Oregon Convention Center renovation: a model for equity in public projects

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By Heather Back

The National Association of Minority Contractors and Colas Construction released the final Oregon Convention Center renovation equity report, highlighting the project's equity goals and outcomes. By starting with an equity lens framework, the procurement process led to a fair and competitive response resulting in the largest public improvement contract awarded to a BIPOC Prime Contractor (BPC) in Oregon at the time of the award. These outcomes translated to an extremely diverse workforce at all levels of construction.

Renovation Highlights

51% utilization of total contract dollars awarded to minority- and women-owned businesses registered with Oregon’s Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity
Of hours worked, 40% were completed by people of color
Of total dollars paid to subcontractors, 54% were awarded to majority Black-owned businesses.

“A diverse workforce is not only possible, but will exceed all expectations when leadership is serious about utilizing and valuing equity, diversity, and inclusion," said Nate McCoy, NAMC executive director.

With a timeline of 13 months, the renovation was completed on time, on budget, and set numerous records, most notably delivering on an equitable workforce and an average contract amount of $2.6 million going to certified MBE firms. These outcomes translated to an extremely diverse workforce at all levels of construction.

“While the OCC renovation project was a tremendous success, there is still more work to do to advance racial equity in construction and on public work projects, including more focus on BIPOC Prime Contractors leading projects,” said Andrew Colas, Colas Construction president. “No business goes into business for a minority share of the business potential,” he continued.

NAMC and Colas attributed the project success to the leadership of MERC Commissioner Ray Leary; Scott Cruickshank, general manager of visitor venues; Craig Stroud, OCC executive director; and Metro’s procurement team.

Read the report

The full 48-page renovation project equity report produced by NAMC is available here.

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