MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Friday signed Senate Bill 461, now 2026 Wisconsin Act 104, into law, which significantly expands the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s authority to use alternative contracting methods, moving beyond the state’s traditional design-bid-build model to possibly accelerate construction.

The new law transitions WisDOT from using a pilot program to implementing a permanent framework, allowing WisDOT teams to use innovative contracting methods such as design-build on a broader scale. By pairing design engineers and construction teams at the beginning of a project, WisDOT says it can streamline timelines, foster innovation and address complex infrastructure challenges more efficiently.

“We have seen the success of our initial pilot projects, such as the WIS 130 bridge replacements in Lone Rock, where design-build helped us manage complex environmental and schedule constraints,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “We applaud Gov. Evers for signing this legislation and we look forward to better collaboration with our industry partners to deliver safe, reliable infrastructure across every corner of the state.”

Key highlights of the new law —

— Expansion of design-build: Removes the previous six-project limit established under the 2019 pilot program, allowing WisDOT to select the most efficient delivery method for a wider variety of state highway projects.

— Increased budget flexibility: Authorizes WisDOT to choose alternative delivery methods for projects up to $300 million per fiscal biennium.

— Focus on innovation: Encourages contractors to propose creative engineering solutions that can lower costs or improve project durability.

— Standardized selection process: Implements a technical review committee and qualifications-based selection process that aligns with federal regulations, ensuring transparency and quality in contractor selection.

“Alternative project delivery can allow for faster project delivery, increased collaboration with industry partners for creative and cost-effective methods and strengthening overall project quality and continuity,” Boardman said.