Crossposted from the DES Express

The newly renovated floors at Harborview Medical Center’s Maleng Building, featured at a Jan. 15 ribbon-cutting, exceeded expectations for equity during construction. The two floors provide 40 new single patient rooms, including 20 intensive care rooms.

The Finance and Business Operations Division’s (FBOD) Business Development and Contract Compliance (BDCC) set a goal of 25% minority- and women-owned business (M/WBE) participation. The project exceeded expectations with 29% M/WBE spend. Workforce goals were also surpassed, with 22% of labor hours performed by state-registered apprentices and 38% by priority hire apprentices. Priority hire journey workers accounted for 32% of all journey worker hours. These equity achievements not only benefited underserved communities but also prepared diverse workers and businesses for future Harborview Bond projects.

“The increased participation rate is a result of a forward-thinking Executive Order issued by the King County Executive in 2021, aimed at enhancing opportunities for M/WBE businesses,” said Sandy Hanks, Manager, Business Development and Contract Compliance in FBOD. “Each step we take brings us closer to a more inclusive and equitable environment where all businesses can thrive.” Read more.