Baltimore, MD, December 23, 2025
Baltimore City has announced its first-ever Project Labor Agreement (PLA), aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and jobs. This historic agreement focuses on four key public works projects, emphasizing local hiring and improved worksite conditions. City officials express optimism about the potential benefits for workers and the overall community. The PLA will undergo review by the Board of Estimates soon, with plans for official signing following approval.
Baltimore City Announces Historic Project Labor Agreement to Enhance Jobs and Infrastructure
Baltimore, MD – On December 22, 2025, Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Department of Public Works Director Matthew Garbark, and the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council unveiled Baltimore City’s first-ever Project Labor Agreement (PLA). This landmark agreement aims to bolster the city’s infrastructure projects by ensuring timely completion, promoting local employment, and enhancing worksite conditions.
Key Provisions of the Project Labor Agreement
- Priority Capital Projects: The agreement focuses on four critical Department of Public Works (DPW) projects:
- Rehabilitation of the Dundalk Pumping Station
- Sparrows Point Alt Outfall
- Rehabilitation of the Ashburton Pumping Station
- Rehabilitation of the Quad Avenue Pumping Station
- Local Hiring and Apprenticeships: Emphasis on hiring union workers and expanding apprenticeship programs to build capacity within Baltimore’s workforce.
- Worksite Improvements: Implementation of better pay, safety conditions, and mechanisms to address grievances and prevent construction delays.
Statements from City Officials
Mayor Scott expressed pride in reaching this consensus, highlighting the benefits for workers, union partners, and the entire city. Director Garbark emphasized the need for a skilled workforce to complete these projects with high quality. President Ackerman of the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council noted the importance of union tradespeople in rebuilding the city’s infrastructure.
Next Steps and Approval Process
The Project Labor Agreement is set to be reviewed by the Board of Estimates on January 7, 2026. Following anticipated approval, the agreement will be officially signed by Mayor Scott, agency officials, and union representatives, remaining active until the completion of the specified DPW projects.
Background on Project Labor Agreements
Project Labor Agreements are pre-hire collective bargaining agreements that establish the terms and conditions of employment for a specific construction project. They aim to ensure project efficiency, quality, and safety by setting clear expectations for all parties involved.
Recent Developments in Baltimore’s Infrastructure and Workforce
- Sanitation and Municipal Workers’ Contract Ratified: In November 2025, nearly 2,200 municipal employees ratified a contract promising significant pay increases, improved health and safety protections, and expanded workplace rights. The agreement includes a comprehensive overhaul of the pay scale, raising the minimum salary to at least $20 an hour.
- New PILOT Agreement with Hospitals and Universities: In October 2025, Baltimore City finalized new nonprofit assessment agreements with 14 major hospitals and universities, doubling annual payments to the city by the end of the term. These agreements aim to support city services and infrastructure projects.
- Statewide Workforce Development Initiatives: Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order in November 2025 to incorporate Project Labor Agreements in the bidding process for nine major infrastructure projects, totaling $9 billion in investment and 11,000 jobs, including 7,000 construction jobs.
These initiatives reflect a concerted effort by Baltimore City and Maryland state officials to enhance infrastructure, create job opportunities, and ensure fair labor practices in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Project Labor Agreement (PLA)?
A Project Labor Agreement is a pre-hire collective bargaining agreement that sets the terms and conditions of employment for a specific construction project, aiming to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety.
Which projects are included in Baltimore City’s first PLA?
The agreement focuses on four critical Department of Public Works projects: the rehabilitation of the Dundalk Pumping Station, Sparrows Point Alt Outfall, Ashburton Pumping Station, and Quad Avenue Pumping Station.
What are the key provisions of the PLA?
The PLA emphasizes hiring union workers, expanding apprenticeship programs, and implementing worksite improvements such as better pay, safety conditions, and mechanisms to address grievances and prevent construction delays.
When will the PLA be reviewed and approved?
The Project Labor Agreement is scheduled to be reviewed by the Board of Estimates on January 7, 2026. Following anticipated approval, it will be officially signed by Mayor Scott, agency officials, and union representatives.
What other recent developments have occurred in Baltimore’s infrastructure and workforce?
Recent developments include the ratification of a new contract for municipal workers in November 2025, a new PILOT agreement with hospitals and universities in October 2025, and a statewide initiative by Governor Moore to incorporate PLAs in major infrastructure projects in November 2025.
Key Features of the Project Labor Agreement
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Priority Capital Projects | Focus on four critical DPW projects: Dundalk Pumping Station, Sparrows Point Alt Outfall, Ashburton Pumping Station, and Quad Avenue Pumping Station. |
| Local Hiring and Apprenticeships | Emphasis on hiring union workers and expanding apprenticeship programs to build capacity within Baltimore’s workforce. |
| Worksite Improvements | Implementation of better pay, safety conditions, and mechanisms to address grievances and prevent construction delays. |
| Approval Process | Agreement to be reviewed by the Board of Estimates on January 7, 2026, followed by official signing by Mayor Scott, agency officials, and union representatives. |
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