The AIP “Go” Letter

1. The AIP “Go” Letter It’s usually good news!

2. It tells you that your project is likely to be funded soon. • The “Go” letter is usually preceded by a conference call between FAA, NDA and you. • FAA has finally used those CIP Datasheets submitted for your project years ago and... • determined what they can fund. • The scope may be all or just part of your original project.

3. Also.. • The “new” scope and the estimated cost of the project are discussed. FAA will tell us what their share of the funding will be. • You may be asked if you have the necessary funds for your part of the project costs usually 7 percent. • FAA will advise that the funding for your project looks very favorable and that you should initiate action to get the project started.

4. The action you need to initiate: • Check on the status of your DBE Program. This may have been done already by NDA, if not we will assist you, the entire DBE program changed in 1999. • Use AIP guidelines to secure a consultant, NDA will assist here as well, then the consultant will proceed to prepare plans and specifications. Set a target bid date. • For larger projects, setup electronic transfer of funds. A form must be submitted, NDA will supply you with the form.

5. Then... • We will be reminded that the funding for your project looks very favorable, but …….. • don’t make any public announcement or otherwise inform the public or media yet! • We need to have official congressional release first.

6. The “Go” Letter • The actual letter will follow in about a week. • The letter will basically recap the items and costs discussed in the conference call.

7. Things to Keep in Mind aboutYour Scope of Work

8. Deviating from the Scope of Work. • Minor changes are okay. • Major changes are not. • What’s the difference? • Major change involves a different area on the airport. • Major change involves a large dollar amount. • Or - ask NDA

9. Costs Increases • GA airports • First to bid has the best shot at additional funds. • Last to bid gets whatever funds are left. • Primary airports (10,000+ enplanements) • Entitlement funds

10. Ineligibles • Construction • Sponsor notified during plans & spec. review. • Can then delete or pay for on your own. • Engineering • Preliminary, design, bidding costs for item not built are ineligible. • Engineering for ineligible construction is prorated. • Administrative (NDA, publication, audit, etc.) • Prorated

11. Ineligible Recommendations • Be aware of the full cost of an ineligible. • May want to have ineligible engineering costs separated in the engineering contract. • May want separate agreement with the contractor for ineligibles, rather than change order.