The task force analyzed the accelerating cost of transportation projects -- $2 billion in FY08 -- and the value that taxpayers are receiving for their investment in the state's highways, roads and bridges.

Task force members brought deep and wide expertise and experience in engineering, contracting and regional transportation planning. Their assignment focused on these tasks:

In an 85-page report, the task force presented observations concerning project cost and competition, lack of planning based on priorities, the impact of federal funding on the timing of projects, and how the state works with contractors.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Project Cost & Competition:
Pre-purchase key material commodities to “lock-in” select prices.

Monitor material prices and space the letting of projects to avoid peak demand; avoid flooding the market with one type of project.

Decrease timeframe to secure ROW by providing consultants with incentives and specific milestones to expedite acquisition.

On a case-by-case basis, bundle or split certain projects to attract out of state contractors or attract smaller, more local contractors.
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A Complex and Growing Environment:
Coordinate efforts

Increase transparency and accountability

Reduce “silos”

Value Engineering:
Consider completing VE studies for projects under $25M.

Evaluate GDOT’S current life-cycle cost/benefit analysis design methodology and identify specifications that can be more flexible.

Consider alternate materials or construction methods that reduce project costs while maintaining quality.

Develop a “Partnering Approach” with the consulting and contracting community to enhance the savings achieved through the VE process.
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Improve Focus of the Georgia Technology Authority:
Find ways to shorten the timeframe for fulfilling federal project requirements, in order to improve project delivery processes.

Drive performance metrics to better monitor and report on key project cost and schedule parameters and to increase transparency and accountability along the project life-cycle.

Encourage maximizing the use of Design-Build where appropriate.

Partnering Approach:
Request GDOT to work with a small group of contractors and consultants to encourage a partnering relationship that will improve operations.