In 1987, approximately $1 billion a year was expended for construction engineering on Federal-aid projects. Because of such a large expenditure, the efficienty and effectiveness of managing highiway construction programs have become subjects of national interest. At the recommendation of the AASHTO Subcommittee on Construction, an NCHRP 20-7 Fund Study was undertaken to (1) evaluate the progress to date of the research program recommended in Report No. FHWA-HO-79-1; (2) determine the effectiveness of the program; and (3) evaluate the need and likelihood of success for a similiar project to develop an updated program of research and development needs in this area. A report was issued in 1986. Based on the results of the NCHRP study and the recommendation of the AASHTO Subcommittee on Construction, it is proposed that a Pooled-Fund SP&R Study be established to provide once again for a working meeting of a select group of experts to reassess and update the research and development needs in highway construction engineering management. The completed report will be used by the FHWA, the Stataes, NCHRP, and others in the formulation of research programs directed at meeting the challenge of the construction program.

To reassess the national researach and development needs in highway construction engineering management and to prepare a program updating and revising as necessary, the one established in the 1979 report titled Research adn Development Program or Highway Construction Engineering Managment, Report No. FHWA-HO-79-1. 2. To refine the study approach and output reported in FHWA-HO-79-1 following the guidance and recommendations in the NCHRP 20-7 Task 26 final report titled Research and Development Needs in Construction Engineering Management dated August 1986. 3. To establishi directions to guide the nation's research and development efforts in highway construction engineering management through the rest of the 1980's and the 1990's.

Study areas shall be identified where research and development promise to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of highway construction engineering management in State highway agencies thorughout the United States. Critical problems which afect construction engineering management shall be identified. Work statements which will mitigate the adverse effects fo these problems shall be formulated. Cost and time estimates to complete the efforts in each work statement shall be developed. The identified study areas shall be ranked in priority order. The output of this project shall be a written report which summarizes the study's approach, methodology, basis for conclusions, and recommendations for a research and development program.

Contract #: DTFH61-88-C-00041. This project is completed and in the process of being closed out.