Senate Bill No. SLS 26RS-1427, introduced by Senator Fesi, amends existing laws regarding public works contracts in Louisiana. The bill allows public airports to utilize the design-build project delivery method for constructing vertical facilities on airport property, which includes but is not limited to education or workforce development facilities, airport air traffic control towers, parking garages, and aircraft hangars. The previous provision that limited this method to air traffic control tower or hangar development has been removed.

Additionally, the bill establishes a pilot program that permits the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) and the Office of Louisiana Highway Construction (OLHC) to use the average bid method for awarding contracts on public works projects. This program is limited to four state-funded projects per year, with two projects allocated to each entity, and requires approval from the Senate and House committees on transportation, highways, and public works. The bill outlines the process for determining the winning bid based on the average of received bids and includes a sunset provision that will terminate the program on March 1, 2028, unless extended by legislation.

Statutes affected:
SB513 Reengrossed: 38:6(A)