I-270 North Design Build Project: A Case Study on the Geotechnical Engineer’s Role in Success of a Design Build Project

Geotechnical engineers should be considered key members of any project design team. Regardless of the selection criteria, the design team should add value and aim to minimize risk and unnecessary expenses during the project pursuit. The uncertainty of ground conditions and soil performance can often lead to increased risk and unnecessary added expense. Geotechnical engineers can bring value to the design-build team by identifying critical geotechnical components, communicating risks, and providing solutions to improve design efficiency, which should reduce construction costs. Early engagement and proactive communication are important to sharing information and the identification of risk to the design build team during the pursuit. The Interstate 270 (I-270) North Design Build Project is an example of how engaged geotechnical engineers can help develop a winning proposal and increase the chances of team success. This paper makes a case for early geotechnical engineering project involvement, the need for adequate exploration and testing data, and for continued geotechnical engineering involvement during the design and construction phases.