Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is assessing whether there is a level playing field for small and diverse businesses in its contracts and in the local marketplace. DOT&PF engaged Keen Independent Research to conduct this assessment. This disparity study will examine participation of minority- and woman-owned firms in DOT&PF contracts. DOT&PF will use this information to update its overall annual goals for disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) participation in its federally funded contracts. (This is required as part of the Federal DBE Program.) The study will also help DOT&PF update its goal for airport concessions under the federal ACDBE Program.
The disparity study will provide data about marketplace conditions and any disparities in DOT&PF contracts. Study team member Customer Research International (CRI) will survey firms to identify companies available for contracts with DOT&PF. The study team will also interview businesses and trade associations about conditions in the Alaska marketplace and any barriers to business opportunity.
Keen Independent Research is a national economic consulting firm specializing in disparity studies for local governments. Principal David Keen and Senior Consultant Joseph Broad are leading this assignment.
The study team includes local communications specialist Yehle & Associates, West Coast-based subconsultant Donaldson Consulting, national survey firm Customer Research International and the national law firm Holland & Knight.
The disparity study will be completed in early 2026.
More information coming soon!
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