Bill > S834

This bill, known as the "Design-Build Construction Services Procurement Act," establishes a new framework for how government entities in New Jersey can award contracts for public projects where a single entity is responsible for both the design and construction of a project, a process called "design-build." This approach is presented as an alternative to the traditional "design-bid-build" method, where design and construction are handled by separate entities. The bill outlines specific procedures for soliciting proposals, evaluating them based on factors like experience, technical competence, and past performance, with price becoming a significant consideration in a later stage of the selection process. It also mandates that workers on these projects be paid prevailing wages and encourages adherence to green building standards. The act defines key terms such as "design-build contract" and "design-builder," and requires government units to justify the use of design-build contracts when it better serves their needs and the public interest, particularly concerning project timeliness. Furthermore, it details the composition of technical review committees, the information that must be included in solicitations, and the process for awarding contracts, emphasizing the need for adequate competition and providing a mechanism for unsuccessful bidders to request an explanation of the selection process. Finally, the bill requires the state to compile and make public records related to these procurement transactions annually and directs relevant state divisions to adopt regulations to implement these provisions.