NJ S2143

New Jersey Department of Transportation must hire an independent engineer to review transportation projects when safety-related disputes arise between the department and the project contractor.

The independent engineer must investigate safety concerns raised by both the department and the contractor, as well as assess the project for any additional potential safety issues.

Independent engineers must meet professional qualifications set by the department and cannot be affiliated with or employed by either the department or the contractor.

The bill covers all transportation projects including public highways and public transportation projects as defined under existing state law (C.27:1B-3).

The Department of Transportation is authorized to establish rules and regulations for selecting independent engineers through the Administrative Procedure Act.