When public agencies bid out construction work for exterior restoration projects, they are generally obligated to award the job to the bidder with the lowest lump-sum price. The entire universe of contractors is eligible to bid, and sometimes 50 bids are received. Such “open calls” are one reason that these clients value SUPERSTRUCTURES’ change order-resistant drawings and specifications.

Several years ago, we were the E/A on a complex restoration of a significant structure within the CUNY system entailing replacement of more than two thousand terra cotta units. This artistically and logistically complex project went out for bid—and we held our breath. To the delight (and frankly, surprise) of all stakeholders, the lowest bidder by far was Nicholson and Galloway (N&G), perhaps the most accomplished restoration contractor in the city.

How did this happen? N&G had a successful track record in this type of work, confidence in its systems and methodology, and a trusted team of mechanics and tradesmen. Moreover, N&G was able to capitalize on the precision of SUPERSTRUCTURES’ drawings, so it didn’t carry an “uncertainty factor” in its bid.

The strength of our construction documents, N&G’s exemplary craftsmanship on the project, and our site presence during construction produced a result that all stakeholders could be proud of.