OGDENSBURG – The Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority now requires one-fifth of its business be done with minority or women owned businesses.

The authority announced it was adopting new state rules requiring higher participation for NYS Minority and Women-Owned Business Goals (MWBE) in State contracting projects.

In a press release issued by the OBPA members said meeting the new regulations would be a goal for the authority.

“We are working toward MWBE compliance and it is a priority for the Authority.” said Samuel J. LaMacchia, Chairman of the Authority.

“MWBE’s both improve and strengthen the business climate and make it reflective of the business world.” said Wade A. Davis, Executive Director. “The Authority is committed to meeting our MWBE goals in support of New York State’s initiative and MWBE requirements will be included in all Authority procurements.”

However, in a recent interview with the Watertown Daily Times, Davis said it would not be easy to meet the new regulations, due to the lack of racial diversity in Northern New York.

In a press release Deputy Executive Director Frederick S. Morrill asked minority and woman owned-businesses to seek eligibility for MWBE.

“We urge North Country Minority or Women-owned Businesses to become New York State MWBE certified," Morrill said.

MWBE resources are available at: www.esd.ny.gov/MWBE.html or by contacting the Authority directly at 393-4080.

The Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority: The Ogdensburg Bridge & Port Authority is a New York State Public Benefit Corporation operating the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge, the Port of Ogdensburg, the New York & Ogdensburg Railway, Commerce Park and the Ogdensburg International Airport.