Prairie State Wire

A new resource center for the Illinois Department of Transportation's (IDOT) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program has opened in Will County. The facility aims to provide more opportunities for minority- and female-owned firms to engage in business on Interstate 80 and other local projects.

The I-80 project involves replacing infrastructure that is over 50 years old along a 16-mile corridor, which is significant for logistics and freight. This initiative includes safety and capacity improvements, enhances quality of life, creates thousands of jobs, and positions the region for long-term economic growth.

Governor JB Pritzker directed the inclusion of small, local businesses in the I-80 project. In response, IDOT has launched the DBE Resource Center at 858 Center Court, Unit A, in Shorewood. The center is equipped with a computer lab and office equipment and serves as a free resource for firms seeking DBE certification and information on contracting opportunities. Appointments are available for one-on-one assistance.

"Through this resource center, small, local firms can get the boost they need to participate in the I-80 project, as well as other local projects," stated Secretary Omer Osman. "We are excited to provide opportunities that help level the playing field, create jobs and contribute to the overall success of our communities."

The cost of establishing this center is part of the $1.3 billion allocated for the I-80 reconstruction. Its location was selected for convenient access to I-80 and I-55 with ample parking facilities for contractors' vehicles. While primarily intended to support small businesses involved in the I-80 project, it also caters to other state projects in nearby areas. Additionally, IDOT maintains a permanent resource center at 900 S. Des Plaines St., Chicago.

Staffed by District 1 Contract Compliance Unit employees assigned to Will County and consultants from IDOT’s Office of Business and Workforce Diversity’s Bureau of Small Business Enterprises, the center will facilitate collaboration with onsite contractors.