A free LA program opens doors for small and local contractors to secure public infrastructure jobs

The Contractor Development and Bonding Program (CDABP), is helping small construction contractors in the city of Los Angeles and the L.A. metropolitan area obtain infrastructure work by providing bonding assistance, financing, technical assistance and networking opportunities, all for free.

Chino-based Kenneth Rivera, the CEO of JM Fiber Optics, runs his firm with his wife Maria, in which they provide integrated fiber optic communication systems, professional services, installation, testing, commissioning and fiber optic technician certification training. 

Rivera shared that as the owner of a small business enterprise in 2012, he wanted to expand his company by securing the bonding required to compete for larger projects. However, he knew obtaining that bonding would be a challenge. “It would be a hurdle,” he said.

After learning about CDABP and its resources for small contractors, Rivera contacted the program and enrolled in that same year. He credits the program with helping his company grow by providing the support and opportunities needed to pursue larger projects.

Created to increase participation by small, local, minority and women-owned contractors in public infrastructure projects, CDABP is administered by Merriwether & Williams Insurance Services (MWIS), which helps contractors access the resources needed to compete for and secure public works contracts.

In 2014, the City of Los Angeles’ Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant needed fiber optics installed.  JM Fiber Optics wanted to work as a subcontractor to Honeywell International on the project but needed to obtain a $950,000 bond. “The firm obtained the bond only after the CDABP provided $100,000 in collateral support,” said Kenneth.

Since that time, the company has successfully completed multiple public works projects. Just last year, CDABP provided $250,000 in collateral support that enabled JM Fiber Optics to meet the bonding requirement on a $1.5 million subcontract with Valley Transit Partners for the Metro G Line Bus Rapid Transit Improvement Project. “Joining the CDABP was the right thing to do,” Kenneth said. “It is vital to the success of small and local businesses like mine.”

Other small and local contractors are encouraged to enroll in the free program to learn more about it visit www.LAConDev.com.