19 Action News|Cleveland, OH|Breaking News, Weather, ExclusivesMinority contractors hired to help build downtown casino

Minority contractors hired to help build downtown casino

Rock Ohio Caesars LLC (ROC), the owner and developer of urban casinos in downtown Cleveland and downtown Cincinnati, today reported that the company has awarded more than 42 percent of construction contracts to minority- and women-owned businesses through October.  The contracts total more than $68.5 million to companies with Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) or Women Business Enterprises (WBE) certifications.  

Prior to the start of construction, ROC voluntarily established a 20 percent economic inclusion goal to award meaningful construction contracts to MBE/WBE companies.  Collaboration with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, Cleveland and Cincinnati elected officials, NAACP leadership, diversity consultants and construction management teams, coupled with ROC's strong focus has allowed the casino developer to surpass its goal twofold.  

To date, construction contracts valued at more than $79.6 million have been awarded for the 300,000 sq. ft. Horseshoe Casino Cleveland, with more than 49 percent awarded to MBE and WBE certified companies.  The Phase I casino, which is expected to open in March 2012 inside the Historic Higbee Building, estimates total construction spend of approximately $107 million.

In Cincinnati, where ROC is developing a 354,000 sq. ft. casino, total construction spend is estimated at $150 million.  Through October ROC has awarded contracts valued at more than $82.1 million, with more than 35 percent awarded to MBE and WBE certified companies.  The casino is expected to open in spring 2013.