Welcome back from OECR
OECR at Governor's Marketplace 2026 in Salem
The Oregon Department of Transportation’s Office of Engagement and Civil Rights (OECR) is pleased to reconnect with you as we resume our newsletter. We remain deeply committed to supporting Oregon’s small and emerging businesses and growing workforce, while strengthening trust with the communities we serve.
As we return from our brief hiatus, our focus continues to be transparency, meaningful engagement, and expanding opportunities across our programs. We value the partnerships we’ve built throughout the state, and we look forward to sharing updates, resources, and upcoming opportunities to help your businesses and workforce thrive.
Thank you for your continued partnership and for the vital role you play in Oregon’s transportation ecosystem. We’re glad to be back with you.
On October 3, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) modifying the certification, compliance and reporting requirements of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program (DBE). The IFR requires the eligibility of all DBE certified firms to be reevaluated on an individualized basis, without reliance on race- or sex-based
presumptions of disadvantage.
The Oregon Certification Office for Business Inclusion and Diversity (“COBID”) is responsible for
performing the reevaluations and certifications of businesses that are certified under the DBE program.
COBID recently completed their initial recertification process and OECR has
started updating its DBE Program to comply with the IFR.
Click here to learn more
OECR tabling at small business expo in Salem
In the midst of a transformative time for Oregon’s transportation landscape, we want to uplift and recognize the people who continue to show what dedication, integrity, and community commitment truly look like. It feels only right to start with the heart of our work: the OECR team.
Our team of 28 committed professionals has shown exceptional resilience, compassion, and steadiness through uncertainty. Your work continues to strengthen relationships, support Oregon’s communities, and ensure that equity remains centered in everything we do.
Thank you for showing up. Thank you for serving with purpose. And thank you for the impact you’ve made, and continue to make, for the people of Oregon.
OECR sharing program information with clients
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ESB Ontario-Vale Vicinity Tree Trimming
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Amtrak Rail Station Roof
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BID: S-73000-00016149
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Opening* Date: 05/14/2026 10:00AM
- Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: 5/5/2026 in Salem
* Opening date refers to the date that bids are due for each project. All of these projects and more are accepting bids.To view the exhaustive list, please log on to OregonBuys.
Pre-Bid Meeting for Small Business Development Program
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