Dear Secretary Duffy,

This letter is sent in support of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT’s) application for the Surface Transportation Project Delivery Program prescribed in 23 U.S.C. 327, otherwise known as Program Assignment or NEPA Assignment.

Program Assignment will benefit Virginia localities by creating a more transparent and understandable process through the consolidation of federal and state requirements within VDOT. The program also will allow VDOT to efficiently bring Virginia-specific solutions to the unique needs of the localities of the Commonwealth, while maintaining its goal of delivering Virginians with projects that are on-time and on-budget. Virginians will continue to benefit from the expertise of Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) staff, who continue to serve as technical advisors to VDOT and to conduct required audits and reviews of VDOT’s program.

This delegation will assist our localities in advancing important infrastructure projects while ensuring we remain compliant with federal and state regulations. Our support is reflected in the unanimous support the concept received from Virginia’s General Assembly.

We support VDOT’s application and urge your agency to approve the final steps in delegating VDOT responsibilities under Program Assignment.

Sincerely,

Jessica Dennis

Deputy Director

Virginia Municipal League