Introduction:Our client, a data center infrastructure company, was in the early stages of a feasibility study for a potential Fiber Optic Loop project in California. The study’s goal was to identify the best construction methods, estimate the fiber build costs, and explore potential partnerships, including a possible joint-build agreement with state agencies to align with their ongoing 10,000-mile Middle Mile broadband network.

Problem/Challenge:The client needed a high-level project cost estimate to secure stakeholder buy-in and finalize route specifics, including duct quantities. To ensure a reliable total project cost, they requested quoted pricing from qualified general contractors capable of executing conduit placement along the entire route.

Approach/Solutions: We developed a detailed Request for Proposal (RFP) to solicit bids from qualified contractors. The RFP included estimated costs for various scenarios, a proposed construction schedule, and a risk evaluation plan for the entire project lifecycle.

Results: We received bids from three leading contractors and thoroughly analyzed them to create cost estimates for different scenarios, considering pricing ranges, soil profiles, and traffic control measures. We conducted a sensitivity analysis to assess the impact of independent factors on costs. Additionally, we generated an estimate with a reduced number of ducts to illustrate cost variations between different duct profiles. We established a construction schedule by gathering production rate information from the contractors and created a risk register to proactively address potential major risks.

Conclusion/Testimonial: We delivered a comprehensive project feasibility and value engineering report featuring highly reliable estimates based on contractor pricing. The estimates were crafted for diverse scenarios to provide our client with a nuanced understanding of cost implications under varying conditions. The inclusion of a risk register highlighted major risks and corresponding mitigation strategies. Additionally, we presented a detailed construction schedule outlining the estimated duration of the construction process.