The Bureau also oversees the MassHighway's sale, lease, or transfer of land not needed for highway purposes. The funding for these construction projects flows through C.E.P.O. C.E.P.O. also supports the MassHighway's transportation investment program by developing annual and long-range capital budgets and by monitoring expenditures for ongoing capital projects. C.E.P.O. ensures that the transportation investment plan is accomplished in a fiscally prudent and predictable manner. Planning is responsible for preparing multi-modal transportation plans for Massachusetts in coordination with the 13 Metropolitan Planning Organizations of the Commonwealth. As part of this effort, Planning prepares the State Transportation Improvement Program.
Planning also develops innovative transportation programs.
The Administrative Law Judge hears all claims by contractors and, after a hearing, submits a report of the matter to the Board of Commissioners which includes a recommendation as to the disposition of the claim. The Administrative Law Judge also makes recommendations to the Board relative to any direct payment request made to MassHighway by subcontractors against general contractors. The Outdoor Advertising Board is charged with the regulation of the outdoor advertising industry and all off-premises signs in the Commonwealth. Permits for the erection of and maintenance of signs are issued on an annual basis. In addition, the Board issues licenses to firms or individuals wishing to engage in the business of outdoor advertising display.