CSS may involve a complex or nuanced decision-making process. Integrating CSS may not necessarily mean agencies need to change technical execution of their projects; but it may call for changes in the way projects are advanced. Two important keys to success in project development are evident. The first is in the fundamental understanding and acceptance of the NEPA process as the technical basis for decision-making.
Second, the order in which important tasks are completed can significantly improve chances of success. Successful CSS projects generally follow this project development process:
This open and transparent process retains highway engineers as integral to alternatives development, but places their work in its proper place within the continuum of stakeholder input and collaborative decision-making.
“The geometric design standards for projects on the National Highway System (NHS) are incorporated by reference in FHWA regulations. These design standards are comprehensive in nature, covering a multitude of design characteristics, while allowing flexibility in application. Exceptions may be approved on a project basis for designs that do not conform to the minimum or limiting criteria set forth in the standards, policies, and standard specifications. For more information on these controlling criteria, please see our May 5, 2016 memorandum Revisions to the Controlling Criteria for Design and Documentation for Design Exceptions.”
