Bill > A2009

This bill, known as the "Design-Build Construction Services Procurement Act," establishes procedures for awarding design-build contracts, which combine design and construction services into a single contract, as an alternative to the traditional "design-bid-build" method where design is completed first, followed by separate bidding for construction. The bill outlines definitions for key terms like "contracting unit" (government entities), "design-builder" (the entity proposing to design and build), and "design professional" (architects, engineers, or surveyors). It permits government entities to use design-build contracts if they can demonstrate it better meets their needs, provided they follow specific procedures, including publishing their procurement processes and determining it's in the public's best interest. All workers on these projects must be paid prevailing wages, and projects are encouraged to adhere to green building standards. The bill details a two-phase selection process: first, proposals are evaluated based on qualifications and experience (excluding price), and then a select group of top-qualified bidders submit a second proposal where price becomes a significant factor (at least 50%). The contracting unit will appoint a design professional to assist in developing performance criteria and evaluating proposals, and a technical review committee will oversee the evaluation. The bill also specifies requirements for solicitations, including contract terms, schedule, budget limits, and qualifications, and mandates that the State compile and make public all records related to these procurement transactions annually.