The heads of the departments of Insurance and Administration are teaming up their staffs to save money and speed up construction projects.

State officials project the new arrangement could save $1.4 million on every $100 million in construction.

About 15 experts from the Insurance Department's plan review office will move into the state construction office so that the two agencies can more efficiently review construction plans funded by new federal stimulus money, said Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin. He signed a memorandum of understanding this morning with the Department of Administration's Chief Operating Officer, Kevin McLaughlin, whose department includes the construction office.

As commissioner, Goodwin also serves as state fire marshal. He said the plan accelerates the construction work, which aids the slumping economy, but also ensures the safety of new construction.

"Our people need jobs," Goodwin said, "and to work and do business in buildings that are safe."