The topic of advertising contracts around the office has been popular this week.  One question regarding the topic has been advertising on an agency’s website.  I’ve been asked if it’s acceptable for federally funded projects.

Provided that all interested bidders are notified about the website, Internet advertising is acceptable for Federal-aid projects, but as a supplement to traditional means.  Newspaper advertisement of contract proposals is the most common method accepted by FHWA to announce projects.  Other acceptable forms of advertisement can be made in widely-circulated trade journals, bulletins, and mailing lists to potential bidders.

For additional information, refer to Chapter 15 of the LAPM and the Contract Administration Core Curriculum..