You want to know what restrictions the state places on towns when it gives them road aid. By law, towns may use funds under the state road aid program to construct, reconstruct, improve, or maintain bridges and highways or structures incidental to both. Most towns follow DOT's standard specifications for road paving operations, but they are not required to do so. The specifications, contained in a 700-page document, detail the material and construction methods for most transportation projects.
Many towns use the program to acquire paving material as they usually get it at the best price.
In addition, DOT establishes vendor prices for other highway construction material and many towns take advantage of the bid pricing for their purchases. The DOT laboratory samples and tests material purchased under the vendor programs to ensure they meet applicable specifications.