MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 28, 2008

Contact: Stacey Swank

Pinellas County Economic Development

(727) 464-7425 or sswank@pinellascounty.org                              

Opportunities for Pinellas County subcontractors at the
new Pinellas County Job Corps Center

CLEARWATER, Florida – February 28, 2008 – Environmental Design & Construction, LLC (EDC) recently announced winning the $30.1 million contract from Department of Labor (DOL) to construct nine (9) buildings and complete site work for the new Pinellas County Job Corp Center in St. Petersburg’s Midtown neighborhood. EDC was selected through a competitive sealed bid process conducted by the DOL. This announcement is expected to create new opportunities for local subcontractors in Pinellas.

“From the ground up, the Pinellas County Job Corps Center will have a positive impact on the local community and economy,” said Pinellas County Commission Chairman Robert B. Stewart. “Now that the contract has been awarded, we’re encouraging Pinellas County’s building industry to consider subcontracting opportunities at the Center.”

Last week, at a groundbreaking ceremony, US Secretary of Labor, Elaine L. Chao, announced the center was expected to create more than 100 jobs and contribute some $7-million annually to the local economy.

Designed by Renker Eich Parks Architects of St. Petersburg, the Pinellas County Job Corps Center will support 300 students and about 100 staff members. It will include two dormitories, a cafeteria, a gymnasium and academic buildings. Job Corps is a federal program that helps young adults 16 through 24 with education and job training. Programs will include high school diplomas, GED, college credit and job skill training in such areas as automotive, technology, nursing, hospitality and the building trades.

Interested local subcontractors are encouraged to contact Environmental Design & Construction at (202) 373-5200 or visit their website at http://www.envdes.com/contact.php