US State DOT Response Strategies and Insights during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic caused major disruptions to the global construction industry, leading to workforce shortages, project delays, and contractual disputes. While numerous studies have examined the pandemic’s effects on the construction sector, there is limited understanding of how state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in the U.S. addressed these challenges and what strategies or measures they implemented in response. This study is based on an online survey submitted to 50 DOTs to learn how state DOTs responded to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on workforce management, technological advancements, safety protocols, and project execution. Twenty-six states completed the survey and provided feedback about their pandemic response strategies. Workforce adaptations, particularly the transition to telework, varied across agencies, with 81% of the respondents reporting partial telework and 46% confirming it became permanent. Criteria for telework eligibility was often based on employee classification as essential or nonessential, with nonessential employees typically allowed to work remotely. In addition to telework, some agencies provided flexible work hours and health-related benefits. Salary increases and incentives were less commonly offered. Technological advancements played a critical role in maintaining operations during the pandemic, with 88% of respondents noting significant technological changes. These included the adoption of tools like Microsoft Teams and Zoom. These were widely used by both office and field staff. The survey revealed that training was essential to effectively implement these tools, ensuring employees could maximize their benefits. The pandemic significantly impacted project design and construction activities, with 64% of responding DOTs experiencing delays in design phases and 85% reporting delays in construction. Cost overruns of up to 25% were commonly reported, reflecting the financial consequence of the pandemic.