Wisconsin state lawmakers officially signed Senate Bill 461 into law, creating a permanent Design-Build program. The program permits the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to use alternative delivery methods and allocate up to $300 million in projects every two years for design-build initiatives.
The new program will replace the previous Design-Build program pilot, which by comparison was restricted to six total projects receiving up to $250 million in state support. The law stipulates that the state will annually adjust the $300 million biennial fund to reflect changes in applicable cost indexes and inflation.
Notably, the $300 million established for the fund will function as the program’s floor. WisDOT will not be able to use future changes to adjust it to a lower amount.
To oversee the program, the department will create a technical review committee composed of five qualified individuals to evaluate proposals for program funding. These representatives must consist of:
- WisDOT employees representing the department division responsible for project development.
- Individuals recommended by a state association of architectural, engineering or design companies.
- Individuals recommended by a state association of transportation construction companies.
All members are required to have directly participated in the design or construction of highway projects.
The bill has also made several key changes to the program’s procurement process, aligning it with federal standards. This includes primarily using two-phase selection procedures, unless the department determines that a single-phase selection process is a better fit.
With the legislation signed into law, WisDOT will move onto evaluating potential future projects applicable under the Design-Build program. There won’t be any new initiatives for the 2026 construction season as the department requires additional time and prep work. Companies should anticipate rounds of projects kicking off next year.
Photo by Korie Jenkins from Pexels
For more of the latest from the expansive government marketplace, check Government Market News daily for new stories, insights and profiles from public sector professionals. Check out our national contracting newsletter here.
