Purpose

To determine the extent of implementation of the five recommendations included in our initial report, Status of the Board-Approved Capital Plan for 2005-2011 (Report 2008-S-48).

Background

Our initial audit report, which was issued on October 23, 2008, examined the actions taken by the Thruway Authority (Authority) in monitoring and reporting on the status of the project items in the Board-Approved Capital Plan for 2005-2011. We also examined whether the project items on the capital plan were starting and finishing on time and remaining within budgeted costs. We found the Authority did not report whether the individual approved capital projects were starting and finishing on time and within budget. Furthermore, the Authority could not support its decision-making and prioritization of all capital project items. We also found that completing the plan as approved would take longer and cost significantly more than was originally forecast.

Key Finding

Authority officials have made progress in correcting the problems we identified.  However, additional improvements are needed.  All of the five prior audit recommendations were partially implemented.

Key Recommendation

Officials are given 30 days after the issuance of the follow-up review to provide information on any actions that are planned to address the unresolved issues discussed in this review.

Other Related Audits/Reports of Interest

New York State Thruway Authority: Status of the Board-Approved Capital Plan for 2005-2011 (2008-S-48)
New York State Thruway Authority: Proposed Toll Increases for July 2008 Through January 2010 (2008-S-6)