This is one of ten outcomes to make measurable progress toward achieving our strategic priorities.
What Does this Outcome Mean?
ODOT spends millions of dollars annually on projects and programs meant to improve the transportation system. These projects benefit the state's construction, engineering and technical industries. We're proud to support Oregon based businesses, but systemic and process barriers often make it harder for BIPOC and women owned firms to complete for our contracts.
While
state and federal programs exist to encourage equitable distribution of economic opportunities, we can do better. That starts with reducing or eliminating barriers. This will benefit everyone -- more money to Oregon's vital construction industry and better transportation projects that reflect the communities they serve.
Our Actions: How We’ll Get There
- 2021: Analyze engagement with BIPOC and women-owned businesses to establish metric baseline information.
- 2023: Develop a comprehensive program to more effectively inform and engage BIPOC and women-owned businesses.
- 2024: Implement programming to inform about contracting opportunities.
How Will We Measure Our Success?
By 2024, increase the total dollars given to BIPOC and women owned businesses annually.
Our Progress So Far
We recently completed a new disparity study that sets a tri-annual goal for DBE use on federal aid projects. Under this new study, ODOT’s goal for DBE will jump from 15.37% to 23.43% - a significant jump. Continuing to implement the strategies in the BIPOC Contract Expansion initiative will help close ODOT close the gap in reaching this goal.
The Office of Social Equity, in partnership with the Statewide Project Delivery, are now participating in regularly scheduled monthly meetings with trade organizations representing small and BIPOC-owned firms to learn about how we can support their work, to share information about upcoming projects going to bid, and to deepen collaboration.
We are working on a legislative concept to establish a Small Business Development Program and modify public improvement competitive bidding contract law to increase opportunities for qualified small businesses.