773.105—Statements of interest.
(a)
The State DOTs of Alaska, California, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas are given priority for participation in the program.
(b)
Within sixty days of March 14, 2007, the State DOTs of Alaska, California, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas shall submit a statement of interest to participate in the program. The statement of interest shall declare that the State DOT intends to submit an application to participate in the pilot program.
(c)
Should any of the State DOTs of Alaska, California, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas fail to submit a statement of interest by May 14, 2007 or decline participation in the pilot program, such State DOT shall no longer be given priority consideration for selection in the program and its application will be selected in competition with other State DOTs.
(d)
Should any of the State DOTs of Alaska, California, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas submit a statement of interest declaring their intent to participate in the program, the State shall actively work to develop and submit its application and meet all applicable program criteria (including the enactment of necessary State legal authority).