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Bill

Bill

SB 5773

Concerning alternative procurement and delivery models for transportation projects.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Curtis King and 1 co-sponsor

SB 5773 permits Washington to use alternative procurement methods for transportation projects, potentially accelerating timelines but raising questions about private profit, labor standards, and public oversight.

By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
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Bill Summary · SB 5773

Legislative bill overview

SB 5773 authorizes Washington State to use alternative procurement and delivery models for transportation infrastructure projects, moving beyond traditional design-bid-build methods. The bill likely enables approaches such as design-build, public-private partnerships, or other innovative delivery mechanisms to potentially accelerate project timelines and improve cost efficiency.

Why is this important

Transportation infrastructure projects often face lengthy delays and cost overruns under conventional procurement processes. Alternative delivery models can provide flexibility in project management, allow for concurrent design and construction phases, and may attract private sector expertise and investment, potentially reducing burden on public budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Private sector involvement concerns: Critics may worry that alternative models like PPPs could prioritize profit over public interest, lead to higher long-term costs through guaranteed returns, or reduce public oversight and accountability.
  • Labor and wage protections: Questions may arise about whether alternative delivery models adequately protect prevailing wage requirements and union labor standards that traditional public works typically mandate.
  • Risk allocation: Disputes could emerge over how financial and performance risks are distributed between government entities and private contractors, particularly regarding project cost escalations or timeline delays.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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