33 Percent of Current Subcontracts Have Been Awarded to MWBEs, Far Exceeding Contracting Norms throughout New York City
More than half of the Resorts World Casino New York’s current construction workforce is composed of minority or female workers, far surpassing the 25% goal set in its application to New York State, officials from Resorts World Casino New York announced today.
Minority and/or female workers today compose 54% of the project’s construction workforce. Additionally, the percentage of MWBE-certified subcontractors and suppliers working under general contractor Tutor Perini now stands at 33% of total contracts awarded to date.
“Creating a diverse workforce has always been a top priority for Resorts World Casino New York, which is why we are so pleased that we are far exceeding even our own high expectations in this crucial area,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World New York. “This project is about creating a facility for New Yorkers and tourists of all backgrounds, so we are excited that the individuals and organizations responsible for its construction are as diverse as those we hope to attract once it opens.”
These numbers are particularly noteworthy given a recent study from the NYC Comptroller’s office, which revealed that in 2010, just 2.4% of contracts awarded by city agencies were to MWBEs. With 33% of Resorts World Casino New York’s subcontracts awarded to MWBEs, the project exceeds even that of the department with the highest participation.
To date, Tutor Perini has awarded nearly $50 million in sub-contracts to MWBE’s.
“Resorts World’s commitment to diversity reflects their unwavering goal of improving our communities,” said Ruth Harvey, President of the Jamaica-based project cleanup firm, Ametis Industries, Inc. “As the proud owner of a certified Women Owned Enterprise, I am especially happy to see that Resorts World has followed through with its stated commitment to creating a workforce as diverse as the community in which the new facility will operate. I look forward to seeing the finished project, which I know will be a source of pride for all of Queens.”
In addition to far exceeding MWBE standards for the construction phase of the project, once the facility opens, Resorts World Casino New York will employ a diverse permanent workforce with 60 percent of jobs slated to go to minorities and women
Resorts World Casino New York recently announced a condensed opening schedule that will allow the new casino at Aqueduct Raceway to open its doors with far more components in place months earlier than expected. Under the schedule, 2,500 Video Lottery Terminals will be operational – rather than the 1,600 originally slated – when the casino opens in the late Summer.
Once fully operational, Resorts World Casino New York is expected to permanently employ more than 900 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields; and provide $300 million in annual revenue for the state.
By creating an expansive outreach network that fosters community participation, Resorts World Casino New York has developed a strategic approach toward recruiting the most talented workforce in the Queens and New York City areas. In partnering with community-based organizations, placing advertisements in local publications and hosting on-site job fairs, Resorts World Casino New York will continue to build a dynamic workforce ready to meet the needs of its customers and the community.
Information on further bid packages will be announced in the coming weeks. For information about permanent jobs at Resorts World Casino New York, please visit www.rwnewyork.com.
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Founded in 1965, Genting is a global entertainment and tourism company operating in Asia, Europe, North America and on all four oceans through the Norwegian Cruise Line and Star Cruises brands. The Genting Group has more than 58,000 employees.
Tutor Perini Corporation is a leading civil and building construction company offering diversified general contracting and design/build services to private clients and public agencies throughout the world. Tutor Perini has provided construction services since 1894 and has established a strong reputation within various markets by executing large complex projects on time and within budget while adhering to strict quality control measures.
