State DOTs head into the fall with a full plate: implementing updated federal EV-charging guidance, keeping projects on schedule, and doubling down on work-zone safety—while tracking the Highway Trust Fund and preparing teams for the next wave of innovation.
Funding & Policy- steady, but watch the gauges. The Highway Trust Fund remains the backbone of federal-aid highways; FHWA’s monthly dashboard is the best source for current balances and outlays. For policymakers and budget staff, CRS’s latest briefing offers clear context on the Highway Account’s mechanics and long-term issues. Federal Highway Administration Congress.gov
NEVI guidance update—pragmatism and pace. On August 13, FHWA released revised Interim Final Guidance for the NEVI Formula Program, clarifying eligible uses (including limited operating assistance) and aiming to speed delivery. State EV teams should review program-wide implications for procurement, site selection, and O&M planning ahead of 2026 deadlines. Federal Register Federal Highway Administration
Standards—mind the errata. The 11th Edition MUTCD continues to drive design and operations. FHWA’s Known Errors list (updated January 24) flags corrections planned for a future rulemaking—a practical bookmark for engineers, reviewers, and consultants to avoid rework. MUTCD 11th Edition MUTCD Errors
Safety—work zones remain a top risk. Despite an overall 4.3% drop in roadway fatalities in 2023, work-zone deaths stayed elevated: 898 fatalities and ~40,170 injuries, up 53% since 2010. That keeps enforcement, temporary traffic control quality, and driver behavior change squarely on the agenda for fall construction peaks. NHTSA Injury Facts
People & capability—train now for 2026 innovation. Teams can tap the National Highway Institute for turnkey courses (design, construction, asset management) and track Every Day Counts resources ahead of EDC-8 selections. Investing in skills now helps agencies absorb tech and process upgrades without slowing delivery. NHI Courses Federal Highway Administration
Where to meet peers. DOT leaders converge at the AASHTO Safety Summit and Peer Exchange, Oct 28-30, 2025 (New Orleans) followed by the AASHTO Annual Meeting, Nov 17–20, 2025 (Salt Lake City)— to compare notes on NEVI implementation, MUTCD adoption, safety strategies, and 2026 priorities. Safety Summit and Peer Exchange Annual Meeting
Bottom line: Late-2025 is about execution—turning federal guidance and standards into on-the-ground outcomes while keeping workers and travelers safe. Agencies that synchronize funding, standards, workforce training, and supplier capacity will be best positioned for a strong 2026.
