The purpose of this study is to inform the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships on how Virginia and Maryland are moving forward with their efforts to add capacity to the Capital Beltway and to what extent Virginia's public-private partnership with Fluor-Transurban to reconstruct its portion will be successful. While both jurisdictions share responsibility for this 64-mile stretch of roadway that encircles the National Capital Region, each face unique challenges in coping with congestion, development, expansion, and preservation.
To accomplish the intended purpose, the research team set the following objectives:
• Examine the Problem. Research the effect of congestion on the Capital Beltway and each state's respective response to the issue by: 1) studying the methods, structures, and dynamics of how each state administers, governs, and finances transportation projects and 2) determining the steps each state has taken and what challenges lay ahead.
• Frame the Issue. Provide an issue statement and relevant research questions that the team will answer to the client by putting into context the numerous variables that affect how each state has approached the problem, including legislative histories, current laws, financial positions, available funding mechanisms, government structure, and pubic sentiment.
• Collect Data. Gather information using traditional research methods, including accessing publicly available information, conducting a literature review, performing interviews, and conducting a survey.
• Present Findings. Present requisite key findings and recommendations in a final report and formal presentation to the client.