PHIA News Digest – Vol. 7, No. 36
PA may change procurement rules for major projects
For some major transportation projects, the Pennsylvania General Assembly is considering a rule change to choose contractors based on the best quality bid, rather than the lowest cost. House Bill 2747 would allow a Design Build-Best Value Procurement method for certain projects, rather than the current sealed bid method that prioritizes lowest cost. Supporters framed it as focusing on value instead of price.
Pa. lawmakers considering ’90 days or free’ law for PennDOT
Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a law that would require PennDOT to process paperwork in 90 days or else the “job is free.” On Sept. 1 a public hearing will be held for House Bill 2638, which was referred to the House Transportation Committee on June 1.
Revenue Department releases August collections
In addition to the General Fund collections, the Motor License Fund received $239.7 million for the month, $25.3 million below estimate. Fiscal year-to-date collections for the fund – which include the commonly known gas and diesel taxes, as well as other license, fine and fee revenues – total $480.6 million, which is $24.7 million, or 4.9 percent, below estimate.
Philadelphia plans for a transit revolution
Three planning initiatives are pushing forward the vision put forth in the SEPTA Forward strategic plan — Reimagining Regional Rail, the Bus Revolution, and the Trolley Modernization project.