Articles from Construction Dive

Los Angeles and Austin are employing artificial intelligence to reduce wait times for municipal permits. Additionally, Honolulu is planning to make significant improvements and offer faster responses. This marks a shift towards using technology to enhance efficiency in the permitting process.

The demand for data centers continues to grow, even as concerns about a potential market bubble are raised. Developers are involving contractors earlier in the project lifecycle to evaluate site conditions, mitigate risks, and secure necessary materials. This proactive involvement aims to streamline the construction process and address any possible issues early on.

JetZero, a startup in the aerospace industry, is planning to build a $4.7 billion factory in North Carolina. This facility aims to produce more fuel-efficient and spacious aircraft, creating 14,500 new jobs. The endeavor is part of the company's strategy to advance aviation technology and sustainability.

McCarthy and Jacobs have completed the construction of a $373 million hospital tower located in Orange, California. The nine-story building houses specialty clinics, oncology infusion services, and features a research institute focused on clinical trials and pediatric research. This project enhances healthcare infrastructure in the region and provides advanced medical services.

During the Building Innovation 2025 conference, experts discussed how targeted investments and technology can maintain critical infrastructure. They emphasized the need for assessing vulnerabilities and finding cost-effective solutions for rapid recovery post-disaster. Identifying gaps in lifeline systems is crucial for enhancing community resilience. The conference highlighted technology's pivotal role in achieving these goals.

T1 Energy, a renewable energy company, has selected Yates for the preconstruction phase of their new solar power plant in Texas, valued at $850 million. The facility will have a capacity of 5 gigawatts. Yates, based in Mississippi, is also anticipated to be appointed as the general contractor for the project.

C.W. Driver has commenced construction on a $54 million Innovation Hub at California State University Fullerton. This new facility aims to support the increasing number of students in the engineering and computer science programs. The project reflects a significant investment in educational infrastructure to enhance learning in technology fields.

As the construction industry undergoes digital transformation, maintaining good cyber hygiene is becoming increasingly important. An industry expert highlights the need for cybersecurity training and insurance to protect against potential cyber threats. This involves equipping construction firms with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle sensitive data securely.

Meta has entered into an agreement with XGS Energy to develop a geothermal power generation facility in New Mexico. This project aims to generate 150 MW of renewable energy for Meta's data centers. The initiative supports Meta's sustainability efforts by using clean and renewable energy sources.

Tampa Airport has revealed its plans for a new $1.5 billion terminal named Airside D, led by the construction company Hensel Phelps. The cost of this project has almost doubled since it was first proposed. The terminal is expected to be completed and operational in 2028.

Gilbane has launched a new procurement division aimed at equipment sourcing. Suzanne Bennett, a former executive from Turner Construction, has been appointed to lead this new subsidiary. This move is part of Gilbane's strategy to enhance its equipment acquisition capabilities.

The latest Producer Price Index data reveals that construction costs have surged by 6% on an annualized basis. This increase is mainly due to significant price rises in materials such as iron, steel, copper, and aluminum in May. These spikes have largely counterbalanced any reductions in energy costs.