In 2019, the City of Springfield, MO, received a $21 million federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to design and construct the $26 million Grant Avenue Parkway (GAP) project. The initiative aims to transform a key urban corridor in the heart of Springfield, providing greater pedestrian and bike mobility, traffic improvements, bridge enhancements, expanded access to quality-of-life amenities, environmental benefits, and economic development. To guide the City through its first-ever design-build project, Springfield turned to CMT as its trusted Owner’s Representative. CMT’s role was critical in navigating the complexities of alternative delivery, managing risk, and executing this landmark project.

CMT provided expert guidance on alternative delivery strategies, evaluating multiple design-build models – including Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), Best-Value, Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), and Progressive Design-Build – to identify the best fit for Springfield’s needs. By implementing CMT’s unique design-build risk-assessment model, the team optimized project delivery, streamlined property acquisition, and established a framework for collaboration that the City could replicate on future projects.

CMT’s execution-focused approach included facilitating extensive community engagement, corridor evaluation, risk assessment, and preliminary design coordination. These efforts were instrumental in delivering a fast-tracked environmental review, which reduced the project’s environmental classification from EA to CE2. By refining the design footprint, CMT lowered the projected number of Right-of-Way relocations from 69 parcels to just 13 in the preliminary design phase, minimizing disruptions and associated costs. By working closely with the City, design consultants, and other stakeholders, CMT established a streamlined and collaborative process that has set a new standard for alternative delivery in the region.

The GAP project exemplifies how CMT’s role as an Owner’s Representative can empower clients to navigate complex projects, deliver innovative solutions, and maximize value through alternative delivery methods.