New bridge presents major opportunity for local firms

With a current cost estimate of $330 million, the Sellwood Bridge Project presents a huge business opportunity for local firms. Design and construction of the bridge are expected to provide business for more than a hundred companies. Suppliers and subcontractors will range from steel fabricators to geologists and everything in between.

With the project entering the design phase, Multnomah County is working to spread the word about upcoming opportunities for local companies. One example is a Small Business Showcase to be held on Wednesday, October 27 from 12 noon to 2 pm at David Evans and Associates, 2100 SW River Parkway in Southwest Portland.

Members of the County’s Sellwood Bridge project team, including Project Manager Michael Eaton and Purchasing Coordinator Sophia Cavalli, will be on hand to discuss anticipated opportunities for local firms. The event will provide Disadvantaged Minority, Women and Emergency Small Businesses with an opportunity to network and learn about the Sellwood project. Staff from the Portland to Milwaukie Light Rail Project, another major capital project advancing next year, will also attend to share contracting information.

To RSVP for the event (which includes lunch), contact Lauri Nelson at 503-499-0345, lane@deainc.com). Special thanks to David Evans and Associates for hosting the event.

Information about the Request for Proposals for Architecture and Engineering Services to design the bridge is available on the County’s Purchasing website.