Facebook contractor: Hiring local subcontractors important

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The Portland, Oregon-based general contractor for Facebook's planned data center in New Mexico says it's important to both it and Facebook to hire local subcontractors for the project. Fortis Construction Inc.'s statement Wednesday responds to criticism from New Mexico construction industry leaders that subcontractor restrictions likely will disqualify many local companies from the project in Los Lunas. Fortis Executive Vice President David Aaroe says the company's vetting process for primary subcontractors requires them to have a plan in place to hire locally. Aaroe also says there's flexibility in criteria for subcontractors and that it takes into account a range of factors, including financial ability, safety records and past performance on similar projects. The project's first phase is expected to take two years to complete and cost $250 million.