Design-first policy aims to reduce cost overruns but can delay construction timing, staff says
Staff told the CIC the design-first approach (typically advancing construction only after ~90% design completion) reduces contingency costs and underbudgeting but can push construction into later budget years; life-safety projects remain an exception.
The full story
County staff described the rationale and operational consequences of the design-first approach that guides how projects are phased in the capital budget. The approach generally means design appropriations are made in one year and construction appropriations follow in a subsequent year once design is substantially complete; staff said this practice improves cost estimating and project efficiency and reduces contingency needs.
Sign up to keep reading.
Your free newsletter brings you what your city council, county, and school board discussed and decided.