Introduction Region Contracts Specialist The Region Contracts Specialist (RCS) reviews contract change orders and final project documentation to verify compliance with Department and FHWA requirements. The Region Contracts Specialist is a resource to the RE and staff, able to provide assistance with issues or questions concerning the Department’s Project Development Business System (PDBS), ProjectWise (PW), civil rights and EEO requirements, and other aspects of project documentation and record keeping.
Additional Region Support Other region project support includes Traffic Engineering, Design, Hydraulics, Environmental, Public Involvement Coordination and Information, Utilities, ROW, and Safety. It is important the RE and assigned staff understand the Regions have personnel with expertise in these areas and that can assist with project issues and answer questions that arise during construction.
Project Organization and Staffing Each construction contract is administered under the direct supervision of an RE, assigned as the Department’s representative before contract award. The Department generally assigns the RE during the design process to provide input to plan development and design, allowing the RE to have a better understanding of the project’s history and intended scope. This assignment is determined by the District Engineer and made through an assignment order issued by the Director of Construction and Materials. The RE has both a responsibility and obligation to work closely with the Department’s Project Manager, who has specific project responsibilities. Project Managers have ultimate responsibility for the project’s budget, scope, and schedule and must remain actively involved in the project during the construction phase. It is important for the RE to understand their role in support of the PM’s responsibilities during construction and the importance of close coordination and communication with the PM. The PM’s responsibilities and coordination with the RE during construction is described in the UDOT Project Manager Guide. (See also RE Coordination with the Project Manager under Construction Activities)
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