This bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) must engage an independent engineer to evaluate transportation projects when disputes arise concerning safety issues between the DOT and the contractor responsible for the project. The independent engineer must not be affiliated with either the DOT or the contractor and must meet specific professional qualifications set by the department. The review process will include investigating safety concerns raised by both parties and assessing the project for any additional potential safety issues.
Furthermore, the bill empowers the DOT to establish rules and regulations necessary for implementing these provisions, including criteria for selecting the independent engineer. This legislation aims to enhance safety oversight in transportation projects by ensuring that impartial evaluations are conducted in the event of safety-related disputes. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.