The SCC outreach effort at the New Jersey Convention Center in Edison featured panel sessions focusing on prequalification, labor issues, payment and bidding processes, and change orders. Representatives of the SCC and other state agencies also were available at information tables throughout the day to answer questions about the building program. Over 400 people representing 220 firms from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania registered to attend. Half of the firms registered have never worked on SCC projects.
"This is an opportunity for general contractors in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania to learn about the bidding opportunities that exist on upcoming school projects. They will also learn about how our improved management capabilities, systems and business practices have improved the way we do business with contractors," said Scott Weiner, CEO of the SCC, the keynote speaker at the conference.
"While much work has been completed, and many school projects remain under construction, the SCC still has approximately $1 billion in projects on the current capital plan that will go out to bid over the next several years. Through this conference we are hoping to attract companies interested in actively competing for this work," Weiner said.
Weiner noted that reforms undertaken by the SCC were acknowledged in a recent report by Governor Corzine's Interagency Working Group, which recommended the SCC receive $3.25 billion in new funding for future school construction projects. The issue of additional funding is now under consideration by the Administration and Legislature.
