Case Study: Delay Due to Design Changes on Dallas Flood Control Project (Texas, 2018)

Project Overview
• Name: Dallas Flood Control and Drainage Improvements
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Year: 2018
• Project Size: $350 million
• Scope: Construction of flood control channels and stormwater infrastructure
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: City of Dallas /

Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Design / Scope Change
• Project Delay

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
Significant design changes prompted by updated hydrological data led to rework and schedule setbacks.

Root Cause Analysis

  • Incomplete initial hydrological modeling.
  • New flood data released mid-construction requiring scope changes.
  • Inadequate design flexibility to accommodate changes.
  • Slow approval of revised designs and contractor change orders.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge

  • Delay of 6 months.
  • Cost increases from rework and extended mobilization.
  • Contractor claims and disputes over schedule impacts.

Corrective Actions Taken

  1. Improved hydrological studies and modeling in early project phases.
  2. Established design contingency allowances and flexible contract terms.
  3. Streamlined design approval and change order processes.
  4. Enhanced communication and collaboration between design and construction teams.

Lessons Learned

  • Accurate and complete initial data reduces mid-project design changes.
  • Flexible contracts and contingency planning accommodate unavoidable changes.
  • Timely approval processes minimize delay impacts.

Audit & Prevention: Project Control Questions to Ask on Future Projects to Help Control the Situation

  • Are baseline data and models robust and validated?
  • Is there contractual flexibility for design changes?
  • Are design revisions and approvals expedited?
PreviousNext