Project Labor Agreements
Project Labor Agreements (PLA) and Community Workforce and Training Agreements (CWTA) create pathways to middle-class careers while delivering quality results on the jobsite.​
A PLA or CWTA is a legally binding contract between employers and construction unions stipulating that local workers will be used for projects.
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PLAs ensure on-time, on-budget delivery, community benefits, and local hiring goals.
Benefits of PLAs
No work stoppages
Local workers
Skilled labor =
quality work and safer worksites
Building stronger local economies
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do PLAs increase construction costs? No. Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found PLAs do not increase overall construction costs when accounting for project size, complexity, and market conditions (Philips & Waitzman 2021; Belman et al. 2010; Waddoups & May 2014).
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2. Do PLAs exclude non-union contractors? No. Non-union contractors can still bid on and be awarded PLA projects if they agree to the terms of the agreement.
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3. Do PLAs reduce bidder participation? No. Research analyzing California community college projects found no reduction in the number of bidders on projects with PLAs (Philips & Waitzman 2021).
Past Projects
Through project labor agreements with public agencies and private developers, our members have helped deliver many of the region’s most significant public and private construction projects.
Public Infrastructure
We believe strong infrastructure builds strong communities. Through project labor agreements with cities, school districts, and community college districts, our members help deliver the roads, bridges, schools, water systems, and transit projects that keep the San Joaquin County region moving forward while creating stable, family-sustaining careers.
Stagg HS Livestock Facility &
Animal Wash Building
The project involved the construction of a modern agricultural education facility that expands hands-on learning and supports livestock programs, training, and career-technical education.
Victory Park Pool Restoration
The project involved rebuilding the Victory Park Pool into a modern aquatic complex designed to serve neighborhood recreation and learn-to-swim programs.
Delta College Photography Lab
The project involved modernizing the photography lab with a new classroom addition and major upgrades to the darkroom, including a new ventilation system, updated sinks, and improved lighting.
Evidence Storage/Corporation Yard
The project involved the construction of a new 7,700-square-foot CMU-walled building dedicated to secure storage for the Lathrop Police Department's property and evidence.
*The projects highlighted here represent only a portion of the public projects our members have delivered. For decades, we’ve been proud to help build the infrastructure that keeps our region connected and thriving.*
Want to Work With Us?
Learn how to implement a PLA or CWA on your next project.
Contact Executive Director, Tim Robertson at tim@sjbtc.org