NCJ Number
116796
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 51 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1989) Pages: 134,136,138
Date Published
1989
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article proposes an alternative for prison construction within the design-build approach that can provide more cost-effective facilities.
Abstract
The 'design-build' approach to prison construction, a recent innovation, involves awarding a contract to a consortium of an architectural firm and a construction company. These consortia make joint bids for the design and construction job. The jurisdiction then selects the most worthy project for funding, based on both architectural design and costs. Despite advantages over traditional construction methods, the risks of the design-build process are disproportionate to the perceived benefits for the designer and contractor, and the process is counterproductive for the jurisdiction. A better alternative within the design-build approach can save time, make the best use of the special talents of all team members, avoid redundant expenditures, and provide more cost-effective facilities. The approach requires selection of multidisciplinary teams and experts to work concurrently on the planning, design, financing, and construction of the facility. The jurisdiction works with each specialized firm and allows the firms to work together to influence and redirect one another's progress at each phase. After the owner and architect complete the preliminary design, the program manager evaluates cost and develops a maximum price. At this point, pricing can begin through package bidding, guaranteed pricing, or total project bidding.