Setting Highway Construction Contract Duration

A research study was performed to evaluate the methodologies used by transportation agencies to establish the contract durations used for highway construction projects. The study was financed by the Indiana State Highway Commission (ISHC). After reviewing the system used in Indiana, those used by other transporation agencies were also studied. Methods used vary from broad conceptual estimates to detailed critical path scheduling techniques. A method is proposed for the ISHC which incorporates some of the advantages of critical path methods, but does not require the preparation of a graphic network. The method should provide more consistency in the determination of contract time estimates by highway personnel. It should also provide a schedule guide for the field engineers during construction.