This table outlines the key differences between Operational and Capital projects, including their scope, funding sources, timeline, and coordination requirements.
| |
Operational |
Capital |
|---|
| Elements |
Traffic control elements, including signals, pavement markings, and signs. Basic concrete work, such as pedestrian safety islands, raised medians, curb extensions, and raised crosswalks. Other components, including lighting, furnishings, landscape, and Color Surface Treatments. No sub-surface or significant drainage work. |
Projects can include any of the operational elements, excluding Color Surface Treatments, which should be reconstructed in a capital project using capital materials. Additionally, projects may involve full reconstruction, sub-surface infrastructure upgrades and/or relocation, lighting, permanent streetscape elements, regrading, resurfacing, and green infrastructure. Many streetscape elements that can be Expense-funded may also be included in Capital projects. |
| Funding Source |
Mostly City Expense funds; some federal and state grants |
Mostly City Capital funds; some federal and state grants |
| Budget |
No restrictions |
$50,000 minimum |
| Total Project Timeline |
1–2 years |
4–7 years |
| Coordination with DEP |
Generally not necessary |
DOT and DEP coordinate to avoid conflict and, where possible, undertake joint projects. DEP requirements may affect implementation schedule. |
| Reviews by Other Agencies* and Utilities |
DOT reviews designs with FDNY to confirm emergency vehicle access through new street geometries.
Utilities are consulted as necessary.
FHWA and NYSDOT review FHWA-funded projects, and FTA reviews projects that it funds.
MTA reviews projects along bus routes and adjacent to subway infrastructure.
DEP reviews projects in context of the Unified Stormwater Rule.
† Designs for all works of art and structures intended for use in a fixed location for more than one year are subject to PDC review.
‡ Projects may require LPC and/or SHPO review. |
Multiple stakeholders are included in the planning and design review process at DDC, including FDNY, LPC, MOR, NYPD, OMB, Parks, PDC, and SHPO. Private utilities also review. MTA and Port Authority are consulted as necessary. FHWA and NYSDOT review FHWA-funded projects, and FTA reviews projects that it funds. Coordination with as many as 40 public agencies and private entities may be required.
DEP reviews projects in context of the Unified Stormwater Rule. |
| Coordinating Agency |
DOT |
Typically DDC (in design and construction) |
| Useful Life |
No requirements |
Minimum 5 years |
| Protected Status |
Additional Operational and/or Capital work may often be done at project site post-completion, as needed. |
No additional work can be performed at project site for at least 5 years if it damages the Capital asset. |
| Planning |
DOT or its consultant |
DOT or its consultant |
| Design |
DOT or its consultant |
DDC or consultant, often based upon a conceptual schematic from DOT |
| Implementation |
DOT or its contractor(s) |
DDC contractor |
* For major transportation projects, DOT is required to consult with FDNY, NYPD, MOPD, and SBS. Major transportation projects are defined in Section 19-101.2 of the New York City Administrative Code as any project that after construction will alter four or more consecutive blocks or 1,000 consecutive feet (whichever is less); a major realignment of the roadway, including either the removal of a vehicular (travel) lane(s) or full-time removal of a parking lane(s) or addition of a vehicular (travel) lane(s).
Per Local Law 5 of 2025, DOT is required to notify the local elected official and relevant community board when removing parking spaces.
Additionally, per Local Law 6 of 2025, DOT must consult with FDNY prior to approving Open Street applications and certain bicycle lane projects.
For more information, review Reviews by Other Agencies and Utilities.
† Review the definition of “structures” in Section 854(b) of the New York City Charter.
‡ For further information, review Section 854(g) of the New York City Charter.