US Federal Highway Administration - Concord, NH

Federal Highway Administration: New Hampshire Division

Agency Role and Mission

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) New Hampshire Division is the local field office of the U.S. Department of Transportation, headquartered within the James C. Cleveland Federal Building in Concord. This office does not build roads directly; instead, it serves as the primary steward of the Federal-aid Highway Program in the state. Its core mission is to provide leadership, technical guidance, and program oversight to its primary partner, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT). By working collaboratively with state officials, the division ensures that federal funds—amounting to millions of dollars annually—are utilized effectively to design, construct, and maintain a safe, efficient, and environmentally sound transportation network.

Oversight and Services

The Concord division office is staffed by engineers, planners, and financial specialists who monitor various aspects of highway transportation. Key responsibilities include:

• Project Stewardship: Reviewing and approving state highway projects that utilize federal funding to ensure they meet rigorous federal engineering and safety standards.
• Safety Initiatives: Promoting data-driven strategies to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries on New Hampshire's roadways, often in coordination with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• Infrastructure Management: Overseeing the maintenance and modernization of the National Highway System, including interstate highways and major bridges.
• Environmental Compliance: Ensuring that transportation projects comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other federal environmental regulations.
• Civil Rights: Monitoring compliance with Title VI and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) requirements to ensure equal opportunity in transportation contracting.

Access and Location

The office is located at 53 Pleasant Street, Suite 2200. As it is situated inside a federal courthouse and office building, public access is restricted. Visitors must undergo strict security screening, including metal detectors and bag checks, and must present valid government-issued identification. While the office generally interacts with state agencies and contractors rather than the general public, it remains the local authority for federal transportation policy. Appointments are required for all visits.