Assembly Bill 526 aims to amend existing statutes regarding airport improvement contracts by allowing the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to utilize construction manager at risk contracts for certain qualified projects. The bill renumbers and amends section 114.32 (3) to clarify that, except for specific provisions, all contracts for airport-related projects must be entered into according to state laws governing similar contracts. Additionally, it introduces a new section, 114.32 (3) (c), which defines "construction manager at risk contract" as one where the construction manager commits to completing the project within a guaranteed maximum price, and "qualified project" as any construction or improvement of a structure, including necessary paving or sitework.

The bill also stipulates that the secretary of transportation can enter into these contracts for qualified projects, and that selection of a construction manager does not have to be based solely on price, provided it aligns with federal guidelines. This legislative change is intended to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of airport improvement projects in Wisconsin by providing more flexible contracting options.