SH 249 Extension Design-Build Project

Project Details

The Texas Department of Transportation selected WBCCI, LLC, a subsidiary of Williams Brothers Construction Company to design, construct and maintain a 24-mile new location highway with 57 bridges, including five railroad crossings from FM 1774 to SH 105.

TxDOT identified the regional need for the project in the statewide 10-year Unified Transportation Program. The project improved connections between Bush Intercontinental Airport and Texas A&M University (a major research center). Population and employment growth in the greater Houston and Bryan-College Station areas led to a greater demand on the transportation infrastructure.

Segment 1 is a 14-mile, 4-lane divided tollway from the southern project limit to FM 1774. Segment 2 is a rural, 10-mile non-tolled highway to SH 105. The SH 249 Extension project involved Grimes and Montgomery counties, Bryan and Houston Districts, and multiple towns along the project corridor. Partnering was essential to help the WB Team identify goals, key issues and challenges, and to meld different interests into a coherent execution effort.

The SH 249 Team demonstrated unprecedented partnering. WB improved our construction scheduling by ensuring that prosecution of work did not preempt addressing Non Compliance Reports (NCRs). We paid close attention to ensuring all issues were addressed and corrective actions implemented. WB took measured risk by proceeding with design at risk prior to being issued change orders. Our partnering approach with TxDOT engendered the trust and confidence that we will were all working in the best interest of the Project. There were no DBC-initiated change orders or additional costs. WB provided cost savings to the benefit of the State.

Engaging DBE subcontractors often proved to be beneficial. WB was able to offer additional subcontracting opportunities to existing subcontractors that either resulted in an increase in scope or performance in new areas. Some DBEs were able to expand their footprint in the Houston and Bryan Districts.

The WB Team possessed the knowledge and commitment to leave a lasting positive impact on Texas’ infrastructure. SH 249 Extension improves safety, and enhances regional mobility and hurricane evacuation. Additionally, flooding potential is decreased with innovation. It has a lasting impact by enhancing the community’s ability to access regional destinations.

Awards:

• 2024 AGC of America Build America Merit Award
• 2023 DBIA Design-Build National Award of Merit
• 2022 ASHE Project of the Year