Estimating DDC Projects in New York City: A Digital Approach

The State University of New York (SUNY) system manages one of the largest networks of public college and university campuses in the United States. With over 60 institutions, SUNY regularly issues capital construction, renovation, and maintenance projects across New York State—especially in high-density areas like New York City.
Estimating these projects accurately requires more than just quantity takeoff. It requires a strategic understanding of public procurement guidelines, CSI formatting, prevailing wages, and digital tools. That’s where True Bid Data brings unmatched clarity and confidence to your SUNY estimates.

Understanding DDC Bid Requirements

The NYC DDC handles everything from library renovations and courthouse upgrades to drainage infrastructure, street reconstructions, and municipal buildings. Projects are categorized by type—Infrastructure, Public Buildings, and Program Management—and vary in scope, ranging from minor repairs to multi-million dollar capital improvements.
Estimators must align their proposals with DDC standards:

Detailed quantity takeoffs from drawings and specifications
Compliance with NYC prevailing wages and union labor
CSI-based formatting for BOQ and cost breakdowns
Defined General Conditions, Allowances, and Prelims
Clear distinction between base scope, addenda changes, and alternate pricing

How We Estimate DDC Projects

DDC bids require technical accuracy and traceability. At True Bid Data, we use a structured estimating process:

Drawing-Based Takeoffs

We extract quantities directly from PDF plans using tools like PlanSwift, covering:

Concrete takeoffs for foundations, sidewalks, and curbs
Masonry and structural steel estimating
Roadwork, groundworks, and drainage scope
Roofing, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing estimates

Cost Structuring

We apply unit price estimating to each scope item, separating:

Material cost breakdowns using vendor quotes or RSMeans
Unit labor analysis using current NYC prevailing wage schedules
Equipment, crew productivity, and overhead costs

Each estimate includes DDC-required formatting and file types—whether you need Excel BOQs, CSI Division summaries, or cost tracking tables.

Digital Strategy for Winning DDC Projects

Winning a DDC project isn’t just about the right number—it’s about delivering a clear, professional estimate that reflects experience, attention to detail, and regulatory knowledge. True Bid Data helps you stand out by:

Ensuring all takeoffs are backed by drawing references
Highlighting changes from Addendum or Rebid phases
Including phased General Conditions for complex schedules
Adding allowances for asbestos removal, demolition takeoffs, or night work where relevant

For NYC contractors, submitting a polished and accurate DDC estimate increases chances of being selected in highly competitive bids.

Relevant Trade Scopes We Handle for DDC

We work with subcontractors, GCs, and consultants to estimate scopes like:

Demolition and abatement
Civil works, utilities, and site grading
Joinery takeoffs, metal works, and fencing
Interior finishes, from drywall to floor tiles
MEP estimating, including electrical panels, mechanical systems, and fire protection

Our teams are experienced with NYC-specific conditions and often work with NYCHA, SCA, SUNY, and OGS alongside DDC bids.

Why Choose True Bid Data for DDC Estimating?

If you’re targeting DDC projects in New York City, you need a cost estimating partner who understands the playing field. True Bid Data offers:

100% remote estimating for NYC public agencies
Quick turnarounds for Rebid and Addendum-based revisions
Compliance with NYC labor rates and CSI Divisions
Expert estimators with deep experience in DDC documentation

Whether you’re bidding as a GC or supporting a proposal as a takeoff specialist or estimating consultant, we give you the data, structure, and accuracy you need.

Ready to Bid Smarter on NYC DDC Projects?
Don’t miss your next opportunity with DDC due to poor estimates or formatting issues. Partner with True Bid Data to produce detailed, organized, and accurate estimates tailored for public-sector success.
Operating across the USA and focused on New York City construction, we help contractors build their future, one bid at a time.

Visit True Bid Data to learn more or request your next DDC estimate today.