Design and Construction Report Staff writer
New York City has approved major reforms aimed at fasttracking construction on public infrastructure projects, building on recommendations from the Capital Process Reform Task Force that are designed to reduce bureaucratic delays.
The city has fully implemented or is actively rolling out all 39 of the task force’s recommendations, which focus on streamlining the capital project process.
New legislation signed by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul expands the use of progressive design-build and construction manager build contracting models, in an effort to reduce project timelines and costs. Models streamline the design and construction phases, eliminating the inefficiencies of the traditional design-bid-build approach.
Also, online submission will be available for public comments on contracts over $100,000, replacing the previous requirement for in-person hearings. This change is expected to cut up to 20 days per project.
“New Yorkers deserve better,” Mayor Eric Adams said in a staatement. “For too long, outdated rules slowed down critical infrastructure projects. Thanks to the Task Force’s work and Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re cutting timelines and saving millions, so we can deliver on time, on budget, and with greater efficiency.”
The reforms include:
- Streamlining procurements: Consolidating design and construction phases to reduce delays.
- Allowing electronic bidding: Replacing paper-based bidding with digital submissions to simplify the process.
- Improving invoicing and payment processes: Standardizing payment procedures across agencies to speed up contractor payments.
- Expanding M/WBE participation: Ensuring more equitable opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses.
One example is the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in Brooklyn, currently under construction. The project is using the design-build model and will be completed two years faster than originally planned, saving $2.4 million in costs.
Also, the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center in Staten Island is expected to finish two years ahead of schedule using the same approach.
“These reforms are already paying off,” said Ydanis Rodríguez, commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT). “By embracing models like design-build, we can deliver critical infrastructure projects faster and more cost-effectively, benefiting residents across all five boroughs.”
Key challenges, such as climate resilience and equitable development will also be addressed.
