Bill > HB1970

This bill modifies state laws concerning alternative contracting procedures for highway construction projects, primarily focusing on the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The bill expands WSDOT's flexibility in using alternative contracting methods like design-build, progressive design-build, and general contractor/construction manager procedures by removing previous restrictions. Specifically, it eliminates the requirement that projects must be over two million dollars to use these methods and removes the need for WSDOT to seek approval for most of these projects. For general contractor/construction manager projects, WSDOT must only seek approval for its first three projects, after which it can proceed without additional committee review. The bill also updates definitions of these contracting procedures, clarifying what each method entails, such as progressive design-build involving collaboration between the department and design-builder to develop final project details. Additionally, the bill includes a sunset provision that repeals various related statutes effective June 30, 2032, and contains an emergency clause making it effective immediately upon the Governor's signature. These changes are intended to provide the Department of Transportation with more streamlined and flexible approaches to managing highway construction projects.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1970&Year=2025&Initiative=false