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Issue No. 18 β’ Wednesday, May 1, 2024 β’ www.mbex.org | |
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Five Quick Things To Know/Do This Week:
1.) Email this flyer regarding the 2024-2025 MBEX / TBG Construction Scholarship to all future constructors you know (application deadline is May 31).
2.) Take a coffee break and read the second issue of MBEX Blueprint.
3.) Watch where you dig; you might uncover an ancient settlement.
4.) Register to join Ron Wirtz (Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis) on May 21 where he'll share the results from the April survey conducted regarding activity levels, challenges, overall conditions, and an outlook of the construction sector across the Ninth District.
5.) Be careful when you put revision clouds on your drawings.
A building contractor recently told us that plans for the new skyscraper were up in the air. We weren't sure if he was joking or being serious.
IN BRIEF:
β’ Upcoming: Register for an upcoming MBEX event in June
β’ Calculating: How the new prevailing wage will impact construction labor costs
β’ Peek Inside: Preview the March / April issue of the Pre-Plan Pipeline
β’ Ch-ch-changes: How 'noncompete' agreements & overtime pay could affect workers
β’ 2024 Outlook Check-In, the First-of-its-Kind Decarbonization Playbook, and Los Angeles' Cool Pavement Experiment: Five construction-related headlines to know now
β’ Project of the Week: Rezoning being sought for $45M mixed-use project in St. Paul
β’ NPP Member Benefit: Save on Verizon monthly access fees
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MBEX Events Coming in June | |
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Join us for an exciting June filled with networking and learning opportunities!
We're kicking off the month with a few Bluebeam courses, taught by Troy DeGroot with UChapter2, that will teach members / attendees how to begin using the popular construction program. Next up is our annual Member Appreciation BBQ, a perfect chance to connect with fellow members and enjoy lunch on MBEX. Mid-month is our annual Twin Cities Golf Tournament at Oak Glen in Stillwater, where members will also have a plethora of networking opportunities as well as an afternoon of fun out on the greens. The end of the month bring us to the second MBEX POWER workshop, Women, Money and Happiness, led once again by Nicole Middendorf.
These events are tailored to help our members grow their network and knowledge. Don't miss out!
Further details for each event can be found below:
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Member Appreciation BBQ
β’ Wednesday, June 5
β’ MBEX Office (Minneapolis, Minn.)
β’ 11:00am-1:30pm
Each member receives 2 complimentary tickets.
Additional can be purchased for $20 each.
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Twin Cities Golf Tournament
β’ Thursday, June 18
β’ Oak Glen Golf Course (Stillwater, Minn.)
β’ Registration opens @ 10:30am, Shotgun start @ 12:30pm
$160 per golfer (max. of4 golfers per team). Single and pairs golfers welcome!
Sponsorships also available. View here
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MBEX POWER:
Women, Money & Happiness
β’ Wednesday, June 26
β’ 7:30am-9:00am
β’ The Coven (St. Paul, Minn.)
β’ Free!
Coffee and light breakfast goodies will be provided. Open to all women in construction and allies of women in construction.
*Registration opening May 15
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Federal Mandates Include New Prevailing Wage Calculation | |
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Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, two pivotal changes in federal construction labor dynamics are likely to exacerbate the increasing cost structure.
The first is the mandate of Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) for all federally funded projects exceeding $35-million in contract value, as decreed by an Executive Order in February 2022. PLAs are known to potentially inflate project labor costs by 12%-20%. Considering that approximately 40% of the $34-billion federal construction budget may be affected by PLAs, contractors are bracing for a widespread impact on labor costs.
The second significant change involves the Department of Labor's overhaul of the Davis-Bacon Act in 2023. This revision reinstated the "3-step process" for calculating prevailing wages, which has previously been a "2-step process" for over 40 years.
Since 1983, prevailing wage has been calculated using only two steps:
1.) The wage rate paid to a majority of workers in the classification; or
2.) If no rate is paid to at least 50% of workers, then the weighted average rate in the classification.
By reinstating the 3-step process, the prevailing wage is calculated as follows:
1.) The wage rate paid to a majority of workers in the classification, or
2.) If no majority exists, the rate paid to 30% of workers, or
3.) If no rate paid to at least 30% of that classification's workers, then the weighted averaged in the classification.
The overhaul also changed the mechanisms by which urban and rural wages are differentiated and updated between survey releases.
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With an estimated 1.2-million workers in the construction industry affected by these changes, the new calculation method is expected to elevate wages, particularly in regions with moderate-to-weak union presence, where collective bargaining agreements will now have greater influence in establishing prevailing wage.
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Preview the March / April Issue of the Pre-Plan Pipeline
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Each month, MBEX members with Premium Access services receive a comprehensive review of projects in their formative stages across Minnesota.
How many projects? It varies from issue to issue, but the March / April issue was a double feature and contained a whopping 134 projects across 75 cities and counties.
Take a look inside this teaser to get an idea for the types of projects highlighted each month.
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Not a Premium Member?
Contact us today to upgrade.
You are a Premium Member, but not receiving this publication?
First, check your spam / junk folder. If not found there, contact us so we may doublecheck you're on the correct mailing list (as well as have your correct email address!).
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Check out the preview by
ο»Ώclicking on the above image.
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How Changes to 'Noncompete' Agreements / Overtime Pay Could Affect Workers | |
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For millions of working Americans, the federal government took two actions last week that could bestow potentially far-reaching benefits.
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NONCOMPETE AGREEMENTS
The Federal Trade Commission voted to ban noncompete agreements, which ban millions of workers from leaving their employers to join a competitor or start a rival business for a specific period of time. The FTC's move, which is already being challenged in court, would mean that such employees could apply for jobs they weren't previously eligible to seek.
The idea behind a noncompete agreement is to prevent employees from taking a company's trade secrets, job leads or sales relationships to a direct competitor, who could immediately capitalize on them.
OVERTIME PAY
The Biden administration also finalized a rule that will make millions more salaried workers eligible for overtime pay. The rule significantly raises the salary level that workers could earn and still qualify for overtime.
Starting July 1, employers of all sizes will be required to pay overtime --- time and a half salary after 40 hours a week --- to salaried workers who make less than $43,888 a year in certain executive, administrative and professional roles. That cap will then rise to $58,656 by the start of 2025. Previously the cap was $35,568.
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The rules don't take effect immediately. And they won't benefit everyone. So what exactly would these rules mean for American's workers?
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Experts suggest that employees consult their human resources department or a lawyer for the company about any noncompete agreements that might exist. Companies of all sizes will have reclassify workers who will now qualify for overtime pay --- and make sure they track hours and pay them properly.
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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 event
May 14 - MN Construction Crew's 10th Annual Construction Career Hiring Event
Presented by Construct Tomorrow, this in-person event is an opportunity providing contractors a chance to meet / interview individuals that are looking for employment. Learn More
May 16 - MBEX Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and bidders lists, this free, one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. There will be time at the end for questions and answers. Register Here
May 21 - Crane Safety
Join Minnesota OSHA Compliance's next free construction seminar in-person or online to learn what the general contractor's roles and responsibilities are when there's a crane on site and what is required for lift plans, inspection records, operator's qualifications, training, renting, and more. Plus, learn what ASME 30.5 covers and requires. Sign Up Here
May 27 - Memorial Day
MBEX will be closed on Monday, May 27 in observance of Memorial Day. Please plan any office visits and plan/spec/addenda orders accordingly.
** May 31 - Deadline for 2024-2025 MBEX Construction Scholarship Applications
Qualifying students pursuing a construction-related degree at an accredited post-secondary institution in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are highly encouraged to apply for this financial opportunity. See Eligibility Rules | Apply Here
June 4 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
Attendees will learn interface navigation including menu dropdowns, toolbars, various tool panels, keyboard shortcuts and a few recommended settings. While learning various markup and measurement tools, several tips and tricks will be shared to increase accuracy and speed. Register Here
June 5 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
Attendees will go through the standard measurement tools and settings, then move into various customization options and discuss the results in the Markups List. Register Here
June 5 - MBEX Member Appreciation BBQ
Let MBEX treat you to lunch as a thank you for your continued membership and support! Join us for a casual afternoon of Famous Dave's barbecue, cold beverages, a handful of door prizes, and great company and networking. Each member company receives 2 complimentary tickets. Register Here
June 6 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
After finishing the Bluebeam Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic) course, attendees will move into creating custom columns, embedding formulas, and information organization. Register Here
** June 12 - WEBINAR: Deep Dive into Construction Work in Progress
Work in progress (WIP) is key to construction job costing, allowing contractors to proactively manage their jobs and businesses. By leveraging WIP reports, contractors can set their projects and businesses up for success. Presented by Construction Executive. Register Here
June 18 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
Join MBEX out on the greens not just to golf, but to also meet and mingle with fellow members and industry professionals. Register Here
** June 26 - MBEX POWER: Women, Money & Happiness
Led by Nicole Middendorf, this fun and empowering workshop will leave attendees with actionable steps to kickstart one's journey towards financial happiness, all while uncovering the intriguing secrets of how men and women approach money. Registration opening May 15
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2024 CONSTRUCTION FORECAST
π€ Is Your 2024 What You Thought It Would Be?
Nearly a month into Q2, is your 2024 all you wanted and more? Economists and industry experts shared their predictions at the end of last year, but now Construction Executive checks in with Dan Rosenberg, a construction and real-estate lawyer with Much Shelist P.C., about his expectations for the year going forward. (Construction Executive)
ENERGY + ENVIRONMENT
β»οΈ AGC Releases First-of-Its-Kind Decarbonization Playbook
The Associated General Contractors of America released a new, first-of-its-kind playbook designed to help firms assess, track and reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the projects they build. The new resource, titled The AGC Playbook on Decarbonization and Carbon Reporting in the Construction Industry, is part of the association's broader efforts to make sure construction firms play a leading role in crafting carbon-reduction measures for the industry. (Associated General Contractors of America)
BUILDINGS + DESIGN
π§ Results Are In for a Los Angeles Cool Pavement Experiment
Reflective pavement coating helped cool down one of Los Angeles' hottest neighborhoods over a year-long period, according to a recently published study in Environmental Research Communications, but some researchers argue in favor of increasing shade as a better way to protect people from dangerously high temperatures. Over 700,000-square-feet of dark asphalt surfaces were covered in solar-reflective pavement coating in the summer of 2022. (Smart Cities Dive)
JOBSITE SAFETY
π₯ Fire Remains an Ever-Present Problem in Construction
In May last year, two construction workers died in a five-alarm fire on a construction site in Charlotte, N.C. The incident only reinforced the view that fire is still a very real and present problem for the construction industry, even in today's modern age. Official National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) figures state that from 2017 to 2021, local fire departments in North America responded to an estimated average of 4,440 fires in structures under construction per year. (For Construction Pros)
INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING
π° $492B in Infrastructure Funding Remains to be Allocated. It All Ends in 2026.
Infrastructure funding to be allocated in 2024 by the U.S. Department of Transportation is approximately $131-billion. In 2025, another $134-billion will be distributed and then a final installment of $136-billion will be made in 2026. With so much funding remaining, and so little time left to spend it, it seems imperative for public officials to immediately analyze critical infrastructure needs. Time passes quickly and the funding is nearing its expiration date. (Construction Citizen)
π¦Ί PROJECT OF THE WEEK
PPL Seeks Rezoning for $45M Mixed-Use Project in St Paul
Project for Pride in Living (PPL) is going before the City Council with a request to rezone the property at 892 East Seventh Street from "general business" to "traditional neighborhood," a key box to check in the entitlement process. The traditional neighborhood zoning allows greater building heights for mixed-used developments. The new building would be 55-feet high and the existing zoning limits structures to 30-feet. PPL is hoping to move ahead with plans for a 60-plus unit apartment building with commercial space on a long-vacant site that would include child care, medical office, and a food hall. (Finance & Commerce)
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The vacant land at 892 East Seventh Street where PPL wants to build a mixed-use
ο»Ώdevelopment in St Paul. (Image: Finance & Commerce - David Bohlander)
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Networking Event for Metro Area Large Contractors & Subcontractors | Presented by MnDOT | |
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DATE: Monday, May 6
TIME: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION: Arden Hills Training Center (1900 County Road I, Shoreview, Minn. 55126)
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COST: Free!
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Come meet your peers and potential partners at this networking event.
Large and small contractors, members of MEDA, AWC, NAWIC and NAMC have been invited to participate in an organized "meet and greet" with others who are working in the highway / heavy world. The event will include a panel discussion, formal presentation by MnDOT and FHWA, and formal networking activities.
There will also be food, drink, free parking, and an opportunity to find new friends and potential partners.
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Diverse Trade Partner Expo
Presented by Ryan Companies
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DATE: Tuesday, May 14
TIME: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
LOCATION: Ryan Companies
ο»Ώ(533 South 3rd Street, Minneapolis, 55415)
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COST: Free!
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The Expo is for Minority, Women, Veteran and Disadvantaged Business trade partners and suppliers. Come learn more about Ryan and upcoming Ryan projects and to connect with estimators, sector leaders, and project managers.
2:00pm - Networking
2:20pm - Ryan Update for 2024: Market Overview & Upcoming Ryan Projects
2:50pm - Meet & Greet with Industrial, Multi-Family, Retail, Healthcare, Tenant Improvement, and Life Sciences Estimators, Sector Leaders and Project Managers
3:50pm - Raffle
Ryan Companies, US Inc., is a Union General Contractor. Whether you are signatory to a Union or not, you're invited to come and discuss future possibilities.
Questions should be directed to Cheryl Schmitt: (612) 492-4381 or cheryl.schmitt@ryancompanies.com.
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Run with Strength 5K Fun Run & Scholarship Fundraiser
Presented by the Minnesota Concrete Council
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Join MCC for their first Run With Strength 5K Fun Run and Scholarship Fundraiser!
All net proceeds benefit the MCC Scholarship Fund.
Not up for the 5K distance (3.1 miles)? Join the Family One Mile. Same start time and location, different distance.
Registration includes T-shirt, snacks and beverages. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each age category. Strollers are welcome, but bikes will not be permitted.
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NPP Benefit of the Week: Verizon Wireless | |
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MBEX Members who join NPP can get great discounts on Verizon Wireless and Verizon 5G Business Internet.
VERIZON WIRELESS
1.) 22% off Verizon monthly access fees on Corporate liable lines. $34.99 or higher, 2 corporate lines required.
2.) For a limited time, save $5/month for a year on two UNLIMITED plans by Verizon Wireless: Business Unlimited Pro 5G and Business Unlimited Plus 5G.
VERIZON 5G BUSINESS INTERNET
1.) 10-year price guarantee, one month free, and prices as low as $69/month. Restrictions apply.
Register for a free NPP membership and start saving.
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National Purchasing Partners (NPP) is a trusted savings and solutions provider for businesses and their employees. NPP delivers negotiated contract pricing for leading-edge products. Membership is free and there is no obligation to purchase.
If your MBEX member company is not already an NPP member, enroll today and enjoy the buying power of large corporations.
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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β’ Total Projects Received at MBEX from 4/22/2024 - 4/26/2024: 91
β’ Total Projects Leads Reported on at MBEX from 4/22/2024 - 4/26/2024: 19
β’ Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 4/30/2024: 440
β’ Total Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 4/30/2024: 1,751
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 4/24/2024-4/30/2024.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
ο»ΏNotice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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UPCOMING MBEX EVENTSο»Ώο»Ώ
β’ May 14 - MN Construction Crew's 10th Annual Construction Career Hiring Event
β’ May 16 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ May 21 - Crane Safety [MNOSHA Construction Seminar]
β’ May 27 - MBEX Closed (Memorial Day)
β’ May 31 - Deadline for 2024-2025 MBEX Scholarship Applications
β’ June 4 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
β’ June 5 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
β’ June 5 - Member Appreciation BBQ
β’ June 6 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
β’ June 12 - Deep Dive into Construction Work in Progress [Webinar]
β’ June 18 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
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Connect with the Builders Exchange: | |
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Information within the MBEX Weekly Bulletin are obtained from sources deemed reliable. The Minnesota 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.
2024 BOARD OFFICERS: President - Mike Carlson, Max Gray Construction; Vice President - Heidi Sedlacek, KLJ Engineering; Treasurer - Brian Kalla, St. Cloud Acoustics; Past President - Greg Grazzini, Grazzini Brothers | 2024 DIRECTORS: Allie Brady, Veit; Kevin Bohrer, Donlar Construction; David Brandt, Schadegg Mechanical; Jason DuVal, Tenet; Chuck Geisler, American Engineering Testing; Chris Niemand, Frattalone Companies; Sean Ochis, Northern Industrial Insulation; Jason Rentmeester, Kraus-Anderson Construction; and Nate Sapik, Benson Electric Company | STAFF: David Siegel - Executive Director; Julie Miller - Executive Assistant/Project Coordinator/Accounting; Jeff Boelter - Project Acquisition & IT; Ashlee Hartwig - Membership & Communications Manager; Melanie Hendrickson - Events & Membership Coordinator; Don O'Connor - Duluth Branch Manager; Shauna Baska, Peggy Esboldt, Janet Margheim, Michelle Siegel & Ka Yang - Project Reporters
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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