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By definition, serendipity is finding something good when you weren't necessarily looking for it, and I'd say our 15th issue landing in your inbox on the 15th feels like it fits the bill pretty well. Coincidence? Maybe. I'm choosing to believe it was meant to be (and we'll just quietly ignore what else today happens to be 😉 cough Tax Day cough)
It's easy to overlook those unexpected moments that potentially lead to something even better. An introduction that turns into a partnership, a project that opens new doors (literally and figuratively), or a connection that's the essential missing piece. That's part of MBEX's secret sauce. We're here to help create opportunities for more of those "didn't see that coming, but glad it did" happenings. Here's hoping a few serendipitous meetings happen later today at the Spring Social 😎
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Five Quick Things To Know & Do This Week:
1.) Plan Room Training - Grab a hot cup of coffee (or tea, or whatever suits your morning routine) and join us this Thursday (April 16) for our next Online Plan Room Demo. Get an overview of the platform's basics, tips on how to best set up project search filters, options for viewing project plans and specs, and more.
2.) Concrete Certification - The American Concrete Institute (ACI) has released a new certificate program called Low-Carbon Concrete: Quantification, Design and Compliance, which provides a structured introduction to how carbon considerations are integrated into modern concrete design, material selection, specification, and construction, while maintaining required performance, durability, and constructability.
3.) Mergers & Acquisitions - Mortenson has acquired Nor-Cal Controls, a controls systems provider specializing in energy management control systems for solar, battery energy storage, and micro-grid applications, according to a news release published on the company's website on April 8.
4.) Products & Materials - Spanning sectors from multi-family housing and healthcare to transportation and commercial interiors, March's roundup features 15 innovative AEC products, such as an air-to-water heat pump HVAC system (Mitsubishi Electric Train ecodanPro), a smart commercial access control lock (Assa Abloy Accentra nexTouch Keypad Lock), and a space-saving fire door motor system (Clopay AlarmGuard Conceal Motor Operator).
5.) No More Clucking Around - At last, we can rest easy knowing the chicken did cross the road and he did it following OSHA guidelines.
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Inside Issue No. 10:
• Young Professionals: Why you should register for YPN on May 5
• Workplace Updates: Seven key developments to address yet in April
• New Members: Who joined MBEX throughout the month of March
• MPFA Funding: Fifteen Minnesota cities receive $197-million for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects
• Upcoming Events: Online Bluebeam Revu training courses (5/5-5/7); Member Appreciation BBQ (6/2 - save the date!); and annual Twin Cities Golf Tournament in Stillwater (6/16)
• Five Headlines: Materials prices surge largely due to crude oil prices in March; Tariff refunds estimated to take 45 days for processing; Outdated state and local rules delay geothermal energy development; New executive order on federal contracting DEI initiatives; & Minnesota announces its 2026 $1.5-billion construction program
• Project of the Week: U of M seeks designers for Malcolm Moos Health Sciences Tower renovation projects
• Industry Event: Blatnik Bridge: Creating a Compelling Capabilities Statement - Thursday, April 16 - Online Meeting (Live) - Presented by the Minnesota Department of Administration: Apex Accelerator
• Project Download: Updated project information for the week of April 6-10
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Not Your Typical "Networking Event"
Why You Should Join Us on May 6 for our Next YPN Event
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Hey, young construction pros --- this one's for you.
Honestly, most "networking events" don't scream must attend. But the MBEX Young Professionals Network (YPN) event taking place on May 6 is a little different.
This one's built for people just like you, who are still figuring things out, building their careers, and looking to meet others in the same boat. No stiff agendas, no pressure; just a solid chance to connect with other young pros from across the construction industry who understand what your day-to-day looks like.
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Date: Wednesday, May 6
Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: RJM Construction
(830 Boone Avenue North, Golden Valley, Minn., 55427)
Cost: $20 per person (includes entry, drinks, and appetizers)
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Whether you're new to the field or have a few years under your belt, this is an event to have real conversations (the kind where you pick up tips and ask those burning questions), hear how others are navigating their roles, and maybe even walk away with a few ideas you can use on the job the next day.
Why It's Worth Showing Up
We may be a tad bit biased towards our own event, but here are a handful of reasons why it's worth attending this, and other, events:
• You'll meet people at your level. Not just professionals who've been steadily working in the industry for close to a decade, but others who are in the same stages of their career.
• You'll likely learn something useful. From quick tips to "wish I knew that sooner" advice.
• It's low pressure. Come as you are, no expectations, no awkward formalities.
• Get more comfortable putting yourself out there. This is a skill that will come in handy throughout the entirety of your career.
• It's a break from the usual routine (and a good one, if we can toot our own horn for a couple more seconds 😉).
If you've been meaning to get more involved with MBEX or the larger construction community, meet more people, or see what YPN is about, this is a great place to start.
| | | Shoutout to Rouzer Group for being this event's Beverage Sponsor! If you'd also like to sponsor this upcoming event, sign up for your sponsorship of choice when registering attendees for the event. You can also contact Melanie at melanie@mbex.org or (612) 381-2628. | | |
Seven Essential Workplace Items to Review This Month
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Here at MBEX, we aim to help our members stay ahead of the changes shaping our industry, including the labor and employment rule updates released by the current administration.
With rules changing quickly (and sometimes without much warning), staying compliant takes a bit of planning and a good heads-up on what actually matters.
Below is a quick rundown of key developments that took place in March and early April, along with a checklist of the essential items to consider addressing in the coming weeks.
1.) Audit Your Employee Benefits Practices
In honor of National Employee Benefits Month, you may want to review these eight key HIPPA compliance items for businesses with self-insured health plans.
2.) Track the Latest News from the Federal Government
There have been recent and significant federal developments that should cause you to review your policies and practices this month:
• The DOL General Counsel announced that the agency will shift the focus of its investigation resources to non-union workplaces and promised maximum compliance assistance. Here are the memo's important points your business should know.
• The NLRB General Counsel issued new guidance on work rules, raising questions about whether employee handbook rules will changes again. Here are 5 steps employers should consider taking.
• The DOJ released a self-disclosure policy employers can use to avoid criminal persecution. Read the 4 key takeaways from the March 10 announcement.
• The White House revealed a new cyber strategy on March 6 aimed at reducing regulations and protecting Americans from cyber criminals. Learn more about how these latest publications could impact your business.
3.) Prepare for Changes to DEI Requirements for Certain Businesses
An executive order was issued on March 26 requiring federal contractors to agree not to engage in racially discriminatory DEI activities and to take certain compliance steps. (Check out another news story below in 'Headlines' for an even deeper dive.)
Additionally, if you receive federal grants or financial assistance, you should prepare for potential changes to DEI and immigration requirements affecting those relationships.
4.) Update Your Workplace Violence Prevention Plan
April is Workplace Violence Prevention Month, making it a good time to assess whether your current policies and procedures are up to date. Here's what you need to know and steps you can take to keep your staff and customers safe.
5.) Stay Ahead of How AI is Transforming the Workplace
• Learn more on how to manage risk when using AI for employee performance management.
• Prepare for litigation risks tied to AI chat histories as courts begin to split on whether they are protected by the attorney-client privilege or work-product doctrine.
6.) Review your Privacy Compliance Plan as Things Evolve at a Rapid Pace
Here's the latest:
• Businesses got a major win in a CIPA (California Invasion of Privacy Act) case, which signals higher hurdles for privacy plaintiffs. Here's what you can do to protect your organization.
• California courts are creating confusion in digital tracking cases. Here's how businesses can navigate conflicting rulings.
7.) Catch Up on DOL's Independent Contractor Proposal
At the end of February, the U.S. Department of Labor released a highly anticipated proposal that would soon modernize its approach to determining whether a worker is an independent contractor or employee under federal wage laws. This proposal will make it easier for businesses to engage with independent contractors (including freelancers and gig workers) while providing clearer lines on what aspects of the working relationship can trigger employee status. Here's everything you need to know and 4 steps you can take to be fully prepared.
| | | The information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered as legal advice. MBEX strongly recommends consulting with an attorney or legal advisor before taking any actions based on its content. | | |
Meet MBEX's Newest Members
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March kept things moving with 24 (24!) new companies joining MBEX network, and that’s a strong sign heading into the busy season!
These new members are jumping in at the right time, whether to chase new project leads, build out their networks, or get more plugged into the Midwest commercial construction scene. And as always, every new company adds something valuable to the mix. More expertise, more connections, and more opportunities for members to do business together.
Help us give a warm MBEX welcome to the latest companies to join:
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Public Facilities Authority Announces $197M in Awards
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The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (MPFA) announced $197.6-million in loans and grants for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects in 15 cities throughout the state.
Projects and MPFA funding amounts are listed below. Funding details for each project are available on the MPFA website.
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Alexandria Lake Area Sanitary District - $51,000,000
The project will install a new equalization basin and membrane bioreactors, replace the preliminary treatment and the disinfection system, and upgrade the solids treatment process.
Durmont - $1,040,000
The project will add improvements to the aging sanitary sewer system infrastructure.
Floodwood - $1,500,000
The project will install new water mains.
Hibbing Public Utilities Commission - $6,500,000
The project will replace an aging water main.
International Falls - $13,876,914
The project will rehabilitate a water treatment plant.
Le Sueur - $6,394,877
The project will update transition and distribution systems to address adding and undersized infrastructure on Cathcart Street from Commerce Street to North 4th Street an on North 4th Street from Bridge Street to Dakota Street.
Lincoln-Pipestone Rural Water System - $2,500,000
The project will design and construct contact basin, water storage, and water treatment facility improvements in Fortier Township.
Medford - $4,500,000
The project will connect the city of Medford's sanitary sewer collection system to the city of Owatonna's treatment system. Medford's water treatment plant will be demolished after the project's completion.
Metropolitan Council - $44,000,000
Cash flow financing for Metropolitan Council wastewater capital improvement projects.
Minneapolis - $4,500,000
Predesign and design for drinking water water distribution.
Mound - $10,300,000
Predesign, design, and construction of drinking water infrastructure.
Park Rapids - $151,514
The project will replace existing lead service lines with copper lines.
Red Rock Rural Water System - $1,252,000
The project will install ground storage reservoirs for Jeffers and Cottonwood Counties.
Sandstone - $472,545
The project will add a new chemical system to the existing wastewater pond treatment center.
Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (Duluth) - $49,641,431
The funding will support four projects: completion of a bypassing flow from the Knowlton Creek force main; a Lakeside neighborhood concrete interceptor pipe rehabilitation; removal and replacement of four 160-foot final clarifiers at the wastewater treatment plant; and completion of the Clarton Pump Station change order.
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The MPFA helps cities replace aging infrastructure and make system improvements to protect public health and improve water quality.
The MPFA also provides funding to local governments to build infrastructure for clean water, drinking water, and transportation infrastructure projects. Funding for these projects primarily comes from the MPFA's Clean Water Revolving Fund (CWRF) and the Drinking Water Revolving Fund (DWRF).
| | | Since its inception in 1987, the MPFA has provided nearly $7.6-billion for public infrastructure programs statewide, impacting almost every community in Minnesota. | | | |
A valuable benefit of an MBEX membership is invitations to our social and educational events; by being an employee of a member company, you, too, can take advantage and attend any and all MBEX-sponsored events.
** indicates a newly added or updated event
April 16 - Online Plan Room Demo - Register by 12:30pm on April 15
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Register
April 30 & May 1 - Minnesota Construction Teacher Conference
This two-day conference engages secondary and post-secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators of the construction trades in cutting-edge professional development supported by the industry. Learn More
May 5 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
This session teaches attendees how to navigate menus, toolbars, panels, shortcuts, and key settings. Attendees will also get hands-on with markup and measurement tools, plus insider tips that boost speed, accuracy, and proficiency. Sign Up
May 6 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
This session introduces standard measurement tools and markup customization options to help convert highlighters into powerful takeoff tools. With emphasis on the Markups List and workflow tips, this session helps estimators improve speed and accuracy from day one. Sign Up
May 7 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
Learn to create custom columns, embed formulas, organize information, and export or live-link Excel templates. Sign Up
** May 21 - Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Not yet open for registration
May 25 - Memorial Day - MBEX Closed
MBEX will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday. We will return to regular business hours on Tuesday, May 26.
June 2 - Save the Date - Member Appreciation BBQ
Join MBEX's Board of Directors and staff over lunch so we can show our membership our appreciation for their continued and on-going support. Lunch will be catered by Famous Dave's, and this year's BBQ will be hosted at The Builders Group in Eagan.
June 16 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
An annual summer event that offers fantastic opportunities for members to enjoy a day of golf, networking, and camaraderie at the Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater. Enjoy lunch, 18 holes of golf, a post-game happy hour, dinner, and a program that includes team awards, raffle winners, and door prize giveaways. Register
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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MATERIALS PRICES
🛢️ Oil Prices Contribute to March Surge in Construction Materials Prices
Construction input prices increased 2.2% in March compared to the previous month, according to an ABC analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Produce Price Index data released on April 14. Nonresidential construction input prices increased 2.3% for the month. Natural gas and unprocessed energy materials were down 51.7% and 7.7%, respectively, while crude petroleum prices were up 20.2% last month. (Associated Builders & Contractors)
TARIFFS
🗓️ CBP's Tariff Refund Process Will Take Up to 45 Days to Deliver Returns
U.S. Custom and Border Protection (CPB) will provide refunds for defunct Trump administration tariffs only after entries have liquidated, according to a filing with the Court of International Trade made on March 31. The agency estimates that there will be an up to 45-day window between when an entry is accepted by the new system and when liquidation, and thus refund delivery, is completed. The agency also said it would accept entries liquidated in the previous 80 days and reliquidate by the 90th day.(Supply Chain Dive)
GEOTHERMAL | SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
♨️ Next-Generation Geothermal Needs More Than a Technology Revolution
Geothermal energy is on the cusp of a renaissance in the U.S. But outdated and piecemeal rules could delay development of the around-the-clock, carbon-free energy source.Today, permitting requirements are fragmented and can vary at the state and local levels, a reflection of the modest role geothermal has historically played in America's energy sector. However, next-generation technologies are promising to unleash development in areas where harnessing Earth's heat was previously too difficult or expensive. (Canary Media)
FEDERAL CONTRACTING
🤔 DEI Crackdown: New Executive Order Reshapes Compliance Obligations for Federal Contractors
On March 26, an executive order was issues titled "Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors," signaling a meaningful shift in how the federal government views and regulates diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices. The executive order reflects the administration's concern that certain DEI initiatives may involve unlawful disparate treatment, particularly on the basis of race and ethnicity. While the EO does not change existing federal anti-discrimination law, it significantly alters the compliance landscape for federal contractors, elevating DEI issues from internal policy matters to contractual and enforcement risks. (J.D. Supra | Freeman Mathis & Gary)
HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION | MINNESOTA
🛣️ Minnesota Launches $1.5B Highway Construction Program for 2026
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) announced its 2026 construction program on March 31, outlining more than 200 state highway and bridge projects along with 51 additional efforts targeting airports, water ports, railroad crossings and transit facilities across the state. Among the highest-profile items are the conclusion of the $377-million Interstate 494 reconstruction between Edina and Richfield, which is one of the largest single projects in MnDOT's history, and the start of a $200-million, four-year overhaul of Highway 65 in Blaine. The project will convert four signalized intersections into grade-separated interchanges. (Government Market News)
| | U of M Seeks Designers for Dentistry School Renovation | | |
Read more on Minneapolis - St. Paul Business Journal
The University of Minnesota is seeking designers for a major renovation of its dental facilities at the Malcolm Moos Health Sciences Tower, home to the university's School of Dentistry.
A request for proposals for architectural and engineering services was published last week for the project on Minnesota's State Designer Selection Board. The cost of construction is estimated at $105-million, according to the filing.
The renovation would add new technology, such as 3D printing labs, and add more teaching and clinical space, letting the school expand its training capacity.
Moos Tower, a 17-story Brutalist structure built in the early 1970s, is located at 515 Delaware Street Southeast on the U of M's East Bank campus.
The building hasn't undergone a major physical renovation since the mid-1970s, the university says in its 2026 capital request for state funding. They are seeking $100-million from the state for the project.
Proposals are due April 27, and the school hopes to pick a team by late May.
Track this project inside the Online Plan Room:
- Project ID: 2026-07D0
- Category: Educational
- Type: Remodeling
- Phase: Pre-Bid - No A/E
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Blatnik Bridge: Creating a Compelling Capabilities Statement
Presented by Minnesota Department of Administration - APEX Accelerator
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DATE: Thursday, April 16
TIME: 11:30am - 12:30pm
LOCATION: Online Meeting (Live)
COST: Free
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This session will cover what a Capabilities Statement is, what to include, and why small businesses should have one ready when meeting prime contractors. It's a simple, one-page tool that helps quickly introduce your business, highlights your strengths, and make a strong impression when pitching your services.
Training Topics include Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness, Selling to Government, and Small Disadvantaged Businesses.
Questions can be directed to Dallas Apfelbacher at dallas.apfelbacher@state.mn.us.
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• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 4/6/2026 - 4/10/2026: 106
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 4/6/2026 - 4/10/2026: 17
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 4/14/2026: 469
• Total 2026 Projects posted to the Online Plan Room as of 4/14/2026: 2,084
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 4/8/2026 - 4/14/2026.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
Notice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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UPCOMING MBEX EVENTS
• April 16 - Online Plan Room Demo
• April 30 & May 1 - Minnesota Construction Teacher Conference
• May 5 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
• May 6 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
• May 6 - Young Professionals Network (YPN)
• May 7 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
• May 21 - Online Plan Room Demo
• May 25 - Memorial Day - MBEX Closed
• June 2 - Member Appreciation BBQ
• June 16 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
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Information within the MBEX Weekly Bulletin are obtained from sources deemed reliable. The Midwest Builders Exchange (MBEX) does not assume responsibility for its completeness or accuracy. You are urged to check your own sources in addition to the information contained in this publication. This issue contains plans and other bidding information received prior to and including the date noted above. The project data within this newsletter is intended for member company's and their employees use only.
2026 BOARD OFFICERS: President - Brian Kalla, St. Cloud Acoustics; Vice President - Sean Ochis, Northern Industrial Insulation; Treasurer - Allie Brady, Veit USA; Past President - Heidi Sedlacek, Associated General Contractors of Minnesota
2026 DIRECTORS: Kevin Bohrer, Donlar Construction; Ben Bowman, Adolfson & Peterson; David Brandt, Schadegg Mechanical; Matt Lennartson, RJM Construction; Chris Niemand, Frattalone Companies; Jason Rentmeester, Kraus-Anderson Construction; Harry Rothstein, Weidner's Mechanical Contractors; Jim Rothstein, Erickson Electric; and Alanna Soukkala, Holden Insurance Agency.
MBEX STAFF: David Siegel - Executive Director; Julie Miller - Executive Assistant / Project Coordinator / Accounting; Ashlee Hartwig - Membership & Communications Director; Melanie Hendrickson - Events & Membership Coordinator; Jeff Boelter - Project Acquisition & Plan Room Support; Shauna Baska - Project Reporter & Bidders Lists; Ka Yang - Addenda & Apparent Lows; Peggy Esboldt, Madison Gentil & Michelle Siegel - Project Reporters; Don O'Connor - Independent Event Planning Contractor
You are receiving this email because you are employed by a current member company in good standing or have indicated you wanted to receive MBEX's Weekly Bulletin. Unsubscribe from the Weekly Bulletin
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