Facility Management in Public-Private Partnerships: Then, Now and Ahead

Public-private partnerships (P3s) are diversifying and advancing in strategy, finance and operations and maintenance (O&M). These models are evolving rapidly, adopting and adapting financial and facility planning practices that decisively lower project costs and development timelines while improving outcomes. This success is fueling new P3 initiatives not only in developed nations and regions, but also for smaller-scale projects in locations that were previously not feasible.

Facility management should be involved throughout the P3 process to support long-term performance — from initial planning through the eventual transfer of ownership back to the public entity. Some projects have already reached this transition point, with more on the way. Without proper incentives for the operating authority, the public agency may inherit facilities burdened with deferred maintenance and unresolved issues.