Traditional public sector construction projects can be costly as agencies typically issue an RFP (request for proposal) to hire an architect to design the project, and then issue a separate RFP for a contractor to build the project. The two-step public procurement process requires considerable management oversight and time, and can lead to miscommunication about design elements, costs, and responsibilities.   NDC’s proposed approach combined the traditionally separate design and construction phases into a single design-build contract. This parallel process is more collaborative, and forces the architect and builder to work side by side in creating “buildable” and affordable projects that better match budgets and expectations.   At KSC, the turn-key construction plan saved time and expense both short and long term. The design-build approach allowed King County to develop the project in a relatively short period of time, saving an estimated $20 million in potential lease agreements during the office space boom of the late 1990’s. Using revenue ruling 63-20 tax-exempt bonds and the design-build process, the county estimates it saved an additional 15 percent compared to the traditional public procurement process.   The County and its taxpayers are now reaping the rewards of partnering with NDC and Wright Runstad, and see opportunities for similar partnerships in future building programs.

For questions about the King Street Center Virtual Tour, please contact Beth Humphreys, Sustainable Development Team project manager. For questions about the Department of Natural Resources Web Site, please contact Fred Bentler, webmaster. Department of Natural Resources and Parks Updated: August 12, 2002

Related Information: Property, Planning, and Development King County Environmental Links

King County | Natural Resources and Parks | News | Services | Comments | Search Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by King County. By visiting this and other King County web pages, you expressly agree to be bound by terms and conditions of the site. The details.