Chicago Department of Transportation Management of Construction in the Public Way Audit

Executive Summary

OIG’s objectives were to determine whether CDOT maximized public way project coordination opportunities to protect its infrastructure and minimize disruptions, and whether CDOT ensured that permittees restored street surfaces in accordance with its rules and regulations. Because repeated street openings frustrate residents and lead to unnecessary costs for the City and other stakeholders, careful project coordination is essential to public way management. Active enforcement of CDOT’s specifications for street restoration ensures that streets are restored to the City’s standards regardless of which agency or contractor performs the work.

Based on our audit results, OIG concluded that CDOT’s project coordination program has reduced unnecessary street cuts, and saved the City at least $18.1 million in 2016. We commend CDOT on this success. This audit identifies several areas for further improvement of the program, which we encourage CDOT to pursue.