New Online Tool to Evaluate Highway Sustainability

Are you considering doing more to integrate sustainable practices into your highway plans, programs and projects? Then FHWA’s INVEST (Infrastructure Voluntary Evaluation Sustainability Tool) is for you.

Developed and launched by FHWA in October 2012, INVEST Version 1.0 contains three modules that agencies can use to evaluate the entire life cycle of transportation projects, beginning with System Planning and then continuing on to Project Development and Operations and Maintenance. This free online tool can be used to evaluate performance after a project is completed, or to consider sustainability options during the project planning and development stage, allowing agencies to better quantify sustainability during the decision making process.

The INVEST web site also provides information on voluntary sustainability best practices, a glossary of terms, frequently asked questions, an introductory webinar, plus a solicitation from FHWA to partner with state and local agencies interested in using the tool to assess and enhance the sustainability of their projects and programs.

If you’re interested in learning more about INVEST, read the January/February issue of FOCUS newsletter.