OECR August 2026 Newsletter

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Office of Engagement & Civil Rights

August brings the heat and resources!

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Orange haze at sunrise on U.S. 26 - ODOT Flickr

Welcome to the August edition of the OECR Newsletter! As we move through the height of summer construction, our programs continue to offer tools, guidance, and engagement opportunities to keep partners informed and supported. August is a perfect moment to gear up for fall; review upcoming trainings, revisit core resources, and make sure your business is positioned for the next cycle of opportunities. A little preparation now can set the stage for a strong, confident start to the season ahead. 

We also encourage everyone to stay alert during Oregon’s wildfire season. Please travel safely, look out for changing conditions, and remember to check TripCheck before heading out. Our gratitude goes to ODOT’s frontline crews and first responders who continue working tirelessly to keep our communities safe.


Congratulations to Mentor-Protege Graduates

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This month, we’re proud to recognize the newest graduates of the Port of Portland’s Mentor-Protégé Program, an effort OECR is honored to partner and support. We are proud to sponsor the following firms:

  • Cascade Environmental Services
  • JC Pro-Builders
  • Key Electrical Construction
  • MD Electrical Services
  • LCP
  • Vega Civil Engineering
  • Johnson Construction NW

These firms have demonstrated exceptional growth, commitment, and resilience as they advance their skills and strengthen their capacity to work on public projects across Oregon. Their dedication reflects the values we aim to uphold across our engagement and business programs, and we’re excited to see their continued success in partnering with ODOT and other regional agencies.

The Port’s program is a full wrap around experience that assists small businesses with developing a three-year plan and then work to realize the growth and profitability objectives they lay out. Proteges are matched with mentors and meet monthly for training/classes with technical experts.

Congratulations to all the graduates on this milestone achievement!

For more info about the Mentor-Protégé program follow this link


Best practices for Contract Compliance

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Concrete deck pour on OR 58 at the Salt Creek Bridge

This fall, we’re pleased to share two helpful construction trainings designed to support contractors, consultants, and community partners working on ODOT projects.

These sessions provide clear guidance on contract requirements, compliance expectations, and best practices for navigating project delivery. Whether you’re new to ODOT work or looking for a refresher, these videos offer practical insights to help you stay prepared and successful throughout the construction season.

From daily record keeping to monthly reporting, notice to proceed to final note; Prime and Subcontractors, and Consultants will benefit from attending this training.

This is a complimentary training offered virtually only on Workday.

  • Region 1 (Portland/Metro) – Thursday, October 29, 2026 

  • Region 2 (Mid-Willamette Valley) – Tuesday, November 17, 2026 

  • Region 3 (Southern Oregon) – Tuesday, November 10, 2026

  • Region 4 (Central Oregon) – Thursday, November 5, 2026

  • Region 5 (Eastern Oregon) – Monday, November 9, 2026 

Agenda:

10:00am - 12:00pm: Contract Compliance with OECR
1:00pm - 4:00pm: Labor Compliance with ODOT/BOLI

Register:

ODOT - OECR - 2026 Civil Rights Contract and BOLI Labor Compliance Training - VIRTUAL

Register on Workday (No cost or fees). Need a Workday account? Create an account here

*CCB Continuing Education Credit is available for this training* 


Interstate Bridge Replacement Project

The Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Program is hosting a two‑part virtual series to help businesses prepare for upcoming contracting opportunities and better understand public works requirements. Separate registration required through the IBR Vendor Portal.

  • Financial Considerations on Tuesday, August 11
  • Avoiding Common Pitfalls on Tuesday, September 15

With IBR’s bi‑state partnership between ODOT and Washington DOT (WSDOT), firms may also benefit from exploring Washington’s OMWBE certifications, such as SBE and DBE, to expand long‑term access to federally funded transportation projects. Alongside Oregon's COBID certifications, these programs increase visibility and help small businesses compete more effectively on major regional efforts.

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IBR Resources Flyer Page 1

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IBR Resources Flyer Page 2


Updated 1391 Form Submission Process

A reminder to all active prime contractors and subcontractors on ODOT federal construction contracts:

Beginning this cycle, all 1391 submissions must be completed using the new online form. Please ensure your report is submitted no later than Friday, August 14, 2026. Updated instructions and guidance are available through ODOT’s FHWA 1391 Construction Contractors Annual EEO Report resources linked below to help you prepare and stay compliant.


Upcoming Events & Trainings

scc june 2026

OECR and OPO presenting at Salem outreach event

GMP

Bid Opportunities

  • ESB - US26 MP0.47 Hog Heaven Stockpile Cleanup
  • ESB Prineville MS - Storage Bldg. Ceiling Installation - Rebid
  • ESB Mitchell MS - Storage Bldg. Ceiling & Floor Installation - Rebid
  • ESB - Bend Bldg. K Dispatch Office Expansion
    • BID: S-73000-00017638
    • Opening* Date:  Monday August 24, 2026, 02:00PM PST
    • MANDATORY Pre-Bid Meeting: Wednesday August 12, 2026, 10:00AM - 63055 N HWY 97 Bldg. K Bend, OR 97702

*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.


Resources


Thank you for your support and for more information contact: ocrprograms@odot.oregon.gov