NJ Secretary of Commerce, William D. Watley Addresses Contractors at EDA Workshop

Jersey City, NJ (April 18, 2002) - The Economic Development Authority (EDA) hosted its sixth "Contractor Workshop" in Jersey City as part of its continuing efforts to reach out to members of the construction trades and educate them about the steps they need to take to become eligible to bid on the upcoming school construction projects.

Diane Petolino, Educational Planner, Jersey City Public Schools, opened the workshop by warmly welcoming the contracting community to Jersey City. Donald Moore, Director, Division Design & Construction (EDA) provided an overview of the school construction program. Mr. Moore was pleased to note that through the outreach efforts of EDA, the project management firms, and the Abbott school districts, and in cooperation with the State agencies that have the oversight responsibilities of the school construction program, contractor classification applications have increased dramatically with the workshop program. Contractors were urged to use the schools website at www.njedaschools.com to avail themselves of the wealth of schools program information available online, including the forms they need to fulfill classification requirements. Contractors were also reminded to use the EDA Contractor Helpline 609-943-4143 if they required further assistance.

William D. Watley, Secretary, NJ Commerce & Economic Growth Commission

William D. Watley, Secretary, New Jersey Commerce & Economic Growth Commission spoke to the attendees about the needs of the children of New Jersey. He noted the world of the next generation will be different, and these children will need school environments to fulfill those needs. The schools that we build will reflect our diversity and multi-culture. It is the commitment of the McGreevey administration and the NJ Economic Development Authority that we expand that table to involve the community as we rebuild, build and construct new schools for coming generations. The Secretary urged the contractors to learn how the system works.

Assemblywoman Perez-Cinciarelli Donald Moore, EDA

Assemblywoman Elba Perez-Cinciarelli attended the workshop and noted she found it both interesting and informative.

Also speaking at the workshop were representatives from two construction management firms, Dr. Paul Holmes, URS Corporation Group, and Doug Dierckson, Turner Construction Company. Contractors, vendors and manufacturers learned about the millions of dollars in school construction slated to be advertised for bid in the Jersey City school district as well as the districts of Harrison, Hoboken, Union City and West New York.

Contractors were able to speak with State agency representatives and review the documentation necessary to become classified and eligible to participate in one of the largest public works program of its type in New Jersey history. Comments from audience have been positive, attendees felt the workshop enhanced their understanding of the school construction program and provided a coherent view of the requirements and procedures.

 

 

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