July 2025 Digital Delivery Update

Can you provide a brief overview of the FM 1977 digital delivery transportation project?

The project is a widening and full depth reconstruction of a short segment of rural highway in the San Antonio District. It is the first project to be designed, let, and constructed using digital delivery methods.

How does this process differ from traditional plan-sheet-based delivery?

In a nutshell, it’s shifting priority and level-of-effort from sign/sealed PDF plan sheets to sign/sealed digital models (2D and 3D). Currently, designers and contractors rely on the plan sheets first and foremost and the digital models are secondary; with digital delivery it is the opposite. Long term, plan sheets will be phased out to just the bare minimum essentials, such as Standards for Bridge, Maintenance, Roadway, and Traffic.

Are there any innovative features or processes in this project that you believe could revolutionize the transportation industry in Texas or beyond?

There are several innovative features, with the single over-arching aspect of using data-rich models leading the way. Designing, delivering, constructing, and maintaining TxDOT’s roadway and bridge assets in a 2D plan set PDF precludes the ability to take advantage of extra data involved in the process that’s not explicitly conveyed in the PDF’s. Using digital delivery, much more embedded data can be used throughout the asset lifecycle, from planning through maintenance.

What were some of the biggest challenges faced during the planning and implementation stages of this project?

The education of myself, the rest of the project design team, and construction phase stakeholders was the biggest challenge. Similarly, upon completion of construction, I anticipate similar challenges in educating asset management stakeholders. The technical aspects during the design, letting, construction, and maintenance of this project are not different than any other projects, but the methods of capturing and conveying the technical data is different and comes with a learning curve for all involved parties.

Were there any challenges integrating digital delivery with existing TxDOT workflows or contractor practices?

There have been challenges; one area has been identifying and implementing the best software solutions. Delivering projects in this new digital medium requires new tools for the project disciplines and stakeholders to execute their responsibilities. Not only was discovery, testing, and training a challenging – but necessary – part of implementing these software tools, but user access has been a challenge. Due to the scale of TxDOT and IT security necessities, it can be a lengthy and difficult process to procure access to software for all parties throughout the project lifecycle.

How did contractors and stakeholders respond to working with digital files instead of paper plans?

There has been some skepticism and resistance to the change, but there has also been some optimism and appreciation for long-term benefits. We are all still within the learning curve of the Digital Delivery Program, and I’ve been encouraged by the partnership and collaboration that parties on all sides of the business have shown. As time goes on, I’m hopeful that our industry will find this is a net benefit for all of us.

How has communication and collaboration changed on the project with this digital-first approach?

Communication has expanded beyond traditional conveying of project-specific technical details to include education-focused discussions pertaining to digital delivery means and methods. TxDOT also views it as important to go a step beyond education and collaborate with our stakeholders to listen to their concerns and suggestions for improvement. In that context, the communication and collaboration for this project and the Digital Delivery Program has had more of a spirit of partnership than solely one-way educational communication.

What advice would you give other districts preparing for their own digital delivery projects?

During the interim transitional period, digital delivery is not a drastic sea change. TxDOT is stair-stepping our way into this realm, and I view these first-generation pilot projects as a change in the order of magnitude of 25% (approximately). So, try to find reassurance in the fact that we’re not going to be changing the process 100%, at least not all in one phase.

What are you most proud of when you look back on FM 1977?

That so far, it’s been a success! Through the diligent contributions of numerous people, we were able to navigate the design, review, letting, and contract awarding process successfully. Many more people are now actively working hard to ensure the continued achieving of our goals during the construction and maintenance phases – both from the traditional transportation goals perspective (i.e. getting a road built and maintained) and the new goals of the Digital Delivery Program.

Were there any unexpected efficiencies or obstacles during the construction phase tied directly to the digital workflow?

This remains to be determined as construction continues (it broke ground earlier this month), but we were pleasantly surprised with the costs in the bids submitted by the contractors for this job. The bids were lower than expected, potentially reflecting efficiencies.

Did it impact how the project was budgeted or how risk was managed?

Since this was the first TxDOT project to use digital delivery methods, our engineer’s estimate budgeted risk into the cost via estimating higher unit prices. However, the contractor bids ended up reflecting more of a perceived gain in efficiency and/or desire to be involved in this first pilot. Either of those scenarios would be a win for TxDOT and the Digital Delivery Program, but it would especially be beneficial if in the long-term digital delivery is proven to improve efficiency during the construction phase, as is anticipated.

What’s next for digital delivery across TxDOT?

This first pilot will complete the construction and maintenance phases, wherein we anticipate learning many additional things. We also have 4 other pilot projects in 4 other Districts currently in the design phase and will be adding further pilots over the coming months and years. The Program itself will continue following our Strategic and Implementation Plans, with a particular focus moving forward on asset management in a Digital Delivery world.

If you had to sell someone on the value of digital delivery in 30 seconds, what would you say?

Other industries have proven its value for decades now, and within transportation, other countries and states of the U.S. have also demonstrated it’s worth and potential. Analogous to how CAD revolutionized the business in the late 20^th century for the better, digital delivery will have its own learning curve and growing pains in the short term but will be a game changer in the long run.

The Bridge Division (BRG) is actively working toward using the 3D model as the contract document, with all design information housed directly within the model. This shift aims to improve comprehension, safety performance, efficiency, and quality control by making information more accessible and visually intuitive.

To support this transition, BRG is pursuing several key efforts:

• Testing software functionality and performance
• Developing clear policies to guide users
• Conducting pilot projects to evaluate the entire workflow from start to finish

BRG is continually making progress by advancing all three areas—modeling, policy development, and software improvements—simultaneously.

Available Resources and Ongoing Policy Development

Current resources for users include the OBM Training Manual and Drafting Workflow, which guide engineers in modeling and assist drafters in producing plan sheets from the model. Upcoming resources still in development include the OBM Best Practices Document, which will outline how 3D modeling is to be used on TxDOT projects, and standardized checklists for model review, design review, and plan review.

Software Testing and Collaboration

BRG has tested multiple versions of OpenBridge Modeler (OBM) and collaborated with Bentley to address modeling issues and align output with TxDOT practices. While the currently approved OBM version supports modeling capabilities, bearing seat elevations and quantities should still be verified using traditional methods.

Pilot Projects and Training Opportunities

Multiple districts have volunteered projects to serve as pilots. These efforts allow BRG to apply policy in real-world scenarios and continue building momentum for the Digital Delivery initiative. Submitting a pilot project from your district is one of the most effective ways to contribute—please contact Courtney Holle or Jacob Tambunga if you’re interested.

To begin learning 3D bridge modeling, we highly recommend taking the BRG300 course, offered both in-person and virtually. This comprehensive training covers the modeling of concrete and steel bridges from start to finish, including riprap modeling, template modification, sheet cutting, and more. Training sessions are being scheduled with interested districts—reach out to Courtney Holle to attend or arrange a session for your team.

We’re Here to Support You

Our goal is to ensure a smooth and successful transition to Digital Delivery. Please don’t hesitate to provide feedback—your input helps us better serve your needs. For questions or support, contact BRG_ Bridge3DDesign.