After thinking about this subject some more there are a few other things that make bundling several smaller projects into one big project a good idea.
- Mobilization: The cost difference that a contractor will charge for mobilizing for a project that includes one street, or includes 5 streets is not that much. Therefore, the more you can bundle, the less the percentage of the project is going to get eaten up by mobilization.
- Flexibility: The document that authorizes the funds for the project that comes from the FHWA absolutely controls what can be reimbursed. If it says “Resurfacing on Main Street from 1st to 7th”, then that is it, those are the project limits.
Now if it says “Resurfacing Various Streets in Winchester” then we have some wiggle room. Now trust me, we can’t go nuts with this, but it will allow for some flexibility. You will have to be on the same page as the TDOT local programs office to get that flexibility though. - Creativity: Now this is something I learned last week that I didn’t know. Evidently you can bundle different kinds of projects together. Case in point, a city that we met with earlier this week may be bundling several sidewalk projects, with stripping, signing, and bike lane activities. As long as we can get a contractor who will bid on it (which I don’t think will be an issue) then they will save on mobilization for what would normally be several separate smaller projects.
- Simplicity: Ok, it is no state secret that TDOT is more than a bit understaffed. By combining everything you want to do into one project, you cut down by half the amount of work you (the city, or you the consultant) have to get through TDOT.
There may be some other advantages that I think up. I will add them as I think of them. I hope this helps you get a better idea of how this idea can work for you.
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