Framework for the Implementation Process of Public-private Partnerships (P3s) in Highway Projects

Book excerpt: The use of public-private partnerships (P3) for the provision of public facilities and infrastructure services has been growing both in the United States and internationally. In developed countries, P3s are well established, and the P3 market is mature. However, compared to other developed countries, the P3 sector in the US is still in its infancy. Alt-hough P3s are gaining momentum in the United States' transportation infrastructure sector, there are still impediments that are stopping it from realizing its full potential. In particular, one major impediment is the lack of a comprehensive P3 framework that can guide policymakers in the P3 implementation process. This dissertation aims to address this gap by developing a comprehensive P3 framework through a methodology that uses a systematic literature review, content analysis of P3 documentation and processes of successful P3 states, and structured survey from experts in the field. The research aims to synergize a conceptual P3 framework through a comprehensive literature review that covers the various aspects of the P3 implementations and complement it with the best practices of a thorough analysis of implementation in five of the most successful P3 states in the US: Virginia, Colorado, California, Texas, and Florida. Feedback on the conceptual framework is solicited from the P3 experts in the public, private, and academic sector to reach a comprehensive framework. The research addressed the political reasons that may affect the P3 implementation process in the US by conducting a systematic literature review and survey from experts in the industry. The proposed framework would help those states or countries currently embarking or interested in the successful implementation of public-private partnerships to develop their public facilities and infrastructure.