Contracting
Small Business Construction Contracting Forum is a Success
More than 60 people attended a Small Business Construction Contracting Forum cosponsored by the King County Library System and KCLS Diversity Committee on June 19, 2008. The event enabled prime contractors, subcontractors, consultants and suppliers to unite, with a focus on providing an opportunity for small businesses, minority and women owned businesses and historically underutilized businesses to learn about upcoming contracting opportunities.
Each attendee was given the opportunity to introduce themselves and their company at the forum. KCLS staff provided background about the Capital Improvement Plan, which calls for enhancements to all KCLS libraries during the next decade. Detailed information was provided regarding three upcoming library projects: Kirkland, Sammamish and Federal Way Regional. Architectural drawings for the projects were available for attendees to review. After the presentation of project information, attendees had an opportunity to ask questions and network.
KCLS encourages small businesses to bid and participate on contracting opportunities as general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. The KCLS Board of Trustees has committed to making sure that the firms receive contracts and have asked for regular reporting of the awarded contracts and dollars spent. In 2008, KCLS contracted more than $895,000  worth of business to women and minority owned businesses.
As a follow-up to the forum, consultants with Griffin, Hill and Associates (GHA) identified 13 small businesses that will be utilized by Sierra Construction to build the new 19,500 square foot Sammamish Library. This means that more than 75 percent of the work that is subcontracted out will be performed by small businesses. The small businesses are providing a myriad of services, including electrical services, structural steel, metal decking, aluminum entrances and storefronts, skylights, acoustical wall treatment and mechanical services.
Last Updated:
May 5, 2009
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