Review Design for the Road Improvement Project of Depar–Jontai, Nyuatan Subdistrict, West Kutai Regency

Abstract

A suboptimal or underdeveloped design poses a risk of generating various issues, both technical and non-technical, that may negatively impact the project itself. Risks associated with a less-than-optimal design include cost overruns, schedule delays, compromised structural quality, and the potential for workplace accidents resulting from inadequate attention to safety considerations. This study aims to evaluate and refine the technical design of the Depar–Jontai Road Improvement Project in Nyuatan Subdistrict, Kutai Barat Regency, through a Review Design approach. Project design plays a critical role in determining the success of construction implementation in terms of technical performance, cost, duration, and safety. However, initial designs are often found to be less than optimal, which may lead to cost inflation, execution delays, and other technical issues. This study involves an assessment of the existing design, particularly the vehicle pavement structure which currently uses high-strength concrete (Fc’ 30 MPa), and the development of a more efficient alternative design employing medium-strength concrete (Fc’ 25 MPa). Data were collected through direct field observations (primary data) and technical document reviews such as working drawings and the bill of quantities (secondary data). The analytical methods applied include technical evaluation, formulation of alternative designs, recalculation of the bill of quantities, and a comparative analysis of cost and time efficiency between the original and the alternative designs. The results of the study indicate that the alternative design can yield a cost saving of approximately 6.5% or Rp 238,713,086 and offers potential time efficiency through the adoption of a more simplified construction method. Therefore, the application of the Review Design approach has proven effective in enhancing project efficiency without compromising technical standards, and it is recommended as a preventive strategy in the planning of road improvement projects in areas with difficult terrain and limited accessibility.