NCJ Number
188714
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 63 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2001 Pages: 72-76,78
Date Published
April 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes how the "design-build" process was used to construct a detention center in Kentucky's Lexington-Fayette County metropolitan area.
Abstract
"Design-build" is a process in which an owner procures both design and construction from a single entity. This single-source liability eliminates much of the "finger-pointing" common to the construction industry and allows a shorter schedule through simultaneous pursuit of design and construction. This process was chosen for the Lexington facility because of the demanding schedule constraints. The county chose a two-part, design-build contract to protect its interests. Under the terms of the contract, Dick Corporation had 6 weeks to develop 30 percent of the facility's conceptual design and provide a guaranteed maximum price. If that price was unacceptable, the county had the option to decline, pay for the rendered services, and make other arrangements for construction; however, the county accepted, and Dick Corporation started construction in October 1998. After the facility was completed, the county held a grand opening ceremony on May 19, 2000. The project had a number of challenges that were effectively addressed under the "design-build" scheme. These included the integration of the design-build and owner teams, architectural blending of the facility into the Old Frankfort Pike scenic byway landscape, design and construction of a facility supportive of the correctional vision, and achievement of the court-mandated completion date. This article includes discussions of the construction of the facility, expansion and reintegration, technology, and reaping the benefits.