TX SB553

Authorizes governmental entities to use two alternative design-build methods for water and wastewater infrastructure projects: "fixed price design-build" (single fixed price established at contract signing) and "progressive design-build" (early firm involvement with stepped payment scheme)

Removes the population threshold requirement of 100,000 residents that previously limited which governmental entities could use design-build procedures, expanding eligibility to all governmental entities

Expands the definition of "single integrated project" for water infrastructure to include wastewater projects, pump stations, and water storage facilities in addition to treatment facilities, well fields, desalination plants, and pipelines

Maintains the prohibition on governmental entities entering contracts for aggregated projects at multiple locations under these design-build methods

Takes effect September 1, 2025