Facilities Planning & Construction

ProjectsProjects currently in development.

At New Mexico State University, major capital projects include those projects that are in excess of large or complex scope. The Office of Facilities Planning and Construction is responsible for the initiation, coordination, management, and completion of all major capital projects.

The fiscal responsibility and funding for major capital projects can come from a number of different sources, including federal funding, state appropriations, auxiliary funding, and private donations. State appropriations are generally from one of two sources: capital outlay appropriations and building renewal and renovations appropriations (BRR), which can generally only be used for projects which improve or extend the life of existing facilities or infrastructure.

To adequately design a major capital project, the Office of Facilities Planning and Construction must first identify the programmatic needs of the project. This can include establishing the who, what, where, when, and how much for a project. This includes which departments will be using the building, what needs must be met, where the building will be located, the timeline for design and construction, and the budget for the project. This process will result in a final product that will document the program of needs.

The design process for major capital projects develops a 'road-map' for the project, based on the program of needs. Design activities can include conceptual drawings, architectural drawings, bid documents, and project manuals. Most major capital projects will include an RFP (Request For Proposal) for design services by an outside architectural firm, and a sealed-bid process. through the NMSU Purchasing Office, for awarding of the construction contract. Normally the bidding period is 30 days, with an additional 30 or more days until the bid is awarded, the contract signed, and the Notice to Proceed is given.

The construction phase of a major capital project includes the actual construction of the building or project. Facilities Planing and Construction is responsible for oversight of the construction. This includes making sure that all work is done in accordance with the construction documents, making sure that the project remains on schedule, approving all contract payments, implementing change orders, and all other construction management.

The final phase of a major capital project is the close-out. This includes punch-lists, walk-throughs, final payments, and the archiving of as-built drawings and other documents related to the construction process. Upon final acceptance of the completed work by the Contract Manager, and the issuance of a final Certificate of Occupancy, the building can be occupied. Any problems with the project that are covered under warranties will also be handled here.