Equitable and inclusive development is what we do.

The SouthWorks team has a history of providing workforce development and job creation on their construction and development projects. Partnerships with community organizations and workforce development professionals are already being incorporated into planning for the site. This mission-driven approach to development ensures that underserved and underrepresented communities are provided with opportunities to be a part of the design and development process. 


SouthWorks seeks to partner with a broad array of NYS certified Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (MBEs), Women-Owned Business Enterprises (WBEs), and locally owned companies in the design, development, construction, and property management of the project.

Scroll down to explore current opportunities.

Consulting and Contracting Opportunities

At full buildout, the site will feature around 1.7 million square feet of development, comprised of 820,000 square feet of adaptive reuse and 900,000 square feet of new construction. This will include housing (1M SF, 915 Units), Commercial (450K SF), and Industrial builds (250K SF).

SouthWorks will post bid solicitations on this page for each project phase, along with pre-bid meeting information as Requests for Proposal [RFPs] are released. SouthWorks will host pre-bid, pre-award, or other meetings with a frequency that will adjust with project phasing and pace of development.

We will work to source 75% of project labor from Tompkins County and adjacent counties, with a focus on hiring from WMBEs and SD/VOSBs. This approach strengthens the regional workforce and expands access to long-term, skilled trade careers.

Current Bids and RFPs

  • USC Builds is the General Contractor for the Empowerment Center and SouthWorks Development Partner.

    • Subcontractors can apply for prequalification, review documentation and requirements HERE.

    • View current and upcoming bid solicitations HERE.

  • Pike is the General Contractor for Beacon Communities’ upcoming multifamily housing project.

    • Vendors and Subcontractors can submit their profile to join the Pike Solicitation Database HERE.

Career Pathways in Construction

Ascend Workforce solutions training opportunities in construction, learning how to use a tape measure

SouthWorks is committed to building a local workforce by integrating training opportunities into construction through partnerships with on-site contractors and community programs. Ascend Workforce Solutions will lead these efforts, connecting residents to union training and career pathways in construction and green energy trades. The project will support local contractors with employee recruitment, training, and retention.

Ascend Workforce Solutions Inquiry Form

If you are interested in learning more about Ascend’s workforce development mission, leasing co-working space, collaborating on curriculum development, participating as an instructor, or becoming a destination employer for trainees, please fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch soon.

Join our team

Current openings

There are no current openings.