104.7 Scoping Estimates

Estimates based on cost per mile shall in no case be considered to contain sufficient detail to allow their inclusion in the STIP.

The scoping estimate is used to determine solutions for a project. There may be multiple scoping estimates for a project since there are multiple solutions for a project. The district determines which solution best fits the purpose and need of the project and begins preliminary plans stage during which the Program Estimate is complete. The Program Estimate shall not use the cost per mile pricing because there are too many unknowns and assumptions made during the scoping stage of a project to produce an accurate Program Estimate. The Program Estimate shall be at the preliminary plans stage after 30% of the plans are completed.

Resources

Cost Estimate Guide for Scoping

Project Scoping Form

Resurfacing Per Mile Scoping Form

The Project Scoping Form is available for detailed documentation of various project design elements of the project in order to assist the project estimator in covering all applicable project elements while establishing the conceptual estimate. Although not required, the Project Scoping Form can be used to establish a detailed project overview of all likely applicable costs, and while the tool itself does not yield an estimate, it does serve to clearly define and document the various project elements which combine to impact the project cost. This documentation will be beneficial as the project moves forward into preliminary design and programming.

For preventative maintenance treatments, the Resurfacing Per Mile Scoping Form spreadsheet has basic inputs for average unit prices and the applicable work types. The spreadsheet generates a per mile cost for most resurfacing projects based upon the intended project elements to be included. When combined with BidTabs.net, this tool allows the user to quickly compare alternative treatments with costs based upon the specific unit costs for the project specific area. By comparing the specific costs for each alternative, the project staff can select the best overall treatment in terms of cost and benefits for each project.

The cost per mile assumption used to develop the scoping estimate should be derived using data from similar, recently-awarded, projects in the region.

Where similar projects are not found, the Cost Estimate Guide for Scoping may be used. The Cost Estimate Guide for Scoping includes cost per mile factors derived from similar projects as well as the generic factors. These factors typically are for the major items of work and do not include other anticipated work that would be required to construct the project. All other anticipated construction costs should be included in the scoping estimate which is typically assumed at 20% but may be more or less depending on the project.

Maintenance of Traffic Operations During Construction (Sec 104.7.3)

Reference Sec 104.7.3 for Maintenance of Traffic Operations During Construction. Additional information is available for Guidance for Administering and Planning Pavement Maintenance Responsibilities during Construction.