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Five Quick Things To Know/Do This Week:
1.) Women of Construction and Allies of Women in Construction: join us the morning of June 26 at The Coven in St. Paul for our next POWER workshop with Nicole Middendorf: Women, Money & Happiness. (Coffee and breakfast goodies included!)
2.) Developers and city officials are talking about reducing the density of housing and other changes that could restart construction for St. Paul's Highland Bridge.
3.) Members can now update their own company profiles directly inside the Online Plan Room. Learn more about this new feature inside this past issue of the Weekly Bulletin (Third Headline - "New Feature: Update Your Own Company Profile") or follow this very simple step-by-step guide.
4.) The Milwaukee Repertory Theater has started its $78-million renovation that includes accessibility upgrades, a larger lobby, a dedicated space for students, a new donor lounge, raising the 18-foot stage ceiling, installation of a fly loft, and more.
5.) A reminder for when that project feels like an uphill battle.
We can't wait to see everyone at the BBQ!
IN BRIEF:
• Fore!: Come golf with MBEX on June 18 (hurry - limited spots available!)
• The Fine Print: Less talked about, but still important, items passed this session
• By the Numbers: A quick recap of MBEX's month of May
• Job Growth: Construction sector jobs increased across 28 states in April
• More Than Half of IIJA Funds Yet to be Spent, AI Systems Fighting Energy Waste On-Site & Summer Maternity Wear Options for Women: Five construction-related headlines to know now
• Project of the Week: Macy's Furniture site redevelopment plans receives approval in Edina
• NPP Member Benefit: Personalized assistance in finding the perfect PC with HP
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Stop Puttering Around - Register for Golf on June 18 | |
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Whether a seasoned pro or a novice, there's no better time to tee off and enjoy a round of golf while also cultivating new and current valuable industry connections.
• DATE: Tuesday, June 18
• LOCATION: Oak Glen Golf Course (Stillwater, Minn.)
• TIME: Registration begins at 10:30am, with a shotgun start at 12:30pm
• COST: $160 per golfer
A handful of sponsorship opportunities are also still available!
Why participate in this golf event over others?
1.) The Networking Opportunities - Strengthen existing relationships and create new ones in a relaxed setting away from the office.
2.) To Promote Your Business - Showcase your company's brand and services to a prime audience of industry leaders and decision-makers.
3.) To Build Up Your Team - Strengthen the bond between your team members and boost morale by participating in a fun (yet still competitive) team-building activity.
4.) The Prizes and Giveaways - Oh yes, there will be exciting prizes for feats such as longest drive and team low score. We'll also be selling tickets for our traditional 50/50 cash raffle, mulligans to assist with your golf score, and other fun giveaways.
There is still team availability - but hurry! They're filling fast.
To register your team or for more information, please contact Melanie or visit our website.
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Less Heralded (But Important) Items Included in the Legislature's 1,430-Page Omnibus Bill | |
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The 2024 legislative session ended in the form of a 1,430-page omnibus package, with policy and funding touching housing, transportation, energy, agriculture, taxes and labor.
Here's a short roundup of some of the lesser-known new laws included in the bill that may affect the construction industry:
HOUSING
The omnibus bill directs the state Department of Labor and Industry to study and recommend whether the state building code should be updated to allow buildings up to 75-feet-tall with only one stairway. Currently, apartment buildings over three stories must have two entry / exit stairwells --- but some experts say advancements in fire safety mean taller buildings could work with just one stairway. That would lower developers' costs and open up room for more housing units while the state faces a housing supply crisis.
The bill also exempts the most recent comprehensive plans in the metro area from environmental reviews, likely bringing an end to the lawsuit blocking the Minneapolis 2040 Plan.
TRANSPORTATION
A high priority for lawmakers on both sides of the aisle this session was to pass a bonding bill, which funds infrastructure projects around the state. But a deal never got done --- except for a special bonding system for the Iron Range.
However, there is funding for some infrastructure projects in the big omnibus, including $22.5-million to construct a new state patrol headquarters.
The bill also grants the Minnesota Department of Transportation more involvement in Metropolitan Council projects, especially in the early stages, or when a project is delayed more than 30 days, which is a response to the many problems plaguing the Green Line extension (aka the Southwest Light Rail Train).
OTHER ODDS AND ENDS
Lawmakers passed the Senate's plan to address nitrate pollution in southeastern Minnesota by funding grants for farmers to purchase new soil health equipment.
The bill also contains permitting reform for wind and solar projects, meant to speed up approval of plans for renewable energy sources.
Also, the Public Utilities Commission must complete an environmental impact statement --- a large-scale environmental review of major projects --- for all proposed carbon dioxide pipelines, which transport gas captured from ethanol plants to underground storage sites. The state will also commission a study of the environmental and human health impacts of carbon dioxide pipelines, and evaluate how effective they are at reducing carbon emissions.
The bill also contained non-construction-related changes, such as updates to the state paid family and medical leave program, funding for a $109-million class action settlement, adjustments to the child tax credit and a deal on Uber and Lyft driver pay, among other labor provisions.
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BY THE NUMBERS: May Recap | |
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At the start of each new month, we like looking back at the past 30 (or in May's case, 31) days to review project progress, Online Plan Room stats, and membership goals.
Numbers below reflect the time period of May 1-31, 2024.
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Total # of Projects Added (2024) | |
Total # of Projects Added (2023) | |
Total # of Projects in 2024 (YTD) | |
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 2024-079C
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Total Unique Visitors
on Project 2024-07
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Project Name:
Northstar Vehicle Maintenance Facility Addition - 64001 - 24P019
Bid Date: June 5, 2024 at 2:00pm
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28 States Report Construction Job Growth in April | |
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Across the nation, construction sector jobs data --- which includes both residential and non-residential construction --- showed that 28 states reported an increase in April compared to March, while 19 states and the District of Columbia lost construction sector jobs.
The three remaining states --- Mississippi, Rhode Island, and South Carolina --- reported no change on a month-over-month basis.
Michigan, with the highest increase, added 4,200 construction jobs, while Ohio, on the other end of the spectrum, lost 7,600 jobs.
Overall, the construction industry added a net 9,000 jobs in April compared to the previous month. In percentage terms, Michigan reported the highest increase at 2.1% and Iowa reported the largest decline at 3.5%.
Year-over-year, construction sector jobs in the U.S. increased by 258,000, which is a 3.2% increased compared to the April 2023 level.
Texas added 30,500 jobs, which was the largest gain of any state, while New York lost 7,100 construction sector jobs. In percentage terms, Alaska had the highest annual growth rate in the construction sector at 18%. Over this period, Maryland reported the largest decline of 4.0%.
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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
June 18 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament - Limited Team Availability!
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 20 - 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 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. Register Here
** July 4 & 5 - Independence Day
MBEX will be closed on Thursday, July 4, and Friday, July 5, in observance of the holiday.
July 17 - Duluth Harbor Cruise on the Sundew
Join MBEX for an evening of fun and comradery aboard the Sundew, a retired Coast Guard Cutter. Space is limited to the first 150 people who register. Members, spouses, co-workers and families are welcome to attend (children must be ages 12 and up). Register Here
** July 18 - 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. Not yet open for registration
** August 8 - Sporting Clays Scholarship Fundraiser
Aim, pull, and shoot to raise fund for the MBEX Scholarship Fund at this year's annual outdoor event with MBEX at Game Unlimited. Shooter packages include the clay shoot, a post-shoot social, dinner, awards, and door prizes. Teams may have a maximum of six shooters. Register Here
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INFRASTRUCTURE
💰 At Halfway Mark, Majority of Infrastructure Law Funds Yet to be Spent
Halfway through the five-year Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, less than half --- 38% --- of the funding has been announced to date. Announced funding, captured from agency press releases, is preliminary and non-binding, whereas awarded funding represents actual obligations, per the White House. Half of the IIJA's funding, or $550-billion, goes to new initiatives. The White House also released an updated map of the more than 56,000 projects and awards that are identified or now underway at 4,500-plus localities around the country. That's up 40% from 40,000 projects six months ago. (Construction Dive)
ARTICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
🔌 The AI Systems Used to Fight Energy Waste on Construction Sites
As consumers, we are frequently reminded to switch off lights when we leave a room, turn off heaters when not in use, and avoid leaving so-called "vampire devices" on standby. But when it comes to work premises --- especially construction sites --- although the advice may be the same, in practice, power experts say, little is done to prevent construction crews wasting thousands of dollars and tons of CO2 on electrical devices they aren't even using. (Construction Briefing)
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
🤰 What are Summer Maternity Clothes Options for Women?
With summer approaching, it's important for pregnant construction workers to access clothing that not only keeps them safe but is comfortable and adapts to a changing body. While the construction apparel manufacturing industry at large still doesn't offer a wide range of options for pregnant women, some companies have answered the call. (Iron Pros)
INNOVATIONS IN CONSTRUCTION
🚧 Swiss Flyover On Wheels Lets You Ride Over Road Repair
The ASTRA Bridge, developed by the Federal Roads Office of the Swiss government, is a nifty solution that lets you fly over ongoing road repairs on highways instead of taking detours. The 15-foot tall structure of the bridge gives workers ample space to work under the carriageway while also protecting them from excess heat and rain. The highly mobile and modular structure is similar to a bridge version of a Swiss Army knife and offers multiple functions in just one structure. (Interesting Engineering)
CODES + STANDARDS
⚠️ As Temperatures Underground Rise, So Do Risks to Commercial Buildings
Basements, train tunnels, sewers, and other underground systems are making the ground around them warmer, which causes soil, sand, clay and silt to shift, settle, contract, and expand, according to an insurance executive quoted in a Business Insurance report. Underground elements in the built environment can heat the ground between the surface and bedrock by as much as 27-degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, foundations are suffering damage. (Building Design + Construction)
🦺 PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Edina Macy's Furniture Redevelopment Gets Planning Commission Approval
A major makeover could be in store for the site of a bunker-looking Macy's Furniture store on Edina's France Avenue. The city's planning commission gave the project a green light last week. The Macy's building would be demolished and replaced by four new ones: (1) An 11-story tower with 49 condos for seniors, 47,000-square-feet of office space, and 9,500-square-feet of restaurant / retail space; (2) A 7-story building with 124 apartments, 20,800-square-feet of office space, and 7,600-square-feet of restaurant / retail space; (3) A pair of 7-story buildings with 399 total apartments and 4,100-square-feet of retail / restaurant space; and (4) Altogether, the project includes 1,324 parking spaces. (Axios Twin Cities)
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An overview of what could rise on the Macy's Furniture store site in Edina
under plans from developer Enclave Cos. (Image: ESG Architecture & Design)
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Run with Strength 5K Fun Run & Scholarship Fundraiser
Presented by the Minnesota Concrete Council (MCC)
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DATE: Saturday, June 8
TIME: Registration opens - 8:00am
Line Up at Starting Line - 8:45am
Shotgun Start - 9:00am
Award Ceremony - 11:00am
LOCATION: 14698 Galaxie Avenue, Apple Valley, 55124
COST: See MCC event page
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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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Deep Dive into Construction Work in Progress (WIP)
Presented by Construction Executive Webinar Series
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DATE: Wednesday, June 12
TIME: 1:00pm CT | 2:00pm ET
LOCATION: Virtual Event
SPEAKER: John Meibers, Vice President & General Manager, Deltek
COST: Free!
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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 business up for success.
In this webinar, you will learn:
• What WIP is and why it's essential;
• How WIP works with schedule of values, backlog, general ledger, etc.;
• How to compare and analyze WIP reports from different time periods to stay on top of jobs;
• How to calculate the progress of all ongoing work, allowing you to see what's been done and what's left to do --- helping you manager budgets effectively; and
• To create accurate financial statements, outlining exactly what was spend on individual projects and where.
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Benefit of the Week: Hewlett Packard (HP) | |
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Introducing the HP Employee Purchase Program for National Purchasing Partners (NPP) Members:
An exclusive shopping experience with every day savings of up to 35% and free shipping.
HP even offers personalized assistance to help you find the perfect PC and other HP Home and Home Office Store products.
MBEX Members who join NPP receive:
• Discounts up to 35% off;
• Free shipping and easy returns;
• Expert sales agents to assist with purchases via phone, chat and email; and
• Dedicated support for premium products, including in-house calls and accidental damage protection.
HP guarantees you will always get the lowest price on its technology. If you happen to find a lower price on another online store like Best Buy or Amazon, HP will match it.
Log in (or join NPP) today and start saving on HP products
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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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• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 5/27/2024 - 5/31/2024: 73
• Total Projects Leads Reported on at MBEX from 5/27/2024 - 5/31/2024: 23
• Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 6/4/2024: 365
• Total Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 6/4/2024: 2,204
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 5/29/2024-6/4/2024.
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
• June 18 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
• June 20 - Online Plan Room Demo
• June 26 - MBEX POWER: Women, Money and Happiness
• July 4 - MBEX Closed (4th of July)
• July 5 - MBEX Closed (4th of July)
• July 17 - Duluth Harbor Sundew Cruise
• August 7 - St Paul Saints Game with AGC
• August 8 - Sporting Clays Scholarship Fundraiser
• August 19 - MBEX POWER: Balance vs Blend - How to Have Blend in Your Life
• August 21 - Golf North
• September 11 - Sporting Clays North
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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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