AL HB597

Authorizes five alternative project delivery methods for public works projects in Alabama: Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), Design-Build, Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Maintain, Design-Build-Operate-Maintain, and Progressive Design-Build, in addition to the existing Design-Bid-Build method.

Requires awarding authorities to receive prior approval from the Alabama Department of Finance at least 30 days before solicitation, with the proposed project posted publicly for five calendar days and subject to protest procedures.

Limits use of alternative delivery methods based on project volume: entities undertaking five or fewer qualifying projects annually may use one alternative method per fiscal year; those with more than five projects may use alternative methods for up to two projects or 10 percent of total projects annually, whichever is greater.

Establishes protest procedures allowing bona fide prospective bidders to challenge alternative delivery method approvals based on noncompliance with law, rules, or perceived substantial cost differentials, with appeal available to the Director of Finance.

Creates the State Public Works Advisory Council composed of representatives from governmental entities and private industry to review alternative delivery method reports and provide recommendations to the Legislature; all provisions expire October 1, 2031.