Background

The Workgroup on Transportation Contract Approval Authority (Workgroup) was established by HB 587 of the 2026 Session to study the existing approval authority structure for capital expenditures by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) in connection with State roads, bridges, and highways, as well as potential changes to the existing approval authority. The Workgroup comprises legislators, the members of the Board of Public Works, the Department, and industries that play a vital role in the delivery of these projects. MDOT and the BPW provide staff support to the Workgroup.

Under current law, approval of these expenditures does not require action of the Board of Public Works. In studying this issue, the Workgroup shall study the effect of altering the approval authority structure for these capital expenditures, including whether to require approval of the award of new contracts and change orders for these projects by the BPW. The Workgroup must consider the purpose, impact, and public value of the BPW approval process and analyze alternative options for BPW review and approval. The Workgroup will examine the impact of contract award and completion timelines, as well as the ability of the Department to secure federal funding for these projects. Finally, the Workgroup will evaluate the effect of expanding the current delegated authority in connection with State roads, bridges, and highways to contracts and change orders for maintenance and capital construction to support service on Maryland Transit Administration fixed guideway systems and associated transit facilities and vehicles.

2026 Meeting Schedule

The Workgroup will hold any in-person meetings in Annapolis, MD and, when necessary, at the MDOT headquarters building in Hanover, MD. Meetings will be accompanied by a virtual option for participants. The Chair reserves the right to conduct fully virtual meetings. All meetings will be livestreamed and available for later viewing, with links to those meetings below. Meeting agendas will be posted in advance of each meeting. Please confirm the meeting’s location on the posted agendas.

Upcoming & Past Meetings

Workgroup Membership