Preconstruction + Project Development
From Vision to Viability
The Preconstruction & Project Development Team serves as the foundation for successful capital planning and project delivery at the University of Florida. Through comprehensive preconstruction services, cost estimating, project and program development, and feasibility studies, the team helps the University transform ideas into actionable capital projects.
Our process begins with site visits and existing conditions assessments to evaluate facilities, infrastructure, and operational needs. Working closely with campus partners and stakeholders, we identify project goals, priorities, opportunities, and constraints to establish a clear path forward. The team develops a comprehensive Preconstruction Report and Estimate that illustrates proposed project concepts through preliminary floor plans, space assessments and programming, project narratives, conceptual budget estimates, and project planning assumptions.
Leveraging historical cost data, industry benchmarks, and campus-specific knowledge, the Preconstruction Report and Estimate provides campus partners with a clear understanding of project scope, feasibility, anticipated costs, and schedule considerations. Whether evaluating a renovation, addition, infrastructure improvement, or new facility, our team provides the analysis, planning, and cost intelligence needed to assess project viability, define project scope, establish realistic expectations, and confidently advance projects into the design and construction phases.
James Brown
Preconstruction Coordinator
✉ jb24@ufl.edu
☎ 352.273.4015
Biography
Jim joined the Planning, Design, and Construction team in August of 2022. He is a graduate of the University of Florida with a B.S. in Public Relations. Before joining PDC, he worked for over 14 years in the public transportation sector with experience in transportation planning and consultant project management, but the majority of his tenure was spent directing and managing procurement operations.
Jim is a Certified Public Manager (CPM) graduate from the Florida Center for Public Management, part of the Askew School of Public Administration at Florida State University, and he also currently holds an active Florida Certified Contract Negotiator (FCCN) certification from the Florida Department of Management Services.
Jim and his wife, Shelby, have 3 children, and they enjoy spending time with family.
Stephen Roberts
Estimator
✉ stevear@ufl.edu
☎ 352.273.4031
Biography
As an Estimator with PD&C’s Preconstruction Team, Stephen Roberts plays a key role in developing project budgets, evaluating costs, and helping project teams make informed decisions early in the planning process.
Stephen brings an engineering background and a detail-oriented approach to every project. Since joining the University of Florida in 2020, he has worked closely with project managers and stakeholders to provide accurate cost information that supports successful project delivery. His careful and analytical mindset helps ensure projects are positioned for success from the outset.
One item on his bucket list is seeing every Cirque du Soleil production performed in the United States.
Rick Falcon
Administrative Specialist
✉ r.falconvincenty@ufl.edu
☎ 352.273.3009
Biography
Few things are more important to a successful project than the people working behind the scenes to keep everything organized. Rick Falcon plays that role for Planning, Design & Construction’s Project Development Team, where he serves as an Administrative Specialist II supporting project development and departmental operations.
Before joining PD&C, Rick built a career in banking and finance with BBVA Compass before transitioning to the University of Florida’s CFO Shared Services organization. His combination of financial knowledge, administrative expertise, and customer service experience helps support the many moving pieces involved in project planning and delivery.
A familiar face around the office, Rick enjoys being part of a team that helps improve the university campus. Among his favorite places at UF is Malachowsky Hall, a building that represents the university’s continued investment in innovation and discovery.
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