Currently, best value for design-build transportation contracts
administered by the department of transportation (department) means the overall maximum value of a proposal to the department after considering all of the evaluation factors described in the specifications for the transportation project or the request for proposals. The bill changes the definition of best value to mean a determination resulting from an analysis of proposals by the department to identify the proposal that offers the greatest overall value to the state or community, considering factors including:
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The initial cost and long-term life-cycle cost of the project, including a full life-cycle analysis use stage assessment that is service-environment specific and considers corrosion, predictable service environment changes, maintenance, and replacement rate on economic and environmental impact;
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Balancing initial costs with long-term value, giving consideration to proposals that prioritize durability, minimal maintenance, and life cycle performance to achieve sustainable outcomes;
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Technical quality and project performance;
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Sustainability, including resource efficiency, waste reduction, and energy conservation;
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Environmental impact, specifically the assessment and reduction of carbon emissions throughout the project's life cycle;
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Impact on local communities, including job creation, social equity, and minimization of disruptions to residents;
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Long-term public asset value, including resilience against climate impacts and minimized maintenance burdens to reduce total costs over the asset's lifespan; and
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Resilience based on predictable risk.
