Given the urgent need to proceed with, and complet, ARRA grants, the agency should not routinely approve project period extensions. Extensions may be granted only where properly justified, and extended projects should be carefully monitored to ensure they are timely completed.

Project period extensions are permissible where:
 

1. there is a convincing rationale for an extension (e.g., delays due to circumstances clearly beyond the control of a grantee)
2. the extra time provided is no longer than necessary for successful project completion
3. the rationale for the extension and the additional amount of time is documented in the official project file
4. there has been coordination with the appropriate National Program Manager (NPM)

Approved extensions should be supported by amended workplans with specific milestones. Through baseline and advanced monitoring, project officers should oversee recipient progress in achieving agreed-upon milestones, taking into account applicable NPM and Office of Grants and Debarment guidance, so that projects are completed without the need for further extension.