Articles from Construction Dive

Bechtel has received approval to proceed with a $6.7 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project at the Rio Grande LNG Facility. The project had previously been delayed after an appeals court overturned the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's authorization last year. With this green light, Bechtel can move forward with construction and development. This project is expected to have significant implications for the energy sector.

The article discusses a recent quarter-point interest rate reduction which has been welcomed by construction firms. While this cut provides a boost in confidence that may particularly benefit private projects, it is not expected to significantly increase overall construction activity.

Six construction technology firms have collectively raised $110 million. Recent months have seen a significant portion of this funding directed towards startups focused on reality capture and projection. These technologies are increasingly becoming integral in modern construction projects, enhancing efficiency and precision.

California is set to move forward with SB 79, a bill that would allow for the construction of denser, multifamily housing near major train stations and rapid bus lines. The legislation aims to alleviate housing shortages by streamlining permissions for building in transit-rich areas. This aligns with California's broader strategy to improve public transport access while addressing housing needs. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to review and potentially approve this legislation soon.

The article discusses the shift from the traditional design-bid-build approach to the design-build delivery model in construction. The design-build model is seen as essential for handling today's complex projects more effectively. A contractor CEO highlights the advantages of integrating design and construction processes to build smarter and stronger structures.

Construction has commenced on a $152 million project to upgrade the bulkheads at Port Everglades. The existing seawalls, which date back to the 1950s, will be reinforced to better handle rising sea levels and reverse storm surges. This is part of an effort to improve the port's resilience during Florida’s hurricane season.

Red Bull is progressing with a $1.7 billion factory intended to can 3 billion energy drinks annually. The plant, which faced previous delays, will serve the U.S. market. This development highlights Red Bull's commitment to expanding its production capacity in response to demand.

A partnership initiated by Bechtel's $7 million contribution to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is making significant progress in its mission to support half a million construction workers. The initiative has already reached 188,000 workers in the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of mental health support. This effort highlights a growing awareness and response to mental health issues within the construction sector, which faces unique stressors and challenges.

Skanska is expanding its advanced technology unit to take advantage of the high demand in the data center sector. Despite challenges faced by increasing material costs, the company aims to capture growth opportunities within this booming market segment. Launched earlier this year, the division is set to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for data centers.

Illinois' pre-apprenticeship programs are providing tuition-free, on-the-job training that has successfully attracted larger shares of underrepresented groups into the trades. This initiative aims to diversify the trades workforce by enabling access to training for minorities who have been historically underrepresented in the industry. This approach has been backed by a study from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, emphasizing its impact on workforce diversity.

California lawmakers have passed a bill that aims to expand manufacturing decarbonization projects. The legislation will allow thermal energy storage and industrial heat pumps to qualify for financial incentives under state programs. This move is part of a broader effort to support energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in the industrial sector.

Tutor Perini subsidiary Rudolph and Sletten has secured a $960 million contract to construct a seven-floor facility for the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) in Oakland. The project will include an accompanying parking structure with a rooftop heliport deck. This development aims to enhance healthcare facilities in the region.