RSPA 7-03    
Thursday, May 15, 2003
Contact: James Mitchell
              Damon A. Hill
Tel.: (202) 366-4831
E-mail:              PublicAffairs@rspa.dot.gov

RSPA Solicits Applications for Underground Damage Prevention Grants 

Protecting pipelines from damage is the objective of $1.3 million in grants offered to states by RSPA, the Research and Special Programs Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation.  RSPA, the federal pipeline safety authority, is seeking to protect natural gas and liquid pipelines from excavation accidents, the top cause of damage. 

Increased awareness of the dangers of careless digging to people, property and the environment has contributed to substantial progress in reducing excavation damage to pipelines over recent years, even as construction activity was growing nationwide.  An industry-government “Dig Safely” campaign and the formation of the nonprofit Common Ground Alliance to promote damage prevention best practices have helped to make excavators aware of the need to check before they dig.    

“Innovative solutions to this number-one cause of pipeline accidents must be found,” said Samuel G. Bonasso, P.E., acting RSPA Administrator.  “We must build on our success.  We want our grants to enable states to implement best practices in damage prevention.”           

RSPA awarded $3.6 million in damage prevention grants to 14 states for 24 projects in September 2001.  To receive a portion of the funds, states are required to identify projects that would implement “Common Ground” best practices, such as: 1996

• Know local One-Call laws, policies and practices before beginning excavation activities
• Locate utilities accurately and mark them properly, employing trained personnel
• Utilize technologies and methods that render underground facilities easily locatable

Federal funding will be provided to state agencies for individual damage prevention projects generally up to $300,000.  RSPA will consider higher amounts for projects that demonstrate promise for broad benefit. Applications must be received no later than June 13.     

RSPA is responsible for the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials to industry and consumers by all modes of transportation, including pipelines; coordination of rapid response to transportation emergencies; and advancement of science and technology and professional skills for national transportation needs.  Interested parties should visit the RSPA website at http://www.rspa.dot.gov/DPGPRound2.html for additional information and instructions on how to apply for the Damage Prevention Grants.

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Briefing Room