SB2999 Summary

• Creates the Forest Preserve District and Conservation District Design-Build Authorization Act, allowing forest preserve and conservation districts to enter into design-build contracts as an alternative to traditional design-bid-build procurement.

• Establishes a two-phase selection procedure: Phase I evaluates design-build entities based on qualifications (experience, financial capability, past performance, reference checks, and diversity commitments), and Phase II evaluates technical and cost proposals with price weighing no more than 60%.

• Permits districts to combine the two-phase procedure into one step for projects estimated under $12,000,000.

• Increases the minimum contract amount requiring competitive bidding from $25,000 to $50,000 for conservation districts, Downstate Forest Preserve Districts, and the Cook County Forest Preserve District.

• Takes effect January 1, 2021.