Buy_America_Regulations.pdf

This document outlines Buy America requirements and project development regulations from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for RTP (Recreational Trails Program) projects. The policy requires all grant-funded projects to comply with executive orders, federal/state/local laws, and safety standards including CPSC, ASTM, and HIC requirements. Projects must submit designs before development, with final plans stamped by certified architects/engineers for structural, mechanical, or electrical elements. The document details specific requirements for playground safety surfaces, ADA compliance, and impact attenuation testing, with third-party verification required.

The Buy America provisions mandate that all manufacturing processes for iron and steel products, including coatings, must occur in the United States for RTP projects. Foreign materials may be used without a waiver only if their cost does not exceed 0.1% of total contract cost or $2,500, whichever is greater. For example, on a $200,000 contract, the foreign steel/iron threshold would be $2,500. The regulations apply to all project funding sources including grant dollars, match dollars, and additional funding from the AO. Notably, waivers are currently not being processed in a timely manner and should not be considered as an option. A running expense log must be maintained to track iron/steel purchases to ensure Buy America compliance once the $2,500.01 threshold is reached.