The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has issued a request of qualifications for construction managers for its New Jersey Wind Port, a 200-acre project that will be used to assemble parts for offshore winds farms, primarily on America’s east coast.

The winning bidder will work on pre-construction and construction services for NJEDA’s proposed design.

The project will be built in two phases. The first will include a 35-acre component manufacturing site and a 30-acre marshalling yard..

Phase two will involves a 150-acre site for making turbine components such blades and nacelles, and marshalling activities.

The NJEDA pledges that 15% of total contract value will be awarded to minority, women or veteran owned subcontractors and equipment firms.

Tim Sullivan, NJEDA’s chief executive, said: “Offshore wind is a rapidly growing industry, and a wave of major projects is already planned along the East Coast. By providing purpose-built infrastructure that supports the industry’s unique needs, the New Jersey Wind Port will attract millions of dollars in investment and create thousands of good jobs for New Jersey residents.

“The request for qualifications issued today is an important step that moves us closer to realising the economic and environmental benefits that an expanded offshore wind industry will bring to New Jersey, and the PLA and diversity benchmarks will ensure these benefits are available equitably to local workers and women- and minority-owned businesses.”

The request for qualifications closes on 5 January, more information is available here.

Work on the project’s first phase will begin in 2021.