(WASHINGTON, DC) - Mayor Vincent C. Gray joined the Department of General Services (DGS) today in awarding more than $100,000 in contracts at a contracting outreach summit where more than 300 contractors and business owners spent time networking and learning about District construction and maintenance opportunities at Gallaudet University.

“With your help, we’ve made good progress on achieving some of the goals of my five-year economic development strategy, designed to create jobs for District residents and economic development opportunities for District-based companies,” said Mayor Gray to the summit attendees.

Along with providing opening remarks to the “Our City, Our Business: Moving Forward Together” event, which included break-out sessions and, more importantly for contractors, Mayor Gray also participated with DGS in the awarding of more than $100,000 in contracts for construction projects with the District of Columbia.

The Department of General Services is responsible for issuing and monitoring contracts for construction and maintenance of DC schools, recreation centers, fire stations, and public safety facilities in the District. Each fiscal year, DGS hosts several local business and Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) outreach events to promote contracting opportunities and provide professional development to DC businesses.

“These events provide a platform for local businesses to learn more about DGS, hear about upcoming contracting opportunities, and network with DGS staff,” said Brian J. Hanlon, DGS Director.

For more information on the Department of General Services, please visit www.dgs.dc.gov.

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The Department of General Services (DGS)

The mission of the Department of General Services (DGS) is to elevate the quality of life for the District with superior construction, first-rate maintenance and expert real estate management. By building and maintaining safe and green state-of-the-art facilities which foster economic growth and elevate educational environments, our trusted and skillful employees create modern and vibrant communities across all of the District of Columbia.