An Analysis of the Use of Waiver Valuations

completed

The objective of this research is to create a comprehensive report which provides a detailed analysis of the current state of the waiver valuation process nationwide. A waiver valuation is an alternative to an appraisal and is streamlined process which allows the agency to estimate a value of real property. The report will identify the current state of the program at the Federal agency level and in each of the states. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is seeking data to support a notice of proposed rule making (NPRM) initiative to update the waiver valuation sections of 49 CFR part 24 to enhance streamlining opportunities available to acquiring agencies subject to Federal regulations. This project will be carried out in two phases: During the first phase, the contractor will complete a national assessment to determine the current state of the practice in Federal Uniform Act Agencies and in all the State departments of transportation (DOTs). This assessment will result in a preliminary report which documents the current state of the practice. The 2nd phase of this research project will be to analyze the data gathered with an eye toward identifying some agencies that have successfully embraced the waiver valuation and some agencies that have failed to embrace the waiver valuation to conduct in depth interviews to gather detailed information that can help us to understand best practices and obstacles to successful implementation of the waiver valuation program. The report is also expected to identify areas where opportunities for improving the existing processes for waiver valuations can provide additional measurable savings in time and money and provide greater flexibility to acquiring agencies in delivery of their overall right-of-way (ROW) acquisition program.