More than 150 contractors lined up to see how they could be part of building the largest development in the history of South LA.

Interested contractors learned about upcoming construction opportunities for the USC Village project adjacent to USC’s University Park campus on February 2 at the USC Galan Center.

USC Village– a flagship residential community for USC undergraduates, combining academic, student housing, recreational, and retail space is expected to open in 2017.

As of this month, three retail stores have been confirmed– Trader Joe’s, Starbucks, and Bank of America.

The estimated cost of the project is $650-million of which $465-million is in construction value.

“This could be a catalytic project for the university that attracts other investments and involves other local businesses in economic opportunities,” said Craig Keys, associate senior vice president for Civic Engagement.

The day’s events were designed to align and equip interested contractors for the construction opportunities available for the USC Village project and more.

William Marsh with USC Capital Construction, encouraged participants to complete the certification and get on the construction list for the USC Village project and others,

“The university is always working on improvements to the University Park and Health Sciences Campus,” said Marsh, “The key is to get through the pre-qualification application and insurance process.”

Business resource experts were available to answer and assist interested contractors regarding Hathaway Dinwiddie’s (HDCCO) pre-qualification, certification, financing, bonding, insurance, and safety plans.
Certification for Small Business Enterprise (SBE), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Women Business Enterprise (WBE), Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise were of special focus.

Business to Business consultations with USC certified businesses were also available for contractors to talk through their bidding process.