289/302 engine builder recommendations? Go crate?!?

[lineslinger]

Those time/numbers you make note of sound pretty spot on.
Remember you are seeking big time HP out of a small block. These guys have to get it right the first time... otherwise the engine comes back and everyone is pi$$ed. There is a lot of detail work to be considered in your build and your builders have to deliver quality work and still maintain a reputation and a profit margin.
For instance you might think 20 hours for assembly is a little long...on the other hand they could always "hurry up and %#@! up" to meet a price instead of a level of quality, I know which I would prefer.
Engine building is as much an art as it is a science with a ton of details to be considered. I would advise you to keep your build "at home" if at all possible, the logistics of distance can get frustrating and expensive. My son and I really enjoyed visiting the machine shop where he got to watch/learn how components are prepped while he participated in some of the assembly, we started our build there and finished at home.
Keep working with the local boys, they must be doing something right to have earned their reputation and I bet they will continue to work with you to help your build fall within your budget... and still realize an expected level of quality. If you can't make it work with your first choice keep checking around, you will eventually find the right guy/shop, maybe not as well known as your first choice but there are a lot of quality options out there...sometimes it just takes research.