PHILADELPHIA, PA — The City of Philadelphia has taken a significant step forward with the release of its six-month update to the Public Works Procurement Forecast. This strategic move, first announced last fall, seeks to democratize access to lucrative contract opportunities within the city’s infrastructure projects, providing a much-needed boost to historically underutilized businesses.
The latest update unveils more than 130 anticipated public works contracts across four key city agencies: the Department of Streets, Philadelphia Airport (PHL & PNE), Water Department, and the Office of Sustainability/Philadelphia Energy Authority. With an overarching commitment to transparency and equal opportunity, the forecast outlines projects expected to unfold over the next 18-24 months, representing over $520 million of upcoming work.
Spanning a diverse array of trades, the forecasted projects include opportunities in highway and bridge construction, electrical installation, water and sewer structures, manufacturing, trucking and warehousing, as well as general labor and equipment operation. Notably, this iteration of the forecast introduces new information, including potential subcontracting opportunities and anticipated dollar ranges for certain projects, designed to aid prospective vendors in crafting competitive bids.
Central to this initiative is the city’s goal of awarding 35% of City contracts to minority, woman, or disabled-owned (M/W/DSBE) businesses. This ambitious target underscores Philadelphia’s commitment to breaking down historical barriers and creating a more equitable business environment. The city has streamlined the certification process for M/W/DSBE businesses and provides a searchable registry through the Office of Economic Opportunity, facilitating easier access to these opportunities.
For federally funded projects, the initiative leverages the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program, offering an alternative pathway for businesses seeking to participate in these projects. Information on DBE certification and a registry of certified firms are readily available, ensuring that businesses have all the necessary tools at their disposal.
This procurement forecast aligns with broader infrastructural investment strategies outlined in the 2024 Infrastructure Solutions Team Report and Action Plan. Echoing Mayor Cherelle Parker’s vision, the plan aims to leverage funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to not only upgrade the city’s infrastructure but also to cultivate generational wealth among communities of color, who have traditionally been marginalized from such opportunities.
Since the enactment of the BIL and IRA, Philadelphia has secured over $500 million for various infrastructure upgrades, including significant investments in the Chinatown Stitch project, improvements to Roosevelt Boulevard, and the creation of an electric vehicle workforce development program. These projects not only promise to enhance the city’s physical landscape but also to sow the seeds of economic empowerment and inclusion.
Looking ahead, the City plans to release its next six-month update in October 2024 and is launching SupplyPHL, a business advisory service aimed at supporting historically underutilized businesses in engaging with public works projects. Through these concerted efforts, Philadelphia is not just rebuilding its infrastructure; it’s reimagining the foundations of its economic system to be more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous for all its residents.
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