Montana State law usually requires cities to use a design/bid/build process for constructing public facilities.  In 2005, the Legislature authorized cities and counties to use "alternative project delivery contracts" instead of the traditional process if the governing body makes certain findings.  The Empire Parking Garage is proposed for construction in 2013.  In order to meet the Northern Hotel parking needs, the garage must be available near the end of the year.  Completing the structure by that deadline may not be possible if Billings uses the traditional construction method.  On June 28, the City issued a Request for Qualifications for design/build teams but staff cannot proceed past this point without Council authorization.  Therefore, staff is proposing that the Council adopt the attached Resolution that provides the justification to use the design/build process.

The City Council may approve or not approve the Resolution.  The Resolution is necessary for the City to use the design/build process to construct the proposed parking structure by December, 2013.  Using the traditional design/bid/build process may not produce a finished parking garage by the end of 2013.  The result is that the garage will not be available for the remodeled Northern Hotel and valet parking will be provided for its guests as part of the project cost.  The cost for this valet parking is estimated to be up to $200,000. 

Adopting the Resolution has no direct financial impact.  Not adopting the Resolution may increase the project cost due to less collaboration between the designer and contractor and later delivery of the garage.