With Lean Budget, State Allows GDOT More Spending Flexibility
Gov. Nathan Deal signed into law two bills Thursday aimed at allowing the Georgia Department of Transportation more flexibility with its dollars.
It comes in wake of sequestration cuts and last summer’s failed attempt to raise transportation funds through the T-SPLOST.
The first bill allows GDOT to consider a project’s long-term value during the bidding process, rather than basing the decision solely on upfront cost.
Deal said it will lead to smarter, more innovative projects.
“Not everything is the best value just because it’s the lowest price. There is a quality factor that has to be a part of the grading component.”
The second bill waives a requirement to spread transportation funds equally by congressional district.
“Having the same number of people does not translate into having the same amount of transportation demands or needs,” said Deal.
The bill allows GDOT to devote more funds to capital-intensive projects like a new interchange at Ga. 400 and I-285 and road improvements in and out of the Savannah Port.
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