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The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has announced its first-ever design-build project, which involves the full replacement of the Route 50 Bridge over Cedar Swamp Creek in Upper Township. Traditionally, construction projects have separate contracts for design and construction. However, this innovative approach incorporates both elements into a single contract, aiming to generate more cost-effective solutions, reduce changes once construction begins, and expedite project delivery.
NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said in a statement, "Finding innovative ways to deliver transportation projects helps advance Governor Phil Murphy’s vision of a safe, equitable, and sustainable transportation system for all New Jerseyans. Advertising NJDOT’s first Design-Build project is an important milestone in the implementation of a new way to bid and deliver select capital projects that offer opportunities for collaboration and cost-effective solutions." according to the Alliance for Action.
The department issued a request for qualifications on Monday, which will establish a shortlist of design-build firms invited to submit proposals in June. The project is expected to be awarded in January 2026.