information and technology resulting from research conducted under paragraph (3) is made available to State and local transportation departments and other interested parties as specified by the Secretary.
(e) Promotional Authority.— 
Funds authorized to be appropriated for necessary expenses for administration and operation of the Federal Highway Administration shall be available to purchase promotional items of nominal value for use in the recruitment of individuals and to promote the programs of the Federal Highway Administration.

23 USC 504 - Training and education

(a) National Highway Institute.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall operate in the Federal Highway Administration a National Highway Institute (in this subsection referred to as the Institute). The Secretary shall administer, through the Institute, the authority vested in the Secretary by this title or by any other law for the development and conduct of education and training programs relating to highways.
(2) Duties of the institute.— 
In cooperation with State transportation departments, United States industry, and any national or international entity, the Institute shall develop and administer education and training programs of instruction for
(A) Federal Highway Administration, State, and local transportation agency employees;
(B) regional, State, and metropolitan planning organizations;
(C) State and local police, public safety, and motor vehicle employees; and
(D) United States citizens and foreign nationals engaged or to be engaged in surface transportation work of interest to the United States.
(3) Courses.— 

(A) In general.— 
The Institute shall
(i) develop or update existing courses in asset management, including courses that include such components as
(I) the determination of life-cycle costs;
(II) the valuation of assets;
(III) benefit-to-cost ratio calculations; and
(IV) objective decisionmaking processes for project selection; and
(ii) continually develop courses relating to the application of emerging technologies for
(I) transportation infrastructure applications and asset management;
(II) intelligent transportation systems;
(III) operations (including security operations);
(IV) the collection and archiving of data;
(V) expediting the planning and development of transportation projects; and
(VI) the intermodal movement of individuals and freight.
(B) Additional courses.— 
In addition to the courses developed under subparagraph (A), the Institute, in consultation with State transportation departments, metropolitan planning organizations, and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, may develop courses relating to technology, methods, techniques, engineering, construction, safety, maintenance, environmental mitigation and compliance, regulations, management, inspection, and finance.
(C) Revision of courses offered.— 
The Institute shall periodically
(i) review the course inventory of the Institute; and
(ii) revise or cease to offer courses based on course content, applicability, and need.
(4) Set-aside; federal share.— 
Not to exceed 1/2 of 1 percent of the funds apportioned to a State under section 104 (b)(3) for the surface transportation program shall be available for expenditure by the State transportation department for the payment of not to exceed 80 percent of the cost of tuition and direct educational expenses (excluding salaries) in connection with the education and training of employees of State and local transportation agencies in accordance with this subsection.
(5) Federal responsibility.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), education and training of employees of Federal, State, and local transportation (including highway) agencies authorized under this subsection may be provided
(i) by the Secretary at no cost to the States and local governments if the Secretary determines that provision at no cost is in the public interest; or
(ii) by the State through grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts with public and private agencies, institutions, individuals, and the Institute.
(B) Payment of full cost by private persons.— 
Private agencies, international or foreign entities, and individuals shall pay the full cost of any education and training received by them unless the Secretary determines that a lower cost is of critical importance to the public interest.
(6) Training fellowships; cooperation.— 
The Institute may
(A) engage in training activities authorized under this subsection, including the granting of training fellowships; and
(B) carry out its authority independently or in cooperation with any other branch of the Federal Government or any State agency, authority, association, institution, for-profit or nonprofit">nonprofit corporation, other national or international entity, or other person.
(7) Collection of fees.— 

(A) General rule.— 
In accordance with this subsection, the Institute may assess and collect fees solely to defray the costs of the Institute in developing or administering education and training programs under this subsection.
(B) Limitation.— 
Fees may be assessed and collected under this subsection only in a manner that may reasonably be expected to result in the collection of fees during any fiscal year in an aggregate amount that does not exceed the aggregate amount of the costs referred to in subparagraph (A) for the fiscal year.
(C) Persons subject to fees.— 
Fees may be assessed and collected under this subsection only with respect to
(i) persons and entities for whom education or training programs are developed or administered under this subsection; and
(ii) persons and entities to whom education or training is provided under this subsection.
(D) Amount of fees.— 
The fees assessed and collected under this subsection shall be established in a manner that ensures that the liability of any person or entity for a fee is reasonably based on the proportion of the costs referred to in subparagraph (A) that relate to the person or entity.
(E) Use.— 
All fees collected under this subsection shall be used to defray costs associated with the development or administration of education and training programs authorized under this subsection.
(8) Relation to fees.— 
The funds made available to carry out this subsection may be combined with or held separate from the fees collected under paragraph (7).
(b) Local Technical Assistance Program.— 

(1) Authority.— 
The Secretary shall carry out a local technical assistance program that will provide access to surface transportation technology to
(A) highway and transportation agencies in urbanized and rural areas;
(B) contractors that perform work for the agencies; and
(C) infrastructure security staff.
(2) Grants, cooperative agreements, and contracts.— 
The Secretary may make grants and enter into cooperative agreements and contracts to provide education and training, technical assistance, and related support services to
(A) assist rural, local transportation agencies and tribal governments, and the consultants and construction personnel working for the agencies and governments, to
(i) develop and expand expertise in road and transportation areas (including pavement, bridge, concrete structures, intermodal connections, safety management systems, intelligent transportation systems, incident response, operations, and traffic safety countermeasures);
(ii) improve roads and bridges;
(iii) enhance
(I) programs for the movement of passengers and freight; and
(II) intergovernmental transportation planning and project selection; and
(iv) deal effectively with special transportation-related problems by preparing and providing training packages, manuals, guidelines, and technical resource materials;
(B) develop technical assistance for tourism and recreational travel;
(C) identify, package, and deliver transportation technology and traffic safety information to local jurisdictions to assist urban transportation agencies in developing and expanding their ability to deal effectively with transportation-related problems (particularly the promotion of regional cooperation);
(D) operate, in cooperation with State transportation departments and universities
(i) local technical assistance program centers designated to provide transportation technology transfer services to rural areas and to urbanized areas; and
(ii) local technical assistance program centers designated to provide transportation technical assistance to tribal governments; and
(E) allow local transportation agencies and tribal governments, in cooperation with the private sector, to enhance new technology implementation.
(3) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of activities carried out by the tribal technical assistance centers under paragraph (2)(D)(ii) shall be 100 percent.
(c) Research Fellowships.— 

(1) General authority.— 
The Secretary, acting either independently or in cooperation with other Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities, may make grants for research fellowships for any purpose for which research is authorized by this chapter.
(2) Dwight david eisenhower transportation fellowship program.— 
The Secretary shall establish and implement a transportation research fellowship program for the purpose of attracting qualified students to the field of transportation. The program shall be known as the Dwight David Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship Program.
(d) Garrett A. Morgan Technology and Transportation Education Program.
(1) In general.— 
The Secretary shall establish the Garrett A. Morgan Technology and Transportation Education Program to improve the preparation of students, particularly women and minorities, in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through curriculum development and other activities related to transportation.
(2) Authorized activities.— 
The Secretary shall award grants under this subsection on the basis of competitive peer review. Grants awarded under this subsection may be used for enhancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at the elementary and secondary school level through such means as
(A) internships that offer students experience in the transportation field;
(B) programs that allow students to spend time observing scientists and engineers in the transportation field; and
(C) developing relevant curriculum that uses examples and problems related to transportation.
(3) Application and review procedures.— 

(A) In general.— 
An entity described in subparagraph (C) seeking funding under this subsection shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. Such application, at a minimum, shall include a description of how the funds will be used to serve the purposes described in paragraph (2).
(B) Priority.— 
In making awards under this subsection, the Secretary shall give priority to applicants that will encourage the participation of women and minorities.
(C) Eligibility.— 
Local educational agencies and State educational agencies, which may enter into a partnership agreement with institutions of higher education, businesses, or other entities, shall be eligible to apply for grants under this subsection.
(4) Definitions.— 
In this subsection, the following definitions apply:
(A) Institution of higher education.— 
The term institution of higher education has the meaning given that term in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001).
(B) Local educational agency.— 
The term local educational agency has the meaning given that term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).
(C) State educational agency.— 
The term State educational agency has the meaning given that term in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7801).
(e) Surface Transportation Workforce Development, Training, and Education.— 

(1) Funding.— 
Subject to project approval by the Secretary, a State may obligate funds apportioned to the State under sections 104 (b)(1), 104 (b)(2), 104 (b)(3), 104 (b)(4), and 144 (e) for surface transportation workforce development, training, and education, including
(A) tuition and direct educational expenses, excluding salaries, in connection with the education and training of employees of State and local transportation agencies;
(B) employee professional development;
(C) student internships;
(D) university or community college support; and
(E) education activities, including outreach, to develop interest and promote participation in surface transportation careers.
(2) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of activities carried out in accordance with this subsection shall be 100 percent.
(3) Surface transportation workforce development, training, and education defined.— 
In this subsection, the term surface transportation workforce development, training, and education means activities associated with surface transportation career awareness, student transportation career preparation, and training and professional development for surface transportation workers, including activities for women and minorities.
(f) Transportation Education Development Pilot Program.— 

(1) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish a program to make grants to institutions of higher education that, in partnership with industry or State departments of transportation, will develop, test, and revise new curricula and education programs to train individuals at all levels of the transportation workforce.
(2) Selection of grant recipients.— 
In selecting applications for awards under this subsection, the Secretary shall consider
(A) the degree to which the new curricula or education program meets the specific needs of a segment of the transportation industry, States, or regions;
(B) providing for practical experience and on-the-job training;
(C) proposals oriented toward practitioners in the field rather than the support and growth of the research community;
(D) the degree to which the new curricula or program will provide training in areas other than engineering, such as business administration, economics, information technology, environmental science, and law;
(E) programs or curricula in nontraditional departments that train professionals for work in the transportation field, such as materials, information technology, environmental science, urban planning, and industrial technology; and
(F) the commitment of industry or a States department of transportation to the program.
(3) Limitations.— 
The amount of a grant under this subsection shall not exceed $300,000 per year. After a recipient has received 3 years of Federal funding under this subsection, Federal funding may equal not more than 75 percent of a grantees program costs.
(g) Freight Capacity Building Program.— 

(1) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish a freight planning capacity building initiative to support enhancements in freight transportation planning in order to
(A) better target investments in freight transportation systems to maintain efficiency and productivity; and
(B) strengthen the decisionmaking capacity of State transportation departments and local transportation agencies with respect to freight transportation planning and systems.
(2) Agreements.— 
The Secretary shall enter into agreements to support and carry out administrative and management activities relating to the governance of the freight planning capacity initiative.
(3) Stakeholder involvement.— 
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall consult with the Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and other freight planning stakeholders, including the other Federal agencies, State transportation departments, local governments, nonprofit">nonprofit entities, academia, and the private sector.
(4) Eligible activities.— 
The freight planning capacity building initiative shall include research, training, and education in the following areas:
(A) The identification and dissemination of best practices in freight transportation.
(B) Providing opportunities for freight transportation staff to engage in peer exchange.
(C) Refinement of data and analysis tools used in conjunction with assessing freight transportation needs.
(D) Technical assistance to State transportation departments and local transportation agencies reorganizing to address freight transportation issues.
(E) Facilitating relationship building between governmental and private entities involved in freight transportation.
(F) Identifying ways to target the capacity of State transportation departments and local transportation agencies to address freight considerations in operations, security, asset management, and environmental excellence in connection with long-range multimodal transportation planning and project implementation.
(5) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out under this section shall be up to 100 percent, and such funds shall remain available until expended.
(6) Use of funds.— 
Funds made available for the program established under this subsection may be used for research, program development, information collection and dissemination, and technical assistance. The Secretary may use such funds independently or make grants or to[1] and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with a Federal agency, State agency, local agency, federally recognized Indian tribal government or tribal consortium, authority, association, nonprofit">nonprofit or for-profit corporation, or institution of higher education, to carry out the purposes of this subsection.
[1] So in original.

23 USC 505 - State planning and research

(a) General Rule.— 
Two percent of the sums apportioned to a State for fiscal year 1998 and each fiscal year thereafter under section 104 (other than sections 104 (f) and 104 (h)) and under section 144 shall be available for expenditure by the State, in consultation with the Secretary, only for the following purposes:
(1) Engineering and economic surveys and investigations.
(2) The planning of future highway programs and local public transportation systems and the planning of the financing of such programs and systems, including metropolitan and statewide planning under sections 134 and 135.
(3) Development and implementation of management systems under section 303.
(4) Studies of the economy, safety, and convenience of surface transportation systems and the desirable regulation and equitable taxation of such systems.
(5) Research, development, and technology transfer activities necessary in connection with the planning, design, construction, management, and maintenance of highway, public transportation, and intermodal transportation systems.
(6) Study, research, and training on the engineering standards and construction materials for transportation systems described in paragraph (5), including the evaluation and accreditation of inspection and testing and the regulation and taxation of their use.
(7) The conduct of activities relating to the planning of real-time monitoring elements.
(b) Minimum Expenditures on Research, Development, and Technology Transfer Activities.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), not less than 25 percent of the funds subject to subsection (a) that are apportioned to a State for a fiscal year shall be expended by the State for research, development, and technology transfer activities described in subsection (a), relating to highway, public transportation, and intermodal transportation systems.
(2) Waivers.— 
The Secretary may waive the application of paragraph (1) with respect to a State for a fiscal year if the State certifies to the Secretary for the fiscal year that total expenditures by the State for transportation planning under sections 134 and 135 will exceed 75 percent of the funds described in paragraph (1) and the Secretary accepts such certification.
(3) Nonapplicability of assessment.— 
Funds expended under paragraph (1) shall not be considered to be part of the extramural budget of the agency for the purpose of section 9 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638).
(c) Federal Share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out using funds subject to subsection (a) shall be 80 percent unless the Secretary determines that the interests of the Federal-aid highway program would be best served by decreasing or eliminating the non-Federal share.
(d) Administration of Sums.— 
Funds subject to subsection (a) shall be combined and administered by the Secretary as a single fund and shall be available for obligation for the period described in section 118 (b)(2).

23 USC 506 - International highway transportation outreach program

(a) Establishment.— 
The Secretary may establish an international highway transportation outreach program
(1) to inform the United States highway community of technological innovations in foreign countries that could significantly improve highway transportation in the United States;
(2) to promote United States highway transportation expertise, goods, and services in foreign countries; and
(3) to increase transfers of United States highway transportation technology to foreign countries.
(b) Activities.— 
Activities carried out under the program may include
(1) the development, monitoring, assessment, and dissemination in the United States of information about highway transportation innovations in foreign countries that could significantly improve highway transportation in the United States;
(2) research, development, demonstration, training, and other forms of technology transfer and exchange;
(3) the provision to foreign countries, through participation in trade shows, seminars, expositions, and other similar activities, of information relating to the technical quality of United States highway transportation goods and services;
(4) the offering of technical services of the Federal Highway Administration that cannot be readily obtained from private sector firms in the United States for incorporation into the proposals of those firms undertaking highway transportation projects outside the United States, if the costs of the technical services will be recovered under the terms of the project;
(5) the conduct of studies to assess the need for, or feasibility of, highway transportation improvements in foreign countries; and
(6) the gathering and dissemination of information on foreign transportation markets and industries.
(c) Cooperation.— 
The Secretary may carry out this section in cooperation with any appropriate
(1) Federal, State, or local agency;
(2) authority, association, institution, or organization;
(3) for-profit or nonprofit">nonprofit corporation;
(4) national or international entity;
(5) foreign country; or
(6) person.
(d) Funds.— 

(1) Contributions.— 
Funds available to carry out this section shall include funds deposited by any cooperating organization or person into a special account of the Treasury established for this purpose.
(2) Eligible uses of funds.— 
The funds deposited into the account, and other funds available to carry out this section, shall be available to cover the cost of any activity eligible under this section, including the cost of
(A) promotional materials;
(B) travel;
(C) reception and representation expenses; and
(D) salaries and benefits.
(3) Reimbursements for salaries and benefits.— 
Reimbursements for salaries and benefits of Department employees providing services under this section shall be credited to the account.
(e) Report.— 
For each fiscal year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that describes the destinations and individual trip costs of international travel conducted in carrying out activities described in this section.

23 USC 507 - Surface transportation-environmental cooperative research program

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall establish and carry out a surface transportation-environmental cooperative research program.
(b) Contents.— 
The program carried out under this section may include research
(1) to develop more accurate models for evaluating transportation control measures and transportation system designs that are appropriate for use by State and local governments (including metropolitan planning organizations) in designing implementation plans to meet Federal, State, and local environmental requirements;
(2) to improve understanding of the factors that contribute to the demand for transportation;
(3) to develop indicators of economic, social, and environmental performance of transportation systems to facilitate analysis of potential alternatives;
(4) to meet additional priorities as determined by the Secretary in the strategic planning process under section 508; and
(5) to refine, through the conduct of workshops, symposia, and panels, and in consultation with stakeholders (including the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other appropriate Federal and State agencies and associations) the scope and research emphases of the program.
(c) Program Administration.— 
The Secretary shall
(1) administer the program established under this section; and
(2) ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that
(A) the best projects and researchers are selected to conduct research in the priority areas described in subsection (b)
(i) on the basis of merit of each submitted proposal; and
(ii) through the use of open solicitations and selection by a panel of appropriate experts;
(B) a qualified, permanent core staff with the ability and expertise to manage a large multiyear budget is used;
(C) the stakeholders are involved in the governance of the program, at the executive, overall program, and technical levels, through the use of expert panels and committees; and
(D) there is no duplication of research effort between the program established under this section and the new strategic highway research program established under section 510.
(d) National Academy of Sciences.— 
The Secretary may make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements with, the National Academy of Sciences to carry out such activities relating to the research, technology, and technology transfer activities described in subsections (b) and (c) as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

23 USC 508 - Transportation research and development strategic planning

(a) In General.— 

(1) Development.— 
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary shall develop a 5-year transportation research and development strategic plan to guide Federal transportation research and development activities. This plan shall be consistent with section 306 of title 5, sections 1115 and 1116 of title 31, and any other research and development plan within the Department of Transportation.
(2) Contents.— 
The strategic plan developed under paragraph (1) shall
(A) describe the primary purposes of the transportation research and development program, which shall include, at a minimum
(i) reducing congestion and improving mobility;
(ii) promoting safety;
(iii) promoting security;
(iv) protecting and enhancing the environment;
(v) preserving the existing transportation system; and
(vi) improving the durability and extending the life of transportation infrastructure;
(B) for each purpose, list the primary research and development topics that the Department intends to pursue to accomplish that purpose, which may include the fundamental research in the physical and natural sciences, applied research, technology development, and social science research intended for each topic; and
(C) for each research and development topic, describe
(i) the anticipated annual funding levels for the period covered by the strategic plan; and
(ii) the additional information the Department expects to gain at the end of the period covered by the strategic plan as a result of the research and development in that topic area.
(3) Considerations.— 
In developing the strategic plan, the Secretary shall ensure that the plan
(A) reflects input from a wide range of stakeholders;
(B) includes and integrates the research and development programs of all the Departments operating administrations, including aviation, transit, rail, and maritime; and
(C) takes into account how research and development by other Federal, State, private sector, and nonprofit">nonprofit institutions contributes to the achievement of the purposes identified under paragraph (2)(A), and avoids unnecessary duplication with these efforts.
(4) Performance plans and reports.— 
In reports submitted under sections 1115 and 1116 of title 31, the Secretary shall include
(A) a summary of the Federal transportation research and development activities for the previous fiscal year in each topic area;
(B) the amount of funding spent in each topic area;
(C) a description of the extent to which the research and development is meeting the expectations set forth in paragraph (2)(C)(ii); and
(D) any amendments to the strategic plan.
(b) Annual Report.— 
The Secretary shall submit to appropriate committees of Congress an annual report, in conjunction with the Presidents annual budget request as set forth in section 1105 of title 31, describing the amount spent in the last completed fiscal year on transportation research and development and the amount proposed in the current budget for transportation research and development.
(c) National Research Council Review.— 
The Secretary shall enter into an agreement for the review by the National Research Council of the details of each
(1) strategic plan under this section;
(2) performance plan required under section 1115 of title 31; and
(3) program performance report required under section 1116 of title 31, with respect to transportation research and development.

23 USC 509 - National cooperative freight transportation research program

(a) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish and support a national cooperative freight transportation research program.
(b) Agreement.— 
The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to support and carry out administrative and management activities relating to the governance of the national cooperative freight transportation research program.
(c) Advisory Committee.— 
The National Academy of Sciences shall select an advisory committee consisting of a representative cross-section of freight stakeholders, including the Department of Transportation, other Federal agencies, State transportation departments, local governments, nonprofit">nonprofit entities, academia, and the private sector.
(d) Governance.— 
The national cooperative freight transportation research program established under this section shall include the following administrative and management elements:
(1) National research agenda.— 
The advisory committee, in consultation with interested parties, shall recommend a national research agenda for the program. The agenda shall include a multiyear strategic plan.
(2) Involvement.— 
Interested parties may
(A) submit research proposals to the advisory committee;
(B) participate in merit reviews of research proposals and peer reviews of research products; and
(C) receive research results.
(3) Open competition and peer review of research proposals.— 
The National Academy of Sciences may award research contracts and grants under the program through open competition and merit review conducted on a regular basis.
(4) Evaluation of research.— 

(A) Peer review.— 
Research contracts and grants under the program may allow peer review of the research results.
(B) Programmatic evaluations.— 
The National Academy of Sciences may conduct periodic programmatic evaluations on a regular basis of research contracts and grants.
(5) Dissemination of research findings.— 
The National Academy of Sciences shall disseminate research findings to researchers, practitioners, and decisionmakers, through conferences and seminars, field demonstrations, workshops, training programs, presentations, testimony to government officials, the World Wide Web, publications for the general public, and other appropriate means.
(e) Contents.— 
The national research agenda required under subsection (d)(1) shall include research in the following areas:
(1) Techniques for estimating and quantifying public benefits derived from freight transportation projects.
(2) Alternative approaches to calculating the contribution of truck and rail traffic to congestion on specific highway segments.
(3) The feasibility of consolidating origins and destinations for freight movement.
(4) Methods for incorporating estimates of international trade into landside transportation planning.
(5) The use of technology applications to increase capacity of highway lanes dedicated to truck-only traffic.
(6) Development of physical and policy alternatives for separating car and truck traffic.
(7) Ways to synchronize infrastructure improvements with freight transportation demand.
(8) The effect of changing patterns of freight movement on transportation planning decisions relating to rest areas.
(9) Other research areas to identify and address emerging and future research needs related to freight transportation by all modes.
(f) Funding.— 

(1) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out under this section shall be up to 100 percent.
(2) Use of non-federal funds.— 
In addition to using funds authorized for this section, the National Academy of Sciences may seek and accept additional funding sources from public and private entities capable of accepting funding from the Department of Transportation, States, local governments, nonprofit">nonprofit foundations, and the private sector.
(3) Period of availability.— 
Amounts made available to carry out this section shall remain available until expended.

23 USC 510 - Future strategic highway research program

(a) Establishment.— 
The Secretary, in consultation with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, shall establish and carry out, acting through the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, the future strategic highway research program.
(b) Cooperative Agreements.— 
The Secretary may make grants to, and enter into cooperative agreements with, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and the National Academy of Sciences to carry out such activities under this section as the Secretary determines are appropriate.
(c) Program Priorities.— 

(1) Program elements.— 
The program established under this section shall be based on the National Research Council Special Report 260, entitled Strategic Highway Research: Saving Lives, Reducing Congestion, Improving Quality of Life and the results of the detailed planning work subsequently carried out in 2002 and 2003 to identify the research areas through National Cooperative Research Program Project 2058. The research program shall include an analysis of the following:
(A) Renewal of aging highway infrastructure with minimal impact to users of the facilities.
(B) Driving behavior and likely crash causal factors to support improved countermeasures.
(C) Reducing highway congestion due to nonrecurring congestion.
(D) Planning and designing new road capacity to meet mobility, economic, environmental, and community needs.
(2) Dissemination of results.— 
The research results of the program, expressed in terms of technologies, methodologies, and other appropriate categorizations, shall be disseminated to practicing engineers for their use, as soon as practicable.
(d) Program Administration.— 
In carrying out the program under this section, the National Research Council shall ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, that
(1) projects and researchers are selected to conduct research for the program on the basis of merit and open solicitation of proposals and review by panels of appropriate experts;
(2) State department of transportation officials and other stakeholders, as appropriate, are involved in the governance of the program at the overall program level and technical level through the use of expert panels and committees;
(3) the Council acquires a qualified, permanent core staff with the ability and expertise to manage the program and multiyear budget; and
(4) there is no duplication of research effort between the program and any other research effort of the Department.
(e) Report on Implementation of Results.— 

(1) Report.— 
The Transportation Research Board of the National Research Council shall complete a report on the strategies and administrative structure to be used for implementation of the results of the future strategic highway research program.
(2) Components.— 
The report under paragraph (1) shall include with respect to the program
(A) an identification of the most promising results of research under the program (including the persons most likely to use the results);
(B) a discussion of potential incentives for, impediments to, and methods of, implementing those results;
(C) an estimate of costs of implementation of those results; and
(D) recommendations on methods by which implementation of those results should be conducted, coordinated, and supported in future years, including a discussion of the administrative structure and organization best suited to carry out those recommendations.
(3) Consultation.— 
In developing the report, the Transportation Research Board shall consult with a wide variety of stakeholders, including
(A) the Federal Highway Administration;
(B) the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and
(C) the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
(4) Submission.— 
Not later than February 1, 2009, the report shall be submitted to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
(f) Funding.— 

(1) Federal share.— 
The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out using amounts made available under a grant or cooperative agreement under this section shall be 100 percent, and such funds shall remain available until expended.
(2) Advance payments.— 
The Secretary may make advance payments as necessary to carry out the program under this section.
(g) Limitation of Remedies.— 

(1) Same remedy as if united states.— 
The remedy against the United States provided by sections 1346 (b) and 2672 of title 28 for injury, loss of property, personal injury, or death shall apply to any claim against the National Academy of Sciences for money damages for injury, loss of property, personal injury, or death caused by any negligent or wrongful act or omission by employees and individuals described in paragraph (3) arising from activities conducted under or in connection with this section. Any such claim shall be subject to the limitations and exceptions which would be applicable to such claim if such claim were against the United States. With respect to any such claim, the Secretary shall be treated as the head of the appropriate Federal agency for purposes of sections 2672 and 2675 of title 28.
(2) Exclusiveness of remedy.— 
The remedy referred to in paragraph (1) shall be exclusive of any other civil action or proceeding for the purpose of determining liability arising from any such act or omission without regard to when the act or omission occurred.
(3) Treatment.— 
Employees of the National Academy of Sciences and other individuals appointed by the president of the National Academy of Sciences and acting on its behalf in connection with activities carried out under this section shall be treated as if they are employees of the Federal Government under section 2671 of title 28 for purposes of a civil action or proceeding with respect to a claim described in paragraph (1). The civil action or proceeding shall proceed in the same manner as any proceeding under chapter 171 of title 28 or action against the United States filed pursuant to section 1346 (b) of title 28 and shall be subject to the limitations and exceptions applicable to such a proceeding or action.
(4) Sources of payments.— 
Payment of any award, compromise, or settlement of a civil action or proceeding with respect to a claim described in paragraph (1) shall be paid first out of insurance maintained by the National Academy of Sciences, second from funds made available to carry out this section, and then from sums made available under section 1304 of title 31. For purposes of such section, such an award, compromise, or settlement shall be deemed to be a judgment, award, or settlement payable under section 2414 or 2672 of title 28. The Secretary may establish a reserve of funds to carry out this section for making payments under this paragraph.

23 USC 511 - Multistate corridor operations and management

(a) In General.— 
The Secretary shall encourage multistate cooperative agreements, coalitions, or other arrangements to promote regional cooperation, planning, and shared project implementation for programs and projects to improve transportation system management and operations.
(b) Interstate Route 95 Corridor Coalition Transportation Systems Management and Operations.— 
The Secretary shall make grants under this subsection to States to continue intelligent transportation system management and operations in the Interstate Route 95 corridor coalition region initiated under the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (Public Law 102240).

23 USC 512 - National ITS program plan

(a) In General.— 

(1) Updates.— 
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the SAFETEALU, the Secretary, in consultation with interested stakeholders (including State transportation departments) shall develop a 5-year National Intelligent Transportation System (in this section referred to as ITS) program plan.
(2) Scope.— 
The National ITS program plan shall
(A) specify the goals, objectives, and milestones for the research and deployment of intelligent transportation systems in the contexts of
(i) major metropolitan areas;
(ii) smaller metropolitan and rural areas; and
(iii) commercial vehicle operations;
(B) specify the manner in which specific programs and projects will achieve the goals, objectives, and milestones referred to in subparagraph (A), including consideration of a 5-year timeframe for the goals and objectives;
(C) identify activities that provide for the dynamic development, testing, and necessary revision of standards and protocols to promote and ensure interoperability in the implementation of intelligent transportation system technologies, including actions taken to establish standards; and
(D) establish a cooperative process with State and local governments for
(i) determining desired surface transportation system performance levels; and
(ii) developing plans for accelerating the incorporation of specific intelligent transportation system capabilities into surface transportation systems.
(b) Reporting.— 
The National ITS program plan shall be submitted and biennially updated as part of the transportation research and development strategic plan developed under section 508.

23 USC 513 - Use of funds for ITS activities

(a) In General.— 
For each fiscal year, not more than $250,000 of the funds made available to carry out this[1] subtitle C of title V of the SAFETEALU shall be used for intelligent transportation system outreach, public relations, displays, tours, and brochures.
(b) Applicability.— 
Subsection (a) shall not apply to intelligent transportation system training, scholarships, or the publication or distribution of research findings, technical guidance, or similar documents.
[1] So in original.

TITLE 23 - US CODE - CHAPTER 6 - INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCE

23 USC 601 - Generally applicable provisions

(a) Definitions.— 
In this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(1) Eligible project costs.— 
The term eligible project costs means amounts substantially all of which are paid by, or for the account of, an obligor in connection with a project, including the cost of
(A) development phase activities, including planning, feasibility analysis, revenue forecasting, environmental review, permitting, preliminary engineering and design work, and other preconstruction activities;
(B) construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, replacement, and acquisition of real property (including land related to the project and improvements to land), environmental mitigation, construction contingencies, and acquisition of equipment; and
(C) capitalized interest necessary to meet market requirements, reasonably required reserve funds, capital issuance expenses, and other carrying costs during construction.
(2) Federal credit instrument.— 
The term Federal credit instrument means a secured loan, loan guarantee, or line of credit authorized to be made available under this chapter with respect to a project.
(3) Investment-grade rating.— 
The term investment-grade rating means a rating of BBB minus, Baa3, or higher assigned by a rating agency to project obligations.
(4) Lender.— 
The term lender means any non-Federal qualified institutional buyer (as defined in section 230.144A(a) of title 17, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation), known as Rule 144A(a) of the Securities and Exchange Commission and issued under the Securities Act of 1933 (15 U.S.C. 77a et seq.)), including
(A) a qualified retirement plan (as defined in section 4974(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) that is a qualified institutional buyer; and
(B) a governmental plan (as defined in section 414(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986) that is a qualified institutional buyer.
(5) Line of credit.— 
The term line of credit means an agreement entered into by the Secretary with an obligor under section 604 to provide a direct loan at a future date upon the occurrence of certain events.
(6) Loan guarantee.— 
The term loan guarantee means any guarantee or other pledge by the Secretary to pay all or part of the principal of and interest on a loan or other debt obligation issued by an obligor and funded by a lender.
(7) Obligor.— 
The term obligor means a party primarily liable for payment of the principal of or interest on a Federal credit instrument, which party may be a corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, or governmental entity, agency, or instrumentality.
(8) Project.— 
The term project means
(A) any surface transportation project eligible for Federal assistance under this title or chapter 53 of title 49;
(B) a project for an international bridge or tunnel for which an international entity authorized under Federal or State law is responsible;
(C) a project for intercity passenger bus or rail facilities and vehicles, including facilities and vehicles owned by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation and components of magnetic levitation transportation systems; and
(D) a project that
(i) is a project
(I) for a public freight rail facility or a private facility providing public benefit for highway users;
(II) for an intermodal freight transfer facility;
(III) for a means of access to a facility described in subclause (I) or (II);
(IV) for a service improvement for a facility described in subclause (I) or (II) (including a capital investment for an intelligent transportation system); or
(V) that comprises a series of projects described in subclauses (I) through (IV) with the common objective of improving the flow of goods;
(ii) may involve the combining of private and public sector funds, including investment of public funds in private sector facility improvements; and
(iii) if located within the boundaries of a port terminal, includes only such surface transportation infrastructure modifications as are necessary to facilitate direct intermodal interchange, transfer, and access into and out of the port.
(9) Project obligation.— 
The term project obligation means any note, bond, debenture, or other debt obligation issued by an obligor in connection with the financing of a project, other than a Federal credit instrument.
(10) Rating agency.— 
The term rating agency means a credit rating agency registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization, as that term is defined in section 3(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
(11) Secured loan.— 
The term secured loan means a direct loan or other debt obligation issued by an obligor and funded by the Secretary in connection with the financing of a project under section 603.
(12) State.— 
The term State has the meaning given the term in section 101.
(13) Subsidy amount.— 
The term subsidy amount means the amount of budget authority sufficient to cover the estimated long-term cost to the Federal Government of a Federal credit instrument, calculated on a net present value basis, excluding administrative costs and any incidental effects on governmental receipts or outlays in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990 (2 U.S.C. 661 et seq.).
(14) Substantial completion.— 
The term substantial completion means the opening of a project to vehicular or passenger traffic.
(b) Treatment of Chapter.— 
For purposes of this title, this chapter shall be treated as being part of chapter 1.

23 USC 602 - Determination of eligibility and project selection

(a) Eligibility.— 
To be eligible to receive financial assistance under this chapter, a project shall meet the following criteria:
(1) Inclusion in transportation plans and programs.— 
The project shall satisfy the applicable planning and programming requirements of sections 134 and 135 at such time as an agreement to make available a Federal credit instrument is entered into under this chapter.
(2) Application.— 
A State, local government, public authority, public-private partnership, or any other legal entity undertaking the project and authorized by the Secretary, shall submit a project application to the Secretary.
(3) Eligible project costs.— 

(A) In general.— 
Except as provided in subparagraph (B), to be eligible for assistance under this chapter, a project shall have eligible project costs that are reasonably anticipated to equal or exceed the lesser of
(i) $50,000,000; or
(ii) 331/3 percent of the amount of Federal highway assistance funds apportioned for the most recently completed fiscal year to the State in which the project is located.
(B) Intelligent transportation system projects.— 
In the case of a project principally involving the installation of an intelligent transportation system, eligible project costs shall be reasonably anticipated to equal or exceed $15,000,000.
(4) Dedicated revenue sources.— 
The Federal credit instrument shall be repayable, in whole or in part, from tolls, user fees, or other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the project obligations.
(5) Public sponsorship of private entities.— 
In the case of a project that is undertaken by an entity that is not a State or local government or an agency or instrumentality of a State or local government, the project that the entity is undertaking shall be publicly sponsored as provided in paragraphs (1) and (2).
(b) Selection Among Eligible Projects.— 

(1) Establishment.— 
The Secretary shall establish criteria for selecting among projects that meet the eligibility requirements specified in subsection (a).
(2) Selection criteria.— 

(A) In general.— 
The selection criteria shall include the following:
(i) The extent to which the project is nationally or regionally significant, in terms of generating economic benefits, supporting international commerce, or otherwise enhancing the national transportation system.
(ii) The creditworthiness of the project, including a determination by the Secretary that any financing for the project has appropriate security features, such as a rate covenant, to ensure repayment.
(iii) The extent to which assistance under this chapter would foster innovative public-private partnerships and attract private debt or equity investment.
(iv) The likelihood that assistance under this chapter would enable the project to proceed at an earlier date than the project would otherwise be able to proceed.
(v) The extent to which the project uses new technologies, including intelligent transportation systems, that enhance the efficiency of the project.
(vi) The amount of budget authority required to fund the Federal credit instrument made available under this chapter.
(vii) The extent to which the project helps maintain or protect the environment.
(viii) The extent to which assistance under this chapter and chapter 1 would reduce the contribution of Federal grant assistance to the project.
(B) Preliminary rating opinion letter.— 
For purposes of subparagraph (A)(ii), the Secretary shall require each project applicant to provide a preliminary rating opinion letter from at least 1 rating agency indicating that the projects senior obligations, which may be the Federal credit instrument, have the potential to achieve an investment-grade rating.
(c) Federal Requirements.— 
In addition to the requirements of this title for highway projects, chapter 53 of title 49 for transit projects, and section 5333 (a) of title 49 for rail projects, the following provisions of law shall apply to funds made available under this chapter and projects assisted with the funds:
(1) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.).
(2) The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(3) The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4601 et seq.).

23 USC 603 - Secured loans

(a) In General.— 

(1) Agreements.— 
Subject to paragraphs (2) through (4), the Secretary may enter into agreements with 1 or more obligors to make secured loans, the proceeds of which shall be used
(A) to finance eligible project costs of any project selected under section 602; or
(B) to refinance interim construction financing of eligible project costs of any project selected under section 602; or
(C) to refinance long-term project obligations or Federal credit instruments if such refinancing provides additional funding capacity for the completion, enhancement, or expansion of any project that
(i) is selected under section 602; or
(ii) otherwise meets the requirements of section 602.
(2) Limitation on refinancing of interim construction financing.— 
A loan under paragraph (1) shall not refinance interim construction financing under paragraph (1)(B) later than 1 year after the date of substantial completion of the project.
(3) Risk assessment.— 
Before entering into an agreement under this subsection, the Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and each rating agency providing a preliminary rating opinion letter under section 602 (b)(2)(B), shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for each secured loan, taking into account such letter.
(4) Investment-grade rating requirement.— 
The execution of a secured loan under this section shall be contingent on the projects senior obligations receiving an investment-grade rating.
(b) Terms and Limitations.— 

(1) In general.— 
A secured loan under this section with respect to a project shall be on such terms and conditions and contain such covenants, representations, warranties, and requirements (including requirements for audits) as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(2) Maximum amount.— 
The amount of the secured loan shall not exceed the lesser of 33 percent of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs or, if the secured loan does not receive an investment grade rating, the amount of the senior project obligations.
(3) Payment.— 
The secured loan
(A) shall
(i) be payable, in whole or in part, from tolls, user fees, or other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the senior project obligations; and
(ii) include a rate covenant, coverage requirement, or similar security feature supporting the project obligations; and
(B) may have a lien on revenues described in subparagraph (A) subject to any lien securing project obligations.
(4) Interest rate.— 
The interest rate on the secured loan shall be not less than the yield on United States Treasury securities of a similar maturity to the maturity of the secured loan on the date of execution of the loan agreement.
(5) Maturity date.— 
The final maturity date of the secured loan shall be not later than 35 years after the date of substantial completion of the project.
(6) Nonsubordination.— 
The secured loan shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency, or liquidation of the obligor.
(7) Fees.— 
The Secretary may establish fees at a level sufficient to cover all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of making a secured loan under this section.
(8) Non-federal share.— 
The proceeds of a secured loan under this chapter may be used for any non-Federal share of project costs required under this title or chapter 53 of title 49, if the loan is repayable from non-Federal funds.
(c) Repayment.— 

(1) Schedule.— 
The Secretary shall establish a repayment schedule for each secured loan under this section based on the projected cash flow from project revenues and other repayment sources.
(2) Commencement.— 
Scheduled loan repayments of principal or interest on a secured loan under this section shall commence not later than 5 years after the date of substantial completion of the project.
(3) Deferred payments.— 

(A) Authorization.— 
If, at any time after the date of substantial completion of the project, the project is unable to generate sufficient revenues to pay the scheduled loan repayments of principal and interest on the secured loan, the Secretary may, subject to subparagraph (C), allow the obligor to add unpaid principal and interest to the outstanding balance of the secured loan.
(B) Interest.— 
Any payment deferred under subparagraph (A) shall
(i) continue to accrue interest in accordance with subsection (b)(4) until fully repaid; and
(ii) be scheduled to be amortized over the remaining term of the loan.
(C) Criteria.— 

(i) In general.— 
Any payment deferral under subparagraph (A) shall be contingent on the project meeting criteria established by the Secretary.
(ii) Repayment standards.— 
The criteria established under clause (i) shall include standards for reasonable assurance of repayment.
(4) Prepayment.— 

(A) Use of excess revenues.— 
Any excess revenues that remain after satisfying scheduled debt service requirements on the project obligations and secured loan and all deposit requirements under the terms of any trust agreement, bond resolution, or similar agreement securing project obligations may be applied annually to prepay the secured loan without penalty.
(B) Use of proceeds of refinancing.— 
The secured loan may be prepaid at any time without penalty from the proceeds of refinancing from non-Federal funding sources.
(d) Sale of Secured Loans.— 

(1) In general.— 
Subject to paragraph (2), as soon as practicable after substantial completion of a project and after notifying the obligor, the Secretary may sell to another entity or reoffer into the capital markets a secured loan for the project if the Secretary determines that the sale or reoffering can be made on favorable terms.
(2) Consent of obligor.— 
In making a sale or reoffering under paragraph (1), the Secretary may not change the original terms and conditions of the secured loan without the written consent of the obligor.
(e) Loan Guarantees.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary may provide a loan guarantee to a lender in lieu of making a secured loan if the Secretary determines that the budgetary cost of the loan guarantee is substantially the same as that of a secured loan.
(2) Terms.— 
The terms of a guaranteed loan shall be consistent with the terms set forth in this section for a secured loan, except that the rate on the guaranteed loan and any prepayment features shall be negotiated between the obligor and the lender, with the consent of the Secretary.

23 USC 604 - Lines of credit

(a) In General.— 

(1) Agreements.— 
Subject to paragraphs (2) through (4), the Secretary may enter into agreements to make available lines of credit to 1 or more obligors in the form of direct loans to be made by the Secretary at future dates on the occurrence of certain events for any project selected under section 602.
(2) Use of proceeds.— 
The proceeds of a line of credit made available under this section shall be available to pay debt service on project obligations issued to finance eligible project costs, extraordinary repair and replacement costs, operation and maintenance expenses, and costs associated with unexpected Federal or State environmental restrictions.
(3) Risk assessment.— 
Before entering into an agreement under this subsection, the Secretary, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and each rating agency providing a preliminary rating opinion letter under section 602 (b)(2)(B), shall determine an appropriate capital reserve subsidy amount for each line of credit, taking into account such letter.
(4) Investment-grade rating requirement.— 
The funding of a line of credit under this section shall be contingent on the projects senior obligations receiving an investment-grade rating from at least 1 rating agency.
(b) Terms and Limitations.— 

(1) In general.— 
A line of credit under this section with respect to a project shall be on such terms and conditions and contain such covenants, representations, warranties, and requirements (including requirements for audits) as the Secretary determines appropriate.
(2) Maximum amounts.— 
The total amount of the line of credit shall not exceed 33 percent of the reasonably anticipated eligible project costs.
(3) Draws.— 
Any draw on the line of credit shall represent a direct loan and shall be made only if net revenues from the project (including capitalized interest but not including reasonably required financing reserves) are insufficient to pay the costs specified in subsection (a)(2).
(4) Interest rate.— 
The interest rate on a direct loan resulting from a draw on the line of credit shall be not less than the yield on 30-year United States Treasury securities as of the date of execution of the line of credit agreement.
(5) Security.— 
The line of credit
(A) shall
(i) be payable, in whole or in part, from tolls, user fees, or other dedicated revenue sources that also secure the senior project obligations; and
(ii) include a rate covenant, coverage requirement, or similar security feature supporting the project obligations; and
(B) may have a lien on revenues described in subparagraph (A) subject to any lien securing project obligations.
(6) Period of availability.— 
The full amount of the line of credit, to the extent not drawn upon, shall be available during the period beginning on the date of substantial completion of the project and ending not later than 10 years after that date.
(7) Rights of third-party creditors.— 

(A) Against federal government.— 
A third-party creditor of the obligor shall not have any right against the Federal Government with respect to any draw on the line of credit.
(B) Assignment.— 
An obligor may assign the line of credit to 1 or more lenders or to a trustee on the lenders behalf.
(8) Nonsubordination.— 
A direct loan under this section shall not be subordinated to the claims of any holder of project obligations in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency, or liquidation of the obligor.
(9) Fees.— 
The Secretary may establish fees at a level sufficient to cover all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of providing a line of credit under this section.
(10) Relationship to other credit instruments.— 
A project that receives a line of credit under this section also shall not receive a secured loan or loan guarantee under section 603 of an amount that, combined with the amount of the line of credit, exceeds 33 percent of eligible project costs.
(c) Repayment.— 

(1) Terms and conditions.— 
The Secretary shall establish repayment terms and conditions for each direct loan under this section based on the projected cash flow from project revenues and other repayment sources.
(2) Timing.— 
All repayments of principal or interest on a direct loan under this section shall be scheduled to commence not later than 5 years after the end of the period of availability specified in subsection (b)(6) and to conclude, with full repayment of principal and interest, by the date that is 25 years after the end of the period of availability specified in subsection (b)(6).

23 USC 605 - Program administration

(a) Requirement.— 
The Secretary shall establish a uniform system to service the Federal credit instruments made available under this chapter.
(b) Fees.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary may collect and spend fees, contingent upon authority being provided in appropriations Acts, at a level that is sufficient to cover
(A) the costs of services of expert firms retained pursuant to subsection (d); and
(B) all or a portion of the costs to the Federal Government of servicing the Federal credit instruments.
(c) Servicer.— 

(1) In general.— 
The Secretary may appoint a financial entity to assist the Secretary in servicing the Federal credit instruments.
(2) Duties.— 
The servicer shall act as the agent for the Secretary.
(3) Fee.— 
The servicer shall receive a servicing fee, subject to approval by the Secretary.
(d) Assistance From Expert Firms.— 
The Secretary may retain the services of expert firms, including counsel, in the field of municipal and project finance to assist in the underwriting and servicing of Federal credit instruments.

23 USC 606 - State and local permits

The provision of financial assistance under this chapter with respect to a project shall not
(1) relieve any recipient of the assistance of any obligation to obtain any required State or local permit or approval with respect to the project;
(2) limit the right of any unit of State or local government to approve or regulate any rate of return on private equity invested in the project; or
(3) otherwise supersede any State or local law (including any regulation) applicable to the construction or operation of the project.

23 USC 607 - Regulations

The Secretary may issue such regulations as the Secretary determines appropriate to carry out this chapter.

23 USC 608 - Funding

(a) Funding.— 

(1) In general.— 
There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this chapter $122,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009.
(2) Availability.— 
Amounts made available to carry out this chapter shall remain available until expended.
(3) Administrative costs.— 
From funds made available to carry out this chapter, the Secretary may use, for the administration of this chapter, not more than $2,200,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009.
(b) Contract Authority.— 

(1) In general.— 
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, approval by the Secretary of a Federal credit instrument that uses funds made available under this chapter shall impose upon the United States a contractual obligation to fund the Federal credit investment.
(2) Availability.— 
Amounts authorized under this section for a fiscal year shall be available for obligation on October 1 of the fiscal year.

23 USC 609 - Reports to Congress

On June 1, 2006, and every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report summarizing the financial performance of the projects that are receiving, or have received, assistance under this chapter (other than section 610), including a recommendation as to whether the objectives of this chapter (other than section 610) are best served
(1) by continuing the program under the authority of the Secretary;
(2) by establishing a Government corporation or Government-sponsored enterprise to administer the program; or
(3) by phasing out the program and relying on the capital markets to fund the types of infrastructure investments assisted by this chapter (other than section 610) without Federal participation.

23 USC 610.1 - State infrastructure bank program

(a) Definitions.— 
In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) Capital project.— 
The term capital project has the meaning such term has under section 5302 of title 49.
(2) Other forms of credit assistance.— 
The term other forms of credit assistance includes any use of funds in an infrastructure bank
(A) to provide credit enhancements;
(B) to serve as a capital reserve for bond or debt instrument financing;
(C) to subsidize interest rates;
(D) to insure or guarantee letters of credit and credit instruments against credit risk of loss;
(E) to finance purchase and lease agreements with respect to transit projects;
(F) to provide bond or debt financing instrument security; and
(G) to provide other forms of debt financing and methods of leveraging funds that are approved by the Secretary and that relate to the project with respect to which such assistance is being provided.
(3) State.— 
The term State has the meaning such term has under section 401.
(4) Capitalization.— 
The term capitalization means the process used for depositing funds as initial capital into a State infrastructure bank to establish the infrastructure bank.
(5) Cooperative agreement.— 
The term cooperative agreement means written consent between a State and the Secretary which sets forth the manner in which the infrastructure bank established by the State in accordance with this section will be administered.
(6) Loan.— 
The term loan means any form of direct financial assistance from a State infrastructure bank that is required to be repaid over a period of time and that is provided to a project sponsor for all or part of the costs of the project.
(7) Guarantee.— 
The term guarantee means a contract entered into by a State infrastructure bank in which the bank agrees to take responsibility for all or a portion of a project sponsors financial obligations for a project under specified conditions.
(8) Initial assistance.— 
The term initial assistance means the first round of funds that are loaned or used for credit enhancement by a State infrastructure bank for projects eligible for assistance under this section.
(9) Leverage.— 
The term leverage means a financial structure used to increase funds in a State infrastructure bank through the issuance of debt instruments.
(10) Leveraged.— 
The term leveraged, as used with respect to a State infrastructure bank, means that the bank has total potential liabilities that exceed the capital of the bank.
(b) Cooperative Agreements.— 
Subject to the provisions of this section, the Secretary may enter into cooperative agreements with States for the establishment of State infrastructure banks for making loans and providing other forms of credit assistance to public and private entities carrying out or proposing to carry out projects eligible for assistance under this section.
(c) Interstate Compacts.— 

(1) In general.— 
Congress grants consent to two or more of the States, entering into a cooperative agreement under subsection (a) with the Secretary for the establishment by such States of a multistate infrastructure bank in accordance with this section, to enter into an interstate compact establishing such bank in accordance with this section.
(2) Reservation of rights.— 
The right to alter, amend, or repeal interstate compacts entered into under this subsection is expressly reserved.
(d) Funding.— 

(1) Highway account.— 
Subject to subsection (j), the Secretary may permit a State entering into a cooperative agreement under this section to establish a State infrastructure bank to deposit into the highway account of the bank not to exceed
(A) 10 percent of the funds apportioned to the State for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 under each of sections 104 (b)(1), 104 (b)(3), 104 (b)(4), and 144; and
(B) 10 percent of the funds allocated to the State for each of such fiscal years under section 105.
(2) Transit account.— 
Subject to subsection (j), the Secretary may permit a State entering into a cooperative agreement under this section to establish a State infrastructure bank, and any other recipient of Federal assistance under section 5307, 5309, or 5311 of title 49, to deposit into the transit account of the bank not to exceed 10 percent of the funds made available to the State or other recipient in each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 for capital projects under each of such sections.
(3) Rail account.— 
Subject to subsection (j), the Secretary may permit a State entering into a cooperative agreement under this section to establish a State infrastructure bank, and any other recipient of Federal assistance under subtitle V of title 49, to deposit into the rail account of the bank funds made available to the State or other recipient in each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009 for capital projects under such subtitle.
(4) Capital grants.— 

(A) Highway account.— 
Federal funds deposited into a highway account of a State infrastructure bank under paragraph (1) shall constitute for purposes of this section a capitalization grant for the highway account of the bank.
(B) Transit account.— 
Federal funds deposited into a transit account of a State infrastructure bank under paragraph (2) shall constitute for purposes of this section a capitalization grant for the transit account of the bank.
(C) Rail account.— 
Federal funds deposited into a rail account of a State infrastructure bank under paragraph 3 shall constitute for purposes of this section a capitalization grant for the rail account of the bank.
(5) Special rule for urbanized areas of over 200,000.— 
Funds in a State infrastructure bank that are attributed to urbanized areas of a State with urbanized populations of over 200,000 under section 133 (d)(3) may be used to provide assistance with respect to a project only if the metropolitan planning organization designated for such area concurs, in writing, with the provision of such assistance.
(6) Discontinuance of funding.— 
If the Secretary determines that a State is not implementing the States infrastructure bank in accordance with a cooperative agreement entered into under subsection (b), the Secretary may prohibit the State from contributing additional Federal funds to the bank.
(e) Forms of Assistance From Infrastructure Banks.— 
An infrastructure bank established under this section may make loans or provide other forms of credit assistance to a public or private entity in an amount equal to all or a part of the cost of carrying out a project eligible for assistance under this section. The amount of any loan or other form of credit assistance provided for the project may be subordinated to any other debt financing for the project. Initial assistance provided with respect to a project from Federal funds deposited into an infrastructure bank under this section may not be made in the form of a grant.
(f) Eligible Projects.— 
Subject to subsection (e), funds in an infrastructure bank established under this section may be used only to provide assistance for projects eligible for assistance under this title and capital projects defined in section 5302 of title 49, and any other projects relating to surface transportation that the Secretary determines to be appropriate.
(g) Infrastructure Bank Requirements.— 
In order to establish an infrastructure bank under this section, the State establishing the bank shall
(1) deposit in cash, at a minimum, into each account of the bank from non-Federal sources an amount equal to 25 percent of the amount of each capitalization grant made to the State and deposited into such account; except that, if the deposit is into the highway account of the bank and the State has a non-Federal share under section 120 (b) that is less than 25 percent, the percentage to be deposited from non-Federal sources shall be the lower percentage of such grant;
(2) ensure that the bank maintains on a continuing basis an investment grade rating on its debt, or has a sufficient level of bond or debt financing instrument insurance, to maintain the viability of the bank;
(3) ensure that investment income derived from funds deposited to an account of the bank are
(A) credited to the account;
(B) available for use in providing loans and other forms of credit assistance to projects eligible for assistance from the account; and
(C) invested in United States Treasury securities, bank deposits, or such other financing instruments as the Secretary may approve to earn interest to enhance the leveraging of projects assisted by the bank;
(4) ensure that any loan from the bank will bear interest at or below market interest rates, as determined by the State, to make the project that is the subject of the loan feasible;
(5) ensure that repayment of any loan from the bank will commence not later than 5 years after the project has been completed or, in the case of a highway project, the facility has opened to traffic, whichever is later;
(6) ensure that the term for repaying any loan will not exceed 30 years after the date of the first payment on the loan; and
(7) require the bank to make an annual report to the Secretary on its status no later than September 30 of each year and such other reports as the Secretary may require under guidelines issued to carry out this section.
(h) Applicability of Federal Law.— 

(1) In general.— 
The requirements of this title and title 49 that would otherwise apply to funds made available under this title or such title and projects assisted with those funds shall apply to
(A) funds made available under this title or such title and contributed to an infrastructure bank established under this section, including the non-Federal contribution required under subsection (g); and
(B) projects assisted by the bank through the use of the funds,

except to the extent that the Secretary determines that any requirement of such title (other than sections 113 and 114 of this title and section 5333 of title 49) is not consistent with the objectives of this section.

(2) Repayments.— 
The requirements of this title and title 49 shall apply to repayments from non-Federal sources to an infrastructure bank from projects assisted by the bank. Such a repayment shall be considered to be Federal funds.
(i) United States not Obligated.— 
The deposit of Federal funds into an infrastructure bank established under this section shall not be construed as a commitment, guarantee, or obligation on the part of the United States to any third party, nor shall any third party have any right against the United States for payment solely by virtue of the contribution. Any security or debt-financing instrument issued by the infrastructure bank shall expressly state that the security or instrument does not constitute a commitment, guarantee, or obligation of the United States.
(j) Management of Federal Funds.— 
Sections 3335 and 6503 of title 31 shall not apply to funds deposited into an infrastructure bank under this section.
(k) Program Administration.— 
For each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009, a State may expend not to exceed 2 percent of the Federal funds contributed to an infrastructure bank established by the State under this section to pay the reasonable costs of administering the bank.
[1] See Codification note below.