Subcontractors USA 98th

Jesse Crawford,

DALLAS COUNTY

Office of Small Business Enterprise

At Dallas County, we embrace and support an inclusive culture where all are respected, their contributions are encouraged and valued, while we seek sustainable and mutually beneficial outcomes for all.

This commitment extends to our inclusive supply chain, where our mission is to exhaust every effort to the greatest extent possible, ensuring the participation and utilization of Small Business Enterprises (SBEs) in the County’s procurement of goods, services, commodities, equipment, and construction.

Learn more about our commitment to supplier inclusion at www.dallascounty.org/sbe.

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

PUBLISHER & CEO

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR

Kimberly Floyd

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Eugenie Doualla

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

The Subcontractors USA Texas Journal highlights opportunities and news relevant to the construction, energy, architecture, manufacturing, education, engineering, oil and gas, transportation and IT industries we serve. We hope you find this month’s issue informative, educational and inspiring.

This May, we shared how Dallas County is increasing opportunities for small businesses, which, in turn, brings more value to the community. The county aspires to increase the participation of small businesses in all aspects of contracting, including its Prime Supplier awards through contracts with certified Small Business Enterprises (SBE), directly or

CONTENTS

“I take personal pride in finding companies and advocating for them, ensuring that they have access to opportunities, can compete, win business either as Tier 1’s or Tier 2’s and then grow from a sustainable standpoint.”

— Jesse Crawford

indirectly through contracting, subcontracting, and/or other procurement activities.

Jesse Crawford, the director of the SBE Program for Dallas County, believes that small businesses are important to the county because of the value they bring, not only through the goods and services that they provide and in support of the county’s supply chain, but through job creation, capacity building, positively impacting the local tax base and driving innovation.

As always, thank you for your continued support of the Subcontractors USA Texas Journal. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. By working together and sharing vital information, we can help open doors for so many others.

OUR SERVICES

Vice President Business Development

Donald R. Rawls, MBA

EDITOR

Erica Ponder

CREATIVE MANAGER

Emma Aguiñaga

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kendra Wiseman

WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Edward Sanchez

SR. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Chivon Jones

PROJECT COORDINATOR

Ronda Damon

PHOTOGRAPHY

Grady Carter

L.C. Poullard

DISTRIBUTION

Mike Jones

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy M. Brown

Helen Callier

Subcontractors USA

Names Ryne Drummonds Vice President of Business Development for the Southeast Region

Awarded $43M Grant for Gulfton and Kashmere

TxDOT's Centennial Celebration:

Oldest Divisions

ENERGY 10 DFW Airport Releases Its Environmental, Social and Governance Report

10 Entergy Texas’ First Solar Resource Helps Customers Meet Sustainability Goals

12 Public Utility Commission of Texas Adopts Second Rule for Implementation of the Texas Energy Fund 18 OIL & GAS 18 Texas Oil and Gas Production

Tumbled in 2023

20 3 Tips for Holding Pre-Development Meetings in Pasadena, Texas

of Women Serving on the Board

City Council

$150M for IAH Terminal B Transformation

Thomas Jones Jr. Appointed Port Houston Commissioner

GRAPHIC DESIGN

• Logos

• Flyers

• Ads

• Folders

• Brochures

• Door Hangers

PRINTING

• Business Cards

• Flyers

• Folders

• Pull-up Banners

• Step and Repeat Banners

• Brochures

• Door Hangers

• Letterhead

• Envelopes

CERTIFIED: HMSDC Port Houston Metro City of Houston HISD HUB VBE DBE

Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr.

LEVY DYKEMA Announces Merger with COTERA+REED ARCHITECTS

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

EVY DYKEMA continues to expand through the recent addition of Cotera+Reed Architects into the firm. Recognized for its portfolio of work and lasting impact in Central Texas, the Cotera+Reed team will now operate under the LEVY DYKEMA brand at its Congress

Lin

"We are excited to have the legacy of Cotera+Reed Architects become a part of LEVY DYKEMA," said Stephen V. Levy, president of LEVY DYKEMA. "I am particularly pleased to have the opportunity to work with Juan Cotera FAIA, Phillip Reed FAIA, and Matt Catterall, who are all highly respected architects and visionary leaders," added Levy.

LEVY DYKEMA, with offices in Austin and Corpus Christi,

Hellas Construction Names Ryne Drummonds Vice President of Business Development for the Southeast Region

By Subcontractors USA

expands value and benefits to their clients through the addition of Cotera+Reed's experience in civic, municipal, institutional, lower education, and higher education projects.

“By joining LEVY DYKEMA, the future of our firm is limitless,” said Juan Cotera, founder of Cotera+Reed. “We are also proud of our shared core values and continued commitment of giving back to our community,” added Cotera.

The merger provides the potential to make a greater impact in the communities we serve. As part of LEVY DYKEMA, we can help build strong communities and engage in forward thinking sustainable design, but at a much larger scale,

said Phillip Reed, FAIA. “It’s creating more opportunities for the things that interest me most about architecture today.”

“Our two firms have a shared understanding of the practice of architecture and design as a way of serving our communities and clients alike, as well as a drive to create a beautiful and sustainable built environment. This is an exciting opportunity to join LEVY DYKEMA's talented and experienced team and we want to work together to expand the reach of our architecture,” said Matt Catterall.

Founded by Stephen V. Levy, Bibiana Bright Dykema, and John Dykema, LEVY DYKEMA is recognized for its Texas Contemporary TM brand of architecture and is one of the leading design firms in the Southwest.

Source: Levy Dykema

Region. With this strategic move, Hellas reaffirms its commitment to broadening its market reach and reinforcing its position as a leader in the industry.

Ryne Drummonds brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a track record of success to his new role at Hellas Construction. Renowned for his strategic acumen and client-centric approach, Drummonds is poised to drive business growth and foster lasting relationships as Hellas expands its presence in the Southeast Region.

"We are thrilled to welcome Ryne Drummonds to our executive team as Vice President of Business Development for the Southeast Region," said Reed J. Seaton, President and CEO of Hellas Construction. "Ryne's experience and strong leadership qualities make him the ideal candidate to lead our business development efforts as we expand our footprint in the Southeast. We are confident that under Ryne's guidance, Hellas Construction will continue to thrive and deliver exceptional results for our clients."

In his new role, Drummonds will lead Hellas' business development initiatives, leveraging his expertise to identify new opportunities and drive growth. "I am honored to be promoted to Vice President of Business Development for the Southeast Region," said Ryne Drummonds.

Hellas has established itself as an industry leader through its relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to client satisfaction. I am excited to collaborate with our exceptional team to further elevate our presence in the Southeast and deliver unparalleled value to our clients.

Hellas Construction is a premier sports services company committed to delivering superior solutions to communities and institutions across the United States. By providing innovative products and services, Hellas has earned a reputation as a preferred partner for K-12, collegiate, and professional sports teams. Hellas has proudly served renowned organizations such as the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, Washington Commanders, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Green Bay Packers.

With over 20 years of industry experience, Hellas Construction is dedicated to delivering excellence in sports construction and synthetic turf manufacturing. From conceptualization to completion, Hellas provides comprehensive services, including project management, design, construction, and maintenance. Hellas remains committed to exceeding client expectations and enhancing athletic experiences through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled expertise.

Source: Hellas Construction, Inc.

ellas Construction, the preeminent innovator in sports construction and synthetic turf manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, announced the appointment of Ryne Drummonds as Vice President of Business Development for the Southeast

Avenue offices

downtown Austin, Texas.

THIS PROJECT INCLUDES A 35% MWBE GOAL. Certified MWBEs are highly encouraged to propose.

JUNE 5, 2024

Proposals will be received by McCarthy via BuildingConnected, via email at LBJ_bids@McCarthy.com or IN PERSON 3800 Buffalo Speedway • Suite 250 • Houston, TX 77098 UNTIL 2PM

McCarthy Building Companies is seeking competitive sealed proposals for the Harris Health LBJ Campus Expansion – Hospital Site, Civil, & Structure Package.

Opportunities include Earthwork • Site Utilities • Structural Concrete • Architectural Precast • Exterior Glazing Elevators • Fire Protection • Plumbing • HVAC and Electrical. For a full list of contracting opportunities, as well as access to plans, specifications, and all other bidding documents, please visit BuildingConnected https://app.buildingconnected.com/public/5430e7b15cdc2e0300dd806c

Competitive Sealed Proposals will be received by work category only and will be privately opened by McCarthy. Prebid conferences will be held in-person on May 23rd. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT WALKER MCDONOUGH: jmcdonough@mccarthy.com | 713 499-3644

Houston Awarded $43M Grant for Gulfton and

Kashmere Gardens Communities

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The United States Department of Transportation announced the City of Houston will receive $43.4 million in federal funding through the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) program for the Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens Resilient Sidewalks Project.

The Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens Resilient Sidewalks

Project will invest in repairing and replacing sidewalks and incorporate drainage improvements to mitigate urban heat island effects. This project will create a stronger pedestrian network and enhance mobility for all, while alleviating environmental and socio-economic barriers within the Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens communities. The RCN program was created to advance community-centered connection and transportation projects, with priority given to transformational, context-sensitive strategies that benefit

disadvantaged communities by improving access to daily needs and removing barriers to connectivity. Federal funding from the Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant (NAE) Program will cover the costs of implementing this project. Houston’s application included the Resilient Sidewalks Plan developed through Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery 20217 funds (CDBY-DR17) for planning activities after Hurricane Harvey.

“This funding will help provide transportation equity in two of Houston’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods,” said Houston Public Works Director Carol Haddock.

This project will not only provide drainage improvements to help mitigate flooding but improve the area’s sidewalks to ensure that all users can travel safely within Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens.

Construction is scheduled to begin in Winter 2026. More information about the project can be found online at EngageHouston.org.

ABOUT HOUSTON PUBLIC WORKS

Houston Public Works is the largest and most diverse public works organization in the country, responsible for creating a strong foundation for Houston to thrive. Houston Public Works is responsible for streets and drainage, production and distribution of water, collection, and treatment of wastewater, and permitting and regulation of public and private construction covering a 671-square mile service area. Houston Public Works is accredited by the American Public Works Association.

Source: City of Houston

TxDOT's Centennial

Celebration: Two Oldest Divisions

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The two oldest divisions of TxDOT recently turned 100 years old, celebrating a rich history that began with wooden bridges and dirt roads and now includes high-speed highways and autonomous vehicles.

The Texas Highway Department—as TxDOT was called in the early days—created the Maintenance Division in 1923 to handle the upkeep of Texas roads.

The Construction Division has gone by many names since its inception a few months later. However, its charge has always been to exercise general supervision over construction operations on highway projects.

Over the years, the Construction Division has come a long way. In 1955, it had fewer than 20 employees. Today, it has 46 employees. In fiscal year 2023, the division broke records for approving new projects, both in number and dollar value.

“A lot has changed since 1923,” said Construction Division Director Duane Milligan. “We don’t use horses on our

projects anymore or as much manual labor. Our construction projects have seen incredible advances in technology. But from the beginning, we’ve had a commitment to the safety of our employees.”

Today, the Maintenance Division has more than 100 employees who help support thousands of district maintenance employees around the state. The divisions have consistently changed to meet the growing needs of Texas.

In 1928, the division had 18,000 highway miles and 10,000 of those miles were just plain dirt,

said Maintenance Division Director James Stevenson. “Today we maintain more than 200,000 lane miles of pavement.”

Among the biggest changes in the past 100 years, Stevenson said, are the types of equipment used on Texas highways and the precautions used to keep workers and motorists safe.

“Most of our equipment is purchased with certain functions in mind, so it is a lot more specialized than it was 100 years ago,” Stevenson said. “And safety has become the biggest consideration for all our operations. We perform our work activities with safety in mind from start to finish.”

Source: TxDOT

DFW AIRPORT RELEASES ITS ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE REPORT

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

In fiscal year 2023, DFW experienced the busiest year in its 49-year history. The airport served more than 79 million customers, while continuing to

add new destinations around the world and driving recordsetting passenger traffic, aircraft operations and revenues. In the year ahead, DFW remains committed to transforming travel through innovation and community collaboration. As a global leader in sustainability, the airport’s goal is to reach net-zero carbon by 2030, 20 years ahead of the industry goal. ENERGY

ENTERGY TEXAS’ FIRST SOLAR RESOURCE HELPS CUSTOMERS MEET SUSTAINABILITY GOALS

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Texas is the fastest-growing state in the nation, and with rapid growth comes an increased demand for electricity. As the demand for power grows in Southeast Texas, many homeowners and businesses are requesting cleaner energy options to help support their climate and environmental goals.

Generating electricity from renewable resources plays an important role in building a cleaner energy future, and Entergy Texas is seeking ways to diversify its generation portfolio and support the growing energy needs within our communities,

This year’s ESG report reflects DFW’s commitment to its employees, customers, partners and future growth for the betterment of the North Texas region. The following are some of DFW’s accomplishments in fiscal year 2023:

• DFW and American Airlines approved the new Use and Lease Agreement, paving the way for the construction of a reimagined Terminal C and new Terminal F.

• DFW broke ground on its innovative electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP), which will be fueled primarily by electricity purchased from 100% renewable sources, providing additional capacity for future airport growth.

• DFW achieved an 81% reduction in annual CO2 emissions compared to a 2010 baseline.

DFW earned numerous accolades, including:

• Best Airport in North America (40M+ passengers) for the second year in a row, by Airports Council International (ACI)

• Best Airport Employee Recognition Program by ACI

• Best Sustainability Initiative in Airports

Owner of the Year:

• Commitment to advancing the construction management industry, supporting professionals, and fostering investment in construction by programs by Construction Management Association of America North Texas Chapter (CMAA)

• Recognized by Healthiest Employers as an inductee of its Hall of Fame and a national winner of the Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America

This year’s report covers fiscal year 2023, which is Oct. 1, 2022, to Sept. 30, 2023.

Source: DFW Airports

said Abigail Weaver, Entergy Texas director of resource planning and market operations. “By listening to our customers and understanding their sustainability needs, we are leading the way for adding more low-emission and carbon-free resources to the generation mix here in Southeast Texas.”

The Umbriel Solar facility is Entergy Texas' first contracted solar resource that was selected through a renewables-focused request for proposals. The facility is owned and operated by Longroad Energy, a US-based renewable energy developer. Located in Polk County, Texas, Umbriel Solar generates 150 MWac (202 MWdc) of electricity, which is enough energy to power more than 30,000 homes. The renewable energy generated helps avoid approximately 250,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. To put it more plainly — the addition of this new facility is equivalent to taking approximately 55,000 cars off the road each year that the facility is in operation.

Longroad finished construction of Umbriel Solar in November 2023, which is when Entergy Texas started receiving solar energy via its  long-term power purchase agreement with the project.

“Longroad commends Entergy Texas on responding to the dual demands of generating more power and meeting customers’ desire for clean, renewable energy,” said Adam Horwitz, vice president of origination and development operations for Longroad Energy. “We are proud that Longroad’s Umbriel Solar reached commercial operations, and has the distinction of being Entergy Texas’ first large-scale, solar energy resource.”

Entergy Texas customers can directly benefit from Umbriel Solar by enrolling in the company’s  Green Future Option  program. The voluntary program provides the benefits of solar generation without the burden of owning solar panels. Under the new program, customers have the option to subscribe to a specified amount of renewable power and receive Renewable Energy Credits and bill credits based on their subscription level.

Source: Entergy.com

Public Utility Commission of Texas ADOPTS SECOND RULE FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TEXAS ENERGY FUND

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) adopted a new rule to implement the Texas Energy Fund Completion Bonus Grant Program. The program will provide grants for new dispatchable electric generation facilities or expansions of existing facilities that meet certain planning requirements after June 1, 2023, and interconnect to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid before June 1, 2029. The new rule establishes

procedures for applying for a completion bonus grant, terms for annual grant payments, and performance requirements. Our state continues to experience incredible growth as more families and businesses choose to call Texas home,

said PUCT Chairman Thomas Gleeson. “Our supply of reliable, on-demand electricity must keep pace to meet this growing demand. Today’s rule adoption is another important step to implement the Texas Energy Fund and incentivize the construction of highquality, dispatchable power generation

for the Texas grid.”

To be eligible for a completion bonus grant, a facility or an expansion of an existing facility must add at least 100 MW to the ERCOT grid and meet other requirements specified in the rule. The amount of a completion bonus grant award is based on the generation capacity added, interconnection date of the facility, and program funding availability. Award payments will be issued in ten yearly installments, and an eligible facility must meet minimum performance requirements established in the rule to receive a payment each year.

The Completion Bonus Grant Program is one of four Texas Energy Fund (TEF) programs created under the Powering Texas Forward Act, which was established by the Texas Legislature through passage of Senate Bill 2627 in 2023. The rule establishing the Completion Bonus Grant Program adopted is the second TEF rule adopted by the commission; the In-ERCOT Generation Loan Program rule was adopted on March 21. The In-ERCOT Generation Loan Program provides low-interest loans for the construction of new dispatchable electric generating facilities in the ERCOT power region or the expansion of existing facilities providing power to the ERCOT power region.

The other two programs within the TEF provide funding for companies to establish or secure back-up power resources, and funding to improve the resiliency and availability of electric utility service outside the ERCOT region. The TEF has $5 billion available for all four programs, and additional funding may be provided by the legislature in future years.

Source: Public Utility Commission of Texas

STAY UP TO DATE

Trainings, networking events, and more can be found on our social media and website calendar. The calendar is updated with events from Bexar County offices, resources partners, Chambers of Commerce, and more. Discover opportunities to expand your business and make new connections, identify resources to help you grow.

Visit the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Dept. website for the full calendar at www.bexar.org/sbed

We provide resources to small, minority, veteran, disabled, women owned businesses.

Information on starting and growing a business

Links you to Local, State, and Federal opportunities

Training programs and classes

Information on SMWBE, DBE, HUB programs, and contracting requirements

Renee Watson Director rwatson@bexar.org

The University

of Houston

continues to grow not just in student population but also in the construction of new buildings such as the John M. O’ Quinn Law Building and Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine.

UH’s facilities growth includes the continuous need to procure a variety of non-construction goods and services, all of which undergirds UH’s recognition as an institutional “Powerhouse.”

By

allas County is committed to increasing opportunities for small businesses and continuing to provide economic opportunities to the Dallas business community.

The Dallas County Commissioners Court established its Small Business Enterprise Program (SBE Program) for the purpose of promoting an inclusive supply chain through its commitment to the utilization of small businesses. In addition, Dallas County aspires to increase the participation of small businesses in all aspects of contracting with the county to include its Prime Supplier awards through contracts with certified Small Business Enterprises (SBE), directly or indirectly through contracting, subcontracting, and/or other procurement activities.

The county’s mission is to exhaust every effort to the greatest extent possible to ensure the involvement of qualified SBEs in the county’s procurement of goods,

services, commodities, equipment and construction.

Jesse Crawford, the director of the SBE Program for Dallas County, says that small businesses are important to the county because of the value they bring, not only

DALLAS COUNTY OPPORTUNITIES FOR BRINGING MORE VALUE

through the goods and services that they provide and in support of the county’s supply chain, but through job creation, capacity building, positively impacting the local tax base and driving innovation.

“They provide those critical business services on our various projects, whether it’s through our facilities, through our public works, HHS, or IT, just to name a few,” Crawford explained. “We recognize the value that they bring and the true partnership of working, not only with the county—the ninth largest county in the country, mind you—but also contributing to the great business climate, economy and growth that we have here in Texas.”

OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

• To utilize eligible small businesses to enhance

• To increase the number of competitively

• To promote the use of small businesses in opportunities.

• To ensure nondiscrimination in the award contracts and procurements to SBEs.

Crawford, who has a proven background in supplier inclusion, supply chain management, strategic sourcing and procurement, workforce diversity, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, said he feels convicted in working with small and diverse businesses because he comes from a family where he witnessed entrepreneurship.

“This is not a job or career… I’m on a mission. My grandfather was an economist for the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, and I was also an entrepreneur, so I witnessed first-hand the value that these businesses bring to our economy because I’ve lived it,” Crawford said. “I take personal pride in finding companies and advocating for them, ensuring that they have access to opportunities, can compete, win business either as Tier 1’s or Tier 2’s, and then grow from a sustainable standpoint. Through hands-on advocacy, training and development, and outreach, you quickly see the impacts of these efforts through their expansion in all facets of their business, such as their increased capacity, their revenue growth, market growth and ability to scale up. It’s very rewarding

Subcontractors USA News Provider

COUNTY INCREASING SMALL BUSINESSES, VALUE TO COMMUNITY

on both a personal and professional level.”

The county has contributed to increasing opportunities for small businesses through awarding first and secondtier contracts through subcontracting.

“We ensure that they first participate in the bid process, so that’s the first step: ensuring that they have visibility and access to those opportunities. Secondly, once they compete and they meet or exceed those requirements and are awarded business, the county in turn ensures that we utilize those firms and that it’s sustainable work, not just a one-time opportunity, but we want to see them grow holistically and be able to provide those products

ENTERPRISE PROGRAM GOALS:

enhance the capacity of those small businesses.

competitively awarded contracts to small businesses. in Dallas County contract and subcontract

award and administration of Dallas County

or services, which benefit our constituents, our residents, our employees and our patients at our county hospitals,” Crawford explained. “Even in our medical, juvenile and jail systems, we have firms that assist us with providing those critical services to meet the needs of the community and client organizations.”

I take personal pride in finding companies and advocating for them, ensuring that they have access to opportunities, can compete, win business either as Tier 1’s or Tier 2’s and then grow from a sustainable standpoint.

- Jesse Crawford, Director of the SBE Program from Dallas County

The county has increased the participation of small businesses in all aspects of contracting and awards through education, training, and increasing the scale and impacts of its outreach activities.

SBE CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Must be certified as an SBE by one of the following county-approved entities:

Dallas/Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council (DFWMSDC)-SBE www.dfwmsdc.com (214) 630-0747

North Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (NCTRCA)-SBE www.nctrca.org (817) 640-0606

Women's Business Council-Southwest (WBCS)-SBE www.wbcsouthwest.org (817) 299-0566

“Dallas County’s program has been in existence since the 1980s and since I joined the county almost over three years ago, I made a personal commitment and concentrated focus to engage with not only certified suppliers but also businesses in general to conduct ‘How to Do Business’ seminars with small and diverseowned businesses that wanted to know more about the county, including how to improve their chances for bid opportunities, sharing best practices, also explaining the procurement process to potential vendors and suppliers, thereby increasing their chances for success,” Crawford said. “This is an exciting time for us at Dallas County, as our program is expanding. We are developing capacitybuilding programs and initiatives to provide financial resources, improve their operational efficiencies, and increase the quality of their bid submissions. We also look at opportunities to bring them to the table to meet the decision-makers, which include our key internal clients and purchasing teams.”

At the time of the proposal/bid submission, other certifications are not recognized per the SBE program requirements, however, they will not prevent you from doing business with Dallas County.

• Must be 51% or more owned and controlled.

• Firm must be organized as a for-profit business.

• Must also perform a commercially useful function on the project.

• Must have a local presence in Dallas County’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The MSA includes the following counties: Dallas, Tarrant, Denton and Collin.

• HUB, DBE and TxDOT certifications are accepted for those applicable Dallas County projects.

• Dallas County also accepts HUB and DBE certifications for the applicable state and federally-funded projects within Dallas County.

For more information on new opportunities for small businesses in Dallas County, go to www.dallascounty. org /sbe

Scan the QR code to learn more about our commitment to supplier inclusion

Left to Right Back Row: Commissioner Theresa Daniel, Andy Sommerman, Judge Clay Jenkins, Commissioner John Wiley Price, and Elba Garcia. Left to Right Front Row: Eduardo Jimenez, Jesse Crawford, and Basil Singh.

TEXAS OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION RECORDS TUMBLED IN 2023

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Texas' major energy industry reached new peaks last year with records set for both oil and gas production. The Railroad Commission of Texas regulates the state's oil and gas industry and tallies production reports submitted by operators.

Oil production hit a record  1.92 billion barrels in 2023, which was 51 million barrels more than the previous record. Operators produced 12.01 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in 2023, beating the previous record by more than 13%.

“These production records are beyond impressive and reflect how Texas continues to provide reliable domestic production for the nation,” said Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director. “As the state’s oil and gas

regulator, the RRC is committed to our critical mission supporting Texas’ economic growth that benefits Texans. Production taxes collected from the oil and gas industry pay for our schools, highways and the state’s Rainy Day Fund. The commission will continue its hard work to ensure the state remains at the forefront of the energy sector.”

TOP 5 OIL PRODUCTION YEARS (CRUDE OIL AND CONDENSATE)

3 TIPS FOR HOLDING PRE-DEVELOPMENT MEETINGS IN PASADENA, TEXAS

IBy Helen Callier Contributing Writer

f you are planning a development project, knowing the city's expectations, requirements, and potential challenges associated with your project is crucial. One of the ways to get this information in Pasadena, Texas, is through a pre-development meeting.

WHAT ARE THESE MEETINGS ALL ABOUT?

Pasadena's pre-development meetings are an opportunity for developers to understand the complex workings of city development. In these meetings, they can sit down with various city departments at once. Think of it as a single platform where you can ask planning and development-related questions and get expert guidance.

Now, among the many Pasadena city departments, the planning department stands out. They are responsible for reviewing plans to ensure they meet all city requirements and regulations about how land can be used, how sites can be developed, and how land can be divided.

However, to get the most out of a pre-development meeting in Pasadena, you must be prepared. Here are three tips you need to keep in mind to ensure a fruitful pre-development meeting:

KNOW WHAT THE MEETING IS FOR

Walking into a pre-development meeting in Pasadena without knowing what it is for can lead to missed opportunities. These meetings are not just a bureaucratic task to check off your list but vital steps in understanding what your project needs within the context of Pasadena's rules and regulations.

HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

A pre-development is an open platform where you can freely address all your planning and development-related concerns. The Planning Department wants to make sure projects comply with the city's regulations about land use, site development, and land subdivision. So, come prepared to discuss your project's details.

BRING YOUR QUESTIONS AND RELEVANT PAPERWORK

The more prepared you are for a pre-development meeting, the more you will get out of it. So before you walk into that

meeting room, make sure you:

Have a clear list of any questions or concerns you have. The city staff will provide general guidance, but you will get more specific answers for your project if you have specific questions. Bring your project plans or any drawings you have. They can help the city staff see your ideas clearly and give you more accurate feedback.

Know some city rules beforehand. This can help the conversation go smoothly.

TALK AND WORK TOGETHER

Pasadena wants these pre-development meetings to be a chance for everyone to work together. The city's ultimate goal is to ensure that the development benefits both developers and the community at large.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

Listen to feedback and suggestions from city staff. They know a lot about how things work in Pasadena and can, and their insights can be invaluable.

Maintain a constructive and open mindset. If certain parts of your proposed development do not fit the city's guidelines, work with the city staff to find a solution.

Consider this meeting as the start of an ongoing relationship with the city. Good communication now can make things easier later on.

IN CONCLUSION

Starting a development project in Pasadena, Texas, can be challenging. But with the correct information and support, it surely becomes less intimidating.

At Permit Us Now, we understand the importance of seamless permit approval processes and are dedicated to supporting project owners in navigating the complex permit landscape. Our team is committed to pulling permits for our Architect, Contractor, and Project Owner clients without delay, eliminating frustrations and simplifying the permitting process. To get started, email us your plans, follow up on our feedback for any missing items and let us handle your permitting needs. Call 1.844.PERMIT.4 today to begin your permit journey! #BuildSafe

You’re invited! Join the Houston MBDA during our Salute Inaugural Gala Celebration on Friday, June 21, 2024 6:00pm – 10:00pm

The Norris Conference Centers

Red Oak Ballroom AB 816 Town and Country Boulevard Houston, TX 77024

Register Today

Scan the QR code to register or visit https://hcc.idloom. events/2024SALUTE

VIP Reception Sponsored by JE Dunn Construction

2024 MBDA Honorees

Entrepreneurs of the Year

Marissa & Jeff Allen

Cookie Society

Community Partner of the Year

Barbara Gallo

Asian Chamber of Commerce

Government Advocate of the Year

Congressman Al Green 9th Cong. District of Texas

Houston MBDA Advocate of the Year

Jessica Vasquez

Houston MBDA

#HoustonMBDAGala2024

Corporate Partners of the Year DEI Team

Diversity & Inclusion Advocate of the Year

Jeanette Boleware

Fort Bend ISD

Client of the Year

Tony Samper

American Services

SAN ANTONIO CITY COUNCIL PASSES

$4.4M GRANT AGREEMENT FOR ZARZAMORA STREET SAFEGUARDS

he San Antonio City Council authorized the execution of the Safe Streets & Roads 4 All (SS4A) grant with the U.S. Department of Transportation early March. As a grant recipient, the city will receive $4.4 million over the next five years to implement crucial safety measures on Zarzamora Street.

The SS4A grant helps San Antonio meet the challenges of its growing population and creates safeguards for some of our most vulnerable residents as they walk, bike, or drive to their destinations along Zarzamora Street,

Mayor Ron Nirenberg said.

The funding will be administered through the city’s Vision Zero SA program, which is also kicking in an additional $1.1 million in city general funds appropriated for Vision Zero projects.

The mid-block crossings will include the installation of Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons when warranted along the twelvemile stretch of Zarzamora Street.

“Our goal is zero fatalities and serious injuries on San Antonio streets,” Transportation Department Director Catherine Hernandez said. “This grant gets us steps closer to achieving that goal of protecting pedestrians, bicyclists and drivers.” By adding mid-block crossings, Zarzamora’s residents can expect a 56% reduction in pedestrian crashes, according to Federal Highway Administration research.

Search: City of San Antonio

PROTECTING WORKERS FROM BRUTAL HEAT

s Texas begins another summer with record-high temperatures, TxDOT is taking action to help protect employees who work in the sun.

Tim Mask, lead safety officer in TxDOT’s Dallas District, said the agency is constantly educating outdoor employees on the warning signs of dangerous heat exposure. In addition, TxDOT provides an entire catalog of products to help employees combat the heat. These include shade tents, special clothing designed to shield employees from the heat, cooling towels and more.

“Safety never stops, and TxDOT is delivering that message and providing the knowledge that employees need to prepare themselves for the task at hand,” Mask said.

The safety items available, from outerwear to electrolytes, help our teams to be better prepared for the day. And the most important thing of all is each person has the right to call a timeout if they are feeling or seeing something that isn’t right.

TxDOT recommends employees in excessive heat drink at least eight ounces of water every 15-20 minutes. That’s two to three gallons of water per person during a typical workday.

“Our teams in the field should be having a hydration huddle every hour to check up on one another and hydrate with a bottle of water,” Mask said. “This also gives the team a moment to discuss the operation and any changes that may need to happen moving forward.”

TxDOT typically schedules work early in the morning, trying to beat the hottest parts of the day. If a situation becomes unsafe, the agency will immediately postpone work to protect employees.

“We try to plan our work around the temperatures by allowing crews to begin work earlier in the mornings,” Mask said. “This way they’re able to complete the operations before the hottest part of the day.”

Source: TXDOT

TXDOT DEVELOPING STATEWIDE MULTIMODAL TRANSIT

PLAN FOR STATE'S TRANSPORTATION FUTURE

and developing strategies to meet future challenges facing a growing state.

various backgrounds, these conversations helped gather valuable insights into what Texans need and expect when it comes to transit.

HERE'S SOME OF WHAT TXDOT HEARD:

• People expressed that they would like the plan to consider inter-regional connectivity, specifically connecting west, north and southwest Texas communities to larger cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

• Citizens would be more open to using public transit if there were more service hours, more service locations, improved vehicles and enhanced passenger waiting areas.

• Overall, people believe that transit is necessary for communities to thrive but noted being unsure of how to use transit, reliability, access to more locations and safety as barriers to using transit.

• Transit riders prioritized getting to work, jobseeking, shopping and running errands as top trip purposes. Equally important was heading to social and recreational activities.

• Residents want to know more about transit options in their local community.

o prepare for the future of transportation in Texas, TxDOT is developing a  Statewide Multimodal Transit Plan, which will take a comprehensive look at current and emerging forms of public transportation and the intersection between transit and active transportation.

According to TxDOT, the SMTP will lay the foundation for future transit plans by supporting local and regional public transportation plans, uncovering gaps and opportunities,

Developing the SMTP will allow TxDOT to identify strategies that will address access, connectivity, safety and congestionrelief solutions across the state.

To better understand local and regional needs, TxDOT spoke with Texans about what's important to them when it comes to public transportation in the areas where they live and work.

Through public outreach in the fall of 2023, TxDOT visited rural and urban areas, covering 155 out of Texas’ 254 counties. Talking with people who do or do not use transit and with

Ongoing public engagement will continue through virtual town halls, working groups and coordination with TxDOT’s Public Transportation Advisory Committee. The SMTP will also align and coordinate with other long-range transportation plans such as Connecting Texas 2050 and the Statewide Active Transportation Plan, also under development.

Source: TXDOT

NEW METRO BOARD MEMBERS APPROVED; HISTORIC NUMBER OF WOMEN SERVING ON THE BOARD

Council meeting on Wednesday, April 10.

mobility options.

Mayor Whitmire’s appointments now mark a historic number of women serving on the board at one time including the first Vietnamese American woman appointee and its first Hispanic female chair, with the appointment earlier this year of METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock.

THE NEW APPOINTEES ARE:

Judge Kathy Han, the first Vietnamese American woman appointed to a fulltime presiding judge position in Houston.

Reverend T. Leon Preston II, Senior Pastor, and Yale Street Baptist and Law Enforcement Chaplain for the Harris County Constables Office.

Chad McMillan, a leading community advocate for inclusivity initiatives and champion for Houston’s disabled population to live fuller, more independent lives.

importance of accessibility for all," said Mayor Whitmire. "Now it is time to go to work. I expect METRO to operate with transparency and maintain and create additional mobility options. The board's collective leadership will enhance METRO's capacity to positively impact the continued growth and success of the City of Houston and region."

The members were then sworn in by METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock in the Proclamation Room in City Hall.

“I am excited to welcome the newest customercentric board members and to continue collaborating with our existing leaders,” said Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock. “This is a robust team that is fully committed to making METRO a safe, clean, accessible and viable option that people choose to use.”

he Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO Houston) Board of Directors welcomed its newest members appointed by Mayor John Whitmire and approved by vote during a Houston City

The Board of Directors serves as the governing body of METRO. Members guide decision-making in order to deliver a public transportation system that is an attractive option for means of travel throughout the Houston region. The shared vision of the Board of Directors is to provide customers with safe, clean, reliable, and accessible

Terry Morales, Vice President of Amegy Bank in the Corporate Banking Division was reappointed to the board.

"I am proud to make history with my METRO appointees; each one represents a diverse community. Having a METRO Board with diverse representation recognizes the value of varied experiences and the

The nine-person board has five positions nominated by the mayor of Houston and approved by Houston City Council, two appointees of Harris County Commissioners Court, and two appointed by the mayors from 14 other cities in the METRO service area (METRO Multi-Cities). Board members serve two-year terms with METRO and can serve a maximum of eight years.

Source: City of Houston

HOUSTON CITY COUNCIL ALLOCATES $150M FOR

IAH TERMINAL B TRANSFORMATION

ouston City Council voted to approve an ordinance to allocate $150 million from the Houston Airport System Consolidated 2011 Construction Fund for a Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Houston and United Airlines.

United Airlines has begun work on a $2.55 billion transformational project to triple

the capacity of the existing Terminal B at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Opened in June 1969, Terminal B is one of the original terminals at Bush Airport, and its infrastructure is undersized and outdated. A new Terminal B will triple the capacity on curbs and roads and provide safe, clean and world-class facilities. The project includes 40 new gates for domestic and international travel, a new processor for ticketing, security and baggage claim, and two new concourses, creating over 3,000 new jobs in Houston.

My administration has been asking questions from day one to ensure this proposal was a good business decision for the City of Houston. I have listened to United, the city's financial advisors, and the business community. Houston needs first-class facilities as a global city that welcomes millions of travelers to IAH annually. It is important for the airline and the millions of passengers traveling in and out of IAH annually. We will get this airport expansion done the right way,

said Mayor Houston John Whitmire. The council’s decision to move forward on this critical infrastructure proposal will have broad implications for the business and travel sectors that frequently rely on travel through IAH. Houston's airports are economic engines for the region.

"The transformation of IAH Terminal B not only promises an elevated passenger experience with cutting-edge technology and modern amenities but signifies a strategic investment in Houston's economic future as we seek to increase the terminal's capacity for even more passengers from curb to gate," said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. "The economics of this project are excellent for Houstonians: more than a 25% return on a Net Present Value

basis. More than a renovation, this project declares our commitment to progress and innovation, solidifying Houston's position as a global aviation hub while setting a new standard for airport excellence."

United Airlines expects to invest more than $1.9 billion in the Terminal B Transformation Program and the City of Houston expects to fund $624 million in enabling projects required for the program. The allocation of $150 million is the first round of councilapproved funding for those enabling projects. The enabling project costs assumed by the City of Houston are fully recoverable over time and after the project's completion through rates and charges payable by airlines and other operators at IAH with whom the city has agreements. The funding to be provided by the Houston Airport System enterprise fund is consistent with federal law as an appropriate use of airport revenues.

“United Airlines is committed to providing the best travel experience to our customers and that includes investing in the $2.6B redevelopment of our Houston hub. We are thrilled that the Houston City Council voted to approve their portion of this project so that we can deliver numerous benefits to our customers and employees and continue to invest in the city of Houston. We extend our gratitude to Mayor Whitmire, Controller Hollins, and city council for their support of the project and United’s continued investment in the city of Houston," said Phil Griffith, Vice President - Houston Hub for United Airlines.

Source: Houston Airports

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THOMAS JONES JR. APPOINTED PORT HOUSTON COMMISSIONER

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ouston Mayor John Whitmire administered the oath of office to Thomas Jones Jr. on Friday, March 22, 2024, to serve a two-year term as a Port Commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority.

HCommissioner Jones attended his first Port Commission meeting in this capacity on Tuesday, March 26.

“Port Houston is the busiest waterway in the nation, and I am confident that my new appointment will improve city

and port working relations and help bolster Port Houston’s legacy as an economic hub and innovative waterway,” said Mayor Whitmire.

Several local, state, and federal officials and business and community leaders were in attendance to show their support for Commissioner Jones. State Senator Carol Alvarado delivered greetings, emphasizing the importance of the Houston Ship Channel to the state and remarked to Mayor Whitmire that “Commissioner Jones was a smart appointment.”

Commissioner Jones is a highly respected business and civic leader who leads and champions the causes of community

development, higher education, and the arts. He is a founding partner of McConnellJones, LLP, believed to be the largest African American public accounting firm in the United States, and recognized as one of the largest CPA practices in the Southwestern U.S. Now retired, Commissioner Jones continues to serve the firm as a consultant.

I am blessed and honored to have this opportunity to serve the people of Houston. The port is a critically important business and economic engine for Houston, Texas, and the nation,

Commissioner Jones said. “I am excited to help lead and guide Port Houston’s current and future plans for growth and expansion.”

Commissioner Jones has served as chairman, president, and director on many community boards, including among many others the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Board (past chairman), Greater Houston Partnership, co-founder and Board President of Dominion Community Development Corporation (a church-based CDC), Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity (HEF), the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Foundation board, Jazz Houston and Trees for Houston.

Source: Port Houston

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