Sundt Construction
Over the past decade of aviation construction, alternative project delivery methods have been gaining ground on the traditional design-bid-build model. Progressive design-build (PDB) continues to stand out as the most flexible option for the aviation market. Other delivery methods can silo off the design or set it in stone too early, leaving little room for change without incurring major costs. In a PDB model, the design-builder collaborates with the designer/engineer, client and other stakeholders, and then sets a guaranteed maximum price (GMP).
Sundt completed the new Airport Administration Building for San Diego International Airport in 2023, a design-build project that engaged multiple stakeholders and end users through the design and decision-making process.
Within a more collaborative and flexible model, the right people can ask the right questions at the right time. For example, during Sundt’s validation process for a new Airport Support Facilities complex at the San Diego International Airport, we discovered that the client’s programmatic square footages were based on increasing square foot allocation from their old, rehabilitated and less-efficient department spaces. These new square footage allocations, when analyzed, exceeded their future department needs. We redesigned and right-sized certain spaces to make them more efficient, saving money that was needed elsewhere. The PDB model gave the contractor and client the ability to identify and discuss needs and vet ideas in advance of design.
PDB and other alternative delivery methods allow for more overlap among stakeholders so that all parties can work alongside one another as opposed to a rigid sequence, preventing opportunities for collaboration. Another advantage the PDB delivery method brings is providing flexible phasing options when evaluating unknown funding streams. Owners often depend on FAA funding, with unknown approval amounts and timelines. The PDB team can develop specific phasing that accommodates fiscal year funding streams that can maximize the available funding while minimizing impacts to airport operations between phases. When approached with creativity, teamwork, and an open mind, these delivery models present the opportunity to meet everyone’s project goals.
The new SDIA Facilities Management Department (FMD) campus houses maintenance shops and warehouse spaces, as well as a new dining area for staff. All buildings were delivered LEED Gold and LEED Zero Energy standards (pending airport submittal), with the FMD Administration Building being LEED Platinum.
