Chapter 3: Project Methods and General Timelines

Permissible project delivery methods

Only three project delivery methods are permissible with the School Constructions Assistance Program (SCAP):

Design-Bid-Build (DBB)
General Contractor/Construction Management (GC/CM)
Progressive Design-Build (PDB)

There are various ways of undertaking a construction project at K-12 schools, but currently only three procurement methods that can be accommodated by the School Construction Assistance program (see Chapter 2, School Construction Assistance Program Eligibility). They are:

Design-Bid-Build (DBB)
General Contractor/Construction Management (GC/CM)
Progressive Design-Build (PDB)

School districts should consult their local district county coordinator, as well as RCW 28A.335.190 to ensure it meets compliance on bid procedures.

Section 301: Design-Bid-Build (DBB)

DBB is a traditional construction project delivery method, which involves completing three phases (design, then one bid, then build). Construction does not begin until the design process is complete and bid accepted. Upon completion and approval of the final documents with the bidding requirements, a school project is ready to be released to contractors to obtain proposals or bids. See Chapter 4, Section 404: Design, Build, Bid D-Form Process for more on how DBB works with the SCAP.

Section 302: General Contractor/Construction Management (GC/CM)

GC/CM is a construction project delivery method where the hiring organization consults a general contractor to participate as an advisor during the design process. In this way, the general contractor is seen as a construction manager and works with the architect and engineering firm to ensure constructability of the design and reduce the need for changes during construction. Some “early work” during design may be possible, such as site preparation and purchase of materials (sometimes to take advantage of seasonal prices).

When the project has reached 90% of design, defined as having complete plans and specifications prior to permit review, the GC/CM firm can propose a Maximum Allowable Construction Cost (MACC) and then negotiate a Final Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) with the school district.

Section 303: Progressive Design-Build (PDB)

Design-Build (DB) is a construction project delivery method where the hiring organization contracts with one team to design and build the facility. There are three types of Design-Build, including progressive, traditional, and bridging. Progressive Design-Build (PDB) involves the design-build team in the early stages of the development of the project, ensuring they are part of the project team and design process to maximize collaboration between the owner, designer, and contractor.

Progressive Design-Build is currently the only type of Design-Build that can be accommodated by the School Construction Assistance Program (SCAP). See Chapter 4, Section ??? for more information. In addition, PDB projects that apply for SCAP funding must be front-funded (see Chapter 4, Section 403).

Section 304: Small Works Rosters

A Small Works Roster is a list of qualified contractors who can bid for eligible projects below $350,000. They are less restrictive and time consuming than full formal competitive bids. See RCW 39.04.155(2) for a list of the requirements for roster contracts.