SALEM -The Oregon Department of Transportation is launching a statewide program, ODOT Small Contracting Program for Construction, which will make it possible for small construction companies across Oregon to do business with the agency as prime contractors.

By identifying small projects, or dividing larger projects into contracts valued at $100,000 or less, the agency is making more work available to small contractors. And, by pre-qualifying companies, ODOT can help small businesses compete more effectively by issuing notification to those companies when projects are open for bid.

Contractors may pre-qualify by completing the Request for Qualifications process. They will then be included in the selection pool for future program contract bid opportunities. The RFQ consists of a short, three-part form that requests basic information, such as a construction company’s location, employees and experience, and is available at http://orpin.oregon.gov and at www.oregon.gov/ODOT/CS/CONSTRUCTION/

Pre-qualification is not a guarantee of work, but it does ensure that a company is eligible to participate in the program, depending on its capabilities, location and the type of work available. ODOT will award contracts based on low bid. Depending on the number of construction contractors pre-qualified for a given type of work, the agency may give preference to a company that has never worked as a prime contractor with the agency before.

For information, go to (www.oregon.gov/ODOT/CS/CIVILRIGHTS/small_business.shtml)