A Progressive Process for a New Era
KYTC is using the Progressive Design-Build process for the KY 8 Licking River Bridge Project.
The Cabinet is moving forward with Progressive Design-Build project delivery, which allows KYTC and the Design-Build Team (design firm and contractors, also known as DBT) to work collaboratively to develop the replacement bridge type. The Design-Build Team was selected based on qualifications and their approach to the project, rather than qualifications and lowest price.
This delivery method helps offset uncertainties in today’s construction market, including inflation, supply chain pricing, and availability. KYTC and the DBT will be able to price materials closer to when they will be used in construction. This approach also allows the project team to identify cost-effective solutions that meet project and community goals, bringing more certainty to the project delivery process.
The decision to move forward with Progressive Design-Build delivery allowed KYTC to meet the goal of having a Design-Build Team selected in April 2023, with a bridge type selected by fall 2023.
Creating an Iconic Bridge
Public input gleaned from three public meetings and a survey made it clear that an iconic bridge design is critical to the success of this project. To that end, KYTC took the unique approach of requiring any design-build team submitting a proposal to include a Cabinet-approved bridge architect to ensure the new structure meets the aesthetic preferences of the community. In addition to Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., and PCL Construction, Inc., Rosales + Partners, Inc., a Boston-based bridge architecture firm known for its ability to create elegant and economical transportation solutions with strong community support, will deliver the project. View their portfolio here.
Moreover, the KY 8 Licking River Bridge Project is led by KYTC with input from a group of stakeholders through a project aesthetics committee. The goal of this group is to provide input on the design and aesthetic appearance of the new bridge. The committee will evaluate aesthetic treatments throughout the project, including structure type and theme.
The aesthetics committee will meet several times leading up to the anticipated bridge type selection in late 2023. Committee members will work directly with the bridge architect to provide input on design elements that could be included in the new structure.