Offutt to award local contracts Published March 30, 2009 By Lt. Col. John A. Jacobson 55th Contracting Squadron commander OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- The 55th Wing is scheduled to begin eleven construction projects funded through President Barack Obama's economic stimulus package. These projects are authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and will be awarded by June 30. The total value for these projects is estimated at $16 million, said Mr. Mark Jacobsen, 55th Wing director of engineering. The various projects include repairing gas lines and water mains, replacing electrical switch gears, repairing air handling units, repairing taxiway lighting, and repairing roofs. The 55th Contracting Squadron is looking for small businesses in the Omaha area in the following categories to help accomplish these projects: Small Business Administration certified 8(a), HUB Zone companies, service-disabled veteran-owned companies and companies owned by women. "Offutt is dedicated to providing maximum practical opportunities for small businesses to compete for these projects," said Mr. Michael Hall, Small Business Specialist from the 55th Contracting Squadron. Brig. Gen. Jim Jones, 55th Wing commander, reiterated Offutt's strong commitment to staffing jobs locally and supporting the small business program. "Our small business community is a vital component to stimulating economic growth and creating jobs locally," he said. Businesses interested in learning more about these projects should contact the 55th Contracting Squadron. Mr. Hall may be reached at (402) 294-5426 or mike.hall@offutt.af.mil. Ms. Debra Giles, director of business operations, may be reached at (402) 232-6376 or debra.giles@offutt.af.mil.