Recently, Substitute House Bill 318 went into effect, authorizing the Chancellor of the Ohio Board of Regents, in consultation with representatives of state institutions of higher education and with Controlling Board approval, to utilize certain alternative methods of construction delivery. Under Substitute House Bill 318, the Chancellor will designate one construction project at each of three different state institutions of higher education for the use of the alternative methods subject to other requirements. These alternative methods relate to:
- Construction manager at risk;
- Design build;
- General Contracting (for contracts up to $600,000) which is exempted from O.R.C. Chapter 153’s multiple prime requirements; and
- Design Assist.
By way of background, for certain projects which cost $50,000 or more, Chapter 153 generally requires public authorities to obtain separate bids and award separate contracts for (1) plumbing and gas fitting, (2) steam and hot-water heating, ventilating apparatus, and steam-power plant, and (3) electrical equipment, but by authorizing these alternative methods, Substitute House Bill 318 now offers limited exceptions to these requirements. To view Substitute House Bill 318 click here.