NC H857

Authorizes public entities to use design-build contracts for construction projects, requiring governmental entities to establish written criteria for when this method is appropriate and to solicit qualifications from at least three design-builders.

Establishes design-build bridging contracts as an alternative delivery method where a governmental entity contracts separately for design criteria services from the construction phase, with a design criteria professional developing 35% of design documentation before competitive bidding.

Enables public-private partnership (P3) construction contracts for projects where private developers provide at least 50% of financing, with requirements for payment bonds equal to 100% of anticipated construction costs and compliance with small business participation goals.

Requires all public entities using design-build, design-build bridging, or P3 contracts to report project details to the Secretary of Administration within 12 months of project completion, with failure to report prohibiting future use of these delivery methods until compliance is achieved.

Establishes a Purchase and Contract Study Committee to study prequalification standards for public construction projects and report findings to the General Assembly by the 2014 session; law becomes effective 30 days after enactment for projects bid on or after that date.