What is design build?

Explore YBC's process of creating iconic timber bridges

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Collaboration & efficiency

In the design build approach, the designer and builder collaborate seamlessly under a unified contract from the project's initiation, fostering a cohesive and collaborative atmosphere throughout the entire process.

The Value of the Design-Engineer-Build Process

The Design-Engineer-Build process is integral to the success of modern bridge construction, offering an efficient, streamlined approach that benefits both the client and the contractor. At York Bridge Concepts, we specialize in leveraging this process to reduce project timelines, minimize costs, and enhance the overall quality of our timber bridge projects. By integrating design and construction under a single contract, we ensure smoother communication, faster decision-making, and more cohesive project development. This approach is particularly advantageous for complex projects, such as timber bridges, where both environmental factors and aesthetic considerations play a critical role in the design, As a result, clients enjoy greater transparency, flexibility, and accountability throughout the life of the project.

How Does our design build process work?

YBC is dedicated to bringing your vision to life through collaborative solutions. With nearly 40 years of experience, we understand the challenges you may face when it comes to crossing projects. Just know that YBC is here to help you overcome them with practical and innovative solutions.

Our Design Build process lies at the heart of our approach. We prioritize the surrounding environment, your unique vision to create a crossing that is unique. From the initial concept to the final execution, we are with you every step of the way.


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Infographic comparing traditional construction methods vs our Design Build processes.

The Design Phase

Customizing Solutions for Unique Needs

The design phase at York Bridge Concepts is not just about creating functional bridges: it's about crafting custom solutions tailored to the specific needs of each project. Every bridge we design begins with an in-depth understanding of the project's unique requirements, including environmental factors, load capacity, and aesthetic preferences. Our team conducts detailed site assessments, analyzes the surrounding landscape, and considers community impact to ensure that each design integrates seamlessly with its environment. Whether it's a vehicular bridge, pedestrian bridge, or a multi-use structure, we focus on delivering not only practical solutions but also structures that are visually appealing and sustainable. We also prioritize collaboration with engineers, architects, and local stakeholders to ensure that every design decision aligns with the overall vision and regulatory guidelines.

Gaining an understanding of what your project is where we start. Through a series of collaborations York Bridge Concepts' will guide you through the process. This increases efficiency with your projects and provides you with a single-source of truth, helping your project management efforts.


step 1

Understanding Your Vision

The journey begins with you. The foundation of YBC's success is actively listening to what your vision, goals, and requirements are for your project. By meeting with our Bridge Consultants, we will both gain a comprehensive understanding of your project at hand.



step 2

site assessment

This is one of the most crucial steps in the process. Understanding your site-specific scope by studying the topography, environment, hydrology, and soil condition factors allows YBC to utilize our expertise to create a bespoke package for your crossing.




step 3

design

This step is the core of YBC's business. Our team of talented designers will collaborate with you to bring your vision to life. We utilize cutting-edge techniques and materials to create the crossing you will enjoy for generations.




step 4

Material Selection

Our procurement team will work to find the best long-lasting materials and finishes to create an awe-inspiring crossing that suits your needs and vision. We carefully select high-quality materials from responsibly managed forests. This process ensures the structural integrity and aesthetics that complement the surrounding environment

82%

CLIENTS PREFER
DESIGN BUILD


Construction organizations plan to use contractors that use the design-build process over the next five years.*


67%

INCREASE OF UTILIZATION IN THE INDUSTRY


Organizations that plan on utilizing companies that use the design-build methodologies in their processes.*


38%

reduction of construction time


Organizations see significantly faster build times versus traditional construction projects.**


Enhancing Project Outcomes

Collaboration is at the heart of York Bridge Concepts' design-build process. Throughout every phase, we work closely with key stakeholders, including clients, local government agencies, environmental consultants, and other design professionals. This collaborative approach allows us to address potential challenges early, ensuring that our timber bridges meet stringent sustainability standards and preserve the surrounding ecosystems. We also maintain open lines of communication with the client, providing regular updates and opportunities for feedback to ensure the project stays on track and meets expectations. Ultimately, this collaborative process leads to better-designed bridges that deliver long-term value to the communities they serve.

Creating a single-source of responsibility

A single entity, a single contract, and a unified workflow from the initial concept to completion characterize the design build approach, also called design/construct and single-source responsibility. We will walk through York Bridge Concepts' design-build process to better understand how this benefits your project.


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The Build Phase

The Build Phase

In the construction phase, York Bridge Concepts brings its years of expertise and attention to detail to ensure the successful execution of the design. Unlike traditional methods, where design and construction are separated, our design-build approach allows for greater flexibility and responsiveness. From site preparation to final inspection, we handle every aspect of the construction process. Our skilled team uses only the highest-quality materials, including sustainably sourced timber, to build durable and aesthetically pleasing structures. We employ advanced construction techniques, including precision engineering and custom fabrication, to ensure that each project is completed to the highest standards. Throughout the process, we prioritize safety, minimizing disruption to the surrounding area, and maintaining a clean, efficient work site.

Once all stakeholders approve the design, YBC begins with logistics, project management, and the construction phase of building your icon.


step 5

Permitting Collaboration

We support our clients with engineering packages to gain the approval of the governing jurisdiction. With YBC's national presence, we have experience permitting in every state. Note: YBC does not handle permitting.



step 6

master craftsmanship

This is where YBC shines. Our crews have a combined experience of over 100 years. Most YBC foremen have extensive experience in timber bridge building. Our experience is what sets us apart from the competition. We use advanced techniques that guarantee efficiency, quality, environmental guidelines, and adherence to project timelines.



step 7

On-site construction

Our teams diligently adhere to our uncompromising attention to quality. YBC's QC process meets or exceeds the highest safety and industry standards. We mobilize our custom, heavy-duty equipment to your location. This process mitigates as much risk as possible to your project by being able to make adjustments as needed. 



step 8

Inspection & Maintenance

YBC offers ongoing support and maintenance for your timber crossing. Our diligent inspections, maintenance services, and York Timber Protective SystemsTM ensure that your icon will last for generations.


Eco-Friendly Design & Materials

At York Bridge Concepts, sustainability is a cornerstone of our design-build process. From the very beginning, we work to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into every project. Timber is an inherently sustainable material, and we take advantage of its natural strength and low environmental impact. Additionally, we prioritize using locally sourced materials whenever possible to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy. Our design-build process is also focused on minimizing waste by using materials efficiently and ensuring that any excess or scrap materials are either repurposed or recycled. We understand the importance of preserving the environment for future generations, and our sustainable practices reflect this commitment to environmental stewardship in every bridge we build.

Efficiency Through collaboration since 1985

We work to help you face your challenges with practical solutions and back that up with our nearly 40 years of experience.

One of the most significant advantages of the design-build approach is the ability to manage both timelines and budgets more effectively. With a single team responsible for both design and construction, there is less room for miscommunication or delays that typically arise from coordinating between separate parties. At York Bridge Concepts, we take a proactive approach to scheduling and cost management, ensuring that each project stays on track. We use advanced project management software and tools to track progress, identify potential roadblocks, and adjust timelines as necessary. Furthermore, we work closely with clients to establish clear budget expectations from the start and maintain transparency throughout the project. This minimizes unexpected costs, and clients can have confidence that the project will be completed on time and within budget.


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Design Build Process:

Creating unique one-of-a-kind timber bridges from scratch

Key Features of the thousand trails bridge


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DeceroTM Timber Bridge Design

Learn how we turn timber crossings into icons.

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Timber Bridge Materials

View the hand-selected materials we use to create your legacy.

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On-Site Construction Process

Understand the construction process for each project.

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Real-World Results of Design-Build Success

The success of our design-build process is evident in the wide range of projects we've competed. For instance, the Willow Park Timber Vehicular Bridge in Texas was designed and constructed under the design-build model, offering a perfect example of how this approach leads to efficiency and high-quality results. The project required careful coordination with local authorities and environmental groups to ensure that the bridge not only met safety standards but also preserved the surrounding wetland area. Similarly, the Laughlin Ranch Covered Double-Lane Vehicular Bridge in Arizona was another example where the design-build approach allowed for seamless integration of custom features, including an attached pedestrian section while maintaining the project's timeline and budget. These case studies highlight the flexibility, innovation, and cost-effectiveness that the design-build process brings to complex bridge projects.

Why Choose Design-Build with York Bridge Concepts

Choosing the design-build process with York Bridge Concepts means opting for a streamlined, efficient, and collaborative approach to bridge construction. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction drives everything we do. By working with a single team that handles both the design and construction phases, clients benefit from faster project completion, reduced costs, and a final product that perfectly aligns with their needs and expectations. Whether it's timber vehicular bridge, a pedestrian boardwalk, or a multi-functional infrastructure project, we offer the expertise and experience necessary to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about how our design-build process can benefit your next bridge project.

*A Guide To Design Build: https://constructionblog.autodesk.com/design-build-construction/

**KConn Construction: https://www.kconinc.com/design-build-vs-traditional-construction-whats-the-difference/

Create Your Legacy Today

Discover the intersection of strength, durability, and environmental responsibility with York Bridge Concepts. Let's build a bridge to the future together.