Sometimes a construction project is more than just a building, road or green space. It’s a catalyst for economic growth — in this case, the source of minority job opportunities and needed improvements in an underserved area of Portland, Oregon.

The TriMet bus shelter project on Division Street is the story of how Raimore Construction became the recipient of Oregon’s largest minority contract, the persistence of the surety agent who placed the bond, and the support they received from Old Republic Surety.

“So many things came together to make this a success,” notes Darrel Lamb, regional vice president, Old Republic Surety. “It was the largest job ever for Raimore and the biggest bond Old Republic Surety had written. Having watched Jeff Moreland [principal of Raimore] build his company and give back to the community in many ways, I knew this was something Old Republic Surety should get behind. I wanted us to grow together.”