NEWS & EVENTS

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Contract Change Orders for Public Works

Posted: 2/24/2026

WEBINAR: March 18, 2026, 12:00PM - 1:00PM PT

California LTAP (CALTAP) and the Caltrans Division of Local Assistance (DLA), in partnership with APWA Sacramento, present a 1-hour Lunch 'n Learn on the Change Order (CO) process for public works construction projects.

A change order is a legally binding document used to make changes to the original construction contract through negotiated agreements that affect cost, time, design, or specification requirements. Any change to approved plans or specifications, or the addition of work, must be covered by a change order.

This short training covers when and why to issue COs, how to write effective COs and memorandums, the proper use of standard clauses, the approval process, and documentation best practices including common high-risk errors. The webinar focuses on Chapter 16.10 of the Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM) and references authority described in California Standard Specifications Section 4-1.05 and Greenbook Section 3.

This practical training is intended for project managers, construction inspectors, engineers, and contract administrators managing state or federally-funded construction projects.

Webinar Topics:

  • When & why to issue COs in your project
  • How to write a CO & CO memorandum
  • Use of Specification & CO standard clauses
  • Review of the CO template & approval process
  • Documenting, best practices, high-risk errors

Instructor:

  • Muhammad Rahman, Construction Oversight Engineer, North Districts 4 & 10, Caltrans

Register Here

This Event is Free

About the LAPM

The Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM) helps CA LPAs scope, organize, design, construct, and maintain local public transportation facilities utilizing FHWA federal-aid or state funding.

It describes the required processes, procedures, documents, authorizations, approvals, and certifications to receive federal-aid and/or state funds for many types of local transportation projects.

Need More Help?

California LTAP Center

Phone: (562) 985-2872

admin@caltap.org