Design-Build Program

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Completed WIS 125/College Avenue design-build project

About design-build

WisDOT's Design-Build Program is a collaborative contracting process that brings the engineering and construction industries together at the outset of a highway improvement project. Traditionally in Wisconsin, ​these processes have always been separated, where a designer plans the project and a construction company will then execute on those plans.

Starting in 2019, the State of Wisconsin allowed WisDOT to structure a design-build option into the highway construction programs. The Design-Build Program is managed under the department’s Alternative Contracting Section. WisDOT’s first design-build project was awarded in 2022.

While not a solution for every scenario, design-build is able to create efficiency by eliminating administrative burden and enhancing the synergy, creativity and communication that ultimately brings a project into reality.

What is design-build?


  • Construction on the WIS 130 design-build project

    Contractors will work with WisDOT to provide design and construction services, creating a streamlined process that enhances communication, planning and execution.
  • Design-build differs from WisDOT’s traditional design-bid-build procurement, which divides projects into design and construction phases that are managed separately.
  • Design-build is used successfully in many states to deliver transportation projects.

How does design-build work?

  • Designers and builders come together early in the project, teaming up to create a proposal for the work.
  • Like with any other WisDOT project, the department will continue to define terms and conditions as well as the goals, requirements and standards.
  • In a design-build project, the design and construction staffs will begin working together in the beginning instead of consecutively. Both disciplines bring skillsets and knowledge that help shape the overall approach with goals of:
    • Accelerating delivery
    • Decreasing administrative burden
    • Creating synergy, efficiency, and innovation

Where does design-build work best?

  • Design-build is generally used for projects that are complex, involve multiple construction trades, or have a tight construction schedule.
  • Any project could be considered for design-build if it provides enough opportunity for innovation.
  • It’s important to note that, like all engineering and planning solutions, design-build is not one-size-fits-all.
  • WisDOT staff will continue to evaluate future program needs to maximize this opportunity.
  • Unlike with the design-bid-build system, a design-build project requires all funding to be encumbered in advance, while the nature of design-bid-build can spread those resource needs over a longer time span while juggling other projects.

For more information

WisDOT’s Alternative Contracting Section in the Bureau of Project Development is responsible for overseeing the procurement process and will manage any problems that arise during the implementation phase. Contact dotdesignbuildsubmittals@dot.wi.gov ​for more information. Projects are managed by the region offices.

Contractors and consultants wanting to learn more about design-build contracting and how the program is to be implemented in Wisconsin are encouraged to visit this page often for updates.

Join the design-build email distribution list to stay informed of when this website is updated and workshops are scheduled.