Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 730 - Department of Transportation

The Oklahoma Administrative Code Title 730 governs the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT). This title lays out the comprehensive administrative rules and procedures by which ODOT, under the oversight of the Oklahoma Transportation Commission, manages the state's transportation infrastructure.

Here's a breakdown of the key areas covered in Title 730, generally organized by chapter:

Chapter 1: Administrative Operations

Defines the purpose and legal mandate of the Transportation Commission.

Outlines the election of officers (Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary) and their duties.

Establishes rules for commission meetings, including regular and special sessions, agenda preparation, and adherence to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act.

Details the powers and duties of the ODOT Director, including approving claims, appointing deputies, maintaining training programs, and cooperating with local governments.

Addresses conflict of interest rules for commission members and the Director.

Covers procedures for debarment and performance suspension of contractors due to bidding crimes, fraud, or poor performance.

Chapter 10: Department Programs

Covers a wide range of departmental programs, likely including general policies and procedures for various transportation initiatives. This chapter would be quite broad and could encompass anything from environmental programs to safety initiatives.

Chapter 15: Highway Planning

Focuses on the processes for planning and developing the state's highway system.

Includes requirements for a comprehensive multi-modal long-range transportation plan, with measurable goals and objectives.

Addresses the development of strategic plans for highways, rural public transit, waterways, state-owned rail, airport access, and pedestrian/bicycle facilities.

Chapter 20: Acquisition and Disposal of Properties

Details the rules and procedures for ODOT to acquire land for transportation projects (right-of-way) and to dispose of surplus real property.

Chapter 25: Highway Contractors

Sets forth regulations related to contractors working on state highway projects. This likely includes prequalification requirements, bidding procedures, contract management, and provisions for debarment or suspension as mentioned in Chapter 1.

Chapter 30: Highway Design

Establishes standards and procedures for the design of highways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure elements.

Chapter 35: Maintenance and Control of State Highway System

Outlines policies and procedures for the ongoing maintenance of the state highway system.

Covers aspects like traffic control devices (signs, markings), maintenance responsibilities, and specific guidelines for things like tourist-oriented directional signs.

Chapter 40: Railroads

Addresses regulations pertaining to railroads within the state, including state-owned railway lines.

Chapter 45: Public Transportation Project Development Assistance

Focuses on programs and assistance for the development of public transportation projects.

Chapter 50: Size and Weight Permits

This is a significant chapter that details the requirements for obtaining permits for oversize and/or overweight vehicles operating on Oklahoma roads.

Covers specific types of permits (e.g., annual envelope vehicle permits, agricultural permits, special combination vehicles).

Includes regulations regarding "Oversize Load" signs, warning flags, escort vehicles and operators, and the responsibilities of drivers and carriers to ensure safe loading within designated limits.

This chapter reflects the consolidation and updating of size and weight rules from other parts of the Oklahoma Administrative Code (e.g., former Title 595 from DPS) into ODOT's purview.

In essence, Title 730 provides the detailed regulatory framework for ODOT to plan, design, construct, maintain, and operate Oklahoma's comprehensive transportation system, ensuring public safety and efficient movement of people and goods across all modes of transport.

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