Engineering process | Planning
Cost Estimating
For Total Project Cost Estimate guidance and forms, visit Cost Estimating and Risk Management for Project Management (This content is available only from computers on MnDOT's internal network).
Purpose
Project managers must deliver MnDOT projects with accurate cost estimates. A tool used to achieve this is the Total Project Cost Estimate (TPCE).
The TPCE lists all project-related costs for delivering a project in year-of-construction dollars, including construction and non-construction costs (e.g., right of way, engineering) through all project development phases, and accounts for risk and contingency. The TPCE is a uniform statewide estimating form that allows MnDOT to communicate project costs accurately and consistently.
When to use this subject
A TPCE should be prepared for any MnDOT-let project.
How this subject fits into the overall project development process
The initial TPCE should be prepared during the scoping phase; when approved, it becomes the baseline TPCE. The TPCE will include the base estimate elements, along with risks and uncertainties that are clearly defined for easy communication. Continue to make updates to the TPCE, including the risks and uncertainties, throughout the remaining phases of project development. The updates should reflect better knowledge of the elements of the estimate, along with refinement of risk and contingency status, as more becomes known about the project during its development.
Organizations involved
- MnDOT:
- Project Management Support Section
- Project Managers
- District Estimators
- Independent Estimating
- Applicable District and CO staff
- District and Central Office Leadership
- FHWA