Project delivery strategy smooths construction of Bayhealth Sussex medical campus

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Bayhealth photo of construction at Milford campus in northern Sussex.
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Bayhealth is using a strategy known as Integrated Project Delivery for its Sussex Campus now under construction on the edge of Milford.

IPD leverages early knowledge and expertise from the owner, designers, and builders, along with the latest computer-aided technologies to produce cost-effective results, the health system noted in a release.

The approach provides incentives for the owner, designer, and builder to focus on project outcomes rather than individual goals. Ultimately, this translates into greater project value for all. 

Bayhealth, CannonDesign (the designer/ engineer), Whiting-Turner (the builder/construction manager), and 10 trade partners/contractors entered into the same contract.

“With one contract signed by all — versus several, which is what typically occurs for a project like this — every firm shares the same risk and reward,”  says  Whiting-Turner Vice President Josh Fanelli. CannonDesign Senior Vice President Michael Yoshimura says the single contract also removes many legal barriers. “IPD allows us the freedom to share the building [3D computer] model, and use the trades and their expertise, so the project is completed in the most efficient, cost-effective way possible.” 

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Fanelli says the IPD process fosters better communication and collaboration between the project partners and increases end-user involvement. “The IPD arrangement creates a true team atmosphere, where all parties’ interests are aligned to the same schedule and financial goals, which encourages behaviors that facilitate progress and optimizes results.” It also involves informed decision-making from the beginning, and the close collaboration eliminates waste in the design process by allowing real-time data sharing between the design and construction teams. This is enabled by collocating the owner, designer, and builder in a “Big Room,” which further promotes teamwork, removes silos, and increases chances of success. 

“Because IPD leads to significant cost savings, more programs can be offered,” said Whiting-Turner Senior Superintendent Chris Mitchell.

Bayhealth Health Campus Project Director Jerry Peters said, “The IPD process has allowed us to maximize our budget, reduce construction time, and deliver on clinical and community expectations. Upon completion, we’ll have a state-of-the-art facility that exceeds current needs and is designed to grow and evolve with changes in healthcare delivery and the community. The IPD team has done an outstanding job making what was imagined come to life.” 

Further information on the quarter of a billion dollar project is available at  BayhealthSussex.org.

Bayhealth operates the only medical center in Kent County. Its Dover hospital is being renamed Bayhealth.

The Milford campus will replace Milford Memorial Hospital. While the center carries the Sussex name,  it will also serve southern Kent County. Milford itself is located on the line between the two counties. Sussex County has three hospitals.

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