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TAG GROUP: Projects

Weekly Poll (228)

President Joe Biden announced $292 million in bipartisan infrastructure law funding for a “critical” early phase of the Hudson Tunnel Project. Do you think that is enough funding for the large-scale New York City project?

Florida International University recently received a $3.2 million grant from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to research the 3D printing of Ultra-High Performance Concrete. Do you believe the construction industry will see an influx in 3D printed concrete within the next five years?

The U.S. Department of Transportation published a Notice of Funding Opportunity for $1.5 billion in grant funding through the 2023 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity discretionary grant program. Do you believe enough money has been set aside to complete the nationwide project?

The New Jersey State House is undergoing a $300 million historical preservation and renovation project, which involves restoring the structure’s gold domeincluding surface preparation, new coatings and the application of gold leaf. Given its historical status, do you think additional measures should be taken to protect the gold dome from exposure conditions?

The National Steel Bridge Alliance released a new reference guide highlighting various ways uncoated weathering steel can help speed up bridge construction and provide financial and environmental benefits to transportation projects. Do you think this guidance will be beneficial to the industry?

A year-end report from Dodge Construction Network shared that the construction industry could remain positive in 2023, despite economic uncertainty. Do you believe that the industry will continue to maintain growth this year?

The November Construction Backlog Indicator from the Associated Builders and Contractors reported that the CBI was at its highest since the second quarter of 2019. Is your company witnessing a healthy backlog?

A commercial coatings contractor in Tennessee recently reported it uses drones for power washing services on commercial, government and residential structures. What is your experience with drones or robotics in the industry?

Last month, the Buy America requirements for construction materials took effect, with the Department of Transportation proposing two new partial waivers for projects. Do you believe these proposed waivers accurately address concerns from contractors and associations?

A recent survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America and Autodesk has found that severe workforce shortages are affecting small and large contractors. Do you believe enough is being done to address these concerns?

Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on classifying employees and independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Do you believe this proposed rule would help prevent misclassification of workers?

A recent report revealed that material shortage unpredictability and rising costs are disrupting the industry’s “design, bid, build” process. Do you believe the industry should look to alternative construction method processes?

A report from the Associated General Contractors of America found in an analysis of government data that although construction input costs appeared to be decreasing, contractor bid prices remained on the rise for the month of July. Have these numbers been impacting your business?

Last month, the contractor working on the Harbor Bridge in Corpus Christi, Texas, submitted potential solutions to design concerns on the project. Do you believe the proposed design changes will be sufficient to address the structural concerns?

Have you submitted a nomination for the 2022 JPCL Prestige Awards program?

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has recently recommended approving the surrender of the Klamath River Dam license in California, including its decommission and removal. Do you agree with the recommendation?

Civil engineers at the University of Dayton can now utilize a new virtual reality lab to “bring buildings to life,” allowing students to better understand a building’s placement and operation before construction commences. Do you believe this technology will be useful for building design and inspection in the industry?

Construction is set to resume on the long-delayed Purple Line Light Rail Transit Project in Maryland later this month. Do you think the project will face any more lengthy setbacks as it continues?

Nearly 50 transportation groups have recently asked the White House to extend the waiver for the new Buy America, Build America Act requirements for construction materials included in the bipartisan infrastructure law. Do you think the administration will extend the waiver amid inflation and material shortages?

After a two-year break, a fundraising campaign to paint a water tower in Hamburg, New York, as a hamburger has returned, with hopes to boost economic development and tourism in the area. Do you believe the campaign will reach its goal this time around?

The Scott Base research facility in Antarctica New Zealand was originally painted with linseed oil-based paint in freezing level temperatures. For its new coating, a powder coat-type paint will be factory-applied. Do you believe this method will be more effective in protecting the structure?

The City of Portland, Oregon, recently announced the approval of recommendations to add Concrete Embodied Carbon Threshold requirements for city construction projects. Do you think these requirements should be adopted in other states?

A recent study from the American Institute of Architects looks at the relationship between architect-contractor relationships, noting that close collaboration early in a project often results in better outcomes for the client and for themselves. What do you believe determines project success?

Global leaders launched the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment initiative at the G7 Summit last month to deliver infrastructure projects around the world, strengthen supply chains and advance national security. Do you believe this funding method will prove effective for infrastructure projects?

Last month, a Pittsburgh-based company announced the release of its autonomous coating system. Has your company considered using robotics technology for paint application?

The U.S. Department of Transportation issued a temporary waiver for the requirement for infrastructure projects to be constructed with certain materials made in the United States through Nov. 10, unless extended. Do you believe this will provide agencies enough time to effectively implement the requirement?

Over the last 12-18 months do you think the industry has done an effective job leveraging new technology platforms to provide training videos to contractors?

Is your company experiencing delays and other issues due to the supply chain, availability of raw materials or inflation?

Last month, the Biden-Harris Administration released a new Permitting Action Plan to accelerate federal permitting and environmental reviews for infrastructure projects funded through the bipartisan infrastructure law. Do you believe this will help expedite projects?

A recent report by the Beacon Hill Institute points out that a rule proposed by the Department of Labor makes the Davis-Bacon and Related Acts wage determination process more inaccurate, inflationary and biased. Do you think that the rule should be adopted?

At the beginning of the month, construction start-up Alquist 3D announced plans to build 200 homes in the southwest region of Virginia as part of “Project Virginia,” the world’s largest 3D-printed construction project. Do you believe that 3D-printed housing will help solve the housing crisis in rural and underserved areas of America?

On May 14, a U.S. government requirement went into effect requiring that projects funded by the bipartisan infrastructure law use only iron and steel produced in the nation. Do you believe this is a reasonable rule due to current supply chain issues?

For the first time in 40 years, the U.S. Department of Labor is proposing a rulemaking for the Davis-Bacon Act and Davis-Bacon and Related Acts to speed up prevailing wage updates, create several efficiencies in the current system and ensure that prevailing wage rates keep up with actual wages. Do you agree with the proposed changes?

When it comes to selecting a coating system for a project, what do you consider first?

Will the U.S. oil and gas industry grow or falter in 2022?

A job forecast issued by ThinkWhy for construction and extraction occupations predicts that the industry is expected to expand by 3.9% (nearly 240,000 jobs) in 2022. Do you believe that this will be impacted by the current labor shortage?

President Joe Biden signed a new executive order requiring the use of project labor agreements for projects costing more than $35 million. The new requirement is expected to boost the quality of federal construction projects. Do you believe this order will make procurement more economical and efficient?

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Department of Design and Construction announced they had approved six teams to develop four modern, more humane jails. Do you believe other cities need to make updates and improvements to the living conditions of their jails?

Habitat for Humanity recently announced the completion of its first home entirely constructed using a 3D printer. The house took 12 hours to construct, and is a 1,200-square-feet, two-bathroom concrete structure that can withstand hurricanes and tornados. Do you believe 3D printers could become a mainstream technology in house construction?

Pending plan approval, the Central Place Sydney $2.5 billion dual-tower property will be powered by 100% renewable energy. When do you believe we will see a significant increase of these types of buildings being approved internationally?

Software firm Trimble recently announced the release of a robotic dog with a 3D laser scanner, which could be used to document changes to the jobsite and make decisions in the field. Do you believe this type of technology could successfully accompany human documentation within the next decade?

U.S. Congress is reportedly considering using tax incentives as a way to push building projects toward energy efficiency. Do you believe this provides enough of an incentive toward sustainable construction?

One corrosion-prevention company has coated a bridge in Croatia with technology that will allegedly give the bridge a service life of 130 years. Do you believe corrosion-protection technology could extend a bridge’s life by over a century?

A recent report found that one in four units of critical infrastructure in the United States is at risk of being rendered inoperable due to flooding. These structures include police stations, airports and hospitals, and the risk is expected to worsen over the next 30 years. Do you believe enough is being done to address this problem?

The New Jersey Transit Board recently approved a $1.5 billion contract to replace the 110-year-old rail bridge Portal North Bridge. Given the American Society of Civil Engineers’ recent report that 7.5% of United States bridges are structurally deficient and that the nation’s backlog of bridge repairs requires an estimated $125 billion, do you believe bridge replacement, rather than repair, is a more time- and cost-efficient method of solving the infrastructure problem?

The U.S. Department of Labor recently approved an increase to the minimum wage for federal construction for 2022, raising pay to $15 an hour. Is this pay increase enough?

The U.S. Department of Energy announced a “Connected Communities” project, which would make 7,000 homes and businesses energy-efficient, leading to $18 billion in savings per year by 2030. Do you believe a plan similar to the “Connected Communities” project could be adopted on a national scale?

Wisconsin government officials are offering the relocation, rehabilitation and preservation of three historic steel truss bridges entirely free of charge in preparation for a new bridge. Do you believe the government officials should have attempted to sell these bridges for a profit?

In response to the increase in construction-related fatalities, more frequent inspections in New York City resulted in over 3,600 violations from June to October. Do you believe increased inspections are enough to police and prevent construction accidents?

Dutch-based contractor Mammoet has developed a process that reduces bridge girder installation from one day to 1 hour. Do you believe this method could be made widely adaptable?

French organizations involved in the Notre Dame cathedral restoration are considering a design change for the cathedral’s spires. Do you believe the cathedral’s restoration should include new, modernized architecture?

Since 2016, the number of bridges in “good” condition have been decreasing. Of the 146,000 bridges that the National Highway System reviewed this year, most are constructed using materials that are susceptive to corrosion. Do you believe enough has been done within the industry to address this problem?

Former Walmart executive Marc Lore recently unveiled plans for a $400 billion city, dubbed Telosa, that will be a “new model for society” that will house 5 million people. The city’s decision-making and budgeting process will be open for participation from everyone, and community endowment will provide residents with shared land ownership. Do you believe this Utopian-style city will be successful?

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently announced plans to better combat heat exposure. On a scale of 1-5 (with 1 being most important and 5 being least important), where do you think heat exposure rates as a top threat to construction workers?

In new guidance issued by President Joe Biden, federal contractors and subcontractors are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Dec. 8. Do you believe this is a fair and effective way to combat the spread of COVID-19?

Following the collapse of a Miami Beach residential building on June 24, residents in nearby condominium buildings began requesting property inspections, leading to official reports of safety concerns in other buildings. Because of the severity of the building collapse, do you believe close inspection of each of the condominiums on Miami Beach should be inspected?

Tesla Energy, along with Brookfield Asset Management Inc. and Dacra, announced a new initiative for the first Tesla Solar neighborhood, a sustainable residential community. The project’s goal is to create an energy-neutral, solar-based community that can be a blueprint for large-scale housing projects internationally. Do you believe this initiative will be successful?

As France continues to work toward the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral, it has been reported that the restoration cannot begin until the melted scaffolding is dismantled piece-by-piece to avoid a collapse that would put other parts of the building in jeopardy. Despite this setback, along with delays due to COVID-19, President Emmanuel Macron wants the restoration of Notre Dame to be completed in time for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Do you believe this is a viable timeline?

A recent report from construction software company Levelset found that 11% of construction business always get paid in full—a reported 75% drop compared to pre-pandemic. If applicable, how has your own business been affected regarding on-time payments?

Following an inspection sweep in New York City earlier this year, the Department of Buildings shut down 322 construction sites due to hazardous conditions and issued more than 1,129 violations for safety issues and non-compliance issues. Do you think these types of sweeps are beneficial for industry safety?

The London office of architecture firm Perkins&Will recently announced tis development of a searchable directory of sustainable products to help minimize the carbon footprint of interior projects. Do you think the directory will be beneficial to the industry?

The New York State Senate and State Assembly recently passed legislation that extends full and complete liability to the general contractor or construction manager on a project for any non-payment of wages by any subcontractor on private construction projects. Do you think similar legislation should be adopted across all states?

Co-founder and Chief Executive Josh Giegel of American transport tech company Virgin Hyperloop recently announced that commercial operations could happen as early as 2027. Do you think this estimation is accurate?

The National Association of Home Builders, along with industry partners, hosted a COVID-19 Vaccine Awareness Week in Construction last month. Do you think the industry could use more like-events to encourage construction professionals to get vaccinated?

Construction is finally underway for what is being dubbed as the world’s longest 3D-printed pedestrian concrete bridge in the city of Nijmegen, The Netherlands. How long until you think the record is beaten?

Now that it’s been officially released, what is your favorite aspect about the new, independent, Journal of Protective Coatings and Linings magazine?

In March, large scale space construction company Orbital Assembly announced its plans to construct the world’s first-ever space hotel during a recent virtual event on its YouTube channel. Slated to be fully operational in 2027, do you think this expectation is realistic?

Global food and beverage company Kraft Heinz recently announced a new pilot program that’s demonstrating a roofing material made from the company’s recycled flexible packaging. Do you believe the recycled flexible plastic packaging will outperform current standard building materials?

Rep. Bryan Slaton (R-Texas) has recently proposed new legislation regarding the relaunch of construction on the U.S-Mexico border wall and other border security enhancement projects within the state. If passed, do you foresee the border wall projects receiving reimbursement from the federal government?

New York-based construction technology company SQ4D Inc. recently listed a 3D-printed home for sale that it says is the first slated to receive a certification of occupancy in the U.S. Do you expect the market will see more of these types of homes?

Last month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered copper surfaces for residual use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. How soon do you think the industry could see the utilization of these coatings in residential properties?

Regarding the PaintSquare Connect product pavilions, is there a pavilion that you would have liked to see more contractors or suppliers?

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, alongside local airport officials, recently announced that work to modernize and upgrade Los Angeles International Airport Terminals 2, 3, and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) would finish 18 months ahead of schedule. Do you think other commercial projects will see an uptick in reduced work schedules despite COVID-19 restrictions?

London-based Heatherwick Studio recently released design plans for a proposed flood-resistant ecological park in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood. Do you think expect other new coastal commercial projects will take similar approaches to potential flood protection?

In recent reports by both the Associated Builders and Contractors and Associated General Contractors of America, data showed an increase or rebound in employment and construction backlogs. Do you think the industry is out of the weeds regarding the negative impacts experienced from the COVID-19 pandemic?

Last month, the National Football League’s Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers announced the official opening of the $5 billion SoFi Stadium—one of the most expensive stadiums ever built. Although spectators won’t be able to visit the structure until 2021, do you think the stadium will eventually pay for itself?

Recently, two court-mandated engineering reports found that an 18-foot-high section of the border wall in Mission, Texas, was at risk of failure should the structure endure a “high flow event” from the nearby Rio Grande River. To mediate the structure’s current erosion and concrete cracking, nonprofit Fisher Sand and Gravel plans to conduct increased inspections, plant grasses and add a layer of rocks. Do you think the plan will work to resolve the issues?

In September, the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Atlantic issued a Request for Proposals worth up to $5 billion in foreign and domestic construction projects for an eight-year, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity Global Contingency Construction Multiple Award Contract. However, the contracts’ incumbent expiration date isn’t until March 2024. Do you think the early RFP will provide the Navy with more project flexibility?

Recently, New York officials announced that the Hudson River rail tunnel project had climbed $275 million in price and delayed the project’s start date by another year. Still requiring the approval for a February 2018 draft environmental impact statement and confirmed financial backing, do you believe the project will stay on the new timeframe?

The Seattle Department of Transportation is considering whether to repair or replace the West Seattle Bridge (built in 1984) after serious cracking was found in March and emergency work went underway. What do you think the bridge’s fate will be?

French President Emmanuel Macron has officially dropped the unpopular idea of building a modern spire atop a restored Notre Dame Cathedral. Do you think this was a wise decision?

A $100M fix was approved for San Francisco’s leaning, sinking high-rise Millennium Tower that involved drilling 52 concrete piles 30 feet into bedrock. Do you think this solution will work?

A U.S. District Judge recently ordered that details of an inspection and fix be provided for a $42 million privately funded segment of the U.S.-Mexico wall after the portion was found to be showing signs of erosion months after completion. Do you think we’ll see more erosion issues as border wall construction progresses?

The United States Geological Survey released last month its first map of where the mineral pyrrhotite could occur in the nation. Pyrrhotite is a mineral that consists of iron and sulfur. When exposed to water and air, it can break down to form secondary minerals that expand and crack concrete, causing concrete structures to fail. Do you think the map will benefit future residential construction efforts?

The United States Army Corps of Engineers recently announced a preliminary proposal of a $1.75 billion seawall around the lower Charleston Peninsula in South Carolina. Do you believe other U.S. coastal cities will begin to combat future flooding and rising sea levels with new infrastructure projects?

The Sherwin-Williams Company recently announced the creation of its Pro Support Center, a website that the firm says is dedicate to tools and education resources for painting contractors and other professionals. Do you think this will be beneficial to industry professionals in the commercial sector?

In May, President Donald J. Trump officially gave the order to senior adviser Jared Kushner and associated aides to seek cost estimates for coating the United States-Mexico border wall. Do you think coating the wall will be a benefit to the infrastructure?

Recently, Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, along with city Chief Operations Officer Patrick Brophy, began rolling out guidelines for reopening construction projects in the city. Do you think these rules will be used to influence other cities and high-risk COVID-19 areas to reopen the industry?

Last month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency released a memorandum identifying essential critical infrastructure workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Do you believe the memo successfully aided in reopening construction sites?

In April, Italy suffered another bridge collapse, causing increased scrutiny over the conditions of the country’s road bridges. Do you believe the recurrence reflects more on how the infrastructure is built, how Italian officials conduct routine inspections or both?

Technology Publishing Co. recently announced the launch of its new event, “Commercial Contractor Connect.” As a commercial coatings contractor or supplier, what are you looking forward to the most?

Last month, Germany firm Muehlhan began applying new coatings to the roughly 8-kilometer-long (roughly 5-miles-long) cable-stayed Øresund Bridge. Slated to take 13 years and an estimated 300,000-400,000 liters (79,000-106,000 gallons) of black paint to complete, do you think the project will meet its deadline?

In taking action against the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, how do you feel your company will be affected as a result of growing health and safety efforts, non-essential business closures and social distancing?

In January, more than 45 pieces of machinery and over 100 workers completed the construction of a prefabricated hospital—slated to aid those affected by the coronavirus outbreak—which houses 1,000 beds, in just 10 days. Do you think the use of prefabricated materials will become more popular in other commercial facility construction projects?

Following a lawsuit filed by the British Blind & Shutter Association, U.K. courts decided to cut part of the country’s combustible cladding ban, noting that it shouldn’t have included materials used on shutters, blinds and other products designed to reduce a building’s heat gain. Do you agree with the decision regarding high-rise buildings?

Recently, New York City-based major construction project jobsites have been hit with a series of surprise inspections as an effort to reduce the amount of construction worker injuries. However, some construction workers claim that more work still needs to be done to successfully prevent accidents. In the industry, which risks do you believe pose the biggest threat to jobsite safety?

Last month, Boston-based company Apis Cor announced the completion of what it touts as the largest 3D-printed building in the world. Constructed in just 21 days, do you think we will see more rapid commercial construction projects with the use of 3D printers?

In November, AIA released 133 new and updated Construction Management documents, including the Construction Manager as Constructor (CMc) and the Construction Manager as Adviser (CMa) families. Do you think the revised documents will improve the coordination and safety within the construction industry?

Construction work recently began on The Boring Company’s tunnel for the Las Vegas Convention Center. According to reports on the endeavor, the project is slated to be complete in time for the 2021 Consumer Electronics Show. Do you think this target date will be achieved?

Last month, the Commercial Painting Industry Association officially launched to provide more resources to commercial painting business owners, as well as create a deeper connection between commercial industry leaders. Do you think the member-based organization will be beneficial for professional commercial painting contractors?

Recently, the city of Milwaukee Plan Commission and the Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee approved changes to the Ascent timber building (slated to be the tallest wooden building in North America) to make the structure even taller. How long do you think the structure will be able to keep this title after its completion?

Earlier this month, crews began dismantling the Herbert C. Bonner Bridge (located in the Oregon Inlet of North Carolina) with guillotine-like saw blades in order to use concrete portions for an existing offshore artificial reef. Slated to be complete by 2020, do you think this method of removing the bridge’s piles and spans will prove to be financially effective?

According to a survey released from the Associated General Contractors of America, along with Autodesk, 80% of construction firms reported to struggle with filling hourly craft positions. Since the survey’s findings were released, the AGC has called on the federal government for help. Which, if any, of the federal requests to aid in filling craft positions do you think will be the most useful?

In a recent ruling by the National Labor Relations Board, misclassification of employees as independent contractors no longer violates the National Labor Relations Act. However, some claim that the ruling will further hurt the industry as misclassification already points to lower operational costs and further inconveniences contractors who correctly classify their workers to be competitive against others who don’t. Do you think the rule will help or hurt?

In August, SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings announced the reestablishment of its Pittsburgh chapter, known as the SSPC Steel City Chapter. Do you believe the chapter will attract new members from Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, as well as western Maryland and other northeastern states?

At the beginning of September, it was reported that a panel of independent experts approved a $100 million fix for the sinking and tilting 58-story Millennium Tower in San Francisco. Do you think the installation of 52 new piles, extending twice the distance into the bedrock of the north and west sides will prove to reduce future sinking and improve the structure’s seismic performance?

The comment period ends next week for U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s August request for feedback on its current respirable crystalline silica standard as it applies to construction. In receiving feedback on “the effectiveness of engineering and work practice control methods not currently included for the tasks and equipment,” do you think appropriate control measures for pieces of equipment connected to silica exposure will be revised?

Last month, a new report from GlobalData—a research firm that breaks down construction projects in the United States—found that nearly 60% of the construction market is occupied by just 10 states. The report aims to provide an assessment of the current construction project pipeline, based on various data collected from the 10 key states over a five-year span. Do you think the study will help improve future construction methods?

In July, an Italy-based project titled, “Urban Flying Opera,” used drones to paint a large-scale graffiti project with the aim to beautify the city of Torino. With more stories of drones being utilized for this type of coatings work, do you think the technology has the potential to eventually replace commercial painters?

Toward the end of July, President Donald J. Trump signed an order that would promote the expanded use of American-made iron and steel in federal projects. The “Buy American” platform is slated to push the domestic content threshold from 50% to 95%. Do you believe this will help to boost the U.S. industrial economy?

In the beginning of July, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $33 million contract for four miles of border wall work in Texas. Environmental regulations including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Archaeological Resources Protection Act, among others, for this section of work, were waived. Do you think this is the best policy to speed up the construction?

In June, ground broke on the $2 billion, 170-mile passenger South Florida Rail Project, which will connect Orlando and South Florida. Expected to remove 3 million cars from Florida roadways between the points of travel, do you believe the infrastructure will pay for itself?

In June, Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis went on record to say that Pittsburgh’s International Airport couldn’t afford to not rehabilitate the facility. Although PIT only sees a fraction of annual passengers since its opening in 1992 (from 38 million to 8 million), do you agree that a $783.8M project—that includes decreasing the size and upgrading the terminals—is necessary?

The Florida Department of Transportation recently released information on an $802M infrastructure plan slated to take place in Miami over the next four years. The project involves a new six-arch bridge and rehabilitation to three major highways, all slated to be constructed at the same time. With holidays, weather, special events and unforeseen circumstances all taken into account, do you think the project will be successfully completed by fall 2023?

Plans were released for what Canada is dubbing the “world’s tallest hybrid building.” With more architects and design-build contractors choosing timber for green building standards, do you think more cities should be following this model for reducing greenhouse gas emissions?

Just last month Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak signed Assembly Bill 136 and Senate Bill 231 into law. Bill 136 lowers the prevailing wage threshold amount for public projects and restores the prevailing wage for workers on those projects to 100% and Bill 231 removes language that prohibits contractors and subcontractors from entering into agreements with labor organizations while working on public projects. Do you think this will successfully help those working in construction unions reach economic recovery?

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, along with the city’s Department of Buildings, announced just last month that there would be major updates taking effect in the city’s building code, including reducing barriers to cost-effective construction and developing a wider range of materials and technologies. The changes represent the first major revisions to the standard in 70 years. Do you think other cities are in need of these kinds of upgrades?

Tragedy struck Paris last month when the Notre Dame Cathedral caught fire, which destroyed the spire and two-thirds of the wooden roof. Since the incident, an international competition has been launched in efforts to recreate the spire and damaged areas, slated to be built by 2024. Do you think it’s possible that a design can be chosen and completed in this short five-year time frame?

Late last month, Saudi Arabia firm Elite for Construction & Development Company purchased The Bod 2, a modular gantry-based 3D construction printer. With the ability to produce buildings 12-by-27-by-9 meters, as well as three-story structures of 300 square meters per floor, do you think other commercial-based companies could benefit from having a similar system?

Late last month, North Dakota-based contractor claimed that his company could build 234 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border wall for $1.4 billion, a fraction of the funding requested by the president. Do you think that we will see other companies speaking up to compete for a cheaper solution?

Last month, Elon Musk and The Boring Company announced its plans for an underground express tunnel in Las Vegas. With various tunnels already completed and others still in the making, none are officially up and running. How soon do you think passengers will be able to experience this hyperloop travel?

In March, the EPA issued a final rule to prohibit the manufacture and importing, processing and distribution of methylene chloride in all paint removers for consumer use, but not for contractors and professionals. Based on the number of health risks, medical claims and even deaths, do you think this is fair to workers who will have to continue to work with the common chemical?

Recently, an opening ceremony was held for the debut of New York City’s $25 billion Hudson Yards development, which includes a 150-foot-tall interactive centerpiece dubbed "the Vessel." Do you think other U.S. cities will be inspired to start building more innovative structures?

Researchers from Michigan State University plan to add more data-tracking sensors to the Mackinac Bridge. With progression of the prototypes since 2016, do you think this kind of technology will make its way to assist the preservation/management of other bridge structures?

Border wall prototypes (worth $3 million) were recently demolished, after serving their purpose for the Trump administration. With an additional $20 million used to pay for prototypes and smaller mock-ups by the Dept. of Homeland Security in 2017, which have also since been dismantled, do you think the extensive testing period will pay for itself in the years after the final structure is complete?

With China’s Crystal skybridge (also known as a "horizontal skyscraper," which connects several high rises) set to open later this year, do you think we will see other dense cities making use of connecting their existing structures in the sky for more commercial and residential space?

Aldermen in Evanston, Illinois, recently declined to paint a rail bridge that reportedly does not belong to the city; the bridge belongs to the Union Pacific railroad company. Do you think the company should be held accountable for the bridge's appearance?

Swiss chemicals company Sika is interested in buying a portion of BASF’s $3 billion construction chemicals business, which will reportedly be up for sale this month. Do you think this is a good move?

Authorities for Honolulu’s Aloha Stadium are seeking $30 million from the state to make repairs to the facility, saying they’d like to get the structure in “preventative maintenance mode.” Do you think preventative maintenance on a structure like this is feasible?

The company—which gets about $4 billion in incentives—behind a $10 billion Wisconsin project is now unsure what kind of facility they’re going to put on the property. Do you think large incentives are appropriate for construction projects like this one?

Officials have proposed a new fix for San Francisco’s sinking Millennium Tower, that involves drilling piles into bedrock from the sidewalk on the building’s southwest corner, instead of the micro piles going into the bedrock through the concrete foundation. Do you think this is a better option?

Over the past few weeks, a number of announcements regarding multi-billion-dollar infrastructure projects have been made. Do you think such large-scale projects will become the norm in the future?

Mexico City’s new $13.3 billion airport—which is about one-third complete—was officially scrapped following a public referendum which ended in 70 percent voting to cancel construction. Have you ever had to stop in the middle of a project?

Earlier this month, China announced the opening of the world's longest sea-crossing bridge, which connects Hong Kong, Zuhai and Macao. Do you think more countries will invest in such large-scale projects in the future?

Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that any environmental regulations regarding the construction or repair of a section of U.S.-Mexico border wall for certain areas in Texas would be waived. Do you think waiving environmental regulations in this context will have a negative impact long-term?

University of Sheffield researchers recently identified new structural forms for bridges that involve a one- and three- spoke design, allowing for the construction of very long-span bridges in locations where traditional bridges aren't tenable. Do you think long-span bridges will be a crucial part of global infrastructure?

The state of Massachusetts has set aside funds in the budget to help home owners deal with crumbling foundations as a result of pyrrhotite-tainted concrete. Do you think the state should be doing more to help?

NASA recently revealed the finalists for its latest Mars habitat design competition. Is it worth our time and money to work on structures to house people on Mars?

Maryland was the latest state to pass legislation that holds general contractors accountable for wages unpaid by subcontractors. Do you think this practice should become common law in all 50 states?

Mercedes-Benz Stadium officials say that the one-of-a-kind retractable roof on Atlanta’s $1.5 billion sports venue is finished, about 11 months after the building opened to the public. Do you think the intricate design of the roof was worth the multiple construction delays it caused?

A recent industry roundtable discussing facade maintenance cited access point maintenance as an issue that building owners need to be more aware of. Do you agree?

The Eiffel Tower is due for its latest coat of paint, and French officials are debating bringing the monument back to its original color, a bright red. What color do you think it should be?

Last month, a developer demolished a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building in Montana, prompting outrage from building conservancy groups. Do you think the developer had a right to demolish the building?

The seventh stadium under construction for the 2022 FIFA World Cup will be the world’s first modular stadium, made of shipping containers, allowing it to be disassembled and reassembled practically anywhere. Do you think this type of stadium construction will catch on?

In November, archaeologists indicated that the remains of more than 400 human skeletons had been removed from a city construction site. Have you ever run into anything bizarre on a job site?

A “Live Stadium Cam” has been set up so that those interested can watch the construction of the new NFL Raiders stadium in Las Vegas, which broke ground in mid-November. Do you think there is value in live streaming construction?

California recently passed the “Buy Clean California Act,” requiring state contractors to use materials with low carbon impact. Are laws like this a positive step?

Local government officials in Rome have enacted an ordinance that heavily restricts automotive traffic on the boulevard next to the Colosseum after extensive cleaning and restoration work that was recently completed. Architects have said that the traffic was a major reason for the amount of soot and grime that had to be cleaned off the historic structure. Do you think more historic sites should limit traffic?

Two wood-framed buildings under construction were destroyed in separate fires in Boston last month. Some officials are now considering stricter rules with the all-wood building method that’s gaining in popularity. Is this a good idea?

A global group focused on infrastructure recently reported that the world will need to step up its spending in the next 20 years in order to keep up with the demand for new infrastructure and fixes to what already exists. Will world governments and private investors heed this call?

The mayor of Philadelphia has created a task force to tackle saving the city’s historic buildings and updating preservation guidelines. Do you think having this committee will be effective?

Some local and state governments have moved to punish contractors involved with the potential construction of President Trump’s Mexican border wall by denying them contracts. Is this a fair move?

Which new technology will have the greatest impact on the bridge coating business in the next 25 years?

Architects and preservationists in Washington D.C. criticized the Transit Authority for painting the Metro’s historic, brutalist vault at Union Station white. Do you think this was a justified uproar?

A recently constructed roadway in Ireland includes a “bat bridge,” to help maintain the flight path of a threatened species of native bat. What do you think of these kinds of infrastructure investments for the benefit of wildlife?

Manufacturers are increasingly using robots to perform repetitive tasks to save time and money. Is this a serious threat to the construction work force?

The new Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge in Big Sur, California, will be constructed using the “roller launch” or “bridge launch” method. Are you familiar with this method of bridge construction?

Federal lawmakers have reintroduced a bill that aims to bolster construction of high-rise wood buildings in the U.S. Opponents argue the measure puts the government in the position of promoting one building material over the others. Do you support this measure?

The Federal Highway Administration is researching augmented reality, an immersive technology that allows a user to see virtual computer-generated images mixed with their actual surroundings in real time, for use on construction sites. Do you think this is a good or bad idea?

A recent climate-change readiness report in Boston includes the possible construction of a seawall in Boston Harbor to guard the city from rising waters. Will new sea barriers be a more common infrastructure project worldwide in the coming decades?

D+D blogger and specification expert Bob Bailey writes that the increased use of delegated design in construction projects has sparked questions over responsibility. Have your projects incorporated delegated design?

Recently Greenpeace protesters were able to access a construction site crane to hang a large poster in Washington D.C. How secure is your construction jobsite?

Construction spending patterns vary among public and private segments. Which segment do you think will show the most promise this year?

Some subcontractors working on the new hockey arena in Detroit are facing fines for not hiring enough local workers; contractors have said they simply can't find skilled help in the area. Are local-hiring mandates on big jobs like this a good idea, or unfair?

How often should building codes be revised to stay abreast of any significant building or energy efficient practices?

FEMA has proposed new rules that require new construction that uses federal money, including roads and bridges, to build at higher elevations, to mitigate flood-related risks. Is this the best way to address potential flood dangers?

A recent report issued by the CDC found that construction workers appear in the top five on a list of occupations with the highest suicide rates. What do you think is the cause?

Starting Oct. 25, contractors seeking federal contracts over $500,000 will be required to disclose any civil and administrative proceedings against them violations of any of 14 listed workplace protections in the past three years. Do you agree with this action?

A recent survey found that less than 10 percent of Millennials are interested in working in construction, retail or manufacturing careers. What would help the construction industry attract these workers?

When renovating an old structure, like a ship, where does the responsibility for informing workers about possible lead exposure lie?

When do you hire a consultant?

During the winter and holiday season, how much is your workload affected?

Who should be responsible for paying for lead-based paint abatement?

Legislators have introduced a bill that would allow homeowners without small children or pregnant women to decide whether to require contractors to comply with EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule regarding lead-safe practices. Good idea or bad idea?

California regularly sets up “stings” of unlicensed contractors by posing as homeowners, soliciting bids for projects that require licenses, then arresting the individuals. What do you think of this strategy?

Florida is weighing a seven-year statute of limitations on lawsuits over construction defects. What time limit should exist for filing suit over construction defects after a project is completed?

Indiana has scrapped its 80-year-old system for setting minimum wages on major public-works projects. What do you say?

A Chinese company has just built a 57-story skyscraper in 19 days from prefab components. Would you live in it?

The owner of a nationally protected mansion in the UK is facing a prison term for modernizing the home in violation of the law. Does the punishment fit the crime?

Many ex-offenders work for construction firms. Should project owners be allowed to dictate whether these, or other contractor employees, may work on a project?

Florida wants to again tighten the statute of limitations for suing over construction defects, even for public works construction. How long should builders, developers and contractors be on the hook for their work?

A Chinese company has 3D-printed a five-story apartment building. Would you live in it?

The Urban Death Project, led by an architect, is proposing a three-story human composting operation that would turn "bodies into soil-building material." What do you think of this idea?

Winter storms have wreaked havoc with buildings throughout the U.S. Northeast. How much snow and ice accumulation do you allow on your rooftops before removing or melting it?

Los Angeles officials are weighing an ordinance that would require property owners to quakeproof thousands of vulnerable buildings within the next 30 years. Good plan?

M/W/DBE fraud has been widely reported lately. What's the best way to address that problem?

U.S. construction activity was up about 7 percent from 2013 to 2014. What do you see for 2015?

Overall, how do you feel about the year ahead for your company or your position?

How are you shopping for the holidays this year?

Several contractors have been busted for using MBE/DBE-certified firms as “pass-throughs” to gain government contracts. How common do you think this practice is?

San Francisco has slapped "Earthquake Warning" labels on buildings whose owners are not complying with a new retrofit program. Owners are crying foul. What do you think?

Who, in your experience, is usually the weakest link in the project team?

The U.S. Highway Trust Fund is set to go broke in August. What should Congress do?

Who, in your experience, tends most often to be the weakest link in the project team?

The building industry is under pressure to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. What’s the best way to do that?

What should a builder do if he or she encounters design or specification issues that may affect a building’s integrity or performance?

What is your general opinion of local historical commissions?

What architectural energy improvements do you believe offer the best bang for the buck?

California regulators fined and halted a $6.34M drywall project because the contractor had no license, although he had applied four months earlier. What do you think?

California is weighing a bill that would hold contractors liable for wages, taxes and workers comp shortchanged by subcontractors and temp agencies. Good idea or bad idea?

What aspect of building performance and aesthetics most interests you?

What industry economic indicators do you follow most closely?

Generally speaking, do you think that constructing Olympic and World Cup venues is worth the investment?

New research calls construction fraud an epidemic with many forms. What do you think?

A California architect who improperly built a home with outdoor fireplaces installed inside has been sentenced to a year in prison for involuntary manslaughter after a house fire killed a firefighter. Does the penalty fit?

What’s been your experience with the bidding climate of the last 12 months?

The world’s largest labor group accuses Qatar of near-slavery treatment of World Cup 2022 construction workers. What should World Cup sponsor FIFA do?

Whom do you hold most responsible for the U.S. budget impasse and government shutdown?

What type of information/articles in Durability + Design Magazine would be of most value to you?

The U.S. has removed limits on the value of contracts that may be set aside for women-owned small businesses. What do you think?

Three years after it was implemented, what’s your impression of compliance with the residential Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule?

The U.S. government looks likely to endorse LEED as the green building standard for all federal buildings for the next five years. Will this affect you?

The U.S. has removed limits on the value of contracts that may be set aside for women-owned small businesses. Is this a good move?

Experts say more lives could be saved in tornado-prone regions by building codes and ordinances that mandate basements and sheltering spaces. What do you think?

The buyer of a foreclosed, century-old home sold for $3,600 was awarded $115,000 because she did not receive an EPA lead notice. Who should be responsible for such notifications?

Overall, who do you think makes the better managers on construction projects?

What is the biggest health and safety challenge facing construction, remodeling and painting-contractor companies?

Whom do you blame most for the prolonged recession in the construction industry?

When do you expect the construction industry to experience strong growth?

SSPC has developed a qualification procedure and certification program for commercial painting contractors, SSPC-QP 9, which requires on-site audits at the contractor’s office and work sites. What is likely to be the most significant result of this initiative?

How do you see the construction industry in 2012?

What were the biggest news developments for the design, construction and contracting industries this past year?

What is the best strategy to create jobs in construction?

According to recent real estate forecasts, it will take 3-4 more years to work through the glut of foreclosed properties. What does this mean for the construction and coating industries?

What percentage of contractors will notify facility owners of the potential lead paint hazards and will then test for lead when required for renovation activities under the new RRP rule?

How will the new divided U.S. government affect the recovery in housing and commercial construction in 2011-2012?

What is your biggest challenge as a painting contractor in this down economy?

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