FLH PDDM Chapter 9 - Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division

CHAPTER 9 - HIGHWAY DESIGN9.1 GENERALThis chapter provides policies, procedures, and methods for developing and documenting the design ofhighways. It also includes the preparation of plans, specifications and estimates (PS&E) for new highwayconstruction, reconstruction and RRR (Resurfacing, Restoration and Rehabilitation) improvements.A. Role of the Designer. The designer shall gather all the engineering and environmental input requiredto provide a complete and acceptable PS&E assembly. The PS&E package depicts the commitments madeduring the planning, programming, and project development stages.The designer is responsible for applying guidance from Chapter 8, Safety and Chapter 9, Highway Design.In addition, the following named chapters provide information on collecting background data for thedevelopment of the PS&E.Chapter 2 - Planning and Programming. Information on the planning and programming functions,interagency agreements, and general data on the scope and funding levels for individual projects arecovered in this chapter.Chapter 3 - Environment. This chapter provides information about environmental requirements andpublic involvement. Environmental documents will include commitments made for mitigation andpublic acceptance of the project. The designer will review all environmental documents forcommitments made during the conceptual studies phase that affect development and construction of theproject or operation of the highway following construction. Any proposed deviation from themitigating measures and commitments must be coordinated with the Division environmental unit andaffected resource agencies.Chapter 4 - Conceptual Studies. These studies result in a recommended roadway location and basicdesign criteria for a facility. Such studies are generally developed in conjunction with theenvironmental process. Conceptual studies generally include significant input from the owner agencyand from other interested parties.Chapter 5 - Survey and Mapping. The survey unit provides information on the field survey, property,utility locations, and related data. The data collected provides topographic maps, site maps, right-ofwayand utility plats, and base information for developing the design.Chapter 6 - Geotechnical. The geotechnical unit provides subsurface data and recommendations forearthwork slopes, materials, and pavement structure design. When applicable the report includesfoundation design for bridges, retaining walls, and other structures, along with landslides andsubsurface water information.Chapter 7 - Hydrology/Hydraulics. The hydraulics unit provides runoff data for roadside drainagedesign. This unit also provides data to the structural unit (for major structures) and designs majorhydraulic structures and special water resource features.Chapter 10 - Structural Design. The structural unit designs bridges, major retaining structures, andspecial structural elements. The unit will provide complete structural plans, proposed specifications,and an estimate of cost for incorporation into the PS&E package.9 - 1