AGENCY SPOTLIGHT
which has three main areas : individual webinars ; the annual Construction Contractors Academy ; and direct outreach for capital improvement projects .
Individual BOB webinars offered periodically throughout the year cover specific topics , such as upcoming construction and professional services opportunities , and small business certification .
“ The ACPWA Construction Contractors Academy started in 2002 and is now in its 20th year , which we ’ re really proud of ,” says Megan . “ The Academy ’ s two primary goals are to increase participation of minority women-owned businesses and provide tools for subcontractors to move into prime contractor roles . So far , we have 130 graduates over the span of the Academy .”
Although COVID-19 has changed some agency processes and has paused some projects , there are still many opportunities for small local , minority and women-owned businesses .
“ The type of work and construction licenses sought by ACPWA includes Class A Engineering and Class C-8 Concrete / Paving ,” notes Megan . In addition , the agency seeks subconsultant work under these trades , which includes trucking , traffic control , striping , slurry seal , environmental compliance , and water and soil testing .
With a wide range in the average project size , there are ample opportunities for small businesses . As Megan details , “ Engineers ’ estimates for roadways generally range from $ 80,000 to $ 400,000 . Flood control projects are rolling out this year that were previously on hold due to the pandemic , and engineer estimates for those are often around $ 1 million . This includes non-urgency projects such as pump station work , creek maintenance , and larger road projects . Road safety improvements , which are larger-size projects , are typically more than $ 1 million .”
“ Another way for small local businesses to get to involved is to sign up with up with larger prime contractors ’ databases , such as McGuire & Hester , Ghilotti , and so forth ,” she adds , “ Also check out the
Bay Area Builders Exchange for opportunities on Public Works and other County projects .”
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