Can I use CHIPS monies for crack repairs?

No, unless the crack repairs are part of a larger project.

Here are the requirements from the NYSDOT CHIPS Guidelines.

In order to be eligible for CHIPS Capital reimbursement, the capital project must:

1. be undertaken by a municipality;
2. be for highway-related purposes; and
3. have a service life of 10 years or more with normal maintenance or where the project is either:
   1. microsurfacing;
   2. paver placed surface treatment;
   3. single course surface treatment involving chip seals or oil and stone; or
   4. double course surface treatment involving chip seals or oil and stone.

Crack sealing as part of an O&M project is specifically mentioned as NOT eligible. If crack repairs were needed as part of a larger project, such as preparing a surface for an overlay, the crack repairs could be included. The Highway Superintendent would need to certify the crack repairs are part of the larger project and that the service life of the project is at least 10 years or where the project is either:

1. microsurfacing;
2. paver placed surface treatment;
3. single course surface treatment involving chip seals or oil and stone; or
4. double course surface treatment involving chip seals or oil and stone. 

Resources

Project Eligibility (Word document)
CHIPS Guidelines (pdf)
NYSDOT

Other CHIPS quick answers

• Where can I find out how much my municipality will get in CHIPS funds?
• Can CHIPS funding be used to develop an asset or pavement management plan?
• How do I get reimbursements for work done under CHIPS and the new Winter Recovery Fund?
• Are the amounts under Permanent Improvements the total of the anticipated state aid? (i.e. CHIPS)

February 2013