Bill Would Expand Use of Design-Build for Washington DOT Projects

SB 5250, introduced into the Washington State Legislature, would expand the authority of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to use Design-Build as a project delivery method on their projects.

Use of Design-Build on Smaller Projects:  Under the current law (RCW 47.20.780), WSDOT is required to develop a process for Design-Build projects over $10 million.  Under Proposed Substitute SB 5250, that dollar threshold would be reduced to $1 million, thus encouraging WSDOT to use Design-Build on smaller projects.  The bill would also eliminate current language permitting WSDOT to conduct five pilot Design-Build projects between $2 and $10 million.

Design-Build Option Must Be Considered:  SB 5250 would also shift the focus of the law from permitting WSDOT to use Design-Build to requiring them to consider Design-Build when certain conditions are met.  If WSDOT chose not to utilize Design-Build for a project over $10 million, they would be required to provide, upon request, a written explanation of their decision not to use Design-Build to the Legislature's transportation committees and the Office of Financial Management.

Authority for Design-Build for Other Agencies:  WSDOT has separate Design-Build legislation from other public agencies in the State of Washington who are governed by chapter 39.10 RCW for the use of Design-Build.

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