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On Sept. 5, officials from Sound Transit and Associated General Contractors of Washington agreed to form a public-private partnership, which grew out of discussions between the organizations about Sound Transit’s contracting and procurement procedures.



"AGC suggested we pursue an agreement as a way to formalize our developing working relationship," said Sound Transit Executive Director Joni Earl in a prepared statement.



The parties agreed to: foster open and effective communications; and promote efficient contract administration and procurement practices, equitable risk allocation in contracts, quality construction through continuous improvements in and adherence to quality control and quality assurance programs, a safe construction environment at project sites, and local firm involvement in design and construction.



They also plan to encourage the use of cost-effective and state-of-the-art design and construction practices, and the use of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms; respect each other’s interests and issues; conduct outreach and education, and develop relationships with small business for project participation; and support contractor workshops on contracting opportunities and procedures.