Gov. Kathy Hochul this week announced what she called a “historic” economic milestone for the new Buffalo Bills Highmark Stadium, saying more than $490 million has been paid to minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) during construction.
The state said the project has surpassed its 30% MWBE participation target and will continue to grow as work progresses. Officials also said the stadium is now about 96% complete.
MWBE participation tops $490 million
According to the state, the Highmark Stadium project has generated the largest MWBE participation in the history of Western New York public-private projects.
Officials said nearly 140 MWBE firms have been awarded 304 contracts tied to stadium development. Of those, 83 Western New York-based MWBE firms have received 216 contracts.
More than $250 million in contracts have gone directly to regional MWBE businesses, state officials said.
Hochul, Bills officials tout economic impact
“Local minority- and women-owned businesses have been the backbone of this project,” Hochul said in a statement. “This unprecedented participation by MWBE firms isn’t just about building a stadium; it’s about building generational wealth.”
Buffalo Bills Vice President of Stadium Relations Penny Semaia said the team exceeded its participation goals through “teamwork and intentional efforts.”
“This is a great example of our commitment to our community and the greater Western New York region,” Semaia said.
State says participation will continue after construction
Empire State Development officials said MWBE participation will extend beyond construction under a community benefits agreement. The agreement includes a 30% MWBE goal for retailers, vendors and service providers involved in stadium operations and maintenance.
State officials said they have worked with the Bills, Legends, Erie County and the Gilbane-Turner construction team to increase participation through training programs, contractor coaching and certification support.
Stadium nearing completion
The 60,000-seat stadium, designed by Populous, is entering final systems testing and signage installation, officials said.
At peak construction, about 1,600 workers were on site daily, contributing more than 4.5 million craft-hours, according to the state.
Features of the new stadium include a 360-degree canopy covering most seats, heated concourses and seating areas, large video boards, and a snow-melt system designed to improve winter conditions.
Officials call project a model for inclusion
Empire State Development CEO Hope Knight called the MWBE participation a “tangible economic reality” created by Hochul’s approach to state projects.
State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said the project demonstrates “inclusive economic development” and expands opportunity for New York workers.
State Chief Diversity Officer Julissa Gutierrez said the investment sets an example of “financial equity” in large public-private partnerships.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Hochul announces $490M MWBE milestone at new Bills stadium. What it means
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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