Implementing BIM on Infrastructure: Comparison of Two Bridge Construction Projects

Abstract

This research provides comparative analysis of the impacts and benefits associated with using building information modeling (BIM) on accelerated bridge construction in the Denver metropolitan area. To date, BIM remains a relatively underutilized tool in horizontal construction. BIM has the potential, however, to significantly increase efficiencies, minimize waste, and increase sustainability across infrastructure projects throughout their life cycles. This research studies the impacts of the first implementation of BIM processes on one of two structurally similar concurrent bridge construction projects by comparing metrics related to substructure costs, requests for information, change orders, rework, and schedule. Findings suggest that negative cost impacts of approximately 70% may be associated with the first implementation of BIM during construction. However, additional findings suggest that the use of BIM may facilitate otherwise infeasible complex projects and reduce requests for information and change orders and has the potential to realize cost savings during follow-on projects. Specifically, findings from this case study suggest that BIM may have provided approximately 5–9% cost savings during construction by contributing to reduced change orders and rework. Revealing such impacts and benefits associated with using BIM on transportation infrastructure construction begins to inform the industry and, in particular, organizations such as DOTs and urban transportation districts about potential opportunities related to BIM implementation. Additional and potentially significantly greater benefits may be realized through future BIM-enabled operation and maintenance of such infrastructure. This study provides a valuable first step in motivating the implementation of BIM within and throughout infrastructure asset management and motivates future research related to the use of BIM during infrastructure construction and operation.