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Issue No. 45 β’ Wednesday, November 6, 2024 β’ www.mbex.org | |
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Five Quick Things To Know / Do This Week:
1.) SAVE THE DATE: MBEX is coming to a city near you in February and March of next year for four casual get-togethers with industry partners.
2.) GIVE FEEDBACK: Complete the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis' short survey to share your input on current conditions in the construction sector.
3.) CHEER: Congratulations to our MBEX Members who were selected as Finance & Commerce's Rising Young Professionals honorees:
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Taylor Boileau - JE Dunn Construction
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Jacob Garr - Knutson Construction
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Adam Giannini - Knutson Construction
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Connor Hart - Kraus-Anderson
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Eric Peterson - Bituminous Roadways
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Charlie Sweeney - Kraus-Anderson
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Laurisa Titterud - Kraus-Anderson
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Jim White - Lloyd's Construction Service
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Mason White - Mortenson
4.) ADD TO CART: From NanaWall's Clad 740 folding door solution to Revolution 54 Plus' demountable glass wall partition system to Schindler MetaCore, here are 15 top products being used in the industry.
5.) WHOOPS: We've said it a dozen times; we'll say it again (loudly): safety first, folks π«£
"I want to put a ding in the universe." - Steve Jobs
IN BRIEF:
β’ Live Demo: Join MBEX staff for a free look inside our Online Plan Room on 11/21
β’ Economic Roundup: Construction keeps rolling steady through October
β’ Monthly Review: Overview of MBEX's past 31 days
β’ Sponsorship: Become an MBEX Cornerstone Partner in 2025
β’ NOW HIRING: Hallberg Engineering seeks Commissioning Technician
β’ Election Uncertainty Affecting Project Activity, Infrastructure Fuels Nonresidential Spending, & Base Layer Pants: Five construction-related headlines for your next coffee break
β’ Project of the Week: 192-unit apartment complex proposed in Rosemount
β’ Member Benefit: Save on holiday gift-giving with NPP this year
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Explore MBEX's Online Plan Room | |
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Join us for a free live online walk-through of our digital platform to learn the basics, refresh yourself on its offered tools, or to explore if our plan room would benefit your business.
β’ DATE: Thursday, November 21
β’ TIME: 9:00am
β’ LOCATION: Virtual Event
β’ COST: Free!
β’ REGISTER BY: 3:30pm the day before (November 20)
MBEX's modern and innovative Online Plan Room is designed to bring its members the latest in Minnesota's commercial construction project news and bidding opportunities as well as projects from Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Our team of reporters work hard behind the scenes to post complete project details along with viewable files (dependent on a members' level of access). They coordinate project details with the architects, engineers, project owners, and construction managers to create a smooth viewing experience for members.
Once posted, members can easily access a project's scope, its plans, specs and addenda, and download needed files and documents. Members can also manage email notifications for timely notices of newly posted projects, new filter results, and addenda notifications on tracked projects.
Learn how and much more by joining us on November 21st!
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Construction Economic Roundup: October 2024 | |
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The month of September didn't bring many surprises. Contractors are still busy hiring, manufacturing is cranking up, and there's a lot of action around infrastructure projects. But labor's still tough to find, and the residential side, along with a few nonresidential projects, is still struggling to gain much traction.
Spending Holds Its Ground
Nonresidential spending nudged up a bit in August and has actually climbed 5.2% over the past year. That's mostly thanks to big manufacturing projects and solid work in infrastructure areas --- think highways, streets, and water supply.
On the other hand, segments like office and commercial are feeling the pinch of higher interest rates. They saw monthly declines and haven't been in the best shape over the past year.
Jobs Keep Growing
Construction was up again in September, marking five straight months of gains. Most of these new hires are landing in nonresidential work.
The only catch? We'd probably be hiring faster if it weren't for the labor shortage. Unemployment in the industry ticked up to 3.7%, but that's still lower than anything we'd seen before 2018.
Building Confidence Back Up
ABC's Construction Backlog Indicator climbed to 8.6-months in September, a little higher than August's number, though it's still 0.4-months below where we were last year.
On the brighter side, ABC's Confidence Index shows contractors are feeling pretty optimistic, especially around profit margins. The index for profits even popped back over 50, which is a good sign they're expecting things to look up over the next few quarters.
Materials Prices Ease a Bit --- Thanks to Cheaper Oil
Input prices came down some in September, but that's mostly due to lower gas prices. Prices on a few key materials like gypsum, asphalt, lumber, and some metals did shoot up.
Overall, we're still paying less than we were last year, but if supply chains start tightening up again, material costs might also start creeping back up.
What's Next?
The Fed did lower the target range on interest rates in September, but we're probably months away from seeing that boost construction activity. It'll likely take a few more rate cuts to really make borrowing costs drop.
In the meantime, federally funded projects are set to keep nonresidential spending high.
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ABC's monthly economic round-up for contractors --- Construction Futures --- is now published by 'Construction Executive.'
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At the start of each new month, we look back at the past 30-ish days to review project progress, Online Plan Room stats, and membership goals.
Numbers below reflect data in the date range of October 1 - 31, 2024.
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Total # of Projects Added (October 2024) | |
Total # of Projects Added (October 2023) | |
Total # of Projects YTD (Jan 1-Oct 31) | |
New Member Companies Joined | | |
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No. of Bidders Added to Bidders Lists
(Members & Non-Members)
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Total Visitors on Project 2024-0E4E | |
Total Unique Visitors on Project 2024-0E4E | |
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ο»ΏProject 2024-0E4E:
Mound Westonka High School - Additions & Renovations - Westonka Public Schools - ISD 277
Bid Date: December 12, 2024 @ 2:00pm
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Reserve Your 2025 Cornerstone Partners Sponsorship | |
We're very excited to launch MBEX's new Cornerstone Partners Program, a year-round sponsorship opportunity crafted to boost member visibility and make it easier than ever to support the Minnesota Builders Exchange. | |
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As a Cornerstone Partner, your company will benefit from:
1.) Year-long recognition at all MBEX events;
2.) The chance to showcase your company's dedication to the Exchange;
3.) Streamlined sponsorship with a simple annual payment; and
4.) The freedom to sponsor additional events whenever it suits your business.
Becoming a Cornerstone Partner sets your company apart as a leader in our industry, providing steady exposure among fellow members, potential clients, and industry professionals. This program, shaped by member feedback, offers a straightforward, yearly commitment to the Exchange.
Join us in this exclusive program to help shape the future of the Minnesota building community. Not only will you elevate your brand, but you'll also play a vital role in supporting the growth and success of MBEX.
For more information or to sign up by December 31st, reach out to David Siegel, Executive Director, at ds@mbex.org or (612) 381-2625, or Ashlee Hartwig, Membership & Communications Manager, at ah@mbex.org or (612) 381-2631.
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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
November 21 - MBEX Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders lists, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Time is saved at the end of the demonstration for questions and answers. Register Now
November 28 & 29 - MBEX Closed - Thanksgiving
MBEX will be closed on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29 for the Thanksgiving holiday. We'll return to regular business hours on Monday, December 2.
December 3 - 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 Now
December 4 - 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 Now
December 5 - 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 Now
December 5 - Holiday Party North
As winter blankets the Northland in its snowy splendor, come gather with fellow construction industry professionals for an evening of celebration and camaraderie as we close out another business year and look ahead to 2025. Register Now
** December 11 - 2025 Construction Economic Forecast
Designed with commercial construction contractors in mind, Anirban Basu's 60-minute presentation is customized for Construction Executive readers to help them manage and grow their business by focusing on relevant economic indicators, including materials prices, jobs and unemployment reports, construction wages, the most recent ABC Construction Confidence Index and Construction Backlog Indicator reports, and the hottest market sectors and regions. Sign Up
** December 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders lists, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Time is saved at the end of the demonstration for questions and answers. Registration Not Yet Open
December 25 & 26 - MBEX Closed - Christmas
MBEX will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 for the Christmas holiday. Our physical office will be closed on Thursday, December 26 and Friday, December 27 (staff will be working remotely).
December 31 & January 1 - MBEX Closed - New Years
MBEX will be closed on Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1 to celebrate the end of 2024 and welcome the start of 2025. MBEX will return to regular business hours on Thursday, January 2.
SAVE THE DATE: January 15 - MBEX Annual Meeting & Luncheon
MBEX invites its members to our Annual Meeting and Luncheon, a premier event that brings together our vibrant construction community. This is more than just a meeting; it's an opportunity to be at the forefront of the building industry's latest trends and innovations.
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Hallberg Engineering is searching for an entry-level Commissioning Technician. In this developmental position, the technician learns to apply theoretical knowledge to practical applications. The Commissioning Technician is responsible for providing commissioning services related to the project's mechanical systems in all phases of the construction process. They will keep the Commissioning Agent or Department Manager of the assigned projects informed as to ongoing construction issues.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Technical or Associate Degree in HVAC, plumbing, or electrical design from an accredited technical institute.
- General understanding of all mechanical and electrical systems.
- Must have the ability to utilize computer software, applications, and / or web portals to effectively manage projects.
- Must be able to move about the work area and travel to work-sites as needed or required.
- Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record to travel to project sites.
- Must be capable of managing multiple projects and project teams.
See job description for full listing of preferred qualifications.
Hallberg Engineering offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Life, Medical, and Dental Insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401(k) Plan
- Flexible Benefit Package
- Flexible Work Schedule
- Optional Hybrid Schedule
- Paid Time Off
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ELECTION 2024
π§ Election Uncertainty Weighs Down Construction Activity
Election jitters and uncertainty among small business owners across all industries recently reached an all-time high, according to the latest index from the National Federation of Independent Business, a trade group representing smaller companies. This anxiety, coming during one of the tightest presidential contests in recent memory, is affecting overall building activity, say industry pros. (Construction Dive)
MARKET DATA
ποΈ Nonresidential Construction Spending Up, Fueled by Infrastructure Investment
National nonresidential construction spending increased 0.1% in September, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of data published November 1st by the U.S. Census Bureau. On a seasonally adjusted annualized basis, nonresidential spending totaled $1.22-trillion. (Building Design + Construction)
WORKWEAR
π What are Base Layer Pants?
Base layer pants --- also known as long underwear, thermal underwear, leggings, and long johns --- are an apparel item favored by construction workers when working jobs in cold temperatures. The pants are worn as the first layer upon which a middle layer and outer layer is added to provide the ultimate protection and versatility in changing weather conditions. (Iron Pros)
LABOR + WORKFORCE
ποΈ Companies Struggle to Balance Recruiting and Retention Initiatives
As construction companies push to overcome staffing challenges that have led to many project delays, Arcoro has released new data that sheds light on the recruiting and retention strategies being used to address a decrease in skilled workers. Many construction employers are overlooking key opportunities that can help strengthen their recruiting and retention efforts. (Contractor Magazine)
REVITALIZATION
π How Minneapolis, St. Paul Leaders Plan to Revitalize Their Downtowns
Times Square-style billboards, new transit hubs, and more apartments converted out of former office spaces: All of these are ideas that Twin Cities leaders have recently floated to revitalize the two downtowns. (Axios Twin Cities)
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Devco Proposes 192-Unit Apartment in Rosemount | |
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Read more about this project on Finance & Commerce
The Rosemount City Council will consider a 192-unit apartment complex being put forward by the Devco Residential Group this month.
The development is being proposed for a plot of land on 145th Street south of the intersection of Connemara Trail and Acer Avenue within the Emerald Isle Planned Unit Development that was originally approved by the city council in 2020, with the plans to build two apartment buildings with 96-units each, according to planning documents.
The city council will consider the project's final plat at its November 19 meeting. Two weeks ago, the Rosemount Planning Commission held a public hearing over the final site and building plan for the property, giving it a green light.
If the council approves the final plat, Devco expects to start moving dirt sometime in 2025.
One of the buildings will be built in an L-shape while the other will be a rectangle. For the 192-units, 25% will be one-bedroom units, 50% will be two-bedroom units, and the final 25% will be three-bedroom units.
For parking, the development will provide 364 parking stalls for residents, one stall over the city requirement.
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ABOVE PHOTO: Devco's proposed apartment project consisting of two buildings with a total of 192 units. (Kaas Wilson Architects) | |
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Prevailing Wage Essentials
Presented by Construction Executive Webinar Series
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DATE: Wednesday, November 6
TIME: 1:00pm CT | 2:00pm ET
LOCATION: Virtual Event
COST: Free
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Prevailing wage in construction is complicated due to variations in wage rates across different regions and the diverse scope of construction projects.
Understanding prevailing wage is crucial because it ensures fair compensation for workers, maintains a level playing field among contractors and promotes the quality and safety standards essential for the construction industry's integrity and sustainability.
In this webinar, you'll learn:
- The definition of prevailing wage and what the Davis-Bacon Act entails;
- How to accurately determine prevailing wage rates; and
- Common challenges and strategies to mitigate compliance risks.
With the right resources and software, emerge equipped with the knowledge to ensure your construction projects adhere to prevailing wage requirements, fostering a culture of compliance and excellence in your organization.
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Twin Cities Construction Industry Mixer
Presented by U of M Office for Supplier Diversity
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DATE: Monday, November 11
TIME: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: Mosaic Venue (817 5th Avenue South, STE 300, Minneapolis, 55404)
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Join Frana, JE Dunn, Kraus-Anderson, Mortenson, Opus, Ryan Companies, TRI-Construction, and Watson-Forsberg for an exclusive afternoon of connection and collaboration at the first-ever Twin Cities Construction Industry Mixer.
Mingle with project managers, estimators, and other leaders from each company and learn more about their organizations, upcoming projects, and how to connect with them.
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Benefit of the Week: Save on Holiday Gifting with NPP | |
The holidays are just around the corner and it's a great time to show appreciation to your coworkers, employees, clients or partners. | |
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You can even stay in front of potential customers with a small reminder that you're thinking of them.
Here are some gift ideas to get you started via offerings found through National Purchasing Partners (NPP):
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Personalized Work Wear
Nothing says "Happy Holidays!" like a nice, warm hoodie. It's a gift people can use year-round. But don't limit yourself to just sweatshirts. Think t-shirts and polos, button-down work shirts, jackets and vests, and headwear.
Food Bundles
The nice thing about food is that it's easy to cater to a variety of audiences. It's also a great option if your gift is intended for more than one person. Whether it's chocolates delivered, holiday cookies or even candied nuts, there's a plethora of options.
Technology
Tech products are great since they are useful both in and outside the home. There are tons of options, too. If you're sending to commuters or people that travel often, a powerbank or a nice pair of headphones are fine choices, maybe even a gift card for stylish phone cases. If you want to choose something more playful, a Bluetooth speaker, activity tracker or even an action camera are good ideas.
Whether the gift is large or small, you want to make it personal. People will be happy you thought of them and went out of your way to give a gift.
To take advantage of NPP pricing, become a member today; it's quick, easy, and FREE (with zero obligation to buy). Join here: https://mynpp.com/association/mbex
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National Purchasing Partners (NPP) is a trusted savings and solutions provider for businesses and their employees. By leveraging the purchasing power of more than 350,000 members, NPP can provide top discounts and special B2B pricing to businesses of all sizes. NPP members enjoy exclusive deals on a catalog of useful items for both work and play. Membership is free and there is never an obligation to purchase.
Plus, when you enroll via our special NPP sign-up page, MBEX receives a small kickback to further support our member services.
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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β’ Total Projects Received at MBEX from 10/28/2024 - 11/1/2024: 82
β’ Total Projects Leads Reported on at MBEX from 10/28/2024 - 11/1/2024: 11
β’ Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 11/5/2024: 338
β’ Total Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 11/5/2024: 3,954
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 10/30/2024-11/5/2024.
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’ November 21 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ November 28 & 29 - Closed for Thanksgiving
β’ December 3 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
β’ December 4 - Bluebeam 2: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
β’ December 5 - Bluebeam 3: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
β’ December 5 - Holiday Party North
β’ December 11 - CE's 2025 Construction Economic Forecast
β’ December 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
β’ December 24 & 25 - Closed for Christmas
β’ December 31 & January 1 - Closed for New Years
β’ January 15 - Annual Meeting & Luncheon
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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, Iron Eagle Industrial Services; 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; Ashlee Hartwig - Membership & Communications Manager; Melanie Hendrickson - Events & Membership Coordinator; Don O'Connor - Duluth Director; Jeff Boelter - Project Acquisition & IT; Shauna Baska, Peggy Esboldt, Madison Gentil, 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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