DE SB249

Creates a 5-year pilot program allowing school districts to enter into public-private partnership agreements for school construction and infrastructure improvement projects using design-build, design-build-operate, or privately-funded arrangements.

Requires school districts to issue a request for proposals (RFP) published weekly for at least two consecutive weeks on the marketplace website and/or local newspaper, followed by interviews and board approval of the selected contractor based on responsiveness and cost.

Mandates Department of Education approval for contracts exceeding $1,000,000 and requires performance bonds for construction contracts, with all work subject to applicable laws, regulations, ordinances, codes, and prevailing wage requirements.

Projects may be located on property owned or controlled by the school district, State, county, municipality, or privately owned property, and funding is subject to availability with no pledge of State credit.

Allows school districts to submit unsolicited proposals and award contracts in stages, with the pilot program sunset after 5 years unless extended by subsequent legislation; projects approved or commenced before expiration will not be terminated.