What defines a federal aid project?

A federal aid project is characterized by having partial federal funding for construction work, which aligns with the definition of such projects governed by federal programs. These projects typically receive financial assistance from the federal government to support the construction, maintenance, or improvement of highways and transportation systems. The involvement of federal funding mandates adherence to specific guidelines, standards, and regulations, ensuring that the project contributes to broader national transportation goals.

In contrast, a project fully funded by local resources would not qualify as a federal aid project because it lacks any federal funding component. Similarly, a project meant solely for state use without any federal involvement would also not be classified as a federal aid project, as it does not include any federal funding or oversight. Finally, a project that requires no agreements would not be typical of federal aid projects, which usually involve various stakeholders and formal agreements to comply with federal regulations and funding stipulations.