Bill > S08394

This bill establishes the "County of Westchester Public Works Investment Act" which allows the Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation to utilize design-build project delivery for specific public works projects. The bill defines design-build contracts as agreements where a single entity is responsible for both designing and constructing a public work, and outlines a two-step selection process that prioritizes finding the "best value" contractor. The authorized projects include four specific public buildings in the Valhalla area, such as the Westchester County Labs and Research Building. The selection criteria for contractors are comprehensive, considering factors like past performance, technical capabilities, compliance with labor laws, and minority/women-owned business enterprise participation. The bill includes protections for existing employees, ensuring no displacement or loss of benefits, and requires prevailing wage standards. Contractors must comply with environmental regulations and project labor agreements. The legislation is temporary, taking effect immediately but expiring after three years, with ongoing projects permitted to continue. A mandatory annual report to state and county leaders will track the design-build contract processes, costs, and minority/women-owned business enterprise participation. The bill aims to provide Westchester County with more flexibility and potentially more efficient public works project delivery.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8394