P

Anchor: #i1009722
panel length
Panel length is the distance between adjacent transverse joints.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1009747
parapet
A parapet is a wall or rampart, breast high. A parapet is also the wall on top of an abutment extending from the bridge seat to the underside of the bridge floor and designed to hold the backfill.
Bridge Railing Manuall
Anchor: #i1009757
parcel
A parcel is all property that the State will take.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1009768
parent tract
A parent tract is the whole of the property of which a parcel taking is being made.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1009778
parenteral
Parenteral contact is the piercing of mucous membranes or the skin barrier through such events as needlesticks, human bites, cuts and abrasions.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #i1009792
Paris District
PAR
The Paris District (PAR) is a TxDOT district office including the following counties: Delta, Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, Rains and Red River. Area offices are located in Bonham, Greenville, Paris, Sherman, and Sulphur Springs. This district also has the Denison Travel Information Center.
Inside TxDOT
Anchor: #i1009811
park & ride
P&R
Park & ride (P&R) are vehicle parking areas located on the perimeter of urban areas. They provide parking for commuters and an interface with mass transit and/or car pools.
Anchor: #i1022581
park road
PR
  1. A park road (PR) is a roadway so designated by the Texas Transportation Commission. Roadways within state parks are maintained by TxDOT by law, and no designation is necessary.
  2. Texas Reference Marker (TRM) System User's Manual
  3. A park road (PR) is on the state highway system and has been constructed with highway funds and is operated and maintained by TxDOT. A park road (PW) includes parking lots, paved camping pads, etc is not on the state highway system and is operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is maintained by TxDOT.
  4. Maintenance Collection
parking area
A parking area is a TxDOT-operated facility that primarily offers parking for commercial trucks, although passenger vehicles may also use the facility. Picnic tables are provided at some sites. Parking areas are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Maintenance Division
Anchor: #i1009849
part-time employee
A part-time employee is an individual employed with the department and working between 20 and 39 hours per week.
Human Resources Manual
Anchor: #i1009863
partial access
Partial access means only a portion of a property's total frontage has access to a given road, subject to police power restrictions.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1009878
partial immersion thermometers
Partial immersion thermometers are liquid-in-glass thermometers designed to indicate correctly when the bulb and stem are immersed to a specified depth. These are marked on the stem to show the immersion depth. Errors are dependent upon the cooling of the glass stem above this mark.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1009892
partial interchange lighting
The lighting of acceleration and deceleration lanes, ramp terminals, crossroads at frontage road or ramp intersections, and other areas of nighttime hazard. (See complete interchange lighting.)
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #i1009911
Partial Tensioning Cylinders
Partial Tensioning Cylinders are cylinders used to determine when the concrete strength is adequate to apply partial tensioning force by either pretensioning or post-tensioning method, to remove the member from the casting line.
700-I, Structural Test Procedures Manual
Anchor: #i1009925
particle projected area
Particle projected area is the maximum cross sectional area of the fractured particle.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1009959
Pascal’s Law
Pascal’s Law is pressure exerted at any point upon a confined liquid is transmitted undiminished in all directions.
Anchor: #i1023614
pass
A pass is a structure allowing movement of livestock, vehicles or products underneath the roadway.
Maintenance Collection
Anchor: #i1009980
pass through funds
Federal or state funds provided to subrecipients through grants/agreements as defined by OMB Circular A-133 or the State’s Uniform Grant Management Standards. These generally do not include advance funding agreements with local governmental entities involving projects in the department’s Unified Transportation Plan.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1009995
pass-thru item
A pass-thru item is a non-stock item.
Materials And Supplies Management System Manual
Anchor: #i1010009
passenger car equivalency
PCE
Passenger car equivalency (PCE) is the equivalency of larger vehicles, such as trucks and buses, to a quantity of passenger cars. This value is used in level of service and capacity analysis. The equivalency is dependent upon size, weight, and operating characteristics of the large vehicle, and the design speed and gradient of the highway.
Anchor: #i1010024
passenger trip
A passenger trip is the number of passengers who board public transportation vehicles. A passenger is counted each time the passenger boards a vehicle even though the passenger might be on the journey from origin to destination.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1010039
passing sight distance
Passenger sight distance is the minimum sight distance that must be available to enable a driver of one vehicle, traveling at design speed, to pass another vehicle, traveling 10 mph slower than design speed, safely and comfortably, without interfering with the speed of an oncoming vehicle traveling at design speed and coming into view after the overtaking maneuver is started.
Anchor: #i1010049
password history
Password history is the previous passwords “remembered” by the security system to prevent a particular password from being reused too frequently.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1010066
password interval
Password interval is the maximum number of days a password may be used before it must be changed.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1010081
password source
Password source is the originator of a password.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1010096
password threshold
Password threshold is the maximum number of consecutive times a wrong password can be entered before the user ID is suspended, disabled or unavailable for use for a period of time.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1010111
past due inventory
A past due inventory is when items scheduled for inventory are not physically counted by the due date.
Materials And Supplies Management System Manual
Anchor: #i1010125
patching
Patching is an asphaltic concrete pavement (ACP) distress type. Patches are repairs made to pavement distress. The presence of patching indicates prior maintenance activity and is thus used as a general measure of maintenance cost. Patching ranges from 0 to 100 percent of the lane area.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Rater's Manual
Anchor: #i1010139
pavement
PMT
Pavement (PMT) is that part of a roadway having a constructed surface for the facilitation of vehicular traffic.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1010159
pavement crack
A pavement crack is a fissure or open seam in pavement which does not necessarily extend through the body of the pavement material. Pavement cracking includes alligator, longitudinal, and transverse cracking.
Anchor: #i1010169
pavement crown
A pavement crown is a transverse roadway section formed by a plane surface, curved surface, or a combination of the two, for the purpose of insuring proper drainage of the pavement.
Anchor: #i1010179
pavement design
Pavement design includes two tasks: (1) mixture or materials design and (2) structure or thickness design. These two tasks cannot be cleanly separated at the design stage; there must be interaction between the tasks. Specifications are the link between mixtures and thickness design.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1010194
pavement distress
Pavement distress is cracking, rutting, distortion or other types of surface deterioration which indicates a decline in the pavement’s surface condition or structural load-carrying capacity.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Users Manual
Anchor: #i1010208
pavement edge drop off
A pavement edge drop off is a condition frequently occurring on narrow pavement or roads without paved shoulders where the wheels of vehicles frequently traverse off the pavement.
Maintenance Collection
Anchor: #i1024005
Pavement Evaluation System
PES
Pavement Evaluation System (PES) incorporates visual evaluation, Mays Ride Meter Serviceability Index (SI), optional Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) structural evaluation data, optional Skid Resistance Number (SN), and Roadway Information System (RIS) data into a framework designed to calculate, by modeling techniques, pavement condition and rehabilitation needs for statewide evaluation. PES was replaced in Fiscal Year 1993 by the Pavement Management Information System (PMIS). PES is part of the major investment study.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Users Manual
Anchor: #i1010250
pavement graphic
A pavement graphic is a type of marking, including stock bars, cross walks, railroad crossings, school zones, arrows, etc.
Maintenance Collection
Anchor: #i1010265
pavement, invert
Pavement, invert, means the lower segment of a corrugated metal pipe provided with a smooth bituminous material that completely fills the corrugations, intended to give resistance to scour and erosion, and to improve flow.
Anchor: #i1010275
pavement management
Pavement management is a method of finding cost-effective strategies for providing, evaluating and maintaining pavements in a serviceable condition.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Users Manual
Anchor: #i1010289
Pavement Management Information System
PMIS
The Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) is an automated system for storing, retrieving, analyzing and reporting information to help with pavement-related decision-making processes. PMIS began in fiscal year 1993, and includes Pavement Evaluation System (PES) data collected from fiscal years 1985-1992
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Users Manual
Anchor: #ILMLMMNN
Pavement Management System
PMS
The Pavement Management System (PMS) is a set of tools or methods that can assist decision-makers in finding cost-effective strategies for providing, evaluating and maintaining pavements in a serviceable condition.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS)Users Manual
Anchor: #i1010327
pavement markings
Pavement markings are markings set into the surface of, applied upon, or attached to the pavement to inform or guide traffic. Markings intended to guide traffic, including striping, traffic buttons, raised pavement markers and graphics. All markings should be maintained as soon as practical according to the latest department standards.
Anchor: #i1024122
pavement reconstruction
Pavement reconstruction is construction of the equivalent of a new pavement structure which usually involves complete removal and replacement of an existing pavement structure including new and/or recycled materials.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1010348
pavement rehabilitation
Pavement rehabilitation is work undertaken to extend the service life of an existing facility. This includes resurfacing, restoration, and rehabilitation (3R) work undertaken to restore serviceability such as placement of additional surfacing material and/or other work necessary to return an existing roadway, including shoulders, to a condition of structural or functional adequacy. This could include the complete removal and replacement of the pavement structure. This may include partial recycling of the existing pavement.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1010363
pavement structure
Pavement structure is the combination of sub-base, base course, and surface course placed on a subgrade to support the traffic load and to distribute it to the roadbed.
Anchor: #i1010373
payee
A payee is an individual or entity that receives a payment from the State of Texas.
Voucher Manual
Anchor: #i1010397
Payee Identification Number System
PINS
The Payee Identification Number System (PINS) is TxDOT’s procedure to set up vendors in the comptroller’s payment system.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1010418
payload
Payload is the combined maximum allowable weight of cargo and passengers that a truck is designed to carry. Payload is the same as tare weight and net carrying capacity.
Equipment Manual
Anchor: #i1010433
payment
A payment is a transfer of funds from the appropriate TxDOT financial account to pay for any costs of the miscellaneous contracts.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1010448
payment bond
The security furnished by the contractor solely for the protection of claimants, as defined by law, supplying labor and materials for the prosecution of the work in accordance with the terms of the contract.
Maintenance Contract Manual
Anchor: #i1010462
payment rate
Payment rate is the proportional share of sampling cost to be paid to MAT when a supplier/producer chooses to have less that the MQR of a material sampled and tested.
Anchor: #i1010472
payroll
Payroll is a list of employees entitled to the payment of wages.
Voucher Manual
Anchor: #i1010486
peak hour factor
PHF
The peak hour factor (PHF) is a ratio of the total hourly traffic volume to the maximum 15-minute traffic volume within the hour. PHF represents the flow variation within an hour.
Anchor: #i1024607
peak hour traffic
PHT
Peak hour traffic (PHT) is the percentage of Average Daily Traffic (ADT) that occurs during the hour with the highest traffic volume.
Anchor: #i1010512
peat
Peat is a soil composed of vegetable tissue in various stages of decomposition usually with a dark brown to black color, a spongy consistency and a texture ranging from fibrous to amorphous.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1010528
pedestrian or bystander injury
Pedestrian or bystander injuries are occurrences which result in death or injury to pedestrians or bystanders caused by contact with a moving vehicle or road machine, or an object carried on or in such equipment and are classified as accidents.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #i1010542
pedestrian overpass
A pedestrian overpass is a grade separation designed to carry pedestrian traffic over the subject highway.
Anchor: #i1010552
pedestrian underpass
A pedestrian underpass is a grade separation designed to carry pedestrian traffic under the subject highway.
Anchor: #i1010562
penetration
Penetration is the distance a needle penetrates asphalt, under a specified weight, in a specified time, and at a specified temperature. This is a controlled laboratory test.
Anchor: #i1010572
percent combo unit trucks in ADT
Percent combo unit trucks in ADT represents all combo unit truck activity over all days of the week and seasons of the year as a percentage of total annual traffic. Combo unit trucks include vehicle classes 8 through 13.
Texas Reference Marker (TRM) System User's Manual
Anchor: #i1010587
percent combo unit trucks in DHV
Percent combo unit trucks in DHV represents all combo unit truck activity for peak periods of the year as a percentage. Combo unit trucks include vehicle classes 8 through 13.
Texas Reference Marker (TRM) System User's Manual
Anchor: #i1010602
percent density or percent compaction
The percent density or percent compaction is the ratio of the actual bulk specific gravity (Ga) of the compacted bituminous mixture specimen to the theoretical maximum specific gravity (Gr) of the bituminous mixture expressed as a percentage.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1024786
percent of grade
Percent of grade is the grade of centerline or profile grade road between vertical points of intersection +0.10% = Increase in elevation by 0.10 feet for each 100 feet station.
Anchor: #i1010622
percent single unit trucks in ADT
Percent single unit trucks in ADT represents all single-unit truck activity over all days of the week and seasons of the year as a percentage of total annual traffic. Single unit trucks include vehicle classes 4 through 7.
Texas Reference Marker (TRM) System User's Manual
Anchor: #i1010639
percent single unit trucks in DHV
Percent single unit trucks in DHV represents all single unit truck activity for peak periods of the year as a percentage. Single unit trucks include vehicle classes 4 through 7.
Texas Reference Marker (TRM) System User's Manual
Anchor: #i1010654
percent soil binder
The percent soil binder is equal to 100 times the ratio of the oven-dry mass of the soil binder to the oven-dry mass of the total.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1010668
percent slope (% slope)
Percent slope (% slope) is the change in elevation divided by the horizontal distance over which the change occurs for a vertical line.
Anchor: #i1010678
perched water table
A perched water table, in hydrology, is the upper surface of a body of free ground water in a zone of saturation, separated by unsaturated material from an underlying body of ground water in a differing zone of saturation.
Anchor: #i1010698
performance awards
Performance awards are awards that may be given to individual employees or work teams for outstanding contributions to the department. Awards may include cash, certificates of recognition, plaques, and gifts within state and department guidelines.
Human Resources Manual
Anchor: #i1010712
performance bond
Performance bond is the security furnished by the contractor to guarantee the completion of the work in accordance with the terms of the contract.
Maintenance Contract Manual
Anchor: #i1010726
performance period
Performance period is the period of time that an initially constructed or rehabilitated pavement structure will last (perform) before reaching its terminal serviceability. This is also referred to as the design period.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1025245
performing agency
The performing agency is the state agency providing the service or resources.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1010762
performing district, division or office
The performing district, division, or office is the office responsible for providing the service or resource to the receiving agency.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1010777
performing entity
Performing entity a party to a department contract, not a department employee, who accepts a department offer to participate in a contracting activity; the contract can define the performing entity as appropriate to the contract: engineer, surveyor, technical expert, private consultant, the city, the recipient, etc.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1010792
peripherals (or peripheral devices)
Peripherals are computer-oriented hardware components such as printers, modems, etc.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1010802
period ending
A period ending is a date that indicates the last day of the accounting period being reported.
Anchor: #i1010822
permanently assigned vehicle
A permanently assigned vehicle is a vehicle permanently assigned to a division or office for its exclusive use and may be used for local or out-of-town travel.
Equipment Manual
Anchor: #i1010837
permanent sign
A permanent sign is any sign permanently affixed or attached to the ground or a structure or which cannot be removed without special handling.
Maintenance Collection
Anchor: #i1010852
permanent structure number
PSN
A permanent structure number (PSN) is a unique three-digit number assigned to any structure meeting the definition of a bridge. It is part of the 12-digit Bridge Identification. PSNs are assigned by control in ascending order as the bridges are built and are not necessarily in sequence along the control or section.
Bridge Inspection Manual
Anchor: #i1010871
permeability
Permeability means penetrability.
Anchor: #i1025807
permit system
A permit system is the employer’s written procedure for preparing and issuing permits for entry and for returning the permit space to service following termination of entry.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #i1010901
permit-required confined space (permit space)
A permit-required confined space is a confined space that has one or more of the following characteristics: contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere; contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant; has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section; or, contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #PFFIKKHG
person
  1. A person is any individual, family, partnership, corporation or association.
  2. Right of Way Manual
  3. A person is an individual, corporation, organization, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, or any other legal entity.
  4. Maintenance Manual
Anchor: #i1010935
personal care attendant
PCA
A personal care attendant (PCA) is an individual who provides personal care to a person with a very severe disability by providing assistance with activities of daily living that the individual would typically perform if the individual did not have a disability.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1010955
personal computer
PC
A personal computer (PC) is a microcomputer that is not a server.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #personal_digital_assistant
Personal Digital Assistant
PDA
A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) is a general category for two way digital networks with integrated voice, data, and messaging capabilities. A small computing device based on the Microsoft Pocket PC standard or Palm OS.
Source: Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011015
personalty
A personalty is any property owned by a person other than real property.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1011030
persons providing services on the project (“subcontractor” in §406.096 of the Texas Labor Code)
Persons providing services on the project include all persons or entities performing all or part of the services the contractor has undertaken to perform on the project, regardless of whether that person contracted directly with the contractor and regardless of whether that person has employees. This includes but is not limited to independent contractors, subcontractors, leasing companies, motor carriers, owner-operators, employees of any such entity or employee of any entity furnishing persons to perform services on the project. “Services” includes but is not limited to providing, hauling, or delivering equipment or materials, or providing labor, transportation or other service related to a project. “Services” does not include activities unrelated to the project, such as food and beverage vendors, office supply deliveries, and delivery of portable toilets.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #i1011044
person trips
Person trips are those trips made by persons five years of age or older by any mode of transportation. These are usually summed for all members of a household and reported as person trips per household and referred to as the person trip rate. Person trips are also summed by household and divided by the number of persons in the household to compute the person trips per person.
Traffic Data and Analysis Manual
Anchor: #i1011059
petroleum storage tank system
PSTS
A petroleum storage tank system (PSTS) is any storage system designed to contain petroleum products or byproducts underground, and to be accessed from the ground's surface; also any container of hazardous material or waste buried beneath the surface of the earth.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1011079
petty cash
Petty cash is a sum of money set aside to pay items for which the issuance of a formal voucher and warrant would not be cost- or time-efficient.
Voucher Manual
Anchor: #i1011093
Pharr District
PHR
The Pharr District (PHR) is a TxDOT district office including the following counties: Brooks, Cameron, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Kenedy, Starr, Willacy and Zapata. Area offices are located in Hebronville, Pharr, Raymondville and San Benito. Other TxDOT offices in this district are the Valley Travel Information Center and a Vehicle Titles and Registration Regional Office.
Inside TxDOT
Anchor: #i1011112
photometric curves
Photometric curves, also called photometric data, are derived from metered measurements of horizontal or vertical lux (or footcandles). These metered measurements are obtained by the use of a light meter usually calibrated in lux (or footcandles).
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #i1026256
photo mosaics
A series of overlapping aerial photos that form a composite image of a larger area.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #picnic_area
picnic area
A picnic area is a TxDOT-operated facility that offers parking and picnic arbors for the traveling public. Picnic areas are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Maintenance Division
Anchor: #INGGGHKG
pile, bearing
A pile, bearing, is a member driven or jetted into the ground and deriving its support from the underlying strata and/or by the friction of the ground on its surface.
Anchor: #i1011153
pilferable items
Pilferable items are those items, of any value, which are desirable and/or quickly adjusted for personal use.
Materials and Supplies Management System Manual
Anchor: #i1011167
piling
A piling is a long slender column of timber, steel, or reinforced concrete that is driven into the ground to carry vertical loads from the structure to the earth to act as a foundation for the structure.
Anchor: #i1011177
pixel
A pixel is the smallest definable unit in a raster image. The actual size of the pixel depends on the resolution of the individual image.
Communications Manual
Anchor: #i1011201
place of employment
Place of employment means the place where an employee routinely conducts official state business.
Travel Manual
Anchor: #i1011216
plain elastomeric bridge bearings
Plain elastomeric bridge bearings consist of elastomer only.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1011230
plain old telephone service
POTS
Plain old telephone service (POTS) is short for plain old telephone service, which refers to the standard telephone service that most homes use.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011250
plan quantity item
A plan quantity item is an item whose quantity can be accurately determined through calculation such as pounds of reinforcing steel or cubic yards of concrete for structure work.
Anchor: #i1011270
planning emphasis areas
PEAs
Planning emphasis areas (PEAs) are FTA and FHWA priority themes for consideration in developing the state and in metropolitan planning organization unified planning work programs. PEAs were published annually in the Federal Register until 2007 when they were discontinued to allow MPOs and states to concentrate on implementation of SAFETEA-LU practices.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1043935
Planning Justification System
PJS
The Planning Justification System (PJS) contains a list of all TxDOT “approved for purchase” hardware and software.
Technology Services Division
Anchor: #i1027158
planimetric (photogrammetric) map
Planimetric maps (“planimetrics” or “mapping”) contain two-dimensional data (X and Y coordinates). Planimetrics are digitized maps that show outlines and labels of topographic features. Contour lines (adding the vertical “Z” element) can be computed from a �digital terrain model (DTM) and superimposed on the map.
Anchor: #i1011308
plans
Plans are drawings which show the location, dimensions, and nature of the prescribed work, including layouts, profiles, typical sections, and other details as is necessary to describe the work fully. These drawings are part of the contract for a project.
Anchor: #i1011318
Plans, Specifications and Estimates
PS&E
Plans, Specifications and Estimates (PS&E) are the detailed plans and accompanying specifications and construction cost estimates which serve as documents for construction contract letting purposes. Plans are the contract drawings which show the location, character, and dimensions of the prescribed work, including layouts, profiles, cross section, other miscellaneous details, and quantity summaries. Specifications are the compilation of provisions and requirements for the performance of prescribed work. The estimate is a list of all bid items and quantities estimated bid prices, total cost for each bid item, and the total estimated cost for the proposed project.
Anchor: #NIJKIJMF
plastic limit
Plastic limit is the constant defined as the lowest moisture content and expressed as a percentage of the weight of the oven dried soil at which the soil can be rolled into threads one-eighth inch in diameter without the soil breaking into pieces, also the moisture content of a solid at which a soil changes from a plastic state to a semisolid state.
Anchor: #IGQHEGKF
plastic state
Plastic state is when the material will deform and remain in that deformed state when a deforming pressure is applied and then released.
Anchor: #i1011353
plasticity
Plasticity is the property of a fine-grained portion of a soil which permits it, under certain moisture conditions to be remolded without crumbling or fracture in; the degree of plasticity a soil possesses can be used as a relative index of its clay content.0
Anchor: #i1011363
plasticity chart
A plasticity chart is used to differentiate the plasticity and organic characteristics of the fine-grained soils based on liquid limit (LL) and plasticity index (PI) of the soils.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1027262
plasticity index
P.I.
  1. The plasticity index (P.I.) is a range of moisture in which a soil remains in a plastic state while passing from a semisolid state to liquid state. Numerical difference between Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit of a soil (PI = LL - PL) using Test Method TEX-106-E.
  2. Plasticity index (P.I.) is a test conducted on soil samples as set out in Test Method Tex-106-E. The plasticity index is a range of moisture in which a soil remains in a plastic state while passing from a semisolid state to liquid state. Numerical difference between Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit of a soil (PI = LL - PL) using Test Method “Tex-106-E, Calculating the Plasticity Index of Soils.”
  3. Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1011394
plate
A plate is a flat-rolled iron or steel product (See �structural plate).
Anchor: #i1011406
platform
A platform is the foundation technology of a computer system. It is the hardware and systems software that together provide support for an application program.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011421
plottage value
Plottage value is an increment of value resulting from the combination of two or more sites that develops one site as having greater utility than the sum of each when separately considered.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1011436
plotters and printers
Plotters and printers are devices that allow users to provide hard copies of drawings/text.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011456
point of compound curve
A point of compound curve is the common point between two curves with different degrees of curvature.
Anchor: #i1045704
point of beginning
POB
Point of beginning (POB) is the first point mentioned in the legal description of the boundary on the property being described.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1011476
point of curvature
P.C.
The point of curvature (P.C.) is the point at which a curve begins.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1011491
point of intersection
P.I.
The point of intersection (P.I.) is the point at which two straight line tangents intersect.
Anchor: #i1011506
point of tangency
P.T.
The point of tangency (P.T.) is the point at which a curve ends.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1011521
point source
A point source is any discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance, including but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, landfill leachate collection system, vessel or other floating craft from which pollutants are or may be discharged. Agricultural stormwater runoff and return flows from irrigated agriculture are excluded.
Anchor: #i1011531
point-to-point protocol
PPP
Point-to-point protocol (PPP) is a protocol that allows a computer to directly access the Internet using a standard telephone line and a high-speed modem. PPP offers users data compression and compensates for noisy telephone lines.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011551
pole
A galvanized steel or aluminum shaft to support the lighting unit (also called the lighting standard).
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #i1011566
police power
Police power is the right of government to limit the exercise of property rights in real estate, without compensation, provided the limitation is not specific to one parcel. The limitation is to serve the interest of public health, public safety, public morals and the general welfare.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1011581
policy
A policy is parameters designed to ensure compliance with state and federal laws and achievement of TxDOT's mission.
Anchor: #LJNMGKIF
polish value
PV
A polish value (PV) is the average of a set of readings on the test specimen of aggregate after nine hours of polishing in the accelerated polishing machine. It is more commonly known as the ability of an aggregate to withstand the polishing effects of traffic wear.
Anchor: #i1011606
political sign
A political sign is a tempoary sign associated with a campaign for an elective office or issue that will be put to public vote.
Maintenance Collection
Anchor: #i1011621
political subdivision
A political subdivision is a municipality or county within the State of Texas.
Safe Routes to School Program Guidelines
Anchor: #i1011636
pollution
Pollution is contamination of any component of the total environment by harmful sounds, smells, or sights degrading or injurious to humans and other living organisms.
Anchor: #i1011646
polyvinyl chloride
PVC
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the material of which a kind of tubing used for conduit is made.
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #i1011666
ponding
Ponding is jetting or the use of water to hasten the settlement of an embankment and requires the judgment of a soils engineer. In Hydraulics, ponding refers to water backed up in a channel or ditch as the result of a culvert of inadequate capacity or design to permit the water to flow unrestricted.
Anchor: #i1011690
pool vehicle
A pool vehicle is a vehicle (such as a car, pick-up, or van) assigned to the equipment motor pool at department offices/complexes throughout the Austin area. These vehicles are available to be checked out upon request.
Equipment Manual
Anchor: #ULNEHHGN
population density
Population density (Bureau of the Census definition) is determined by:1) outside of a place, one or more contiguous census blocks with a population density of at least 1,000 persons per square mile. Or 2) inclusion of a place containing census blocks that have at least 50 percent of the population of the place and a density of at least 1,000 persons per square mile.
Transportation Planning and Programming Collection
Anchor: #JMNHIFGH
portable computing device
A portable computing device is any easily portable device capable of receiving and/or transmitting data to and from an information resource. These sources include, but are not limited to, notebook computers, handheld computers, PDAs, pagers, memory sticks, memory pens, digital cameras, digital toys and cell phones.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011739
port number
A port number is a standardized transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) port number that enables remote computers to know which port to connect to for a specific network service.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1011753
Portland cement
Portland cement is a finely powdered substance, usually gray or brownish gray, composed largely of artificial crystalline minerals, the most important of which are calcium and aluminum silicates. The calcium silicate compounds, upon reaction with water, produce the new compounds capable of imparting the stonelike quality to the mixture.
Anchor: #i1011773
Portland cement concrete pavement
Portland cement concrete pavement is a hardened mixture of Portland cement, aggregate, and water used to pave streets or highways. This mixture may or may not contain steel reinforcing.
Anchor: #i1011783
posting amount
Posting amount is the amount of the transaction.
Finance Division
Anchor: #i1011798
potential vertical rise
PVR
Potential vertical rise (PVR) is expressed in millimeters (inches), is the latent or potential ability of a soil material to swell, at a given density, moisture and loading condition, when exposed to capillary or surface water, and thereby increase the elevation of its upper surface, along with anything resting on it.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1028409
pound force
Pound force is that force, which if applied to a one pound mass, will cause it to accelerate at a rate of 9.807 meters per second per second. (the gravitational acceleration factor is 9.807 meters per second per second).A 100-pound weight placed on an object exerts a force of 100 pounds to that object.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1011829
power
P
Power (P) is measured in watts. Formulae as follows:
  • for DC circuits: or
  • for AC circuits: or .
For power loss due to resistance in lighting circuits, the power factor can be considered equal to one. This power can also be calculated: .
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #NTJIEHJF
power of attorney
POA
A power of attorney (POA) is a legal instrument authorizing a person to act as the agent of the grantor.
Letting Manual
Anchor: #i1011890
power factor
pf
Power factor (pf) is the time relationship between current wave and voltage wave in an A.C. system.
Highway Illumination Manual
Anchor: #i1011925
pre-bid conference
A pre-bid conference is used to present a general review of the completed plans and specifications plus a detailed review of the project’s special requirements.
Anchor: #i1011935
pre-cast
Pre-cast is concrete that is formed, placed, and cured before being placed in its final position. An example is a pre-case concrete beam for a bridge.
Anchor: #IMRHINLF
precision weights
Precision weights are weights meeting the requirements of any of the four classes in the “Acceptance Tolerances for Analytical Weights” of Test Method “Tex-901-K. Verifying Calibration of Weighing Devices used for Laboratory Testing.” Class 1 and Class 2 weights are used as standards for calibration of analytical balances, in the calibration of lesser class weights, and as counterweights with analytical balances. Class 3 and Class 4 weights are used as working weights and for calibration of general-purpose balances.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1029038
prefabricated pavement markings
Prefabricated pavement markings are all film type materials to be used for symbol, legend, or linear pavement markings which are supplied in a preshaped or semi-preshaped form.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #HMMNFNMF
prehistoric
Prehistoric means archeological sites of Native American peoples without a written record dating before A.D. 1492.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #i1012014
preliminary engineering
Preliminary engineering is that portion of the development of a project during which the basic planning objectives are translated into specific, well-defined criteria that can permit the final design process to begin.
Anchor: #i1012034
preliminary survey
A preliminary survey consists of fieldwork and gathering data from a variety of sources to identify all issues in the project development process early enough to allow time to address and, if need be, mitigate for environmental issues.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #i1012048
pre-negotiated audit
An examination of the contractor’s records before the negotiated contract is executed. This is performed to assure the contract manager that the contractor has an acceptable accounting system, adequate and proper justification for the various rates charged to perform work and is aware of the cost eligibility and documentation requirements.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1012063
prepared roadbed
Prepared roadbed refers to in-place roadbed soils compacted or stabilized according to provisions of applicable specifications.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1012078
prescriptive right
Prescriptive right is the open and continuous use of land by an entity where no previous written document exists.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1012093
pre-sentence investigation
PSI
A pre-sentence investigation (PSI) typically applies to a convicted driving while intoxicated offender.
Traffic Safety
Anchor: #i1012108
present owner
A present owner is the person currently holding clear title to a certain property.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #NKOKLNGG
present serviceability index
PSI
Present serviceability index (PSI) is a number derived by formula for estimating the serviceability rating from measurements of certain physical features of the pavement.
Pavement Design Manual
Anchor: #i1012144
prestressed concrete
Prestressed concrete is precast concrete subject to pretensioning, post-tensioning, or a combination of both.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1012158
preventive maintenance
  1. Preventive maintenance is pavement repair to preserve existing pavement so that it may achieve its designed loading.
  2. Pavement Design Manual
  3. Preventive maintenance for pavements is a relatively light-duty treatment applied before the pavement shows obvious signs of deterioration. These treatments preserve condition and prolong pavement life either by repairing the surface or by preventing intrusion of water into the underlying layers. Some typical preventive maintenance treatments for pavements are: seal coat, thin overlay, crack seal and joint treatment.
  4. Pavement Management Information System User's Manual
Anchor: #i1012179
preventive maintenance project
Work proposed to preserve, rather than improve, the structural integrity of the pavement and/or structure. Examples of preventive maintenance activities include ACP overlays, seal coats, sealing joints and cracks, patching concrete pavement, shoulder repair, scour countermeasures, painting steel members, restoration of drainage systems and cleaning and sealing bridge joints.
Anchor: #i1012189
Primary Highway System
Primary Highway System, or Federal-Aid Primary System, means that portion of connected main highways that is officially designated by the Commission as the federal-aid primary system in existence on June 1, 1991, and any highway that is not on the system but is on the National Highway System.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1029941
Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area
PMSA
A Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area (PMSA), according to the Bureau of the Census, if an area that qualifies as an MA and has more than one million persons, Primary Metropolitan Statistical Areas (PMSA) may be defined within it. A PMSA consists of a large urbanized county or cluster of counties that demonstrates very strong internal economic and social links, in addition to close ties with other portions of the larger area. When PMSAs are established, the larger area of which they are component parts is designated a CMSA.
Transportation Planning and Programming Collection
Anchor: #i1012219
primary monumentation and control
Primary monumentation and control is the base monuments used to control surveying, design, and construction of a transportation project; also, the relative course and distance between monuments.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1012234
prime coat
PC
The prime coat (PC) is the initial application of a low viscosity liquid asphaltic material on a completed base course or other approved area for the purpose of promoting adhesion between the base course or area and the application of a subsequent layer of asphaltic material.
Anchor: #i1012249
prime contractor
Prime contractor is the contractor of record who remains responsible for contract compliance, even if employing sub-contractors. See �contractor.
Contract Administration Manual
Anchor: #i1012265
prime provider
The prime provider is the provider awarded a TxDOT provider contract.
Engineering Architectural and Surveying Services Manual
Anchor: #i1012290
principle of least privilege
The principle of least privilege requires that a user be given no more privilege than necessary to perform a job. Ensuring least privilege requires identifying what the user's job is, determining the minimum set of privileges required to perform that job, and restricting the user to a domain with those privileges and nothing more.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1012319
printout
A printout is an analog representation of a digital file, usually on paper.
Communications Manual
Anchor: #i1012333
prior approval
Prior approval is the documentation evidencing consent prior to incurring specific cost or undertaking a new task.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1030126
prior authorization
Prior authorization is the documentation evidencing department consent for the performing entity to proceed on a course of action.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1012359
priority program area
A priority program area is a program area designated by the federal government for national emphasis in highway safety.
Traffic Safety
Anchor: #i1012369
private key
A private key is one piece of an encrypted system, required to prove authenticity of the sender.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #FFMHIHKM
privately owned utility
Privately owned utility is any utility facility or line, its accessories and appurtenances, devoted exclusively to private use and not serving the public either directly or indirectly. These facilities will be considered as improvements and not as public utilities. The function of an individual facility or line should be the determining factor and not ownership considerations.
ROW Utility Manual
Anchor: #i1012399
privatization
Privatization is the contracting of public services or selling of public assets to private industry.
Anchor: #i1012409
probable sales (price)
Probable sales (price) is the amount which would normally be received for a residential dwelling through its sale to another person.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1012424
probational status
Probational status is a status assigned to an aggregate product on the AQMP, Aggregate Quality Monitoring Program, when its rated source statistical value (with the exception of polish value) is within 10 percent of TxDOT’s standard specification unit.
Manual of Testing Procedures
Anchor: #i1012438
problem inventory
A problem inventory occurs when a specific stock item is inventoried because of a discrepancy.
Materials And Supplies Management System Manual
Anchor: #i1012462
procedure
A procedure translates policies, plans, programs into action. Procedures establish sequence, timing and coordination, and specify how the work is accomplished. They set out the steps to carry out policy.
Anchor: #i1030438
process
A process is a set of sub-processes that take input and create one or more outputs that are of value to the customer.
Anchor: #i1012478
procurement
Procurement is the process of acquiring goods and services.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1012493
procurement card
Procurement card is a credit card provided under the state procurement card program and issued to state employees for the payment of selected goods and services for official business only.
Purchasing Manual
Anchor: #i1012508
procurement contract
A procurement contract is a legal instrument between an awarding agency and recipient where the principal purpose is to acquire (by purchase, lease, or barter) property or services for the direct benefit or use of the awarding agency.
Transportation Planning and Programming Collection
Anchor: #i1012533
producer
A producer is any business or individual who manufactures a product and seeks to supply that product to TxDOT or contractors of TxDOT.
Anchor: #i1012563
product
A product is a material that meets a TxDOT specification produced from a single source.
Anchor: #i1012573
productions
Productions are the trips that are produced by members of a household. Productions are computed by trip purpose as well as mode of travel. Production rates refer to the total trips produced divided by the number of households.
Traffic Data and Analysis Manual
Anchor: #i1012603
production system
The production system is the hardware, software, physical, procedural, and organizational issues that need to be considered when addressing the security of an application, group of applications, organizations or group of organizations.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1012628
professional providers
Professional providers are professionals identified under Government Code chapter 2254, Subchapter A that may perform professional services for the department.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1012643
professional services
Professional services means services covered by the Professional Services Act (Texas Government Code Title 10, Subtitle D, Section 2254), including accounting, architecture, landscape architecture, land surveying, medicine, optometry, professional engineering, real estate appraising, and professional nursing, and services provided in connection with the professional employment or practice of a person who is licensed or registered as a state certified or state licensed real estate appraiser.
Purchasing Manual
Anchor: #i1012658
professional services provider
Professional services provider (provider) is an individual or entity that provides engineering, architectural, or surveying services.
Engineering Architectural and Surveying Services Manual
Anchor: #i1012673
proficiency samples
Proficiency samples are defined as homogenous samples that are distributed and tested by two or more laboratories and/or personnel. The test results are compared to assure that the laboratories and/or personnel are obtaining the same results.
Quality Assurance Program Manual
Anchor: #i1012687
profile
  1. A profile is an accessor ID (ACID) and the resources that the ACID is authorized to access.
  2. Information Security Manual
  3. Profile is a line indicating ground elevations of a vertical section along a survey line.
  4. Right of Way Collection
  5. The profile is the line showing ground elevations or a vertical section along a horizontal survey line. Side view of roadway or ditch grade.
Anchor: #i1012708
profile grade line
The profile grade line, usually the centerline, and elevation to which the roadway is to be built.
Anchor: #IQLKMIIL
profilograph (California-type)
A profilograph is an apparatus constructed with a metal frame with about 7.62 m (25 ft.) between the front and rear wheel assembly supports, and allowing field calibration using vertical deflection standards. Each wheel assembly consists of six averaging rubber-tired wheels arranged so the center of the frame represents the mean evaluation of the road surface between the wheel assemblies. For consistent graph recording, air pressure in the profile wheel must be maintained to manufacturer’s specification. Motive power may be manual or a small propulsion unit attached to the center assembly.
Anchor: #i1031119
profilometer, surface dynamics
A profilometer, surface dynamics, is a device designed to produce a trace resembling the surface profile over which it is passed.
Anchor: #i1012735
pro forma
Pro forma is a document provided in advance to prescribe form and basic content, as “pro forma” grant agreements for Selected Traffic Enforcement Programs.
Anchor: #i1012745
program
A program is a grouping of activities of a related nature.
Anchor: #i1012755
programmed
Programmed is the amount of transportation planning funds the MPO expects to expend on tasks detailed in the UPWP. The programmed amount includes FHWA transportation planning funds, also known as PL funds, FTA Section 5303 funds, and state match. The FHWA PL funds may include the new allocation, carryover from the previous year, and any unobligated balance. The programmed amount cannot be more than the sum of the new allocation, carryover, and unobligated balance or two years of allocation, whichever is less.
Transportation Planning and Programming Collection
Anchor: #FJNGJKKG
program coordinator
PC
A program coordinator (PC) is a Research Management Committee member assigned by the RMC over a program of research defined in the long range research plan (a topic, goal, objective or an indivisual project).
Research and Implementation Manual
Anchor: #i1012790
program cost account
PCA
Program cost account (PCA) is an assigned number that relates to appropriation authority (Reference FIMS Code Chart 81).
Finance Division
Anchor: #i1012810
program manager
  1. The program manager is the department staff person responsible for making administrative decisions to implement a contracting activity.
  2. Contract Management Manual
  3. A program manager is the manager assigned IR ownership; responsible for the information used in carrying out program(s) under their direction and provides appropriate direction to implement defined security controls and procedures.
  4. Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1012832
program of projects
POP
The program of projects (POP) is a statewide list of projects for FTA funding.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1012852
Program Selection Committee
The Program Selection Committee is a committee approved by the Executive Director to select employees who may participate in the department-sponsored master’s program.
Human Resources Manual
Anchor: #i1031342
programmatic agreement
Programmatic agreement is an agreement that governs how certain activities will occur, usually on a specific environmental issue. TxDOT has a PA with FHWA and with THC on cultural resources.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #i1012876
programmatic categorical exclusion
PCE
A programmatic categorical exclusion (PCE) is a CE project for which an environmental analysis is prepared. The types of projects are the result of an agreement between TxDOT and FHWA. ENV approves PCEs for FHWA.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #i1012895
prohibited condition
A prohibited condition is any condition in a permit space that is not allowed by the permit during the period when entry is authorized.
Occupational Safety Manual
Anchor: #i1012919
project advisor
PA
A project advisor (PA) is an individual who provides additional expertise for research project oversight. A project advisor may be a TxDOT employee or a person from outside of TxDOT. A project advisor serves under the project director on the Project Monitoring Committee.
Research and Implementation Manual
Anchor: #i1012950
project classification
Project classification is an official classification of the type of project provided for in construction plans.
Anchor: #i1012960
Project Development Plan
PDP
The Project Development Plan (PDP) is produced by the Design and Construction Information System for 10 year planning and development. In 1996, the name changed to the Unified Transportation Plan (UTP).
Anchor: #i1012975
project director
PD
A project director (PD) is the TxDOT person in charge of project oversight during the conduct of the project. The project director answers to the �Research Management Committee (RMC) through the program coordinator, ensuring that the project stays on the course determined by the RMC and as outlined in the project work plan.
Research and Implementation Manual
Anchor: #project_grant_agreement
Project Grant Agreement
PGA
A project grant agreement specifies the scope, the time period of the grant and maximum reimbursable award for a public transportation grant. Along with the master grant agreement (MGA), it is the legally binding instrument between TxDOT and the grant subrecipient.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1013007
projected traffic
Projected traffic is estimated future traffic volumes of a roadway.
Anchor: #i1013017
project-level
In pavement management, project-level refers to activities which directly support decision-making and design of an individual pavement project. Project-level activities require more detailed data collection and analysis than that required for network-level.
Pavement Management Information System (PMIS) Users Manual
Anchor: #i1013031
project maintenance
Project maintenance is a project intended to maintain rather than improve the original condition of a highway facility. Special maintenance and some day labor work is handled under Project Maintenance.
Anchor: #i1031601
project manager
  1. The project manager is the TxDOT supervising employee that is responsible for initiating and orchestrating projects to be outsourced and managed by the department; verifies that the performing entity is in compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract and accepts a good or service on behalf of TxDOT.
  2. Contract Management Manual
  3. The project manager coordinates the work of others and acts as “go-between” with other sections, agencies, etc. Typically, the project manager develops and oversees project work schedules and supervises work performed by others. A project may have more than one project manager if the project involves work performed by more than one organization.
  4. Traffic Safety
  5. The department project manager is the department employee designated in the contract as the official contact for all correspondence between the department and the provider.
  6. Engineering Architectural and Surveying Services Manual
Anchor: #i1003651
project monitoring committee
PMC
A project monitoring committee (PMC) is composed of the project director, who chairs the committee, the program coordinator associated with the project, project advisors, and the RTI research engineer assigned to the Research Management Committee under which the project is funded.
Research and Implementation Manual
Anchor: #i1013076
project number
Project number is the unique number for the overall designation of a work effort containing one or more details for city/county/agency.
Finance Division
Anchor: #i1013091
project release letter
A project release letter is a memorandum issued by the Right of Way Division to a District authorizing funding on the ROW CSJ for right of way activities for a specific project.
Anchor: #i1013116
promotion
A promotion is a change in duty assignment to a position in a higher salary group. Generally, such positions carry more responsibility and require that those who fill them possess higher levels of education and experience.
Human Resources Manual
Anchor: #i1032170
property description
Property description is a description recognized by law which is sufficient to locate and identify property without oral testimony. The property description includes metes and bounds of the property and a survey (parcel) plat.
Right of Way Collection
Anchor: #i1013141
property fence
A property fence is placed on or near the boundary line between two adjacent properties.
Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1013151
property interest
Property interest is a right or interest that an individual has in land and chattels to the exclusion of all others.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1013166
property line
P/L
  1. The property line (P/L) is the line that identifies the outside perimeter of a tract of land as described by the metes and bounds in the field notes.
  2. A property line (P/L) is a legally established line which indicates the registered boundary between adjacent property owners holdings.
  3. Survey Manual
Anchor: #i1013192
proposal
A proposal is a prospective entity’s submission of its qualifications and/ or fees for completing a project being outsourced; the proposal is scored by the department to determine which entity will be awarded the contract.
Contract Management Manual
Anchor: #i1013213
proprietary accounts
Proprietary accounts are those accounts which show financial position and operations, such as assets, liabilities, reserves, fund balances, revenues and expenditures, as distinguished from budgetary accounts.
Anchor: #i1032590
proprietary purchase
A proprietary purchase is a purchase in which the specifications or requirements describe a product or service that is only available from one manufacturer or vendor, and which does not permit an equivalent product to be supplied. Formerly called a 3.09 or 309 purchase.
Purchasing Manual
Anchor: #i1013244
proprietary software
Proprietary software is software that the department obtains from vendors or other commercially available sources, the use of which is governed by licensing agreements.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1013259
prospective employee
Prospective employee is a person who is being considered for employment with TxDOT. This term also includes an employee of another agency who is being considered for employment by TxDOT.
Travel Manual
Anchor: #i1013274
prospectus
A prospectus, in transportation, is a document that describes proposed activities in transportation planning over a specified period of time, predicts future conditions in the region, assigns responsibility for planning and implementing transportation services, and discusses transportation alternatives for the future.
Anchor: #i1013284
protocol
A protocol is a pre-established standard that is used to communicate between two entities where each entity is able to understand and communicate with the other.
Anchor: #i1013294
protocol stack
Communications functions are generally divided into separate “layers” of protocol, each of which builds on the functions provided by a more basic layer. The combination of these layered protocols is termed a protocol stack.
Anchor: #i1013304
provider
A provider is any firm or company performing ROW services under a professional services contract.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1013319
proximity damage
Proximity damage is a reduction in value to improvements caused by their location too close to an activity that is not compatible to their use.
Right of Way Collection
proxy
A proxy is a firewall mechanism that replaces the IP address of a host on the internal (protected) network with its own IP address for all traffic passing through it. A software agent that acts on behalf of a user, typical proxies accept a connection from a user, make a decision as to whether or not the user or client IP address is permitted to use the proxy, and perhaps does additional authentication. It then completes a connection on behalf of the user to a remote destination.
Source: Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1013334
proxy server
A proxy server is a device which allows (or restricts) passage from internal network facilities to external network facilities (for example, the Internet) and maintains individual records of the date, time, and duration of such passages, as well as the sites visited.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1013349
public hearing
A public hearing is a hearing held after public notice to solicit public input in determining a preferred alternative for or with respect to, any changes to a project. All testimony given at a public hearing will be made a part of the hearing record.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #i1013363
Public Information and Education
PI&E
Public Information and Education (PI&E) is an activity intended to create awareness, build knowledge, enhance sensitivity toward traffic safety issues, and change behavior of the driving public.
Anchor: #i1013388
Public Information Office
PIO
The Public Information Office (PIO) provides information to the public and develops public education campaigns about department functions and activities. In March of 1998, PIO assumed responsibility for the department's ombudsman.
Inside TxDOT
Anchor: #i1013407
public involvement
Public involvement is an ongoing phase of the project planning process that encourages and solicits public input and provides the public the opportunity to become fully informed regarding project development.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #FFLKNLKN
public key
A public key is one piece of an encrypted system. It is held by a trusted, third party, certificate authority.
Information Security Manual
public key encryption
Public key encryption involves encrypting messages with one key (public key) that can only be decrypted with a second key (private key) and vice versa. Each key unlocks the encryption that the other key creates. For security purposes, the private key is never revealed to unauthorized users. Only the public key is widely known.
Source: Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1013436
public key infrastructure
PKI
The public key infrastructure (PKI) consists of the programs, data formats, communications protocols, institutional policies and procedures required for enterprise use of public-key cryptography.
Information Security Manual
Anchor: #i1013466
publicly owned utility
A publicly owned utility is any utility facility or line, its accessories and appurtenances, devoted to serving the public either directly or indirectly. Common carrier type utility facilities will be considered public utilities. The function of an individual facility or line should be the determining factor and not ownership considerations. Highway design features such as storm drainage, illumination, traffic metering, intelligent traffic systems (ITS), or intelligent vehicle highway systems (IVHS) will not be considered public utilities.
ROW Utility Manual
Anchor: #i1013480
public meetings
Public meetings are informal discussions which may assist in the preparation of environmental documents may be held with local public officials, interested citizens or the general public and local, neighborhood or special interest groups for the purpose of exchanging ideas and collecting input on the need for and possible alternatives to a project.
Environmental Manual
Anchor: #ILIFGMNI
public park
A public park, forest, playground, nature preserve, or scenic area designated and maintained by a political subdivision or governmental agency.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1013509
public property
Public property is property owned by a state, city or county.
Safe Routes to School Program Guidelines
Anchor: #i1013534
public transit
Public transit, sometimes called mass transit, is where passenger transportation service, usually local in scope, that is available to any person who pays a prescribed fare. It operates on established schedules along designated routes or lines with specific stops and is designed to move relatively large numbers of people at one time. Buses, light rail, and rapid transit.
Anchor: #i1013544
public transportation
Public transportation is the transportation of passengers and their hand-carried packages or baggage on a regular or continuing basis by means of surface or water conveyance. This definition includes fixed guideway transportation and underground transportation, but excludes services provided by aircraft, taxicabs, ambulances, or emergency vehicles.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1013560
Public Transportation Advisory Committee
PTAC
The Public Transportation Advisory Committee (PTAC) is a group appointed by the Transportation Commission to provide advice and recommendations to the commission on the needs and problems of the state’s public transportation providers.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1013580
public transportation coordinator
PTC
A public transportation coordinator (PTC) is a TxDOT Public Transportation Division employee charged with carrying out public transportation grant management activities and providing technical assistance to transit agencies at the district level.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1013600
Public Transportation Division
PTN
The Public Transportation Division (PTN) provides financial and technical assistance to a variety of public transportation entities. These include urban, rural, and persons with disabilities transit providers, as well as metropolitan planning organizations, intercity carriers, and other public transportation industry related organizations. In addition, the division also administers and oversees various programs which are financed with funds and monies appropriated and made available from both the Texas Legislature and the Federal Transit Administration. In supporting public transportation in Texas, the division represents transit in the planning and programming process including the preparation of a statewide comprehensive master plan and in rail safety oversight. It also represents the state in public transportation matters with federal officials, other state agencies, transit organizations and local communities; monitors and sponsors research and development activities; and assists in the development of policies by the commission, the governor, and the legislature.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #i1013630
Public Transportation Management System
PTMS
The Public Transportation Management System (PTMS) is an information database for transit agency contact data, procurement status, security and safety information, and fleet and facility inventories.
Public Transportation Collection
Anchor: #ONMHLNFK
pump station
A pump station is the facility required for mechanically lifting the storm water a required vertical distance from a gravity inflow to a gravity outflow. The station includes a wet well sump, pumps, controls, pump house, and motors.
Anchor: #i1013670
pumping
Pumping is the ejection of mixtures of water, clay or silt along or through transverse or longitudinal joints, cracks, or pavement edges resulting from repeated wheel load applications.
Anchor: #KHKEMGMF
punchout
A punchout is an asphaltic concrete pavement (ACP) distress type. A punchout is a full-depth block of pavement formed when one longitudinal crack crosses two transverse cracks. PMIS ratings for punchouts range from 0 to 999.
Pavement Management Information System Users (PMIS) Manual
Anchor: #i1013694
purchase
Purchase, as used in connection with claiming supplementary relocation benefits, means:
  • the date of delivery to such claimant of the deed to the replacement property; or
  • the date of delivery of a completely executed installment contract for purchase of the replacement property.
Right of Way Manual
Anchor: #i1013719
purchase, 3.09
3.09 is an obsolete purchasing term taken from Vernon’s Texas Civil Statutes, referring to a sole source or proprietary purchase. This has been replaced by Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle D, Section 2155.067.
Purchasing Manual
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purchase additive
A purchase additive is the amount of money the displacee must pay for replacement housing over and above the acquisition amount he/she receives from the department.
Right of Way Manual
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Purchase Category Codes
PCC
Purchase Category Codes (PCC) are codes used in the Uniform Statewide Accounting System (USAS) to document the purchase method, commodity type, and dollar category of purchases. This code also determines the audit process for all types of delegated and non-delegated payments. Audits are either pre- or post-payment.
Purchasing Manual
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purchase of services
  1. Purchase of services is the procurement of skilled or unskilled labor or professional work, but does not include:
    • professional and consulting services covered by the Professional Services Act, as defined in TGC, Title 10, Subtitle D, Section 2254
    • services of an employee of a state agency (interagency agreement)
    • services of public utilities.
  2. Purchasing Manual
  3. Purchase of services means the method of providing right of way services to TxDOT based on established ratios of qualifications and bid price.
  4. Right of Way Manual
  5. Purchase of services is the purchasing method an entity buys transit service from a public transit agency or other transportation source.
  6. Public Transportation Collection
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purchase order
PO
  1. Purchase order (PO) is a written document to a vendor formalizing all terms and conditions of a proposed transaction made under the State Purchasing Act, for goods or non-professional services.
  2. Purchasing Manual
  3. Purchase order (PO) is a purchase agreement issued by a state agency authorized to do so under the provisions of Title 10, Subtitle D, Government Code.
  4. Contract Management Manual
  5. Purchase order (PO) is a number sequentially assigned to purchases handled through the Automated Purchasing System (APS).
  6. Finance Division
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purchase order change notice
Purchase order change notice is a document used to notify a vendor of specific changes in a purchase order and to document the purchasing file.
Purchasing Manual
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purchaser
Purchaser is an employee authorized in writing to act as a purchasing agent for TxDOT who may obligate state funds by issuing and signing purchase orders. Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle D, the State Purchasing Act.
Purchasing Manual
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purchasing
Purchasing is the acquisition of goods and services for TxDOT made under the Purchasing Act. Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle D, the State Purchasing Act.
Purchasing Manual
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Purchasing Act
The Purchasing Act, also known as the State Purchasing Act (Texas Government Code, Title 10, Subtitle D) is the enabling legislation that governs the purchase of goods and services by state agencies.
Purchasing Manual
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purchasing and materials administrator
PMA
The purchasing and materials administrator (PMA) is the same role as the former purchasing materials manager (PMM)
Purchasing Manual
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pycnometer
A pycnometer is a standard vessel often provided with a thermometer for measuring and comparing the densities of liquids and solids.
Manual of Testing Procedures
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