The regional transit leader, Metro, is inviting businesses to participate in the construction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, known as MetroRapid. This initiative aims to expand the transportation infrastructure in Hamilton County and is seen as a significant opportunity for small businesses to engage with larger companies and officials.
Sharyn LaCombe, Metro's senior director of Bus Rapid Transit, described the BRT project as "transformational," emphasizing its potential to drive economic benefits and reinvestment in local neighborhoods. The project includes two major contracts for the BRT: a 9.2-mile corridor along Reading Road with $167 million in contracts, and a 13-mile corridor along Hamilton Avenue with $172 million in contract opportunities.
On April 30, Metro will host a Small Business Networking Event for construction managers, contractors, and related businesses. "BRT will positively impact a lot of people and businesses, including the construction industry," said Tara Walker, Metro’s senior manager of diversity & inclusion. She highlighted the importance of vendor participation and the event's role in facilitating connections between small businesses and larger companies.
The event is focused exclusively on construction service providers and aims to alert businesses to the available opportunities and foster collaborations. Sharyn LaCombe stated, “The real purpose is to notify construction businesses about this opportunity, ensure we have the best providers in our pipeline and help smaller local companies pair up with big contractors.”
The development of BRT is part of Metro's broader commitment to the region, backed by Hamilton County voters through Issue 7. Walker reiterated Metro's dedication to fulfilling its promises, stating, “We have heard loud and clear from the community that this is important. Making connections and building bridges are paramount to success.”
For those interested in attending, further details and registration for the April 30 event are available on Eventbrite.