The director of transportation may declare an emergency if circumstances exist that threaten life, safety, or health or if a situation arises that would greatly increase the costs of a project if not addressed. The director shall declare an emergency by preparing a written statement of the circumstances that exist that warrant the declaration. Notwithstanding section 127.16 of the Revised Code, the director may then select a firm with appropriate qualifications and negotiate a contract for the immediate performance of emergency professional services. Not later than thirty days after the professional services have been performed, the director shall submit a written report to the controlling board indicating the amount of the emergency contract, the services performed by the firm, and the circumstances giving rise to the emergency.
R.C. §5526.08