Cities and public agencies need better ways to build and fix important infrastructure like roads, bridges, water systems, broadband, energy, and public buildings. In Salinas, it is estimated there could be about $593.375 billion in private wealth, and even $5 billion invested into infrastructure would be only about 0.84% of that total. This shows that local private capital could play a big role in helping pay for public projects.
This session will explain, in simple terms, how public-private partnerships (PPPs) work and when they are a good choice. PPPs help public agencies and private partners work together to build projects faster, smarter, and sometimes with less pressure on public budgets.
We will also talk about Progressive Design-Build, how it is different from the older Design-Bid-Build process, and why it works better for some projects. The speakers will explain how different kinds of financing—like tax-free tools, private investment, and impact investments—can help pay for projects in a smart and cost-effective way.
The session will also explain important ideas like sharing risks, identifying the right partners, and working with the public. Real project stories from both physical and social infrastructure will make these ideas easy to understand and use.
Facilitator
- Rhonda Combs, Assistant City Attorney, City of Salinas
Panelists