The West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council recently signed a General Presidents’ Project Maintenance Agreement (GPPMA) with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) deactivation and remediation contractor, Four Rivers Nuclear Partnership (FRNP), for the ongoing cleanup work and potential new construction projects at the former gaseous diffusion plant at the DOE Paducah Site, driving significant benefits for site stakeholders and positioning the site for future industrial growth.
The agreement will maintain momentum at the Paducah Site by streamlining the contracting process for FRNP subcontractors utilizing labor represented by West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council. This allows both parties to support an efficient transition of the site into a hub for new industries and align with ongoing efforts to bring new economic opportunities to Paducah and Western Kentucky, while complimenting the existing workforce at the site and maintaining a high standard for safety.
Chad Mills, Executive Director of the Kentucky State Building and Construction Trades Council, praised the agreement. “This agreement is a testament to the strength of our local workforce and the collaborative spirit between FRNP, their subcontractors, and our trades,” said Mills. “This agreement lays the foundation for industries interested in the site in the future that will provide job opportunities that will benefit the entire region.”
The GPPMA agreement reinforces the shared commitment between FRNP and the West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council to the Paducah community and its reindustrialization goals. This partnership marks an important milestone as both parties continue to invest in the region’s economic development and growth.
“The signing of the GPPMA is a major step forward in supporting the DOE Paducah Site’s mission,” said Philip Orr, President of the West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council, underscoring the importance of the collaboration. “Our skilled tradesmen and women are ready to bring their expertise to this critical work and leverage their years of experience and safe work practices to future projects.”
Sean McGarvey, President, North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) said, “NABTU applauds all parties involved in the newly signed GPPMA with FRNP for the critical cleanup and potential new construction at the DOE Paducah site. This agreement reflects the high standards and proven success of our national workforce under GPPMA. We’re especially proud of the Kentucky State Building and Construction Trades Council and the Western Kentucky BCTC for helping ensure Kentucky’s skilled union craft professionals will deliver this work, bringing the training, safety, and reliability our contractors, communities, and the Department of Energy can count on. This is exactly the kind of project where the Building Trades make a difference, and we’re ready to get to work – here in Kentucky and across the country.”
In addition to the partnership’s economic impacts, the agreement demonstrates a commitment to workforce stability for FRNP and their subcontractors.
Myrna Redfield, President and CEO of Four Rivers Nuclear Partnership, commented on the agreement, stating: “This agreement represents a significant step forward in aligning the necessary workforce and infrastructure to meet the evolving mission requirements at the site. Coupled with the proven capabilities of the existing labor force, it positions us to execute our responsibilities effectively in partnership with the community and other critical stakeholders.”
Background
About West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council
The West Kentucky Building and Construction Trades Council represents skilled workers in the construction and building trades throughout the region. The Council is committed to promoting the highest standards of craftsmanship, safety, and sustainable development in Kentucky’s construction industry.
About Four Rivers Nuclear Partnership
FRNP is dedicated to advancing the DOE Paducah Site’s cleanup mission through safe operations, efficient cleanup, and the support of the community’s desire for reindustrialization.
General Presidents’ Project Maintenance Agreement (GPPMA}
GPPMAs have been used at various DOE sites as long-term contractual arrangements designed to ensure the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and protection of facilities during and after their active operational phases, especially those undergoing decommissioning, cleanup, or reindustrialization.
