HB 2526 - DIGEST

     Directs the department of transportation to develop, by January 1, 1999, a process for awarding competitively bid highway construction contracts for projects that may be constructed using a design-build procedure.  As used in this act, "design-build procedure" means a method of contracting under which the department of transportation contracts with another party for such party to both design and build the structures, facilities, and other items specified in the contract.

     Provides that a demonstration program consisting of two projects of moderate size and complexity must be implemented using the design-build method of contracting, as prescribed under a process developed by the department of transportation under this act.

     Directs the department to present progress reports on the projects to the legislature at their regular sessions during the course of the demonstration.