As described in the FHWA Interim Guidance Summary regarding hazardous materials in project development, the following goals should be considered during design:

One of the main goals of the design process is to provide as much information as possible to TxDOT consultants and the district's advanced project development, environmental, and right-of-way staff regarding design details (such as locations of excavations and de-watering requirements). This disclosure will allow the most thorough environmental site assessment possible. As preliminary design requirements are finalized, assumptions made during project planning for the initial site assessment may need to be re-evaluated.

Due to the increased costs associated with hazardous materials management, information regarding known or possible hazardous material concerns should be integrated into the project coordination, alignment selection, and decision-making processes.

If contamination cannot be avoided, or cleaned up prior to construction, the project designer, in conjunction with ENV division staff, should develop procedures, plan notes, specifications and plan details to address contamination concurrent with construction.