Suggestions for Increasing DBE Contractors Participation

Abstract

The Surface Transportation Act of 1982, which increased DBE participation in public construction work, has caused continuing controversy. To determine how best to increase such participation with the least controversy, a study was conducted in Florida. A literature search and interviews with bankers, bonding agents, and government and trade association officers were conducted to obtain more potential solutions for increasing DBE participation. Questionnaires were then designed and sent to both DBE and non‐DBE contractors to determine which suggestions would boost DBE participation the most. This paper reports the research results and describes the methodologies used. Although the research did not result in unanimously accepted suggestions, both DBE and non‐DBE contractors who were surveyed volunteered suggestions that they believed would benefit DBE participation. These suggestions urgently need to be implemented, and their implementation would have the fewest political roadblocks.