On January 28, 2026, Massachusetts Governor Maura T. Healey submitted a budget bill to the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives. The bill includes several provisions that would have a significant impact on transportation projects across the Commonwealth, including language establishing a Progressive Design-Build pilot program.
The proposed pilot program would allow MassDOT to deliver select transportation projects using a Progressive Design-Build procurement method, aligning Massachusetts with a growing national trend toward collaborative delivery on complex infrastructure.
What this means for the industry
Progressive Design-Build (PDB) allows owners to select a design-build team based on qualifications rather than price alone, then work collaboratively to develop the design and establish a Guaranteed Maximum Price before construction begins. This approach is particularly well-suited for complex projects where scope and risk are difficult to define upfront.
DBIA New England has been actively engaged in advocacy supporting expanded use of design-build and progressive delivery methods across New England. We will continue to monitor this legislation and provide updates to our members as it progresses through the legislative process.
For additional information or questions, please contact the DBIA New England Law & Legislation Committee at contact@dbiane.org.