Design-Bid-Build Process Preserves Community Infrastructure, Landmarks

Design-bid-build is a process used to plan and implement contracted projects. This traditional process is widely used in the construction and engineering industries. The process name explains each of the three steps involved:

1. An architecture or engineering firm creates a design, then 
2. submits a project bid which includes timeline and budget details. 
3. If the client accepts the bid, the project moves to the build phase for implementation. 

Design-Bid-Build in Action

Waco, Texas is the home of the state’s first major suspension bridge. Originally completed in 1869, it connects several popular event locations. The bridge cabling and anchors were approaching the end of their estimated service lives, motivating the city of Waco to begin the design-bid-build process to preserve and restore this important community bridge. 

This ASCE article states, “The city hired Balch Springs, Texas-based contractor Gibson & Associates Inc. to oversee renovation of the bridge. Gibson subcontracted bridge engineering firm Structural Technologies to perform the removal and replacement of the suspension system. Structural Technologies subcontracted engineering work on the suspension system to Modjeski and Masters, a Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania-based bridge design firm.”

During the restoration process the value of preserving visual history was included in designs. Bid processes included the restoration design as well as budget and timeline details. The renovation build process began in fall 2020.

OEI Contract Experience

OEI is an experienced SDVOSB federal contractor with a successful record including design-bid-build projects and partnerships with various agencies such as FEMA and USACE. Our creative team can solve the most complex engineering challenge while preserving site integrity and historical significance.

Our positive ratings and solid relationships with regulatory agencies allow us to help clients navigate complex processes saving time and money. See our federal sector information to learn how OEI is the contractor to help with your community’s infrastructure needs. From the initial design, project bid with realistic budget and timeline, to putting it all together during the build process, OEI does it all. Our team can provide the expertise and attention to detail to build and preserve community infrastructure and classic landmarks.