The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has opened the floor to the public for feedback on its latest initiative aimed at supporting Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs). MnDOT detailed the proposed goals for DBE participation in highway and transit contracts over the next three years. These proposals apply specifically to projects that receive federal funds and reflect an ongoing effort to equalize the economic landscape for businesses owned by individuals facing social and economic hardships.

Under the umbrella of affirmative action, the DBE program strives to provide a more level playing field for small businesses. Run by people who have historically been denied equal opportunities, the program's ambitious goals for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) stand at 15.3%, while those for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) are pegged at 8.7%, as per MnDOT.

According to MnDOT, a virtual public hearing will be the platform for MnDOT to discuss these goals and the underlying methodology, in addition to gathering comments from the people whose lives may be impacted by these goals. Slated for June 24 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., interested individuals can join via Zoom to engage in the conversation concerning the proposed goals. Further amplifying the opportunity for public involvement, MnDOT has laid out an open comment period running from June 18 to July 18.