Reconstruction of Wacker Drive/Congress Parkway in downtown Chicago was the winner of the 2014 Grand Conceptor Award for the best engineering achievement of the year by the American Council of Engineering Companies as part of the organization's 2014 Engineering Excellence Awards program.
Monday, June 30, 2014
As Housing Goes, So Goes the Economy
As Housing Goes, So Goes the Economy: The Great Recession began with the bursting of the housing...
UPDATE 1-Petrofac order backlog rises to record high, no Iraq setback
British oil and gas services group Petrofac on Tuesday reported a record order backlog of $20.1 billion while keeping a stable profits outlook after last month's forecast warning.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Labor Union Rally - Support the School Bus Drivers - 30 June 6pm Dorchester
After a year of the anti-union Violia Corporations anti-worker management of the Boston Public School bus system workers are organizing to fight the bosses cut backs.
Home Prices Soften, But That's Not Enough To Boost Housing Market
The S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index, which measures home prices of 20 metropolitan cities, rose 1.15% in April, but is up 10.8% year-over-year.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
FTA: No federal requirement for door-to-door meetings
No federal mandate requires Kansas City or its contractors to hold door-to-door meetings before part of the city votes on a proposed extension of the streetcar project, according to the Federal Transit Administration.
OPPD: Severance Deals Not Public
Lawyers for the Omaha Public Power District say employee severance deals worth upward of $700,000 are not public records.
SeeThruEquity Issues Company Note on IGC
[Accesswire] - Company Announces Joint Venture Agreement in Vertical Indoor Farming Technology New York, NY / ACCESSWIRE / June 24, 2014 / SeeThruEquity, a leading independent equity research and corporate access firm ...
Friday, June 27, 2014
In sheriff race, Lombardo, Burns pit police brass against police union
Assistant Sheriff Joe Lombardo is the favorite. He won the June primary. He raised nearly $1 million in campaign funding and an endorsement from the outgoing, two-term Sheriff Doug Gillespie.
Magic City Newsmakers: Protective Life, Doster Construction & more
In Magic City Newsmakers, the BBJ shares notable awards, news and other tidbits about Birmingham businesses and nonprofits.
Hot-Weather Safety Tips For Construction Sites
Hot-Weather Safety Tips For Construction Sites That All Supervisors And Workers Must Know
If you operate a construction firm, keeping your crew safe and sound in a jobsite when the temperatures are soaring high is a challenge. How do you convince someone to wear a heavy material overall or dungarees in a hot summer climate while working and still feel comfortable? Unless you want to suffocate them under the stress of high heat temperatures. As a matter of fact, heat stress is the number one cause of fatigue and distraction. You will realize that your workers are not paying attention to details anymore.
That said, what's the solution because your workers need to protect themselves anyway?
The rule of the thumb remains--keep them hydrated. It may seem very obvious, but there are practical challenges that come with it too. If you want to embrace safety at all times, then keep reading because this article has great summer safety tips for those individuals who stay outdoors working.
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1 Hydrate
There are many beverages out there to keep you hydrated, but water is the best. The problem is that it's tasteless and boring. So a little spicing up would be a great favor indeed. You could add electrolytic beverages such as Squincher or Gatorade to the water. You could even complement it with a slice of lemon and see the magic. These additives will instantly turn the tasteless water into something fun to drink, and they add electrolytes to the body. To make it sound clear, think of a wet cell battery and how it behaves when a low concentration of battery acid is added onto it. Your body loves anything that sparks it into action, so this complement will help it perform better.
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2 keep off designer beverage labels such as Red Bull
Carbonated drinks and sugary concoctions are not recommended at this time. Anything with caffeine should also be avoided at all cost. Lemonade or citrus beverages are fine, although you need to supplement them with 50% water. If you are a smoker, try and cut back on your consumption of tobacco since it limits proper circulation of oxygen into the lungs.
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3 Selecting your lunch hour meals
Most people consume junk foods because they think these meals are quick and convenient. What they don't know is that these foods are full of unhealthy fats and preservatives. When such elements get into the digestive system, they tend to stress the body in high heat environment. Your safest bet would be to eat bigger portions for breakfast and smaller portions during lunchtime. If possible, eat salads and avoid solid meals.
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About this author:
Charles is a passionate blogger and loves writing about topics related to the construction industry.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
What's hot - and what's not - for the construction industry over the next 5 years
After nearly four years of steep contraction and then two years of flat revenues, the "embers of optimism" are returning for the construction industry in 2014 and beyond - " and it goes beyond residential housing.
Modern Home Builders Talk New Construction Trends
As new home construction picks up speed in the wake of the recent recession, modern home builders are getting creative about their craftsmanship and focusing on what their customers are looking for. These days, it?s not about lavish amenities, rather new modern home buyers are looking for efficient homes with room to grow.
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The latest new homeowner trends focus on quality and value, and include the following sound strategies:
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In-House Single-Design Model
Traditionally, new home construction included the services of separate engineering and construction firms. To save time and money, and pass the savings to the consumer, modern home builders have firms that do the engineering and contractor coordination all in-house. This trend helps speed up the construction process by up to six months, allowing firms to focus on additional projects.
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Energy Efficient and Eco-Friendly New Modern Homes
As new homeowners accept the reality that energy costs aren?t going to decrease, they seek long-term energy efficient solutions. Examples include the installation of occupancy sensors, systems that recover energy, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, and solar energy solutions. Health-conscious clients seek advanced filtration systems and materials with low VOCs, while the eco-friendly look for the use of sustainable or recycled materials like bamboo, cork and re-purposed building materials (e.g., crushed concrete in place of gravel). Those who are particularly energy-savvy seek smart passive house designs with a tight building envelope, smart roofs and energy efficient windows.
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Appealing to the Genders
Modern home builders find that among new home shoppers, women generally have the last say. To appeal to the female consumer, the latest trend is to construct dwellings that make homemaking simpler with larger kitchens, more storage spaces and bigger washing areas.
Men tend to gravitate toward homes with bigger garages with a shop area and a space in the house to entertain friends. Men also prefer bathrooms that have a water closet and bathtub that?s separate from the shower.
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Room to Grow
Today?s new homeowners aren?t looking for houses that they can sell for a profit in the near future. Instead, they?re looking for homes that their family can grow in for several decades. New construction trends allow homeowners to easily convert spaces as the needs of their family change. These spaces are innovative and allow for the simple integration of new technologies and building additions.
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Connectivity
The ?house of tomorrow? that people dreamed about in the 1960s is here today. Modern homeowners want to interact with their houses with a simple touch of a button, even when they?re away. The latest trends include the installation of standby generators that a homeowner can turn on or off from a computer or mobile device. They also seek smart programmable thermostats that they can adjust remotely using a mobile device.
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Smart appliances are in demand. In addition to being energy-efficient, the latest dishwashers, clothes washers and dryers tap into areas that have smart grids, evaluate the local utility company?s time-of-use rates, and operate when electricity rates are the lowest. In the kitchen, Wi-Fi-enabled refrigerators let homeowners display their favorite pictures as well as seek and share recipes from a built in touch-screen monitor.
Another hot trend that consumers seek are power outlets with USB ports that make it simple to plug in a lamp and charge a phone at the same time without the need to purchase a power strip.
Modern home builders must meet new homeowners where they are in regards to the down market and economic uncertainties. As Americans get back on their feet, the latest value-added building trends are the forces that driving the new home construction market.
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About this author:
George Hale is the owner of H. Hudson homes. Professional Portland home builder H. Hudson Homes specializes in new modern home building, perfecting the combination of style and function. They are trusted Oregon home builders who focus on cutting-edge design and sustainability.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Sales rebounding for recreational properties after cold winter, late spring
Realtor group Remax says young families and near and recent retirees are driving the majority of recreational property sales across the country.
Best on the block: How to create curb appeal
Spring is in the air, so it's time to give your home an exterior makeover and add curb appeal.
NY: LIRR Unions, Supporters Rally in Massapequa for New Contract
June 21--More than 2,000 Long Island Rail Road union workers and supporters rallied in Massapequa Saturday, sending a loud message to the MTA and the governor that the time for compromise is over.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Morning News Roundup: Arena da Amazonia
ICYMI: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill is set to design what will become the tallest tower in Scandinavia.
FTSE 100 movers: Precious metals miners lead gains
Fresnillo, Randgold Resources, Glencore, BHP Billiton and Anglo American were also tracking metals prices higher.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Sageworks: Private Biz Growing at Steady Pace
Private businesses are seeing healthy growth in sales and profit margins, according to a new report from financial information firm Sageworks.
The new Naples: Green and clean
Luca Simeone rides his bike along the sunny beachfront of Naples while his little daughter sleeps on the baby seat.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
All Saints church to break ground on life center
Edward McDevitt knows a shared vision when he sees one. McDevitt sees one as All Saints Catholic Church prepares to break ground on its largest addition yet.
Facebook Data Center Constructed by NECA and IBEW; The Right Choice for High-Tech Construction
New Electric TV video showcases how the Code of Excellence - a combination of ability and attitude - is contributing to jobs done right the first time.
On the way: new homes are planned in the north and west of the borough
THE construction of new homes in Greenford, Northolt and Southall moved a step closer after Ealing Council confirmed which firms would build them.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
New Mexico home sales, prices increased in May
Last month, 1,497 home sales were reported in the state, an increase of 6.7 percent over the 1,403 reported in April.
Sound Financial Bancorp: A Regional Bank That Is Charging Full Speed Ahead
The bank is doing everything a shareholder wants to see but returns are below average and deposit growth is lagging.
Friday, June 20, 2014
ETS Election April 26 - May 1
Election of new Board of Director members for the AACE East Tennessee Section begins on Tuesday, April 26 and runs through Sunday, May 1. Section members can v...
Developers Cater to Two-Wheeled Traffic in Portland, Ore.
Developers Cater to Two-Wheeled Traffic in Portland, Ore.: Portland is nationally recognized as a...
Day one SEPTA strike: No trains, no talks
Striking SEPTA railroad workers erected pickets Saturday and surprised travelers found themselves without train service as the Philadelphia region coped with its first rail strike in 31 years.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Hastings Line Guards Keep Linemen Safe
Hastings, a manufacturer of hotline tools and equipment , understands that every day has the potential to bring the unexpected for lineman.
Home Sales Off in Northern Virginia
There wasn't much moving in the housing market in Northern Virginia last month, according to a report by Washington Business Journal's Jeff Clabaugh.
Consumer confidence in Denver real estate inches up
The condo market is booming in Denver in right now, with 1,852 condos listed and 1,493 going under contract during May. Shown here is the One Lincoln Park condo tower.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
TBARTA names Don Skelton interim executive director
Don Skelton has been named interim executive director of the Tampa Bay Area Regional Transportation Authority, replacing TBARTA's first and only executive director, Bob Clifford, who is leaving to join the engineering firm Parsons Brinckerhoff.
Housing Boom in Goleta Reflects Pent-Up Demand, Years of Planning, and Tenacity
With a recent recession seemingly in the rearview mirror, those traveling around Goleta have begun to see several construction projects that no longer lie in wait on the horizon.
Coke investor warns against 'sweetheart' deal with Buffett
Despite Coca-Cola shareholder David Winters' claims, Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO Warren Buffett says there is no chance of a "sweetheart" deal to make Coca-Cola private.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
0% VAT plan for first homes advances as housing prices soar
CBS report finds housing prices up 95% since 2007. Prices rose 8.2% over past year, since Lapid became finance minister.
New Wisconsin summer beers and what to serve with them
Todd Destree of Capital Brewery from Middleton stopped by the weather deck with a selection of their craft beers.
Monday, June 16, 2014
Contract Awarded for Construction of Olympic Venue in Rio de Janeiro
A contract was finally awarded for construction on the long-delayed second major venue complex for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
To Sell Green, First Teach Green
To Sell Green, First Teach Green: Turns out Connecticut?s ?House of the Year? is small,...
Fore! City to soon own driving range
Staff said the owner of the property is retiring, and City Utilities was contacted by the real estate agent representing the seller.
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Builders focus on affluent buyers who want more home size
Last year, the average size of new houses built across the country was 2,600 square feet - the largest ever, according to the Census Bureau.
April numbers hold hope Wichita housing market gaining steam, say experts
So far in 2014, the monthly home sales numbers in the Wichita area have been unimpressive compared with a year ago.
Training Seminar
The East Tennessee Section is hosting a training seminar on April 13th-14th featuring Ted Douglas, CCC PSP. More information and a registration form will be ava...
Friday, June 13, 2014
Why investors played such a huge role in Phoenix's housing rebound, and now its slowdown
"Soft" has been the resounding theme of the Phoenix-area housing market throughout 2014, even through springtime is supposed to be the busiest time of year.
Construction output boost for economy
The construction industry grew by far more than expected in the first three months of the year, the Office of National Statistics has said Economic growth for the first three months of the year could be be revised up after official figures showed the construction industry grew by more than expected.
Construction Spending Reaches Its Highest Level Since 2009
Cumulative spending growth over the past three months suggests that the construction industry is recovering from the harsh winter.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
LP&L remembers storm anniversary with barbecue
An appreciation luncheon was held for Lubbock Power & Light linemen on the anniversary on last year's storm at the LP&L Plant in Lubbock on Friday.
A Lifeline for Underwater Homeowners
A Lifeline for Underwater Homeowners: Help may finally be on the way for borrowers stuck in...
Infusion from China for Toledo, Ohio, Real Estate
Infusion from China for Toledo, Ohio, Real Estate: Two investors from China bought a formerly...
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
New group would study ways to alert home-buyers of former grow-op locations
Although the RCMP and local police already collect information on properties where drug production activity is discovered, the MREA said details are scattered in various files and databases and not fully accessible to the public in a clear, up-to-date way.
In nod to past, future park renamed
San Vicente Redwoods extends across 13 square miles, from Empire Grade to the town of Davenport along the Pacific Coast.
The Construction Contractor's Digest | Construction Executive Advisory
Sam,
Thank you for your gift of a book and kind note. These are both treasures.
I have thought about your question concerning what to do with the book that demanded a large investment on your part.
Here is a partial answer, I will think about this over the next month and drop you a note or two.
Books, as you know, are slow movers unless you are Oprah. This is good and bad. Good ? a steady flow of interests over years as people discover yours. Bad ? not the immediate recognition it deserves.
So, the fun part of this is the creation of marketing support and selling it. You have time to do both. Here are some things we do:
? Weblog ? I continue to write sparingly on it but, it keeps the rankings up and does generate some engagement with people in the industry
? Newsletter ? some of this is work but, it is not if you like to write. Each time it publishes, there is some feedback from your readers.
? Commercial website with a shopping cart ? this helps establish presence and sell books.
? IPhone ? have the Square credit card commerce service ? if I meet someone and happen to mention construction. We find our way to talking about my books. I might sell one and take their credit card right then and there ? $2.75 per swipe charge. I can be a sales person at times and it is fun.
? Electronically convert it ? it is a lower margin but, higher / more widespread (worldwide) distribution. Both of mine are. The third which will be based on PhD research is my ?opus?. It is a construction business system that is along the lines of ?Good to Great?. It will be real charge to perfect it and publish it. I am ?amped? (Late 2013)
Your publisher can help in several ways to market ? most don?t since the ROI in book publishing is single digits ? so many are just printers with a rolodex of contacts to send samples to ? then they play catch with any orders that may result ? (they don?t sell or market). That leaves you to the be the chief believer ? salesperson and marketer ? of the book.
What comes to mind for you ? this is my sense ? that you could have a lot of fun visiting book clubs, libraries, associations and bookstores across the U.S. (maybe elsewhere). As long as somebody buys a required number, you tell them you will show up. Jet Blue / SW Airlines / Hotwire / a hybrid car etc. make travel cheap and string a few close cities together and you may make a profit. Throw in a 2 hour breakfast meeting at Association Y and then a strategic planning session / future trends speech and you have made a couple of dollars.
University students need to hear about managing labor, field experience, negotiation skills among other expertise you have. Many of them will thank you at the end of the course. They will realize the wisdom and that you cared to tell them about ?reality?.
Not glamorous but, this is the life we choose as authors, writers, advisors and educators.
As far as your statement about your last book, I don?t know if you are accurate. Never ask a NFL player his future plans after the Super Bowl or an author after his / her last book. A person?s perspective is sensitive to time and in the football player?s case, one that reflects his tired / hurt body after an 8 month season.
I know of no one who ever stopped writing. They write something until their ?cold, dead fingers? are removed from pen / laptop.
To me, being significant is most important in this professional life. It is not shared by everyone but, then again I am a believer in what I believe.
More later.
Matt
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Tam Hunt: Utilities Again Try to Undermine Customer Choice in California
Pacific Gas & Electric sponsored an embarrassing ballot measure in 2010, Proposition 16, that was a naked attempt to preserve utility power at the expensive of customer choice.
H&V Collision of Troy expanding a " to Kingston?
H&V Collision Center, a Troy collision repair shop that has expanded in recent years to four locations, says it's getting ready to open its fifth location this summer.
A Lifeline for Underwater Homeowners
A Lifeline for Underwater Homeowners: Help may finally be on the way for borrowers stuck in...
Monday, June 9, 2014
Walk your dog at the Amazon dog park: Amazon's new office buildings will be open to the public
Scott Wyatt, chairman of design firm NBBJ, speaks at The Next Billion: Seattle presented by Quartz.
Ackman says Allergan holders back takeover at $180/shr: CNBC
Activist investor William Ackman on Monday defended Valeant Pharmaceuticals during an interview on CNBC television and said that Allergan Inc shareholders told him they would support a deal at $180 per share.
Las Vegas Real Estate Agent Leslie Hoke Lists Solera Home
Las Vegas, NV, United States / ACCESSWIRE / June 6th, 2014 / Las Vegas Homes By Leslie newest listing is located in the amenity-rich Las Vegas community of Solera at 2570 Sargon St., Las Vegas, NV 89044.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
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