Implementation of Progressive Design-Build in Airport Capital Construction Projects

Abstract

Alternative contracting methods (ACMs) have been increasingly used for airport capital construction projects to explore the opportunity for achieving better cost and time savings than traditional design-bid-build. Progressive design-build (PDB), an emerging variation of design-build, stands out as a promising delivery method that promotes collaboration between project stakeholders. Although PDB has been successfully used across building, water/wastewater, and transit construction sectors, its implementation in the aviation industry is still limited because of legislative considerations, regulatory policies, and funding constraints. A research gap exists in systematically investigating current practices in implementing PDB in airport projects. The main objective of this study is to explore the selection criteria, implementation strategies, success factors, and lessons learned from using PDB for airport capital construction projects. This study employed a triangulation research methodology, including a comprehensive review of PDB guidance and manuals, an industry survey of 39 airports across the U.S., and structured interviews with 12 airport representatives. This study found that the top four criteria for selecting PDB are: flexibility to handle complexity, reducing claims, industry input on constructability, and cost control. The main benefits of using PDB for airport construction projects include improving project schedules, enhancing design control levels, and better management of project complexity and risks. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing insights into the current PDB practices for airport capital projects. Lessons learned from implementing PDB can help airport authorities and owners better administer and manage their projects.