When committed to innovation, teams are constantly evaluating existing processes for improved efficiency. Recently, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), through their the Moving I-4 Forward Program in Central Florida, developed a new contracting process after discussing how to improve the standard design-build process. (NOTE: design-build is a project delivery method in which a single contract is awarded for both design and construction rather than each through separate contracts). As the discussion evolved, they found themselves with a question: why not integrate and refine the best aspects of the various types of the design-build processes to create something better? An improved design-build process would help FDOT deliver on its commitment to the communities it serves. Expediting the design-build process benefits Floridians because projects can be completed better, faster and at a lower price.
As the team collaborated, they found themselves looking at a new process which they named the Modified Phased Design-Build (MPDB). This contracting process is the first of its kind in the nation and emphasizes enhanced collaboration with industry partners for expedited project delivery. MPDB remains qualifications-based but involves selecting multiple firms rather than a single entity, fostering a competitive, best-value pricing environment.
FDOT presented the MPDB process at a roundtable discussion to gather industry feedback, which further shaped the new initiative. The concept was well received and garnered positive response from industry leaders. FDOT continued to refine the MPDB concept to incorporate suggestions on how to further incentivizes innovative ideas from design and construction partners.
Such significant changes or initiatives typically require years to implement. However, due to the commitment of FDOT, contractors, and designers to bring the right people to the table, this new process will be utilized much quicker and is already being implemented on Moving I-4 Forward’s Accelerated Start project. Key technical staff and decision makers will be present during critical discussions these fostering trust and building strong relationships that will only amplify the creative spirit. With FDOT developing this new process, projects will be accelerated years faster than with conventional methods. Furthermore, the Department will continue looking for ways to improve the MPDB process.
With the development of MPDB, everyone wins: FDOT, the industry and, most importantly, our communities. Benefits of using this pioneering process include reduced project timelines, travelers spending less time in traffic, fewer taxpayer dollars being spent, and a continued focus on innovation. Ultimately, the citizens of our great state will see the best projects delivered at the best price while enjoying a better driving experience.
As the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) remains committed to innovation, the Moving I-4 Forward Program through Central Florida will be expedited thanks to the creative thinking of the project team.
By prioritizing providing needed congestion relief along Interstate 4 (I-4), the team proposed a new contracting process called the Modified Phase Design-Build (MPDB). This will allow multiple design and construction teams to advance projects simultaneously. However, the team further wanted to solve the problem of how to deliver immediate relief to the community.
This led to the Accelerated Start phase of the Moving I-4 Forward program. This phase includes constructing two congestion relief lanes, one in each direction, in the median of the existing I-4 mainlines between U.S. 27 and east of World Drive. Using temporary pavement is a common practice in road construction, so the team recommended building additional lanes at the start of the project to provide relief from congestion and construction. These congestion relief lanes will also help facilitate traffic shifts as crews build the main Moving I-4 Forward Projects.
But the team didn’t stop innovating. They also suggested to advance widening the roadway and bridges in two of the most congested parts of the I-4 corridor – dubbed Segments A and B near Osceola Polk Line Road and World Drive. This would allow the larger projects to be built at the same time. By widening the roadway in these segments first, it sets up the contractors to stay on target with the construction timeline of the larger projects. Because these segments are not adjacent, they can function independently during construction. This buffer between these larger projects is key for the program’s flexibility and efficiency.
The creative thinking from the project team and the willingness of FDOT’s leadership to advance innovative methods are a win for Floridians, who will soon experience improved traffic flow. The congestion relief lanes will open by the end 2025, roughly five years sooner than the end of planned program completion in 2030.