How much is it going to cost? This seems like a simple question, but when you are early in a multi-year program to design and construct more than 60 miles of water transmission main for a new regional water commission it is not an easy question to answer. In addition, the answer you provide matters. Communities deciding whether or not to become a part of the regional utility need a number to make their decision. Those responsible for financing the program need a number to be used in formulating their strategy for securing funds. And the public will remember the number and be ready to hold you accountable if it changes before the work is complete. Some steps can be taken to increase the likelihood that a budget will be accurate and meet the needs of decision-makers. Elements of the process include clear definition of the scope of the program, use of a consistent, structured approach to the development of opinions of probable construction costs, benchmarking and validation of program costs, creation of a cost breakdown structure that allows for accurate tracking and reporting of costs, performance of cost and schedule risk analyses to support development of contingencies and reserves, and clear communication of the structure and meaning of the budget numbers to critical stakeholders including decision-makers and the public. This presentation will help attendees understand best practices and potential pitfalls that can affect the success of their budgeting efforts.
After this session, participants will be better able to:
• Organize and implement a detailed plan for developing a comprehensive budget for a multi-year capital program.
• Implement tools and processes for appropriately considering risk and uncertainty during the development and management of a program budget.
• Create a framework for communicating clear and reliable information about the cost of a program from early planning through design, construction, and completion.
Contributor/Source
Allison Swisher-Director of Public Utilities, Joe Johnson-Vice President, Principal Project Manager
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Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
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CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
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Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
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APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
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