The Kent and Auburn Parking Projects are part of the Federal Way Link Extension (FWLE), part of Sound Transit’s Link light rail system that runs from Angle Lake Station in SeaTac, WA, to the Federal Way Transit Center. The improvements will support cars, bikes, and pedestrians with over 1,000 new parking spaces between the two garages, pedestrian and bike amenities, bus layover facilities, traffic-calming improvements, stormwater and conveyance extensions, and more. The project will also improve access to the commuter rail station and accommodate future Sounder expansion.

VMS facilitated two VE studies for Sound Transit in support of this project. The first workshop helped compare and evaluate the delivery method of using Design-Bid-Build (DBB), Design-Build (DB), or General Contractor Construction Manager (GCCM). The second workshop considered potential contracting combinations. Ultimately, the advisory group recommended a DB approach to take advantage of cost and schedule efficiencies, mitigate risk, and stimulate contract innovation for improved value.

Following the delivery study, we facilitated a second VE study in advance of the DB request for proposal (RFP). We facilitated the review and analysis of the draft RFP documents. This review process helped identify new ideas and concepts that could enhance the current alternatives or accomplish the proposed project functions in a more efficient manner.