Federal Highway Administration

National highway and infrastructure development & Maintenance

One of the primary responsibilities of the FHWA is overseeing the development, construction, and maintenance of the nation's highway infrastructure. This involves collaborating with state and local transportation agencies to design and construct highways, bridges, and tunnels that meet safety, quality, and environmental standards. The FHWA provides technical assistance, funding, and guidance to support infrastructure projects across the country.

Safety Regulations and Programs

The FHWA is committed to enhancing safety on the nation's highways. They work to establish and enforce regulations and standards aimed at reducing accidents and improving roadway safety. The FHWA develops guidelines for road design, signage, traffic control devices, and other safety features. They also administer programs focused on promoting safe driving practices, such as the promotion of seat belt usage, impaired driving prevention, and initiatives to combat distracted driving.

Research and Innovation

The FHWA conducts extensive research and development activities to advance transportation technologies, practices, and policies. They invest in research initiatives aimed at improving highway safety, durability, sustainability, and efficiency. This includes studies on materials, construction techniques, intelligent transportation systems, and emerging technologies that can enhance the performance and resilience of the transportation network.

Funding and Grants

The FHWA plays a crucial role in allocating federal funding for highway projects throughout the country. They administer various grant programs that provide financial support to state and local governments for infrastructure development, maintenance, and safety enhancements.

These programs include:

• The Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)
• The Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA)
• The Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG)

Environmental Stewardship

The FHWA is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of highway transportation. They collaborate with other agencies and stakeholders to incorporate environmental considerations into the planning, design, and construction of highways. This includes addressing issues such as air quality, noise pollution, water resources, and the preservation of natural habitats. The FHWA promotes sustainable practices, encourages the use of environmentally friendly materials, and supports research on eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Technical Assistance and Training

The FHWA provides technical assistance, training, and educational resources to transportation agencies, engineers, and other professionals involved in highway projects. They offer guidance on design standards, construction practices, safety protocols, and emerging transportation trends. The FHWA's technical expertise helps ensure that transportation professionals have access to the latest knowledge and best practices, fostering continuous improvement in the quality and safety of the nation's highways.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The FHWA collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders, including state and local transportation agencies, industry associations, research institutions, and advocacy groups. They foster partnerships to exchange information, share best practices, and address common challenges in the transportation sector. By working collaboratively, the FHWA aims to leverage expertise and resources to achieve shared goals of enhancing highway safety, efficiency, and sustainability.