New York Construction Report staff writer
New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) is advancing five projects under a new Construction Manager-Build (CM-Build) pilot program, leveraging recently approved state legislation that allows the agency to use the accelerated delivery method for libraries and cultural facilities.
The pilot follows authorization signed by Kathy Hochul in late 2024, expanding DDC’s ability to use CM-Build beyond emergency projects.
According to DDC, the alternative delivery model is expected to shave at least one year off typical project timelines and up to two years on larger builds, compared to traditional lowest-bid procurement.
“We estimate that we can save at least one year on the standard project and up to two full years on larger projects using CM-Build,” said acting commissioner Eduardo del Valle. “Every project should be managed with a due sense of urgency when we need to take City assets offline.”
The five projects advancing through the CM-Build pipeline include the reconstruction of 70 Mulberry Street in Chinatown, a cultural landmark damaged by fire. The project is currently in negotiations with a preferred contractor, with construction expected to begin later this year.
Also moving forward are the renovation and upgrade of the Spring Creek Library in Brooklyn, the Harlem Stage Gatehouse in Manhattan, the Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor, and the Woodside Library in Queens. Several of the projects are in procurement stages, with shortlisted teams preparing to respond to requests for proposals.
Under CM-Build, designers and contractors are engaged earlier in the process, allowing teams to collaborate on design solutions, reduce change orders and accelerate schedules. The procurement model uses a two-step process, beginning with statements of qualifications followed by a shortlisted request for proposals.
City officials say the approach builds on the success of design-build delivery, which DDC has used since 2019. That method was employed on the $141-million Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center, completed in approximately three years—roughly half the time expected under traditional procurement. The facility opened in February.
Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson said the pilot program will help return public assets to communities more quickly.
“New Yorkers deserve public spaces that are built and renovated without unnecessary delays,” Kerson said. “This innovative pilot program ensures the City can more quickly and efficiently build, renovate and return libraries, museums and cultural landmarks to their communities.”
DDC has previously deployed CM-Build during emergencies, including the rapid construction of COVID-19 testing and vaccination centres and temporary asylum facilities.
The agency continues to use the model for emergency work, including upgrades to the Rodman’s Neck Firearms & Tactics Facility in the Bronx, while expanding its use through the pilot program.
In parallel, DDC is advancing additional design-build projects, including the $128-million Brownsville Multi-Service Center and the Roy Wilkins Recreation Center in Queens, both of which are expected to be completed significantly faster than under traditional delivery methods.
