Initial Commitment
"We need to find ways to significantly lower our cost per linear foot of new sidewalk [construction]. We should bring some of the sidewalk project work in-house at Metro Public Works because we know sidewalks are going to be a stable long-term capital spending need." (Policy Platform, page 26). "I’m sending my Senior Transportation Advisor, Faye DiMassimo, to help launch the DoT. To solve a persistent frustration in Nashville, Faye and her team will improve sidewalk construction times by 50 percent and reduce costs by 20 percent within 12 months – as we work to build and repair 75 miles of sidewalks." (April 29, 2021 - State of Metro address)
Status
Commitment Met
Most Recent Update (Summer 2022)
In last year’s State of Metro address, Mayor Cooper announced a goal of delivering sidewalk projects 50% faster (construction times) and 20% cheaper. NDOT has exceeded these goals. Since this announcement, NDOT has shortened construction delivery time by 62.3% and reduced cost by 33.3% ($365 to $243 per linear foot).
Previous Update (Fall 2021)
Mayor Cooper announced key personnel changes and an internal review process to determine the best paths for realignment of the transportation functions at Public Works (now NDOT) and Planning. This process evaluated efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability. This review included Metro's current reliance on support from external consultants and engineering firms, versus full or part-time Metro employees, who are needed to build, operate, and maintain the transportation system, including sidewalks.
A value-engineering effort has resulted in a strategy to deliver, to date, four backlogged projects roughly a year ahead of schedule and at less than half the original estimated cost. A focused repair/accessibility initiative has delivered six sidewalk projects with another nine on the way. These projects are averaging a roughly 100-day lifespan from conception to construction and a cost less than $200/foot – well below the $706/foot historical average.
The WalkNBike Master Plan update is underway and will deliver a new prioritization strategy which ensures costs are part of the construction decision. The program will soon return to on-call contracting which will shorten procurement times while maintaining low-cost bids. NDOT and MWS technical staffs are working to streamline permit requirements to right-size stormwater infrastructure as part of sidewalk projects."