WI AB509

Eliminates the existing design-build pilot program (limited to 6 contracts and $250 million) and replaces it with permanent authority for DOT to use alternative project delivery methods for state trunk highway improvements, with a spending cap of $300 million per fiscal biennium, adjusted annually for construction cost inflation.

Defines "alternative project delivery" as any federally-eligible construction delivery method other than traditional design-bid-build, but explicitly excludes construction manager-general contractor delivery and progressive design-build methods from DOT's contracting authority.

Requires DOT to use two-phase selection procedures conforming to federal regulations (23 CFR part 636) for procuring alternative delivery projects, with an option for single-phase selection when the two-phase process is deemed inappropriate.

Maintains the technical review committee structure (5 members with highway project experience) to evaluate proposals, but expands their role to determine qualified responsible bidders, review proposals, and make contract award recommendations when at least 2 proposals are received.

Requires stipulated fees of at least 0.3% of estimated project costs to unsuccessful responsive bidders on design-build projects, while making such fees optional for other alternative delivery methods if included in the solicitation notice.