Public agencies are increasingly evaluating alternative project delivery methods as they seek greater cost control and schedule certainty on capital projects. In Iowa, the Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) model is gaining traction as public owners adopt earlier collaboration between project stakeholders.
McGough recently highlighted the use of the delivery method, noting its application on several municipal projects in Des Moines following the state's authorization of CMAR for public construction.
Unlike the traditional design-bid-build process, the CMAR model engages the construction manager during design, allowing owners, architects, engineers, and specialty trade partners to address constructability, budgeting, scheduling, and procurement before construction begins.
The City of Des Moines has implemented the delivery method on three recent public projects, including the T.M. Franklin Cownie City Administration Building.
Early contractor participation is intended to improve project planning by identifying potential construction challenges before final design completion while providing owners with more reliable cost information.
Iowa's adoption of CMAR expands the range of procurement options available to public agencies managing complex capital programs. The delivery method is commonly used for projects where schedule certainty, budget management, and coordination among multiple stakeholders are priorities.
For construction managers, the approach also creates opportunities to contribute expertise during preconstruction rather than after design documents are finalized.
As public owners continue to seek greater predictability in project delivery, alternative procurement methods such as CMAR are becoming an increasingly important part of public construction programs. Earlier collaboration can help reduce project risk, improve budget transparency, and streamline decision-making for owners managing complex facilities and infrastructure projects.
Source: McGough.
