Under the Hard Hat

Tag: Industry news

  • Clark Construction wins contract for upgrade to Capital One Arena

    Clark Construction wins contract for upgrade to Capital One Arena

    The Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, is getting some fresh new upgrades, including expanded facilities, state-of-the-art upgrades, and design elements to attract fans to the arena. Monumental Sports and Entertainment (MSE) announced that Clark Construction Group (Clark), Gensler, and CAA ICON will partner to deliver the upgrades.

    Clark Construction Group built the original arena, and MSE says that having the firm participate in the renovation ensures a smooth process due to their “unparalleled expertise and familiarity with the building’s structure.” 

    Design and architecture firm Gensler has taken the reins on the renovation’s design. Co-CEO Jordan Gensler explains that the changes are intended to improve the experience for fans and athletes alike, saying, “The upcoming transformation of Capital One Arena will improve the connection between player and fan through immersive engagement, significant architectural intervention, and enhanced arena operations.”

    CAA ICON will join as MSE’s owner’s representative, ensuring the arena’s renovation vision and execution align with MSE’s goals.  

    In a press release, Jordan Silberman, president of venues at MSE, said: “Clark, Gensler, and CAA ICON are industry leaders with a wealth of local and national experience and proven track records in planning and executing complex projects. We are excited to collaborate with them to reimagine Capital One Arena, creating the spaces for unforgettable experiences for fans, athletes, and the community. Together, we’re laying the foundation for an entertainment district that will serve as a vibrant destination for generations to come.”  

    The upgrade’s specifics include 65% more concession space, 30% more bathrooms, a new players’ lounge and dining room, and an expanded entrance at F Street to assist fans entering and exiting the arena.

    The project is expected to positively impact Washinton’s economy by supporting local businesses and prioritizing DC residents when hiring for job opportunities. The cost of arena upgrades will be shared, with Washington District paying $515 million towards arena renovations and MSE contributing at least $372 million, plus any costs over the initial project cost estimate.

    The project is expected to be completed in time for the 2027-2028 season.

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  • Contractors report declining backlogs, raising concerns for industry growth

    Contractors report declining backlogs, raising concerns for industry growth

    Contractors across North America face a concerning trend—work backlogs are shrinking. According to a recent poll by Equipment World, over 20% of contractors reported a decline in their backlog compared to last year. The average backlog duration has dropped to 8.4 months, down from 9.2 months—a nearly 9% decrease year-over-year. For an industry that relies heavily on consistent project pipelines, these shrinking backlogs raise concerns about reduced revenues and increased competition for work.

    Why the decline matters

    Shrinking backlogs are more than just a scheduling issue—they’re a warning sign for the construction industry. A smaller pipeline of projects often signals weakening demand, which forces contractors to bid more aggressively for work. This heightened competition slashes profit margins, making it harder for companies to stay financially stable. For some firms, especially smaller ones, this could mean reducing their workforce or even shutting down. The ripple effects stretch beyond contractors, affecting suppliers, subcontractors, and local economies that depend on steady construction activity.

    Industry-wide factors amplifying the challenge

    This decline comes at a critical time when the construction industry is already under strain. In the U.S., high interest rates and tighter lending conditions have stalled new housing developments, leaving contractors in the residential sector vulnerable. In Canada, the story is similar, with residential construction growth struggling to keep pace with rapid population increases. While infrastructure projects in both countries have helped provide some stability, they’re not enough to offset the downturn in private construction.

    Material costs have also soared, with items like softwood lumber, steel, and aluminum seeing significant price hikes. In 2024 alone, the National Association of Home Builders reported record-high year-over-year price growth, driven by supply chain issues and inflation. On top of this, ongoing labor shortages have left contractors scrambling to find skilled workers. Around 74% of builders faced labor shortages in 2023, and this trend is expected to continue, driving up wages and delaying projects.

    Looking ahead

    As contractors navigate shrinking backlogs, the industry must brace for potential headwinds. Reduced workloads dampen revenue opportunities and challenge businesses to re-evaluate their strategies to remain competitive. From diversifying project types to investing in digital project management tools, contractors must adapt quickly to a shifting landscape.

    For now, all eyes are on the broader economic trends that will determine whether the backlog decline is a temporary dip or a harbinger of more significant slowdowns to come.

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  • Bobcat Company donates $885,000 towards Hurricane Helene disaster relief efforts

    Bobcat Company donates $885,000 towards Hurricane Helene disaster relief efforts

    Global equipment and worksite solutions company Bobcat donated $885,000 to The Salvation Army following the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene. The donation includes 23 heavy equipment machines, including portable generators, forklifts, and light towers, to support the Salvation Army’s efforts for communities impacted by these natural disasters. 

    This isn’t the first time The Salvation Army has needed equipment to rent, and each time, it’s costly and logistically challenging, especially in times of greatest demand. Thanks to Bobcat’s donation, they can now provide more immediate relief where necessary and serve more communities faster. 

    The Salvation Army also provides spiritual and emotional care, assisting over 130,000 survivors in the Southeast U.S. so far. They have also provided over 580,000 meals, 370,000 snacks, 88,000 food boxes, 280,000 drinks, and 86,000 clean-up kits. Residents can expect more consistent, reliable support like this now that the logistics of equipment rentals are off their plate.

    “This equipment will not only help with our immediate response efforts to Hurricanes Helene and Milton but will also save valuable time and money responding to future disasters” states Commissioner Kenneth Hodder, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “Service delivery is severely impacted when critical equipment is unavailable during disaster operations, and this significant addition of operational equipment in our warehouses and the field is essential to ensuring the safety of our workers and in providing crucial services to survivors.”  

    The equipment donation from Bobcat will help assist communities now and in future disaster situations, should they arise.

    Bobcat is headquartered in West Fargo, North Dakota. It is the industry leader in offerings designed to transform how the world works and supports communities in making a more sustainable future. Bobcat is owned by Doosan Bobcat Inc. 

    The Salvation Army helped over 27 million people overcome addiction and poverty in 2023 and provides various other social services. It provides shelter, food, eviction prevention, rehabilitation, and more. It has almost 6,400 centers around the United States. 

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  • Skanska awarded $435M Lee Health hospital project in Fort Myers, Florida

    Skanska awarded $435M Lee Health hospital project in Fort Myers, Florida

    Skanska has been selected to construct a significant new hospital for Lee Health in Fort Myers, Florida, with an estimated $435M price tag. This project represents a major expansion for Lee Health and aims to enhance healthcare access for the growing Southwest Florida region. 

    Skanska’s task includes building the hospital’s core and creating a seamless environment that promotes healing, convenience, and safety for patients and staff alike. The construction will incorporate sustainable features designed with environmental sensitivity to reduce energy consumption and support a cleaner environment.

    Project details

    Lee Health Fort Myers Campus. Photo source: Lee Health.

    The new hospital will include multiple private rooms, cutting-edge operating suites, and a specialized diagnostic imaging center. Additionally, Skanska will integrate advanced technologies throughout the facility, improving patient care and healthcare professionals’ workflow. These enhancements are set to elevate the overall healthcare experience, giving Fort Myers a modern facility capable of meeting diverse medical needs.

    Skanska has assembled a dedicated team experienced in healthcare construction to bring this project to life. With a completion goal set for late 2027, the company is focused on adhering to high quality, efficiency, and timeliness standards. Skanska also plans to work closely with local subcontractors and suppliers, contributing to the Fort Myers economy and creating job opportunities for local tradespeople.

    This project aligns with Skanska’s long-standing commitment to delivering facilities that effectively serve communities. By focusing on sustainable construction practices and a design that meets the latest healthcare standards, Skanska’s efforts on this project will not only fulfill Lee Health’s vision but also stand as a new benchmark in hospital design for the region. 

    Lee Health Fort Myers Campus Master Plan. Photo source: Flad.

    In addition to building a modern and sustainable facility, Skanska is committed to integrating spaces that cater to patient and family comfort. Plans include areas for family visitation, open spaces with natural light, and calming environments that contribute to a positive healing atmosphere. By combining advanced medical technology with thoughtfully designed communal spaces, the new hospital is set to serve as a hub for comprehensive, patient-centered care in Fort Myers.

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  • Whiting-Turner and Mahogany begin construction on $540M medical center in Easton, MD

    Whiting-Turner and Mahogany begin construction on $540M medical center in Easton, MD

    In collaboration with Mahogany Inc., Whiting-Turner Contracting Company recently broke ground on the $540 million University of Maryland Shore Medical Center in Easton, MD. This hospital, set to open in 2028, will offer advanced healthcare facilities across a sprawling 229-acre campus, becoming a crucial part of Maryland’s healthcare landscape. The new medical center will enhance services to Eastern Shore communities, including emergency, critical care, and various specialty departments.

    Exterior entry of the new University of Maryland Shore Medical Center. Photo source: UMMS.

    Key features

    The hospital’s layout is designed to streamline patient care and improve access to vital resources. In addition to emergency care, surgical and critical care units will provide efficient, patient-centered care. As part of UM Shore Regional Health’s long-term commitment to local healthcare, the center will bring new, upgraded medical technologies and create a more efficient work environment for healthcare professionals.

    Another standout aspect of the project is its potential impact on the local workforce. Whiting-Turner and Mahogany Inc. are working with local contractors to support regional jobs and training opportunities. This partnership will provide valuable work experience and contribute to developing skilled labor in the area. The project reflects UM Shore Regional Health’s vision of delivering a top-tier healthcare facility while fostering economic growth and job creation on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

    Cafeteria entry of the new University of Maryland Shore Medical Center. Photo source: UMMS.

    As construction progresses, the hospital is expected to serve as a flagship medical center, supporting the region with comprehensive services and facilities. The team has taken care to ensure sustainable building practices are used throughout the project, emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility.

    This project also focuses on accessibility and flexibility in healthcare. The new hospital’s design includes adaptable spaces that can serve multiple purposes, allowing the facility to adjust to varying patient needs over time. From expanded diagnostic and treatment areas to thoughtfully designed patient rooms, every element is tailored to support high-quality care and patient comfort. As medical practices evolve, these adaptable areas ensure that the hospital will remain capable of accommodating advanced treatments and new healthcare technologies well into the future.

    Lobby of the Maryland Shore Medical Center. Photo source: UMMS.

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  • Holcim Sustainable Construction Academy leads the way in regenerative building practices

    Holcim Sustainable Construction Academy leads the way in regenerative building practices

    Holcim has launched its Sustainable Construction Academy to empower professionals across the construction industry with the skills needed for more eco-friendly practices. Free, online, and globally accessible, the training program aims to accelerate the transition toward sustainable building by offering courses that cover the latest innovations, techniques, and materials in green construction.

    The Holcim Sustainable Construction Academy’s curriculum is designed for professionals, including architects, engineers, contractors, and developers, who seek to integrate sustainability into their projects. The courses emphasize practical skills and solutions for reducing carbon footprints, utilizing circular construction methods, and optimizing resource use. 

    “As a leader in sustainable construction, we are launching the Academy to empower built environment professionals,” said Nollaig Forrest, Chief Sustainability Officer. “Taught by Holcim specialists and experts from across the building value chain, it provides resources to accelerate the shift to low-carbon, energy-efficient and regenerative buildings and cities.”

    Learners can expect a blend of on-demand content, case studies, and live sessions covering cutting-edge topics like carbon-neutral concrete, digitalization in construction, and low-carbon building materials. Learning modules include:

    1. Key concepts of sustainable construction
    2. Whole life cycle assessment of construction projects and products
    3. Essential facts about concrete
    4. Efficiency and material optimization through structural design
    5. Technologies reducing the carbon footprint of cement and concrete
    6. Principles of and solutions for circular construction
    7. Reduce operational emissions by optimizing materials’ thermal properties
    8. Comparison of whole life carbon footprint of different materials
    9. Sustainability innovations in concrete research
    10. Future of regenerative cities and innovative urban-scale approaches

    In addition to technical education, the Academy fosters a collaborative learning environment by providing access to a network of experts and industry leaders. This approach facilitates knowledge sharing and encourages the exchange of best practices across different regions and disciplines. Holcim aims to inspire a cultural shift toward greener construction practices worldwide by equipping participants with the tools needed for sustainable building.

    Holcim’s commitment to sustainability is part of the company’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions and drive positive environmental change across the industry. Through this initiative, Holcim positions itself as a leader in the transformation toward sustainable construction, offering practical solutions that can be implemented at scale to meet global climate goals.

  • Virginia Tech announces new lab for construction students

    Virginia Tech announces new lab for construction students

    Procon Consulting announced the launch of the Procon Innovation Center in Virginia Tech by Procon founders Mark Ilich and Kyu Jung. The center is inside the newly renovated Hitt Hall at the Blacksburg campus. It is a state-of-the-art facility to foster collaboration and hands-on learning for students in the Myers-Lawson School of Construction and College of Engineering.

    Procon co-founders Mark Ilich and Kyu Jung. Photo source: Procon Consulting.

    “Virginia Tech does a great job connecting students with industry, and we shared so many impactful experiences as students there with influential professors like Yvan Beliveau and Thomas Mills, who gave us valuable hands-on real-world projects that launched our careers and inspired us to start Procon,” said Jung on the launch. “Repurposing a business plan we created in a graduate class as our foundation, we saw an opportunity to solve industry challenges with emerging technology. We want students to have those same opportunities for innovation and disruption in the industry and champion construction tech for the future.”

    The center is designed to support large-scale student-initiated projects and hands-on learning. Students will have access to cutting-edge resources, such as concrete 3D printers, and will partner directly with the industry to produce new tech-driven solutions for forwarding building construction. 

    Procon was recognized as an early adopter of construction technologies through their project with the General Services Administration (GSA) to get web-based project management tools in production, giving Illich and Jung a platform to gain recognition. This opened the doors for contracts with government clients like New York City’s MTA.

    Illich and Jung are childhood friends from Richmond, Virginia. They graduated from Virginia Tech and founded Procon to innovate and disrupt the AEC industry. Their entrepreneurial spirit and combined experience in technology and engineering allowed Procon to provide consumers with top-notch construction management and custom solutions services for the nation’s most intricate infrastructure projects.

    “While technology has advanced quickly over the last 25 years, construction is right on the cusp of the biggest transformation the industry will see over the next 15 years, improving cumbersome processes with the adoption of innovations like artificial intelligence, robotics, building information modeling, 3D printing, and more,” said Ilich. “The Procon Innovation Center will enable students to have hands-on experience in creating that transformation that shapes the future of the construction industry. The timing of the center’s opening is auspicious, as October is Careers in Construction Month, and this facility will inspire students to explore what an amazing career you can have in construction.”

  • PCL Construction and HammerTech team up to enhance workplace safety

    PCL Construction and HammerTech team up to enhance workplace safety

    PCL Construction has taken a significant step towards improving job site safety by partnering with HammerTech, a leading safety software provider. The multi-year agreement aims to leverage HammerTech’s cutting-edge platform to reduce risks, improve compliance, and achieve zero incidents across PCL’s construction projects. This collaboration exemplifies PCL’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing worker safety and embracing digital solutions to enhance project outcomes.

    HammerTech’s safety management platform is well-regarded for its comprehensive features, including real-time incident reporting, streamlined safety inspections, and enhanced compliance tracking. By integrating this technology across its operations, PCL aims to create safer work environments where potential hazards are identified and addressed swiftly. “Safety is a guiding principle that shapes every decision we make at PCL,” said Jim Barry, Vice President of Health, Safety and Environment at PCL. “HammerTech will arm our teams with the technology they need to streamline administration, collaborate more easily with our trade partners and propel us towards our pursuit of a ‘Zero-Incidents’ future.”

    The platform’s data-driven approach will enable PCL to make informed safety decisions, minimize risks, and promote a proactive safety culture. “HammerTech will allow us to gather more sophisticated data around our safety programs,” confirmed Chief Information Officer of PCL, Mark Bryant. “Robust data helps inform decision-making, improve process and ultimately creates a safer workplace for everyone on our job sites.”

    PCL’s decision to collaborate with HammerTech aligns with the company’s broader goal of embedding technology into every aspect of its construction process. With HammerTech, PCL’s safety teams can access crucial insights and analytics that help anticipate and mitigate risks before they result in accidents. This forward-thinking approach to safety is expected to protect workers, optimize project timelines, and reduce costs associated with workplace incidents.

    As PCL continues to expand its projects across North America, the partnership with HammerTech marks a strategic investment in fostering a safer, more efficient construction industry. PCL is paving the way for other companies to prioritize zero-incident targets and worker well-being by setting a benchmark for safety through digital innovation.

  • Foresight and BuilderX collaborate for remote-controlled operation systems for construction equipment

    Foresight and BuilderX collaborate for remote-controlled operation systems for construction equipment

    Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. and BuilderX have announced a multi-phase collaboration agreement to enhance safety and operational efficiency in hazardous industrial environments. After successfully completing a proof-of-concept (POC) project, the two companies will integrate Foresight’s 3D perception technology into BuilderX’s AI-driven teleoperation systems for heavy machinery. This system lets operators remotely control and monitor equipment, providing real-time feedback using multiple cameras mounted on machinery.

    The technology is particularly valuable in environments where operators face exposure to toxic chemicals, severe dust, or poor visibility. The partnership aims to significantly reduce accidents and health hazards by removing operators from these high-risk zones. In addition to visible-light cameras, future integration plans include both visible-light and thermal cameras, which could eventually enable fully autonomous heavy machinery operations under harsh conditions.

    Shaolong Sui, CEO of BuilderX, highlighted the importance of this partnership in addressing the unique challenges of hazardous work environments. He stated, “As hazardous environments pose significant challenges for heavy machinery, we believe that our collaboration with Foresight will provide our equipment with the advanced AI capabilities needed to navigate these demanding conditions and deliver exceptional performance.”

    Oren Bar-On, CEO of Foresight Asia, added, “We are excited to partner with BuilderX to bring our advanced 3D perception technology to the heavy machinery industry. This collaboration will enable us to leverage our expertise and enable heavy machinery to operate reliably and safely in even the most extreme conditions.”

    The benefits of using AI and tech in the construction industry

    By implementing Foresight and BuilderX’s AI and 3D perception technology, companies can see significant cost reductions through several vital benefits:

    • Lower labor costs: Reduced need for on-site operators due to remote-controlled and autonomous systems.
    • Decreased insurance premiums: Fewer workplace accidents lead to lower insurance expenses.
    • Operational efficiency: Improved precision and reduced downtime cut maintenance and fuel costs.
    • Increased productivity: Autonomous equipment enables continuous operations in harsh environments without human intervention.

    The partnership represents the growing integration of AI and 3D perception technology in construction, offering new solutions for improved safety and performance across the industry​. As technology advances, fully autonomous operations could become the industry standard, driving further innovation and cost-efficiency.

  • KAST Construction to lead luxurious Salato condominium development in Pompano Beach

    KAST Construction to lead luxurious Salato condominium development in Pompano Beach

    KAST Construction has been awarded the contract for the highly anticipated Salato Condominium project in Pompano Beach, Florida. Just steps from the Pompano Beach shoreline, the boutique luxury development will feature 40 exclusive residences, including six penthouses, offering breathtaking ocean views and expansive terraces.

    The project spans nine stories and is backed by a $73.8 million construction loan. Work is expected to start in late 2024, and completion is set for 2026. Designed by Randall Stofft Architects, with interiors by Steven G., Salato offers residences ranging from 2,106 to 3,354 square feet, priced from $2 million. Each unit features three bedrooms, three-and-a-half bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive living spaces. Buyers have shown strong interest in the project, with 40% of the units pre-sold.

    Salato is designed to offer an unparalleled blend of privacy and resort-style amenities. It includes a 20,000-square-foot deck with a swimming pool, hot tub, private wine lockers, fitness center, and massage room. Additional amenities include dry saunas, concierge services, and valet parking. The project also includes 2,700 square feet of retail space.

    It’s a unique project that has Mike MacDonald, Senior Vice President at KAST Construction, excited, stating, “We are thrilled to work on this project, which will offer buyers an intimate and luxurious living experience, unlike anything in Pompano Beach.” 

    For those seeking expansive living spaces paired with luxury and breathtaking waterfront views, Salato is a standout opportunity in Pompano Beach. This exclusive development promises to deliver an unparalleled living experience that combines elegance, privacy, and top-tier amenities, making it a must-see for interested buyers.