Simplified Bid Process for Single-Span Bridge Replacements

Abstract

Just Build is an innovative bid–build process that expedites the replacement of deficient bridges with federal money. Its goal is to assist local governments in using federal funds for the replacement of deficient smaller-span bridges. In the past, preliminary engineering costs (design and environmental) have precluded local governments from pursuing federal funds for these structures. The Just Build process is based on criteria that must be met and maintained from the selection of the bridge to the completion of the project and the use of a scope of service document that capitalizes on the Ohio Department of Transportation's standard drawings and AASHTO's low-volume road standards (if applicable) and thus eliminates the need for detailed construction plans. The savings in time and cost comes about through the elimination of detailed plans, construction of a bridge compatible with local traffic needs, and selection of bridges that are environmentally noncomplex. Just Build is an excellent tool that provides an efficient and cost-effective way to replace a great number of deficient bridges with federal funds and comply with the National Environmental Policy Act, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and the Clean Water Act. Overall, the savings in design fees ranges from $35,000 to $125,000 per bridge. The savings in project and staff time, the savings in environmental and design costs, and the ability to use AASHTO's low-volume standards represent outstanding benefits to local governments. To date the pilot projects have successfully replaced nine bridges, with two under construction during summer 2006.