PennDOT takes choosing its partners seriously. When we are designing and building the roads that Pennsylvanians drive on every day, we need to be sure we are working with the right companies. That is why Secretary Leslie S. Richards commissioned a disparity study, in collaboration with the state Department of General Services, to ensure our contracts are being awarded in a fair and equitable manner and consistent with our diversity and inclusion initiatives.
A disparity study is an independent, comprehensive review of the legal framework, applicable procurement laws and regulations as they apply to doing business with PennDOT. It will assess the degree to which disadvantaged and diverse businesses that do business with PennDOT may experience discrimination.
In January 2018, PennDOT and DGS held five public meetings for transparency and to gather small business anecdotal data related to government contracting. The public meetings were held across the state in Allentown, King of Prussia, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Erie.
BBC Research & Consulting is conducting the study, and brings years of experience. The company has completed more than 100 disparity studies nationwide.
Visit PennDOT.gov for more on the department as an equal opportunity employer and its diverse and disadvantaged business programs.