Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb signed an executive order mandating the inclusion of labor unions in all critical infrastructure projects costing $500,000 or more. Bibb emphasized that unions create well-paying jobs for residents, which is essential as Cleveland plans hundreds of millions in neighborhood development, $5 billion for waterfront investments, and $500 million for a proposed stadium project aimed at keeping the Browns in the city. He noted the Browns’ economic impact on local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and retail shops.
A key challenge for these projects is the shortage of construction workers. Bibb highlighted the city’s $10 million workforce development initiative but acknowledged that more workers are needed for the upcoming surge of projects in Northeast Ohio.
Dave Wondolowski of Cleveland building trades stated that the new legislation would create a sustainable pipeline for more workers through apprenticeship programs. These programs, lasting three to five years, allow participants to earn while they learn. Al Simonitis of the Sheet Metal Workers Union also promotes trade careers to students, emphasizing the potential for pay between $22 and $70 per hour with benefits for those motivated to work with their hands and learn new skills.
