The SpawGlass Austin team was thrilled to officially break ground at the Texas State University (TXST) Hilltop Phase II housing project. With enrollment on the rise, TXST continues to invest in expanding on-
Ocampus student housing to welcome the growing Bobcat community. Hilltop Phase II will add two 10-level residence halls totaling nearly 380,000 square feet along with a new dining facility of about 30,000 square feet integrated into the
first level of the West Tower. The project also includes significant site and utility improvements to support campus operations as well as a central bridge connecting the new towers and existing hall to the main campus.
After an incredible finish at the Richard A. Castro Hall complex, their team of proud TXST alumni is excited to dig in and continue to build spaces where the next generation of Bobcats will live and learn!
Connecting community through green space
n Sept. 11, members of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Austin and the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) stepped onto the grounds of one of Austin’s most ambitious ongoing urban projects: the Waterloo Greenway. They were graciously hosted by Jay-Reese Contractors , whose role as a key builder in this transformative endeavor has made them central to the work of reimagining Austin’s landscape. The event, known as the Waterloo Greenway Sitewalk, was more than a tour—it was an opportunity for leaders in construction to witness firsthand the progress and vision behind a project that promises to reshape the city’s relationship with its natural spaces.
Sustainability and Character
The City of West Lake Hills has officially opened its new 18,000-square-foot municipal complex, bringing together the city’s police department, city hall and a community center under one roof.
Designed by Brinkley Sargent Wiginton Architects and built by the SpawGlass Austin team, this two-level facility highlights sustainability and
community character. Heritage trees were carefully preserved; native landscaping surrounds the site and wood reclaimed from trees cleared during construction was milled locally and repurposed into warm interior finishes in the lobby.
SpawGlass was proud to partner with the City of West Lake Hills to create a space that will serve the community for many years to come.
Pickleball Y’all
The Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) Central Texas Chapter recently hosted a spirited Pickleball Tournament that brought together professionals from the construction industry for a day filled with energy, laughter, and healthy competition. The event proved to be an amazing time, blending the athleticism of pickleball with networking and community building.
1st Place: Joeris General Contractors –Daylon Koster & Evan Smith
2nd Place: Harvey Cleary Builders – Nick Legio & Jonathan Sato
3rd Place: Joeris General Contractors –Seth Harris & Abraham Samilpa
Thanks to everyone who came out to play, cheer and network. It was a fantastic day of fun and friendly competition!
TAssociation (CFA) has announced the launch of its new YouTube platform for the “Behind the Mic” podcast series, marking a strategic expansion of the organization’s digital presence. This platform enhancement coincides with CFA’s 50th anniversary celebration, featuring eight exclusive interviews with industry leaders who have shaped the residential concrete foundation sector.
The newly launched YouTube channel provides enhanced accessibility and visual engagement for the podcast content, allowing professionals throughout the AEC industry to access valuable insights from experienced contractors and industry pioneers. This digital transformation reflects CFA’s commitment to modernizing communication channels while maintaining its core mission of supporting cast-in-place contractors.
To commemorate its milestone anniversary, CFA has added comprehensive interviews with eight distinguished industry professionals. The featured interviews include Ron Ward from Western Forms, Cole Beaudin of Perma-Structo, Inc., Mark Irving from Irving Equipment, Russ Talpey of Talpey Construction, Mark Saldana of Saldana Concrete, Jason Ells from Custom Concrete, Dave Martinson of Martinson Construction, and Amy Woodall from Conscious Habit.
“These industry leaders have been some of the core participants in CFA through the years,” said James Baty, executive director of the Concrete Foundations Association. “We enjoyed the opportunity to chat with them about their experiences and about how in many cases, generations of their family have been active in the industry and in CFA. It really brings more meaning to our 5oth anniversary to hear from our long-time members. We are excited that we can share these conversations on our new YouTube channel.”
These interviews showcase how the diverse expertise and innovative experience of talented individuals have driven the concrete foundations market forward over the past five decades. Each conversation provides a look at how the Concrete Foundations Association has been an integral part of their success. The set of interviews from this year’s event joins an equally strong set from World of Concrete 2021.
The YouTube platform represents a significant step in CFA’s ongoing effort to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing within the concrete foundation community. This initiative complements the organization’s existing resources, including its quarterly publication Concrete Facts magazine, which continues to deliver essential news and professional guidance to industry practitioners.
Building with Purpose and Partnership
ERW Site Solutions, a Fort Worth–based integrated construction firm, continues to solidify its reputation across Texas—especially in San Antonio—through a dynamic mix of expert services, strategic acquisitions, and trusted partnerships.
One-Stop Shop for Comprehensive Site Services
While originally, strictly a retaining wall provider, ERW Site Solutions now offers a broad suite of services including hardscape and amenity center construction, landscape and irrigation design and maintenance, single-family concrete foundations, and valueengineering for site development. This integrated approach streamlines project execution and reduces complexity, allowing customers to work under a single contract and point of contact.
Trusted Across the State, Including San Antonio
Though headquartered in Fort Worth with a strong presence in Austin, ERW Site Solutions’ projects span across Texas—including Greater San Antonio. Notably, ERW Site Solutions’ reputation for exceptional retaining wall work has been affirmed through multi-family developments such as The Parkway at Stone Oak in San Antonio, completed in collaboration with Rampart San Antonio residents and developers can enjoy ERW Site Solutions’ structural integrity combined with aesthetic excellence.
ERW Site Solutions’ retaining walls division, ERW Retaining Walls, has also completed a couple additional notable wall projects, one being a block wall project for apartments in Westover Hills (pictured). We were honored to partner with Galaxy Builders as the contractor on that project. ERW Retaining Walls has also completed a couple noteworthy commercial walls
Built on Quality, Partnerships, and Employee Ownership
Founded on a commitment to craftsmanship— originating with founder Larry Barnett , and carried forward by stepson, Randy O’Neal —the company has expanded organically and through acquisitions to become a multi-faceted construction provider. Since 2018, ERW Site Solutions has acquired:
DesignBuild Consulting (engineering, Ft. Worth), Kaufman Concrete (Austin, TX)
This strategy helped drive organic growth and broaden capability, with revenue target ambitions rising from about $20 million to $400 million by 2025, according to Fort Worth Inc.
A major milestone came in June 2025 when ERW Site Solutions transitioned to a 100% employeeowned structure via an ESOP transaction, according to Fort Worth Inc. This shift reflects a legacy of stewardship, aiming to reward and empower those in the field while fostering longevity and local commitment.
Client Praise: Relationships That Endure
ERW Site Solutions’ ability to deliver high-quality results consistently has earned strong praise from industry leaders. For over a decade, Novak Brothers have relied on ERW Site Solutions’ LandTec division for their landscape and irrigation needs, citing creativity, responsiveness, and seamless collaboration.
Meanwhile, Rampart highlighted ERW Site Solutions’ precision in constructing retaining walls:
“ERW [Site Solutions] consistently delivers on both… structural integrity and aesthetic appeal… You can’t put a price on that.” And further: “We know they will get the job done... every time.”
These personal testimonials reflect not only ERW Site Solutions’ technical excellence—but also its reliability and problem-solving ethos.
ERW Site Solutions continues to flourish across Texas—from Fort Worth and Austin to developments in San Antonio—by delivering integrated, high-quality construction services anchored by client trust and employee ownership. Their success is a testament to strategic growth, commitment to excellence, and strong partnerships built one project at a time.
in San Antonio: one for H-E-B with EMJ Construction and Falkofske Engineering, and another for Southwest Research Institute with Bartlett Cocke as the contractor.
Industry Veteran to Lead
The Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) has appointed Andrew S. Pinkerton as its new President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Pinkerton brings more than 22 years of experience in the construction materials industry – most recently as Executive Director of the Cement Council of Texas, which represents the state’s cement manufacturers and shippers.
“Andrew’s extensive background in the construction materials industry, combined with his proven association leadership, makes him the ideal person to guide TACA into the future,” said TACA Board of Directors Chair Rich S. Szecsy, PhD, PE, FACI . “His passion for delivering value to member companies – along with his commitment and advocacy for safety, sustainability and the communities where we operate and ultimately build – will strengthen our industry and benefit the great state of Texas.”
Prior to leading the Cement Council of Texas, Pinkerton was Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs at U.S. Concrete, Inc., and earlier served as Manager of Corporate Communications & Government Affairs at Texas Industries, Inc. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in marketing and management from the University of Oklahoma. In addition, he serves as Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors for
the Clayton Dabney Foundation for Kids with Cancer.
“I have always believed that strong associations are the cornerstone of a strong industry,” Pinkerton said. “As Texas continues to grow each day, our industry plays a critical role in aligning population growth with a sustainably built environment, the conservation of natural resources and continuing to deliver the materials that satisfy the state’s unprecedented demand for aggregates and concrete. I am honored to advocate for the safe, resilient infrastructure and advanced mobility solutions our members provide today –and for generations of Texans to come.”
ON THE JOB
A proud moment
Padalecki, Alterman, Inc. – District 5 Vice President
Steven Stone, ArchKey Solutions – Vice President at Large
We’re
Achievements Worth Celebrating
NGeneral Contractors are proud to have sponsored the 2024 Associated General ContractorsTexas Building Branch (AGC TBB) Outstanding Construction Awards. These awards acknowledge exceptional construction projects by AGC member firms, in Texas. They were even more excited to take home awards for two amazing projects: – City of San Antonio Police Substation St. Mary’s – Clarity Child Guidance Center Nunnelly would like to extend a huge thank you to their very own Blaine Beckman for presenting the winners and AGC for hosting such a fantastic event to recognize the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.
Christopher M. Foster, Whitehead Electric – District
Christopher M. Foster, Whitehead Electric Gregory Padalecki, Alterman, Inc. Steven Stone, ArchKey Solutions
TACA President and CEO Andrew S. Pinkerton
unnelly
Metalink Metals & Fence recently completed 2,000’ of chain & bollard fence for Austin Bridge & Road to support the Midfield Taxiways project at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).
The Great Outdoors
Ken Milam’s Fishing Line
Since 1981, Ken
If you are lucky enough to have a day off in the fall in Texas, you are a lucky son of a gun!
The tourist high season is mostly passed so the best places to go and things to do are suddenly easier and less expensive to do. Summer heat is slowly receding, and winter isn’t close enough to hurt anything yet. Sunrises and sunsets get a magical soft red glow that makes you want to stop and stare. So, what can you do with a fall day in Texas?
You can hunt! There are several things you can hunt right now, but most people are going after dove and whitetail deer. Bow season starts you out sweating in a T-shirt and ends with you looking for your long-handled underwear. It may be hard to stand hunting in the heat at first, but to get first shot at the new parade of bucks we will have this year, it is so worth it! It just gets better as the fall wears on because rifle season for whitetail isn’t far away and then there is turkey, and the list goes on!
Fall fishing is nice too! Once summer stops baring her fangs we get a lot of nice days on the water. Temperatures are milder as the water starts to cool off which benefits fish and fishermen alike. In fall we usually don’t have the turbulent sort of weather we can get in the spring, just temporary weather changes brought about by the return of cold fronts, but at least you can see them coming on the weather map.
Cooler water temperatures are what we are
always relieved to see after summer passes. We get tired of the heat and run inside to cool off, but the fish are just stuck with water that is hard to tolerate. Hot summer water doesn’t hold oxygen as well, so they end up mostly just laying low waiting for things to get better, and fall is better. Finally, the fish find it easier to breathe and have energy to chase schools of bait fish and they feed hard to make up for doing without during the last weeks of summer. Fish are driven to feed heavily during fall and winter to prepare for spawning time in the spring. That means all a fisherman needs to do is get to the water with some tempting bait. It doesn’t matter if you bank fish or boat fish, you can probably find some fish that are ready to bite! If you’d like to chase stripers and hybrids with us, call us up at 325-379-2051!
If hunting and fishing aren’t your cup of tea, then how about a road trip, or a visit to some of our amazing parks? Just check out the list of State Parks on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept. website and you will find parks you may not even know about. The same goes for National Parks and local parks. If you have some time to get outside, we have the places to go. Fall is a big deal in the parks. The trees are getting their fall colors; the night skies are getting clearer and many of them host holiday events that are worth checking out too!
The only bad thing about a day off this time of year is figuring out which way to go!
Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country.
Ken Milam
What-cha doing today?
Coburns Supply had a “blast” at their annual bird hunting trip in Brownwood, Texas with Executive Outfitters
Johnson HVAC Distribution Dove Hunt in Santa Anna, TX. (L-R) Vince Jiminez, Craig Ahrens, Brian Marlin, & Lance Lackey, A/C Today
The Great Outdoors
Rockport Fly Fishing Report – Fall Redfish
Fall on the Texas coast is a season that every fly angler dreams about. The combination of weather, water conditions, and bait movement creates one of the most exciting windows of the year to chase redfish on the fly. Around Rockport, Aransas Pass, and Port Aransas, this is the time when everything seems to line up—the tides, the wind, and the fish themselves.
What makes fall so special begins with the tides. Higher water floods the back bays and shorelines, pushing bait deeper into the marsh and spreading fish across the flats. Pair that with cooler air and water temperatures, and the entire system comes alive. The dying grass of summer begins to break loose and flush out with these consistent high tides. That flow creates movement and energy throughout the flats, and the redfish are right in the middle of it. With less grass in their way, they have fewer places to hide, making them easier to spot as they slide over sand pockets and mud bottoms.
This cleaner water and reduced vegetation give fly anglers a real advantage. Fewer snags, less grass fouling up your fly, and less chance of losing a fish because it buried itself in thick cover. Instead, you’ll often find redfish cruising openly
Halloween and Other Monsters
October is here and one of the best months around no doubt. Whether you plan to be in the boat or on the wade. The jetties are fired up with red monsters, Bull Reds hungry for shad, big shrimp, even cut mullet will work like a charm. If there’s a group of boats lined up just politely slip in the mix. If there’s no one turn that technology on and start bumping around until you find the big boys on your downscan. If you aren’t a fan of the jetties there’s plenty of other fishing to do. The reefs up north are crawling with life, pick a reef, it almost doesn’t matter which one. Trout are just off the ledge, on the ledge and up on top are black drum, red fish, you’ll find groups of sheepshead moving through. Not just the barely legal sheepshead but the bigger, better fighters. Nothing fancy to gang up on these species, shrimp and popping cork will do the trick well. I like 3/0 kahle hooks and mustad demon 5/0 circle hooks, not too big but plenty of room to grab something hard in the mouth. If the tails are on top of the skinny parts of a reef I like to keep 50-pound braid nearby to swap to on the leader of my popping corks. No rules on leaders when the reef has sharp edges. Speaking of monsters, there’s always bull reds and big uglies roaming around the reefs this time of year as well. So be ready when that pooping cork disappears and you go to set the hook and pull nothing but drag; the fight is on! If you pull up to a reef and have a lot of small fish don’t move far, put that trolling motor to work and move down 50 yards or so, there’s more fish and more sizes around nearby.
For the wading crew, islands off the edges of the shoreline will prove handy, back lakes will be teaming with reds. I like to downsize to a 1/16 oz jig head and 3” lures for less trouble with the grass. Watch out for mud pockets in the back lakes, they can go from sinking to your ankles to sinking to your knees real quick. Move slow and keep an eye out for the large green and blue monster moving through the grass. I don’t know how many big trout I have seen while cruising around a back lake in an airboat this time of year. Once they are spooked your shot at landing that one goes to almost zero. Stay safe and tight lines out there!
across shallow sand and mud. That visibility is a gift for sight fishing— you’ll see tails, backs, and even full groups of fish well before they reach you.
One of the most spectacular sights of fall red fishing is watching schools push down a shoreline, popping shrimp up in the air. It’s not uncommon to have multiple groups coming your way within casting range throughout the day. When the bite is on, it feels like every few minutes has a chance to connect.
At the heart of all this fall action is the shrimp hatch. Each fall, huge waves of juvenile white shrimp move out of the estuaries and back bays, flushing toward the Gulf. On their way, they become the primary food source for nearly everything inshore—redfish, trout, black drum, and flocks of birds diving above. Around Rockport, this hatch usually peaks from late September through November, depending on water temperatures and rainfall. It’s one of the most important seasonal events on the Texas coast, and it drives the entire fall redfish pattern. When the shrimp are thick, redfish feed aggressively, often busting bait right on the surface, and that makes for incredible fly-fishing opportunities.
East and northeast winds also play their role. These winds stack water into our bays and shorelines,
keeping tides higher and consistent. For guides and anglers, that means reliable conditions and predictable fish movements day after day. Whether you’re poling a flat or wading a shoreline, you can expect to find reds where the bait is moving, and the water is flowing.
All of this makes fall arguably the best season to sight fish for redfish on the Texas coast. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to book a trip or dust off the fly rod, now’s the window. Cooler mornings, active fish, and some of the most visual eats of the year are waiting on the flats. I have a few dates available listed below:
Open dates: October 14-16, 2122. November 3, 6, 17-21
Fall Patterns
DThe Great Outdoors
ove season has started, the evening temperatures are starting to get cooler, and deer season is right around the corner. All signs that the fall transition has begun.
This can be a special time of year if you like catching redfish. Especially freshwater redfish. As the evening water temps drop into the low 80s on Braunig and Calaveras Lake, the reds begin to migrate towards the dam - where they will school up in massive numbers while gorging themselves on bait fish. All in preparation for their spawn.
This is where it gets interesting. You see the freshwater reds will go through all the motions of spawning, just like the saltwater reds, but due to the lake of salinity in the lakes, the eggs aren’t able to become fertilized.
By using my electronics, I’m able to locate these big schools of redfish, and decided on the best approach to target them on that given day and time. My main go to tactic is to “scope” the reds where I’ll use my forwardfacing sonar to see the schools, cast my bait at them, and
watch my bait fall down to them at the perfect depth to begin my retrieve. In turn I can make adjustments to my lure selection, and retrieve based on how the fish react as I bring the bait by them.
My bait selection of choice this time of year for casting artificials is pretty straight forward. Rattle traps in chome/ blue, gold, black/ yellow, and green/ chartreuse. Spoons in gold or silver. Swimbaits in a Shad pattern, white or pearl, black/ gold with a chartreuse tail, and chartreuse.
Most of the time the retrieve speeds are slow and steady. But if the reds drop to the bottom to feed, I will switch to a bottom hopping retrieve.
When we aren’t casting lures to the reds, I’ll switch up to either trolling crank baits, down rigging spoons and soft plastics, or bait fishing with shrimp and live tilapia.
While this is an exciting time of year to target reds, one bite that most people tend to overlook is the catfish bite. The cats start to migrate from their summertime areas to their fall areas.
The channel cats move from shallow flats to channel
breaks on the edge of the creek channels. The blue cats will follow the creek channels and tend to stay from 16 to 30 foot of water.
Some days I will anchor and cast baits out like shrimp, chicken, or cut bait for the cats. And other days I will drag baits on a controlled drift across flats and in the creek channels.
If you’re interested in getting in on this action or are wanting to learn how to target these species on your own, give me a call.
Austin’s New Affordable Living Community Industry SOMA, Welcomes First-Time Homeowners
Industry SOMA , welcomes new homeowners to South Austin’s affordable townhome community with three single family residences already sold. Located at 1903 Keilbar Lane, the urban infill townhome development by Industry ATX and designed by the award-winning Mark Odom Studio, with construction by Citadel Development Group, offers modern design, thoughtful planning, and true affordability setting a new standard for accessible homeownership in Austin.
Industry SOMA addresses Austin’s “missing middle” housing gap, with home prices starting at $270,000. The community is built in full compliance with the City of Austin’s S.M.A.R.T. Housing standards and is dedicated to serving households earning at or below 80% of the Median Family Income (MFI).
“I can speak from experience that buying your first home in Austin means putting your roots down in Austin. Growing your family. It was a different Austin when I did this in 2007. Our goal at Industry ATX is to do this in 2025 and beyond, and we need to act quickly to
provide high quality, sustainable, and truly affordable homes to keep Austinites and their families here,” says Michael Winningham, Principal of Industry ATX.
Industry Soma is a vibrant community of 23 aesthetically modern, attached townhomes nestled among mature live oak trees and walking paths. The development offers a safe and attractive environment centered around shared outdoor living spaces that fosters a strong sense of community. Ideally situated in the growing South Menchaca Neighborhood, Industry Soma is within walking distance of local parks, shops, and public transportation—making it a great addition to the area.
“We designed Industry Soma with the modern Austin family in mind—delivering high-quality, attainable housing that serves the city’s underserved ‘missing middle,” says Mark Odom, Founding Principal, Mark Odom Studio. “Industry Soma exemplifies how urban infill projects can offer long-term wealth building through ownership, quality programming and
construction for meaningful, long term, housing needs.”
Industry Soma homes are thoughtfully designed in three- and four-bedroom floor plans to suit a variety of family needs. Light filled units range from 1,042 to 1,208 square feet and provide a range of layout options creating diversity in user type. Lots feature enclosed backyards and terraces, and carports, as homes are sprawled across four building clusters with a communal backyard area as the central point for relaxing, gatherings and neighborhood activities central to the Austin lifestyle.
Industry SOMA Project Team:
Developer: Industry ATX
Architect : Mark Odom Studio
Builder: Citadel Development Group
Photography: Nick Simonite
Engineers: Way Consulting Engineers, Jeffery A Acton, Double B Design, Civilitude Engineers & Planners, Ecoland Design Group, Contour Collective, Holt Engineering
Welcoming the Builders of Tomorrow
On Sept. 19, Leon Woolsey of Woolsey Design Build had the privilege of leading a job site tour for Texas State students at the Appleseed Apartments project. They are proud to share their work and give future leaders in the industry a firsthand look at construction in action. Woolsey Design Build is honored to be part of this educational experience and to help inspire the next generation of builders.
Unseen Beginnings
The E-Z Bel Signals team is laying the literal foundation for tomorrow’s transportation in Kyle. Before you see smart infrastructure, this is where it starts— these rebar cages are being built to support next-gen signal systems designed to work smarter, last longer, and adapt to the future of traffic flow.
Association Calendar
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News
ABC CTX
Associated Builders & Contractors
Central Texas Chapter
Oct. 1: Grit and Glamour Luncheon, 11am-1pm, Maggiano’s Little Italy –Domain, 10910 Domain Dr., Ste. 100, Austin
Oct. 8: Coffee & Contractors Sponsored by Redbox + Dumpsters of Greater Austin, 7:30-9am, Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, 3825 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin
Oct. 30-Nov. 1: TxA25 Annual Conference & Design Expo/Dallas. Join the Texas Society of Architects with architects and design professionals from across the state in Dallas for three days of continuing education, networking, architectural tours, the region’s largest architectural products expo, and engaging events at TxA25 Annual Conference & Design Expo.
UCATX
Utility Contractors Association of Texas
Oct. 17: Austin Live Trench Training, 7am1pm, HEI Civil, 1501 Blackjack St, Lockhart
connections
The Nitsche Group team enjoyed a wonderful day on the greens at the Austin National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) annual Golf Tournament benefiting the NAWIC Austin - Chapter #7 Scholarship fund.
This year, $28,000 in Trades Scholarships plus a $2,500 Milwaukee Tool scholarship were awarded to local apprentices. We’re
grateful to be part of this mission aimed at empowering and educating the future builders of the industry.
Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s golf tournament! Huge thanks to our team for representing The Nitsche Group on the green: Lane Elliff & Kitten Franks with TCS Mechanical; Robert Nitsche & Julie Nitsche
Lumbermen’s Association of Texas (LAT), a non-profit trade association that represents Texas’ building materials industry, announced its 2024 honorees, a Dealer and an Associate member recognized by their peers for extraordinary accomplishments.
The LAT membership has selected Jerry Lightfoot, Vice President at Orange County Building Material Inc., as the 2024 Dealer of the Year. The award is based on dedication to LAT and the industry, service to customers, participation in civic and community affairs and developing camaraderie among LAT members. Lightfoot serves on LAT’s Board of Directors and is a LUMPAC trustee.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized as Dealer of the Year,” said Jerry Lightfoot, Vice President at Orange County Building Material Inc. “This award reflects the hard work of my family, our employees, and the many peers and partners across LAT who share a commitment to strengthening our industry and the communities we serve.”
“Jerry elevates the standards for volunteer leadership with his collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to LAT,” said Kate Woodson Borroni, President of the LAT Board of Directors, Human Resources and Principal at Woodson Lumber Company. “As a
LUMPAC trustee, and one of the founders of the Texas Unity Dinner, he understands the need to invest in legislators with influence and ability to champion the building materials industry and sets a powerful example for his peers and future leaders across the industry.”
The associate award is based on level of service to LAT’s dealer members and dedication to and engagement with LAT for the betterment of the industry. The LAT membership has selected Lynn Noesser as the 2024 Associate of the Year. Noesser recently retired from BlueLinx Corporation, after decades of dedicated service to the industry. He served as a LAT Director and a member of the Audit & Investment Committee.
“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Lynn Noesser. “It’s been a pleasure and a privilege to have supported and worked alongside such a dedicated group of professionals who are shaping the future of the industry.”
“Lynn’s career was built on integrity, hard work and unwavering professionalism, traits that he shared with LAT making us a stronger organization,” said Borroni. “He brought other industry leaders along, was a voice for Texas LBM at the legislature and made a lasting impact on the industry. We look forward to celebrating Jerry and Lynn for their outsized contributions.”
Lynn Noesser
Jerry Lightfoot
INSURANCE
EveryLEGAL LEGAL
Commercial Property Insurance in Texas
Austin
business with a physical location needs commercial property insurance, but exactly what your policy covers can vary depending on your specific industry and operations – and your location. Texas has its own unique insurance requirements , as well as topography and weather patterns that differ from other states, which all play into how your policy is written. Commercial property insurance in Texas is different from similar policies in other parts of the country in some specific ways. It’s important for business owners in the state to understand those differences to make sure they are properly covered.
What makes commercial property insurance in Texas unique?
Commercial property insurance is standard everywhere in the sense that it pays to repair or replace your property if it’s damaged by a fire, storm, or other covered event, and can even cover some of your lost income. Asie from that foundation, here’s how this policy is typically tailored for Texas:
Weather-Related Risks
Texas is particularly susceptible to various natural disasters. This includes hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, tornadoes in the north and central regions, as well as frequent hailstorms and potential flooding. These weather-related risks significantly impact the insurance landscape. Insurers may charge higher premiums to account for these increased risks, and the policies might include specific conditions or exclusions related to these natural events. Businesses need to ensure they have adequate coverage for the types of events that commonly occur in Texas, and be sure to read the fine print for exclusions.
Economic Factors
Texas has a diverse and robust economy that’s known for being business friendly. The state has embraced companies in sectors like oil and gas, technology, and agriculture, which presents unique scenarios in commercial property insurance. If your company sits in a high-risk industry, such as oil and gas, it may require specialized insurance products. Additionally, the economic
growth in Texas can lead to increased property values and construction activity, influencing insurance needs and costs.
Size and Diversity
The vast size and geographical variety of Texas means that insurance needs and risks can vary greatly across different regions. For instance, a business in a coastal area like Houston would have different insurance considerations (like hurricane and flood risks) compared to a business in a more inland city like Dallas, where tornadoes might be a greater concern. This regional variation requires insurers to offer tailored solutions, and businesses must be aware of their specific local risks when choosing their commercial property insurance in Texas.
Rural areas and lack of local protections
Because a large portion of Texas is rural, some areas lack local protections that are standard in urban regions. For example, the number of fire departments in rural Texas can be limited. This lack of local infrastructure can lead to properties being classified as higher hazard due to longer response times in case of emergencies like fires. Consequently, insurance companies might assess these properties higher risk, leading to higher insurance premiums. If your business is located in a rural area, it’s crucial to be aware of the infrastructure limitations that might put you at additional risk.
Coastal property insurance requirements
Properties locate in counties along the Texas coast often require insurance through specialty carriers that focus on coastal properties. These carriers are more experienced in dealing with the risks associated with coastal areas, such as hurricanes and flooding. However, policies from these specialty carriers often come at higher rates compared to inland insurance options. This is due to the increased risk of significant damage from coastal storms and the higher cost of rebuilding in these areas. Businesses owning properties in these coastal regions need to budget accordingly for higher insurance costs.
ControlledCourse of Construction Coverage Gaps Under CGL Wrap-Up Insurance Policies
Pat Wielinski
Principal Cokinos Young Dallas, TX
Insurance Programs (“CIPs,” “wrap-ups” or simply “wraps”) are promoted as particularly well-suited for large construction projects where all eligible participants are insured under a single program. Theoretically, a wrap eliminates multiple carriers and duplicated coverages. For successful wrap treatment, the project must be of sufficient dollar value to be eligible, the sponsor must be capable of administering the wrap, and coverages must be adequate to apply to claims for the wrap to be effective. However, depending on the entity sponsoring the owner-controlled insurance program (“OCIP”) or a contractor in a contractorcontrolled insurance program (“CCIP”), it is the insurer that effectively maintains ultimate control of the claims. But the potential for gaps in coverage has emerged as a disadvantage where property damage occurs during construction operations.
While most wrap-up CGL policies utilize similar exclusions to those found in standard CGL forms, they are endorsed to add provisions to adapt the policy to the wrap-up platform, such as by extending the completed operations coverage to the length of the statute of repose, including all tiers on the project as named insureds, limiting the insured location to a specific project or projects, and revising certain exclusions in the policy. Often, standard property damage exclusions may also be deleted altogether, but are usually then replaced with another or others.
One of the most troublesome CIP modifications to the customary CGL property damage exclusions is an endorsement that deletes Exclusions j(5) and j(6), the operations and incorrect work exclusions. Those standard exclusions apply to operations in progress, stating that the insurance does not apply to property damage to “that particular part” of real property on which the named insured or its subcontractors are performing operations, if the property damage arises out of those operations, or if the property must be restored, repaired, or replaced because the named insured’s work was incorrectly performed on it. The “that particular part” formulation is intended to preserve coverage for other property damaged by the excluded particular part.
policy, stating that the insurance does not apply to property damage at or to the insured project during the course of construction or operations (i.e., before the substantial completion of the project). Gone is the “that particular part” limitation, and the modification is often made through a stand-alone endorsement that may be labeled in various ways, such as “Property Damage to Work in Progress,” “Course of Construction Endorsement,” “Property Damage to Contract Works,” or “Exclusion Damage to the Project During the Course of Construction.”
Insurance underwriters often refer to this type of provision as the “builders risk exclusion,” apparently on the assumption that builders risk insurance, rather than liability insurance, should provide coverage for property damage to the work that occurs during the course of construction. This overly simplistic approach ignores the fact that builders risk policies contain many gaps in coverage versus a standard CGL policy, particularly as to defective construction. The exclusion can thus create a significant gap for participants in a wrapup project for property damage occurring during the course of operations, depending on their ability to coordinate and rely upon coverage within their own insurance policies. First and foremost, a builders risk policy is a first-party property policy that does not include a defense obligation for the insurer. Therefore, when the insured looks to the wrap-up CGL policy for defense of a claim involving property damage during construction, it may be excluded, and no defense is available under the CIP. In addition, builders risk coverage may not provide coverage for certain types of risks such as consequential damages, certain soft costs, and faulty workmanship/design (absent an ensuing loss clause that preserves coverage for damage to other non-defective work caused by the defective work). Coverage for such damages may otherwise be covered under a CGL policy but for a course of construction exclusion attached to a wrap-up.
One might be tempted to believe that deletion of the standard j(5) and(6) exclusions is a win for the insured participants and that coverage would be increased by the deletion of exclusions. Not so fast! While these two provisions are framed as exclusions, many courts have relied on the “that particular part” formulation to narrowly interpret the scope of the exclusion and to uphold coverage.
Unfortunately, the deletion of these property damage exclusions from the CGL form is usually accompanied by attachment of a considerably more onerous and absolute endorsement to the CIP CGL
The course of construction exclusion and its deletion of the broader j.(5) and j.(6) exclusions was touched on by the court in the recent case of Liberty Surplus Insurance Corp. v. Kaufman Lynn Construction, Inc., 130 F.4th 903 (11th.Cir. 2025). Though decided under Florida law, the opinion is one of the first do so and is of potential country-wide impact. The AGC and NAHB filed an amici curiae brief in that case in support of the insured contractor, calling the court’s attention to the incongruity of denying course of operations coverage under a wrapup program. Their efforts caught the court’s attention in what it hinted to be an unfair “sleight of hand” by attaching a more onerous course of conduct endorsement to a wrap-up policy intended to provide coverage for everyone on the project.
See LEGAL, page 14
OLEGAL
OSHA INSURANCE ACCOUNTING
What Training Do You Need to Operate an Excavator?
Michael Purser Writer/Editor OSHA Education Center
SHA Rules for Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide education that prepares workers to handle machinery correctly. That applies to any large, self-propelled working vehicle, including excavators.
Excavation and trenching hazards are closely regulated by several more standards, including 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P. In addition, the administration expects a designated competent person on site to oversee soil testing, equipment inspections and hazard identification before any digging begins.
This system of related standards includes rules like:
• Protective systems must be used when trenches exceed five feet in depth.
• Workers may install sloping, benching, shoring or trench boxes depending on the soil type.
• Utilities should be located and marked before excavation starts.
• Operators must follow construction safe work practices.
These measures protect both heavy equipment operators and nearby crews. Operators must also comply with general industry standards related to construction site operations. That includes following load charts, maintaining equipment and ensuring safety procedures are used on every shift. Noncompliance can lead to downtime, accidents and fines.
Citations for excavation violations are among the most common in construction. In 2024, OSHA reported millions of dollars in penalties related to trenching hazards. There’s a high cost for cutting corners, both financially and in human lives. For both employers and workers, occupational safety training is the best defense against medical, legal and financial risk.
Training Requirements for Using Excavator Machinery
Excavator operator training must cover both technical skills and awareness of safe operations. At a minimum, programs should include:
• Excavation and trenching hazards – recognizing unstable soil, water intrusion and underground utilities.
• Load handling and stability –understanding lifting capacities, proper rigging and ground conditions.
• Emergency response protocols –knowing how to shut down equipment and respond to incidents.
For those seeking long-term career advancement, initial courses and refresher programs will also help build your confidence before moving into complex construction equipment operations while avoiding the hidden dangers of construction sites.
Completing a basic training and safety
awareness course helps you gain an understanding of construction industry standards and prepares you for jobs. You can take the course on your own or through your employer. Many employers enroll crew members in these types of programs to keep everyone safe on the job and qualify for reduced insurance premiums with documented records of safe operations.
How to Become a Heavy Equipment Professional
Moving tons of earth takes more than just sitting in the driver’s seat. Here’s a step-by-step process:
1. Complete Online Courses
Begin with a general safety education, such as OSHA 10-hour construction or OSHA 30-hour training. These cover core topics every worker needs for safe operation on construction sites.
Some jurisdictions may impose additional requirements. In New York City, for example, you’ll also need to complete Site Safety Training (SST), which provides an overview of excavations and underpinning activities. Look for courses approved by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).
2. Take Heavy Equipment Operator Training Courses
Specialized courses build the knowledge you need for handling construction-related machinery. Heavy machinery operation courses provide foundational skills. These programs teach operators how to interpret load charts, recognize soil conditions and plan safe construction site operations. Some employers require proof of completion before allowing workers to touch any type of heavy equipment.
With OSHA Education Center’s online Excavations Safety Training course, you get a Certificate of Completion immediately after completing the one-hour program.
3. Practice and Work Under Supervision
Virtual platforms allow learners to experience construction equipment operation in a safe, controlled setting. Simulator training is one method for developing hand-eye coordination for handling construction machines, but it is not the only method.
On-site apprenticeships or supervised sessions provide practical exposure. Trainers can assess whether a worker is ready to operate equipment independently. This step ensures that classroom learning translates into real-world competency. A supervisor can also confirm that safety procedures are being followed consistently.
4. Maintain Your Skills
Skills should be refreshed with ongoing education. Short courses like excavation and trenching awareness help you stay up to date and demonstrate to employers you take safety seriously.
Continuing education is especially important as new technologies and attachments are introduced to modern excavation equipment.
March the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released its 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, awarding an overall grade of C—an improvement from a C-minus in 2021, but an indication that the U.S. still has barely scratched the surface of what is needed to effectively maintain and improve the nation’s infrastructure.
ASCE evaluated 18 infrastructure categories based on factors such as current and future capacity, physical condition, funding levels and gaps, regulatory compliance, public safety, resilience, and innovation. The findings paint a picture of strained systems, aging assets and limited investment. The organization estimates a funding gap totaling $3.7 trillion from 2024 to 2033 if federal funding remains flat.
Condition and funding needs of U.S. transportation infrastructure
State and local governments accounted for 79% of transportation and water infrastructure spending in 2023, according to the U.S. Congressional Budget Office, yet many are not prepared to meet the challenge of keeping roads and bridges in good repair.
A July 2025 report by The Pew Charitable Trusts found that 33 states expect to miss at least some of their targets for roadway and bridge conditions or maintenance funding over the next decade. Only 11 states are on track to meet both goals. The rest lack sufficient data for a clear outlook, which is an issue in itself. For example, much of the data focuses only on federally funded National Highway System assets, excluding non-NHS infrastructure.
Public spending on transportation and water infrastructure, 1956−2023
Merriam-Webster defines infrastructure as the system of public works of a country, state or region—a definition that speaks directly to its role as the backbone of the economy. That connection has real consequences: U.S. underinvestment in infrastructure will cost the average household $3,300 a year by 2039, according to ASCE.
Poor infrastructure doesn’t just mean potholes and delays. It erodes productivity, restricts the movement of goods and people, increases risk, and limits competitiveness. Aged electrical grids, fragile water systems, and constrained port and transit capacity all hamper economic performance and national security. Infrastructure also affects the pace of artificial intelligence adoption, limiting energy scalability and data center deployment.
The upside is that the scale of these infrastructure challenges presents a massive opportunity for construction contractors that are prepared to meet them. As federal, state and local governments stretch limited resources across mounting needs, successful contractors will be those that bring sophistication, compliance and productivity to the table and excel in a variety of areas.
Unfortunately, the court decided not to address that issue because the builders risk policy was not included in the court record. The result in the Liberty Surplus v. Kaufman case seems somewhat less than ringing, but the court’s observations moved the needle slightly away from the inclusion of course of construction exclusions in wrap-up policies.
Negotiation to remove or limit course of conduct exclusions in CIP CGL policies is not usually a viable option in that underwriters are hesitant to do so. Of course, all terms of an insurance policy, particularly manuscripted provisions, should be carefully reviewed at issuance because departures from standard policy language can create more opportunity for possible denial by insurers in the claims stage. Nevertheless, the following might mitigate the negative effects of an absolute course of conduct exclusion (or prevent other gaps):
ACCOUNTING con’t
Mastering compliance and funding
Contractors that want to bid on government contracts must navigate a maze of evolving regulations and funding requirements. Projects tied to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act require prevailing-wage adherence, workforce development and domestic material sourcing. The U.S. Department of Defense now mandates that certain contractors comply with the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification.
And new initiatives such as the White House’s American AI Action Plan signal the availability of more funding, as well as more complexity and urgency. Staying competitive means participating in trade associations that offer up-to-date guidance, hiring attorneys and consultants who are familiar with these regulations and developing systems to track regulatory changes.
Closing the labor gap
Associated Builders and Contractors forecasts the need for 439,000 net new construction workers in 2025 and 499,000 in 2026. It warns that failing to meet that need may accelerate already high construction costs and reduce the volume of financially feasible work. Contractors should consider establishing internship programs, workforce development programs, employee ownership models and flexible benefits to attract and retain talent.
• During underwriting, submit a specification of the insured project that closely tracks the contract, particularly as to completion.
• Link or incorporate the definition of “complete” or “completion” in the course of construction exclusion with the standard definition of the “products-completed operations hazard” in the CGL policy that deems completion to occur when the owner occupies a portion of the project.
• Negotiate a provision in the contract specifying that standard unendorsed CGL coverage must be included in the wrap-up and that failure to provide those coverages allows the contractor to purchase it at the owner’s expense or reimbursement by the owner for a denied claim, similar to AIA Document A201, Section 11.2.2, as to builders risk coverage.
• Amend the participant’s own practice CGL policies to include difference in conditions (DIC”) coverage to fill in the gaps in a wrap-up program.
Managing materials and costs
Tariffs and supply chain disruptions have made materials sourcing more critical than ever. Contractors must develop robust procurement strategies and adopt best practices for navigating price and availability fluctuations.
Leveraging data and technology
Data is the engine of effective technology use. When properly accessed, governed and protected, it enables faster, smarter decisions. Technology helps contractors manage compliance, boost labor productivity and safety, and optimize materials and other limited resources. A smart starting point is to evaluate the effectiveness of enterprise resource planning systems and project management software in assessing business planning and profitability.
These systems and software facilitate a more financially healthy and nimble construction firm. With this foundation in place, firms can build a culture of innovation that uses AI, wearables, drones and robotics to solve specific challenges and drive measurable growth.
The outlook
The U.S. infrastructure challenge is as daunting as it is urgent. But for construction firms, it is also a moment of unprecedented opportunity. Prepared and innovative firms that invest in people, process, data and technology can thrive amid continued uncertainty and play a pivotal role in revitalizing the U.S. economy.
Major Investment Promises Economic Growth an Innovation for Central Texas Community
A$700 million data center is coming to Temple, TX. The Temple Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has announced. According to the EDC, The Temple City Council unanimously approved plans for Rowan Digital Infrastructure to build a major new facility in the city.
The new facility will reportedly be located on more than 700 acres along Bob White Road in south Temple, and is scheduled to break ground by the end of 2025. Completion on the project is reportedly anticipated for fall of 2026.
“This announcement is the latest in a series of major companies seeing the value of investing in Temple and doing so in a big way,” John Howe, Chairman of the Board for Temple EDC, said. “This data center has the potential to impact our community in tremendous ways for years to come.”
“Temple continues to distinguish itself as a hub for innovation and growth,” Temple Mayor Tim Davis said. “Rowan’s decision to invest here represents the strength of our community and our business-friendly environment.”
Temple EDC said the first phase of the campus will staff 30 full-time employees, with a planned second phase adding 10 more employees by the end of 2029. The construction of the campus is also reportedly expected to create 700 jobs.
“This data center campus will bring hundreds of jobs, dozens of long-term careers and a sustained economic impact for our residents,” Davis said. “We look forward to a strong, lasting partnership with Rowan as this project comes to life.”
“We are deeply grateful to the Temple City Council for their trust and confidence
in our vision for this project,” said Martin Romo, senior director of economic development and external affairs at Rowan. “This decision is a testament to our shared goal of truly sustainable, community-driven digital infrastructure. Rowan is looking forward to working with our partners at TEDC, the city and the county to bring meaningful growth and lasting benefits to everyone that calls this incredible community home.”
Rowan Digital Infrastructure is a “leading U.S.-based developer of largescale data center campuses, specializing in solutions tailored for hyperscale cloud and artificial intelligence providers,” said Temple EDC. This project is reportedly the latest of many for the company, which include a hyperscale project near San Antonio, as well as projects in Maryland and Oregon.
“I want to thank Rowan for their investment in Bell County,” Bell County Judge David Blackburn said. “I also appreciate the opportunity for Bell County to work with Rowan, the City of Temple and the Temple Economic Development Corporation. It has truly been a collaborative effort and represents a winwin for the entire community.”
Temple EDC said the property where the data center will be built was previously with the City of Temple’s Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction, and was voluntarily annexed by the Temple City Council.
“Our team has worked hard to build strong relationships with city and county leaders, as well as regional economic development champions, whose collaboration has been essential every step of the way,” Romo said.
Future-Proofing Parking Structures for Larger Vehicles
By Christopher Tiessen, President/CEO, KLAUS Multiparking America
Across the U.S., the vehicles we drive have fundamentally changed. SUVs, trucks, and crossovers now dominate the market, making up more than 80% of new car sales. These vehicles are larger, longer, and taller than the sedans that once defined parking geometry.
Yet, we’re still designing and building parking structures for the cars of the past.
This disconnect has real consequences, especially for construction cost, land use, and longterm asset value. As developers, architects, and planners respond to market demands, it’s time to rethink how we design for parking in urban settings.
Why Traditional Parking Geometry Falls Short
Most parking facilities in the U.S. were built around stall dimensions of 8 to 8.5 feet wide and 16 to 18 feet deep. These sizes may have worked when sedans dominated, but they’re increasingly misaligned with today’s vehicles. Accommodating SUVs and trucks means expanding stall dimensions to 9 or even 10 feet wide and 20 to 22 feet deep. Drive aisles also need to widen to 24-26 feet, and ceiling clearances may need to rise to 8’6” or more to handle roof racks and tailgates. These changes compound quickly. Widening stalls and aisles alone can reduce total capacity by 1525%, and increase per-space costs by 10-25%, depending on structure and site constraints. In today’s environment this trade-off is no longer sustainable.
A Smarter Approach with Mechanical and Automated Systems
Rather than continually scaling up conventional garages, a growing number of developers are turning to automated parking systems to meet modern needs. These systems eliminate the need for circulation aisles and ramps. Vehicles are stored using vertical lifts, lateral shuttles, or stacked platforms, allowing for greater density in smaller footprints. Many of these systems are now engineered to handle larger vehicles, with platform widths, lift capacities, and access heights tailored to today’s car market.
In one recent project, a 12,271-square-foot site that could support just 41 conventional spaces was reconfigured with a semiautomated puzzle system to fit 135 vehicles, a 229% capacity gain without expanding the footprint. This kind of efficiency matters in high-cost, spaceconstrained markets.
Cost Considerations and Return on Investment
It’s important to compare complete systems. Traditional abovegrade garages typically cost $20,000 to $42,000 per space. Below-grade garages can easily reach $75,000 per space or more.
Mechanical stackers, by contrast, range from $6,000 to $12,000 per space for equipment. Semi-automated systems range from $20,000 to $36,000, and fully automated solutions can reach $100,000 per space. However, these often yield better ROI
by saving space, reducing structural volume, and accelerating timelines. They also eliminate underutilized stalls, reduce vehicle damage from tight spaces, and enhance user satisfaction, especially in luxury residential and mixed-use developments.
Rebuilding vs. Renovating: When to Start Fresh
Retrofitting older parking structures to accommodate larger vehicles is possible, but rarely simple. Many legacy facilities have column spacing, slab thicknesses, and clear heights that don’t align with modern standards. Retrofitting may require seismic upgrades and life safety modernization, all while keeping portions of the structure operational.
In cases where retrofit costs exceed 60-70% of new construction, it often makes more economic sense to demolish and rebuild. New construction allows for optimized layouts, EV readiness, automated system integration, and full code compliance from day one, improving performance and future value.
Technology as a Design Partner
Parking technology now goes beyond mechanics. Sensor-based guidance systems, dynamic stall assignment, and turntables all help optimize internal vehicle flow, particularly for oversized vehicles. Automated garages now feature platforms specifically rated for larger SUVs and trucks, with smart control
systems to manage weight distribution and entry orientation. These innovations reduce structural loads and future-proof design. Many systems also support mobile EV charging options, modular power distribution, and smart energy management tools that support LEED and ESG goals.
The Road Ahead
The vehicles are only getting larger, and this isn’t a temporary trend. As we design the parking structures that will serve for decades to come, we need to stop optimizing for the past.
Mechanical and automated systems allow developers to accommodate today’s vehicles without compromising density or financial returns. Deployed thoughtfully, they unlock new value maximizing land use while reducing build time, structure size, and operational inefficiencies. Futureready parking means anticipating how mobility is evolving and designing spaces that work with the vehicles we’re driving.
Christopher Tiessen, President/CEO, KLAUS Multiparking America
