High-Profile: January 2024

January 2024

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January 2024 Forecast

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A topping out ceremony was recently held for The Slate Upper School in North Haven, Conn. / Rendering courtesy of Patriquin Architects Read full story on page 10

INDUSTRY EXPERT ARTICLES:

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Benjamin Goldfarb

Janet Morra

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18

Jonathan Couture

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Derrick Rebello

Brad Carlson

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28

Girard R. Visconti

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Here Comes 2024: What’s the Outlook for the AEC Industry? by Richard Friedman Constructing Tomorrow: Luciana Burdi’s Leadership in a Transforming Industry NAWIC Launches Vermont Chapter 395 AGC/VT Celebrates Best Builder Awards How Foxwoods Resort Casino is Reimagining the Future of Entertainment $10M Bond Issued for new Additions to Lighthouse School in Chelmsford Builders of Color Coalition Announces 12 Members of Capital Task Force

P.O. Box 7, Pembroke, MA 02359 Change Service Requested

North Branch Construction Donates Safety Fine Program Proceeds to Easterseals NH

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January 2024

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Featuring:

On the Cover:

ADVERTISERS INDEX Alpine Environmental................................ 16 American Energy Management.............. 11 American Plumbing & Heating.................. 2 Arden Building Companies...................... 15 Associated Subcontractors/MA..............32

The Slate Upper School in North Haven, Conn. Recently Topped Out

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How Foxwoods Resort Casino is Reimagining the Future of Entertainment

13

Barnes Building Management................. 10

26 Brennan Consulting, Inc............................ 17

AGC/VT Celebrates Best Builder Awards

Sections: Publisher’s Message............................. 6 Up-Front................................................. 7 Special Report…................................. 13 Forecast............................................... 14 Trends and Hot Topics...........18, 20, 28 Mixed -Use......................................... 21 Multi-Residential.................................24 Awards.................................................26 J.E.D.I...................................................29 Education.............................................30 Green................................................... 31 Organizations and Events..................32 Philanthropy........................................34 Build Better Podcast............................36 People..................................................37 Calendar.............................................38

Connecticut Temperature Controls.......... 11 Copley Wolff Design Group...................... 4 Dacon.........................................................40 Dietz & Co.................................................... 7 e2 engineers..............................................24 NAWIC Launches Vermont Chapter 395

33

Constructing Tomorrow: Luciana Burdi’s Leadership in a Transforming Industry

Erland Construction, Inc........................... 14

36 G.T.Wilkinson............................................... 6 Genest.......................................................... 3

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: www.High-Profile.com/subscribe

Gray, Gray & Gray................................... 12 Hampshire Fire Protection........................22 IBEW 103..................................................39 J&M Brown................................................ 21 Kaydon.......................................................20 M.A. Manosh............................................27

PUBLISHER: Anastasia Barnes

Metro Walls............................................... 14 Nauset Construction................................ FFF

EDITOR: Emily Langner CONSULTING EDITORS:

Neagley & Chase.....................................26 NEMCA...................................................... 10

Ralph Barnes and Marion Barnes

Norgate Metal, Inc...................................36

ART DIRECTOR:

O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun Assoc.................33

Yvonne Lauzière, Stark Creative ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE:

Plumbers Local 12/Greater Boston PCA.. 9 Silver Tiger Consulting................................ 6

Mark Kelly

SL Chasse................................................... 31 FOUNDERS: Michael and Kathy Barnes

Send news releases, advertising queries, articles, announcements, and calendar listings, to: editor@high-profile.com.

P.O. Box 7, Pembroke, MA 02359 (781) 294-4530

www.high-profile.com

Sprinkler Fitters 550.................................... 5 STEM Solutions, LLC..................................22 Tecta America.............................................. 8 TFMoran..................................................... 10 Topaz Engineering....................................35

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Publisher’s Message

Anastasia Barnes Our first issue of 2024 contains valuable industry insights from professionals all across the AEC industry. Common themes have emerged which include the commitment to innovation, adaptation, and community building, and the shifts in which markets will be in demand as we embark on the new year.

In this issue, I interviewed the new president of the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC), Ryan Scrittorale, a senior project manager at Benesch. We discussed his key initiatives for CBC, the organization’s upcoming programs, and the significance of the Project Team Awards. Scrittorale emphasized CBC’s dedication to connecting and advancing

professionals in the AEC industry in Connecticut. Turn to page 32 to read the full interview.

Ben Goldfarb of Nauset Construction wrote a piece for this month’s issue, which addresses the pressing affordable housing problem in Massachusetts and key legislative efforts like the MBTA Communities Act and the prospective Affordable Homes Act. He discusses using tools like Chapter 40B and local incentives to solve the issue and make sure Massachusetts stays a leader in innovation, globally. Don’t know what Chapter 40B is? Read more on page 15.

a positive response to our in-person panel event back in September that we’re doing it again in celebration of WIC Week 2024.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 7 at 4:30 p.m., when we will be hosting our first-ever Women In Construction (WiC) Week Speed Networking event. You can look forward to other social events during this year’s WIC Week, including events hosted by AGC MA, WIRE and NAWIC. Stay tuned to our social media posts for more info!

Happy New Year and enjoy the read!

Jason Guyot

In her article, “Return to Office: Accommodating a Paradigm Shift” on page 16, Janet Morra, a principal at Margulies Perruzzi Architects, explores the challenges and shifts in returning to the post-pandemic workplace. She discusses the adoption of hybrid work models by diverse companies, provides

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insights from the firm’s own surveys, and stresses the significance of tailoring design solutions to align with each company’s specific business practices and culture for a successful (and peaceful) return to the office.

I recently interviewed Jason Guyot, president and CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino. On page 13, Emily Langner, editor at High-Profile, shares highlights from the interview, which includes details of the recently completed Pequot Woodlands Casino and the $300 million Great Wolf Lodge indoor water park in Mashantucket, Conn., which is currently under construction.

This year brings exciting things for High-Profile, including our new FastFacts Friday video edition that launches on Friday, Jan. 5 - an even speedier way to get your weekly news! Plus, we had such

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Up-Front Ground Broken on Technical High School in Fall River

(l-r): Richard Brewer, chairman, Town of Westport board of selectmen; James MacDonald; Brian S. Bentley; Jamison Souza, chairman, Town of Somerset board of selectmen; Senator Michael Rodrigues; Paul Coogan, mayor of the City of Fall River; Massachusetts State Representative Alan Silvia; and Massachusetts State Representative Carole Fiola

Fall River, MA – Suffolk, together with the Greater Fall River Vocational School District (GFRVSD) and School Building Committee, recently hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School (DRVTHS).

Attendees gathered at the site of the future school in Fall River for a ceremony reaffirming the ideals for which the new facility will stand, including enhancing the student experience and benefitting the school’s four sending communities of Westport, Swansea, Somerset and Fall River. Ceremony speakers included Brian S. Bentley, superintendent director, DRVTHS; James Macdonald, CEO of the Massachusetts School Building Authority; Massachusetts State Senator Michael Rodrigues; and Keith Couch, Northeast Region general manager of Suffolk.

“Suffolk is honored to partner with the School Building Committee, the Greater Fall River Vocational School District, and the Massachusetts School Building Authority to cement the innovative vision of the new Diman Regional Vocational

Technical High School into reality,” said Couch. “This cutting-edge facility will allow Diman to continue to provide an unparalleled technical vocational education experience, connecting students with their passions and subsequently

Main lobby

Student commons

Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School / Renderings courtesy of Kaestle Boos Associates, Inc.

unlocking career paths that build the foundation for the success of the future workforce.”

Originally built in the 1960s for 800 students, the new facility will accommodate an enrollment capacity of 1,500 students in grades 9-12 and will include a large entry plaza, centrally located parking areas to serve both the school and the athletic facilities, a gymnasium, auditorium, classrooms, science labs and special education spaces. Additionally, the new school will feature large shops in Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology, Construction, Transportation, Business, Consumer Services, Health Services, Culinary Arts and Graphics Communications.

“This groundbreaking ceremony and the subsequent construction of the new Diman represents the next chapter in the history of Diman for our communities, our families and especially our students,” said Bentley. “The new Diman will be a physical representation of the philosophy espoused by Rev. John Diman himself, who believed that the proper training and skills achieved by students would

craft a foundation strong enough to withstand whatever the future challenges of the workforce may bring. This new Diman will be a testament to the Diman founded in 1912 which sought to better the community and those who lived in it. If the future of our community is based upon those who live, work and are educated in it, then the new Diman will shine brightly to show the path forward.”

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Brian S. Bentley; Maureen Murphy, director of Northeast planning, Suffolk; and her father Gerry Murphy, project superintendent for the original DRVTHS built in 1968

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High-Profile: Up-Front

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January 2024

Home Base National Center of Excellence to Expand Boston – Suffolk, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) and Home Base recently launched expansion of the Home Base National Center of Excellence, which will serve as a dedicated clinical space for special operators and veterans impacted by traumatic brain and polytrauma injuries from war and training.

With this expansion of its National Center of Excellence, Home Base will increase its clinical capacity to serve veterans and their families, providing comprehensive neurological, psychological and physical evaluations

John Fish

(l-r): Dr. Ross Zafonte; Scott Schoen; Jean Tempel; Nancy Kelleher; Michael Allard, COO, Home Base; Jack Hammond; John Fish, chairman and CEO, Suffolk; Sec. Jon Santiago; and Rep. Dan Ryan / Photos by Mass General Photography

and treatments to treat traumatic brain injuries, musculoskeletal injuries and mental health conditions in veterans and service members from the special operations community. The expansion will also include dedicated space for innovation and research for new treatments, including expanding investigations around the effectiveness of psychedelics.

Suffolk, WWP and Home Base hosted 60 state and local dignitaries, veterans, and leaders from Suffolk, Home Base, WWP and Mass General Brigham at Home Base’s Charlestown headquarters to celebrate the expansion of the center.

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of services and in-kind materials to the Home Base expansion project. Home Base, a partnership between the Red Sox and Mass General Hospital, operates the largest private-sector mental health and brain injury clinic in the nation focused on caring for veterans, active-duty service members, military-connected families and families of the fallen. Suffolk and Home Base recently announced a collaboration through which Suffolk has committed $150,000 over a three year period to provide healing and hope to thousands of veterans and their families across the country.

WWP has invested over $90 million into Home Base as part of Warrior Care Network. WWP launched Warrior Care Network with four clinical partners in 2015 to increase access and improve health outcomes for warriors needing clinical care for mental health or brain injuries. WWP is investing an additional $5.5 million to support the Home Base expansion project, including the creation of the Wounded Warrior Project Brain Health and Special Operations Performance Clinic.

Rendering of the completed space in the foreground of the third floor of Home Base headquarters. This space, renovated by Suffolk, will become a dedicated clinical space for special operators and veterans impacted by traumatic brain and polytrauma Injuries from war and training.

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(l-r): Michael Allard; Eric Miller, CFO, Wounded Warrior Project; Laura Lakin, assistant project manager, Suffolk; Ashley Ross, Warrior Care Network deputy director, Wounded Warrior Project; and Win Hotchkiss, superintendent, Suffolk

High-Profile: Up-Front

January 2024

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High-Profile: Up-Front

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January 2024

Topping Out Held for 25,000sf Slate Upper School in North Haven

Slate Upper School / Renderings courtesy of Patriquin Architects

North Haven, CT – Local officials from the State of Connecticut recently joined the Slate School community and representatives from Patriquin Architects and Gilbane Building Company to celebrate the official topping out of the 25,000sf Slate Upper School.

Once complete, the new 2-story facility will accommodate up to 90 students in grades 7-12 with inquirybased educational programming focused on nature conversancy, which focuses on cultivating creativity, fostering ingenuity, and inspiring a deep passion for lifelong learning. Learning spaces within the new facility are designed with flexibility in mind; they are designed to be open

and collaborative and to foster student exploration. They include access to natural light and overlook the campus landscape.

“The Slate School is the embodiment of how the powers of design vision and team collaboration can be truly transformative.

Patriquin Architects have been privileged to work with the Slate School community since its inception in 2017 and during its remarkable growth. It was both humbling and gratifying to see the excitement and enthusiasm of the children, parents, and educators as the Upper School’s beam was raised in place and the project took one step closer to completion. We look forward to another celebration in 2024

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when the doors open for the first time,” said Paolo Campos, AIA, NOMA, project manager at Patriquin Architects.

“We’re proud to reach this milestone in the construction of Slate’s Upper School,” said John Hawley, vice president and business unit leader for Gilbane in Connecticut. “We appreciate the hard work of our entire team that has brought us to this point. We look forward to safely completing the project and the future impact the school will have on its students.”

Environmentally friendly features of the building include an orientation and window design that allows for solar gain; robust wall and roof assemblies to

minimize thermal loads; and low-carbon, healthy materials, used to contribute to the well-being of building occupants and the environment.

“Witnessing and actively participating in the extraordinary journey of Slate School has been an honor for us. The trust our clients have placed in us is both humbling and inspiring. Collaborating closely with the construction team to bring our shared vision to life, we eagerly anticipate the moment when the building transforms into a beloved school for students and educators alike,” said Karin Patriquin, AIA, LEED AP, CPHC, Fitwel, president at Patriquin Architects.

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High-Profile: Up-Front

January 2024

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Mark Stebbins Community Center Effort Finds New Location in Manchester Manchester, NH – After several months of reviewing options and exploring possible sites for a new West Side Manchester community center, the board of directors of the Mark Stebbins Community Center (MSCC) and the board of commissioners for the Manchester Housing and Redevelopment Authority (MHRA) announced the two entities have signed a 75-year lease to build and operate a new facility for local children and residents.

MHRA owns the land and has fully agreed to the project.

MHRA will lease the land to MSCC for a nominal amount, and MSCC will raise the funds and build a community center accessible to children and families throughout the West Side. Feasibility studies and project planning is now underway for the site. A construction timeline is being developed now.

“This is a natural partnership and one in which everything fell into place perfectly,” said Bill Steele, chairman of the MSCC board of directors. “The Kelley Falls location already had plans developed for a community center to be incorporated into the site. The concept has already received support from the city and locals, but partners had not been identified until MSCC board members began a dialogue about the potential project. It’s like this site was waiting for us to find it.”

Mark Stebbins

MSCC will be raising funds from individual donors and local and national foundations and companies, and pursuing state and federal funding. The center is a nonprofit and will pay for all construction and operating expenses through raised funds. Taxpayers and/or residents of the city will not be paying for any aspects of the center.

“This is an ideal next step for residents of Kelley Falls and for children of the West Side of Manchester,” said Catherine

Naczas of MHRA. “This facility will provide both a guarantee of space for children who live at Kelley Falls as well as access to families on the entire West Side for services provided by outstanding nonprofit agencies.”

The center will focus on providing services for youth and families on the West Side, in keeping with Mark Stebbins’ lifelong philanthropic impact and deep ties to the community. Boys & Girls Club and Amoskeag Health will be providing services for youth and families through the center on the West Side, just as they do now on the East Side. All services will be specifically for youth and families, such as affordable, walkable childcare; after school care; access to affordable health care; community meeting space; and additional needed support services in coordination with fellow nonprofit providers.

Site surveys and fundraising/financing will help determine the final size of the center, which will be roughly 20,000sf, well within the size limitations for this land site. Traffic impacts are expected to be minimal given the multiple points of access and egress to the location. In addition, the leadership team for this project will approach the Manchester planning board and Aldermanic board for the necessary approvals for the project

later this year.

The Mark Stebbins Community Center honors the memory of Mark Stebbins, who served as chairman and CEO of PROCON until his passing in June of 2021. He was was a strong advocate of Manchester’s nonprofit community and gave both his time and talents to support their missions.

For this new location, there was and will continue to be an effort to go directly to residents who live nearby to offer information and a way to contact project leaders with questions or concerns, including community meetings to discuss the project and meetings with local neighbors. Visit markstebbinscommunitycenter.org or email info@stebbinscommunitycenter. org for more information.

“It’s clear that the West Side of Manchester will benefit from programs and activities offered by both Amoskeag and the Boys & Girls Club,” said Diane Fitzpatrick, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester. “Many of the children currently enrolled in our activities and programs live in and around the Kelley Falls site, so this will make it easier for families to access what we have to offer.”

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January 2024

First Phase of $2B Redevelopment of Boston Public Housing Community Approved

Boston – WinnCompanies and the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) announced that work will begin in 2024 on the $2 billion redevelopment of the Mary Ellen McCormack public housing complex under a two-phase master plan to build 3,300 mixed-income apartments on the 30-acre site, including the replacement of all 1,016 public housing units with a guaranteed right to return for current residents.

The announcement follows approval by the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) of the Phase One Development Plan for the South Boston property, which was the first public

housing community in New England. The BPDA vote capped two-and-a-half years of design review by the City of Boston and clears the way for final permitting of the project.

Under the $776 million Phase One plan ratified by the BPDA, 1,310 apartments will be created in eight new residential buildings that will be built over the course of eight years, replacing 529 obsolete apartments for BHA households, and creating 781 new apartment homes for middle income and market rate renters.

In addition, WinnCompanies will spend $110 million on public infrastructure improvements to better

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connect Mary Ellen McCormack with the surrounding neighborhood through a revamped street grid, new utilities and parks, and long-term climate resiliency measures.

Built during the Great Depression and opened in 1938, the community consists of 22 three-story, brick buildings and 152 direct-entry row houses. In addition to being physically isolated from the surrounding neighborhood, the apartments fall well short of modern standards, with no handicapped accessibility, no in-unit or common laundry facilities, no amenities, and inadequate infrastructure and security.

Under the revitalization plan, new residential buildings will be built, and existing buildings will be demolished, in phases as part of a complex relocation strategy choreographed to allow as many of the existing households as possible to move directly into new apartments.

To facilitate and prioritize direct moves, a 94-unit apartment building will be the first erected. Since four out of 10 households in the community consist of individuals aged 62 or older, a 172-unit building offering a range of supportive and community services for seniors will also be among the first built.

A minimum of 20% of the apartments in the remaining six Phase One buildings will be reserved for current public housing residents. Contingent on final funding awards, the project will create up to 90 new middle-income apartments and up to 736 new market-rate units.

Overall, Phase One construction will redevelop 18 acres of the Mary Ellen McCormack property, increasing open

space by 73% with new pedestrian walking paths, separate bike infrastructure and gathering spaces. In addition, 33,000sf of ground-floor retail space will be created for local small businesses, including a grocery retailer. Twenty-five percent of retail space will be offered at belowmarket leases.

A 17,500sf community center, created through the adaptive reuse of the existing boiler plant on the site, will serve as the hub for resident support.

All eight of the Phase One apartment buildings will be high-performance, fully electric and built to Passive House standards. All will be ready for future solar energy installations. Because the Mary Ellen McCormack site is susceptible to current and future flooding from nearby Boston Harbor, construction work will raise the grades of the property by 5 to 7 feet and all new buildings will be constructed above the 2070 projected flooding scenario projected by Climate Ready Boston.

The development team assisting WinnDevelopment on Phase One community planning, design and permitting include design firm CBT; The Architectural Team; Copley Wolff Design Group; the law firm of DLA Piper; retail consultant GraffitoSP; transportation consultant Howard Stein Hudson; civil engineering firm VHB; sustainability consultant New Ecology; historic consultant Public Archaeology Laboratory; engineering consultant McPhail Associates; and construction estimating firm Lee Kennedy Company.

Work could begin as early as June 2024, dependent upon permitting and regulatory approvals.

January 2024

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Special Report How Foxwoods Resort Casino is Reimagining the Future of Entertainment

by Emily Langner Construction is underway on Great Wolf Lodge in Mashantucket, Conn., the third resort in the Northeastern U.S. for Great Wolf Resorts, Inc., North America. Currently the largest economic development project in the state of Connecticut, the $300 million project is part of a partnership agreement with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and will be located on 13 acres adjacent to the Foxwoods Resort Casino.

The development is only one of the recent expansions at Foxwoods designed to provide entertainment for guests of all ages. It will include a 91,000sf indoor water park, a 61,000sf family entertainment center, family-friendly suites, and new meeting and conference spaces. Other recent additions to Foxwoods include the new Pequot Woodlands Casino; a Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen restaurant; and the fast-casual burger restaurant Wahlburgers, managed by the Wahlberg family.

Jason Guyot is president and CEO of Foxwoods Resort Casino, taking on the role at the start of the Covid pandemic.

A member of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, Guyot started his career with Foxwoods in 1995 while still in high school, and after graduating from college, advanced through the ranks in operations over the last two decades. Guyot says the Great Wolf Lodge project and other additions are part of the organization’s

Rendering of Great Wolf Lodge

deals, new brands, new restaurants, new bars…it’s definitely an exciting time for us.”

Through all the new additions, the team maintains a focus on sustainability with each new project. Guyot emphasizes, “A lot of the renovation that we’ve done is transitioning current space, so we’re always looking and committed to implementing environmentally responsible practices that align with our values.” These include comprehensive LED lighting programs, prioritizing the use of existing mechanical systems and utilities, and a resort-wide recycling program. This focus is included in the

partnership with Great Wolf Resorts, which prioritizes energy saving and water conservation through its Project Green Wolf initiative.

Additionally, Guyot says the focus is on new and innovative ways to create experiences for guests, and do things that have never been done. One example is the inclusion of two large picture windows placed in the high limit slot area of the new Pequot Woodlands Casino, something not typically seen in casinos.

Designed to highlight the beauty of the woodlands and the surrounding land, he says this aligns with the original vision of Foxwoods to bring the outdoors inside,

and the team continues to stay true to that vision with every modernization project.

Guyot concludes that while continuing to innovate and create new and unique experiences comes with its challenges, it is made possible by Foxwoods’ work with local architecture and construction management firms such as ZDS Architecture, Zaino & Associates, and Bentley Companies, and the engagement and support of Foxwoods Resort Casino’s tribal council. He says, “This allows us to try things and progress forward – it’s been great and it’s led to all of our success.”

Emily Langner is editor at HighProfile Monthly.

Jason Guyot

plan to continue to add non-gaming amenities to the existing offerings that include hotels, spas, zip lining, indoor cart racing, and “eatertainment” experiences.

Guyot says it has always been a long-term plan to expand and add these types of experiences. He comments, “The decisions we’re making now are really focused on the future – giving our guests more options, more opportunities, more entertainment,” adding that “we’re continuing to develop, negotiate new

Pequot Woodlands Casino

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January 2024

14

Focus: Forecast Here Comes 2024: What’s the Outlook for the AEC Industry?

by Richard Friedman Predicting the U.S. economy’s outlook in 2024 presents unique challenges.

Even if the dysfunction in Congress dissipates and the likely presidential race between a politically unpopular octogenarian incumbent, an antagonistic septuagenarian facing 91 criminal charges, and an outlying independent from Camelot is more a sideshow than a driver, 2024 still has many questions.

Will inflation remain in check? Will the Fed cut or raise interest rates? How will global conflicts impact us? What about stocks and bonds? Here is Friedman & Partners’ fearless prediction for the markets served by architecture, engineering and construction firms.

Single-Family

The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, which reflects the optimism of homebuilders on a 1-100 scale, plummeted from 84 in December 2021 to a dismal 34 in November 2023. Despite strong demand and low supply – usually a recipe for growth – higher mortgage rates and demographic complications stifled

construction activity. Interest rates should pull back, and demand will grow as Gen Zers join the homeownership ranks while baby boomers and Gen Xers sit tight, so expect an improved, if unspectacular construction market in 2024.

Renewable Energy

In PSMJ Resources’ Quarterly Market Forecast (QMF) survey of proposal activity, renewable energy has been the leading or runner-up submarket in eight straight quarters. All indications are that this streak will continue in 2024.

Multifamily

Long immune to single-family’s volatility, the multifamily market finally cracked in 2023 as vacancy and interest rates rose and new construction finally dented insatiable demand. Still, multifamily remains healthy next year due to demographics and the need for affordable housing.

market isn’t likely to return to recordbreaking levels in 2024, but growing consumer reliance on e-commerce and logistics advancements will keep industrial humming.

Commercial

Public Infrastructure

Hope for a widespread rebound was dashed in 2023, but several longstruggling commercial markets rebounded somewhat. Most commercial markets have returned from the depths of the pandemic, but metrics suggest another year of uneven activity for lodging, retail, restaurants and office.

Industrial

The stellar market for warehouse/ distribution facilities eased to more normal levels in 2023 as supply increased, demand eased and vacancies rose. The

Healthcare

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) bolstered backlogs and revenue for AEC firms from coast to coast. The extensive need to upgrade aging infrastructure, combined with government financial support, will keep public markets hot.

Education

After a couple of rocky years, education bounced back in 2023. While growth is likely to ease, healthy levels of activity should continue.

The market cooled in 2023, but with Americans aging and living longer, and healthcare networks addressing deferred maintenance and technology upgrades, the long-term outlook remains solid.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing boomed in 2023. Expect more of the same with capital investments driven by the CHIPS and Science Act and other government incentives.

Final Thoughts

Most major markets and submarkets will perform similarly to 2023. More firms will cut spending and the job market won’t be quite as competitive. But if firms plan well and focus on consistent improvement, 2024 should be another strong year for the AEC industry.

Rchard Friedman is the founder and president at Friedman & Partners.

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Innovative Pathways to Affordable Housing Chapter 40B

By Benjamin Goldfarb How can Massachusetts effectively change course to alleviate the affordable housing problem? According to Boston Pads, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Greater Boston is $3,158, nearly 25% higher than in December 2021 ($2,516). The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) estimates that 154,000 units are needed in Greater Boston by 2030 to maintain adequate housing for the region’s population. Still, in their annual Housing Report Card, the Boston Foundation reported Massachusetts ranks 41st nationally in housing permits issued in 2022.

In addition to escalating construction costs, developers of multifamily housing have been faced with another obstacle to getting projects built: Each of the state’s 351 municipalities has its own (usually restrictive) zoning ordinances and bylaws, with some exceptions (Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Watertown).

Historically, very little land has been

1180 Boylston St. / Rendering courtesy of CBT Architects

zoned for multifamily, and not enough “by right” zoning.

But thanks to the state’s and some municipalities’ legislation to create more affordable housing, there may finally be light at the end of the tunnel.

MBTA Communities Act

First is the MBTA Communities Act, the 2021 law that requires every MBTA community to have at least one zoning district near a transit station where multifamily housing is allowed as of right. Although some developers are skeptical that certain towns and cities will find ways to avoid full compliance necessary to allow for significant multifamily development, the law should spur suburban construction. A number of

towns were continuing to procrastinate as the 12/31 deadline approached, but Governor Maura Healy reiterated in December that failure to comply would result in losing funding for schools, roads, and bridges as well as access to 13 programs and grants.

Affordable Homes Act

The second, and the one that has affordable housing proponents over the moon, is the proposed Affordable Homes Act, which if approved, will provide $4.1 billion in capital spending authorizations, substantive policy changes or initiatives, executive orders, and tax credits directed at reducing barriers to multifamily housing production and giving communities the resources to develop more housing.

In addition to these aforementioned acts, there has been an increase in the use of existing affordable housing tools like Chapter 40B. Suburbs such as Newton have approved several 40Bs in recent years; most recently the West Newton Armory project is set to transform into 43 100% affordable apartments. Nauset Construction is currently building two 40B projects: Stonegate St. Patrick in Natick, a mixed-use project that will deliver 46 apartments and 14,000sf of retail, and 1180 Boylston St. in Brookline, which will provide 50 luxury apartments, with 25% designated as affordable.

Municipalities are also providing incentives to encourage affordable development. In the last decade, Cambridge, where Nauset has constructed over a dozen multifamily projects, created the 100%-Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO), designed to help affordable housing developers create new, permanently affordable homes more quickly and cost-effectively.

If Massachusetts is to maintain its position as a global innovation leader, we need to address our affordable housing issue, and these programs are a step in the right direction.

Benjamin Goldfarb is vice president of Nauset Construction. He can be contacted at bgoldfarb@nauset.com.

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January 2024

Return to Office: Accommodating a Paradigm Shift

By Janet Morra During the early days of the pandemic, we collectively embraced the notion that once vaccines became available, things would return to a “new normal,” and a mass return to the office would follow.

In reality, the hybrid work environment – long a staple in certain high-tech industries and made possible through advancements in technology – was mainstreamed. At the time, Margulies Perruzzi’s Workplace Strategy Report: Embracing the Hybrid Workspace affirmed the logic of transitioning from a traditional to hybrid model. Our survey of 8,600 people across multiple business sectors revealed that 44% of workers planned on being in the office three days a week, and 25% planned on two days.

Only 9% responded that they would return to a pre-pandemic office presence.

Corporate managers who make real estate and facility decisions are facing the new reality of altered employee expectations. We know of one company

that had an epiphany when they realized that the 100,000sf building they own sits mostly empty, because in their new hybrid work environment, they have never had more than 50 people show up to work in the office on any given day.

We recently launched a new initiative to find out how our clients are approaching hybrid work, and the results align with what other industry leaders are reporting.

The following are several key questions we posed and the responses we received.

Did you have a formal hybrid/flex plan prior to COVID?

• Yes-37% • No-63%

Do you have a formal hybrid/flex plan in place now?

• Yes-70% • No-30%

Is in-office attendance required or suggested for a specific number of days per week?

• Required-40% • Suggested-60%

Is your organization “remote first”, “office first”, or “true hybrid”?

• Remote first-20% • Office first-40% • True hybrid-40%

Have you reduced your own office space?

• Yes-40% • No-60%

Have you altered your office space?

• Yes-50% • No-50%

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There are many options available for implementing a full or partial return to the office, but there is no “one size fits all” solution. For the company with the 100,000sf, underutilized building, alternatives included selling it, relocating to a smaller space and designing it for how their staff works now, subletting half the square footage and redesigning the space they occupy, or keeping the building and initiating a mandatory in-office schedule.

Companies opting to redesign current or new space to bring workers back to the office are using various tactics. Creating a more homelike atmosphere might translate into softer seating and less dependence on fixed workstations. Now that virtual meetings are routine, private offices can be transformed into huddle rooms where one or two people can conduct an online session with acoustic and visual privacy.

There is also a move towards even more collaboration and team space, as well as organized events, activities, and amenities designed to appeal to the basic human need to be together.

In the end, the most successful solution is one that is uniquely tailored to your company’s business model, strategic plan, and corporate culture. Ultimately, flexibility of both thought and design are the keys to cultivating a successful hybrid work environment.

Janet Morra, AIA, LEED AP, is a principal and partner with Margulies Perruzzi. This article originally appeared in Banker & Tradesman.

High-Profile Focus: Forecast

January 2024

17

ACEC Research Institute Releases First-ever Diversity Roadmap Washington – The ACEC Research Institute has released its first-ever Diversity Roadmap presenting the state of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) in the engineering industry and identifying opportunities for improvement as firms work toward their DEI&B goals.

Initially unveiled in summer 2023, nearly 200 ACEC member firms have participated in the Roadmap which offers engineering firm executives a comprehensive, data-driven tool that assesses the maturity of a firm’s DEIB program and provides actionable suggestions on how firms can make further progress. The Roadmap is sponsored by Zweig Group.

“We’re pleased to see so many engineering firms working toward DEIB goals and using the Diversity Roadmap tool to strategically approach their efforts,” said Mike Carragher, chair of the ACEC Research Institute and chair and CEO of VHB. While most member firms are early in their DEIB journeys (80% scored as “Aspiring”), the robust participation signals both a willingness and an appetite for creating diverse workspaces.

The data indicate that firm leaders show significant support for DEIB issues; the majority of responding

firms have a CEO or president who articulates a commitment to these issues (68% always/often).

“These DEIB goals are not only

critical for employee recruitment and retention, but they also make companies stronger,” said Chad Clinehens, CEO of Zweig Group. “This Roadmap gives

engineering firms solid data, along with strategies and tools to achieve their goals so they shape a better future for our industry that prioritizes the people in it.”

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Trends and Hot Topics

Listening to the Sky: The Millstone Hill Steerable Antenna Design-Build

By Jonathan Couture The mission at MIT’s Haystack Observatory in Westford is to study the structure of our galaxy and the larger universe, to advance scientific knowledge of the planet and atmosphere, to enhance technology development to serve radio and space science, and to contribute to the education of the next generation.

The Millstone Hill Geospace Facility at Haystack, funded by the National Science Foundation, includes the 46-meter MISA Antenna constructed in 1963 at the Sagamore Hill Air Force Facility and moved to Millstone Hill in 1978.

MISA stands for the Millstone Hill Ionospheric Steerable Antenna which is the only incoherent scatter radar (ISR) in the continental U.S. Nine exist worldwide. The MISA is fully steerable and is used primarily as a UHF radar antenna for measurements of the nearspace environment. According to MIT and Cornell, this ISR studies the upper atmosphere and ionosphere of the earth, measures electrons in the ionosphere,

Photo courtesy of MIT

Photo courtesy of Boston by Bike

which extends from 60 to 600 miles above the earth’s surface. The radar system has a 2.5-megawatt transmitter, large antennas, and highly sensitive radio receivers. Both the MISA and an adjacent fixed-position antenna (zenith) measure plasma drift velocities, electron and ion temperatures, electron densities, ion composition, and ion-neutral collision frequencies.

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Our team at Brennan Consulting has the privilege of working on the MISA Refurbishment Design-Build Project with BOND Brothers. Existing conditions surveys began in late spring and construction commenced in early fall 2023 and include the redesign of the MISA foundation, surrounding civil engineering, and landscaping. Our high precision survey equipment has been integral in maintaining the center of rotation of the antenna itself. After assigning the axis of rotation, a coordinate was established for the center of the antenna which rotates on a cylindrical rail track. The 67-foot-8-inch radius from the center of rail to the center of antenna was determined to assist in maintaining positioning during renovations.

Brennan is also working with BOND during the design-build to lay out the new foundation and anchor bolts for a new rail installation, which are to be constructed in multiple phases. The antenna remains on its foundation during construction and is operational. Four wheels, 90 degrees apart, support the antenna as each quadrant of the foundation is demolished, new rail is installed for the support wheels, then the antenna is twisted onto the new rail from the existing rail. The process is then repeated for each subsequent phase as the antenna maintains its function. This multiphase project requires the utmost precision due to anchor bolt plate and rail splicing, and the integral coordination of all four quadrants. Reconstruction should

be completed by early 2024 under a rapid project schedule.

The MISA project and our client BOND Brothers have provided us with the opportunity to showcase our state-ofthe-art technical services here at Brennan.

Millstone Hill will remain a premier facility for midlatitude ionosphere, magnetosphere, thermosphere, and space weather research for years to come. Life science projects also underway here at Brennan include Commonwealth Fusion, Sarepta, 2 Harbor Street, Binney and the MXD Substation, Mass General, and the UMass Amherst Science Building.

Jonathan Couture is a survey project manager for Brennan Consulting, Inc. in Burlington, Mass.

January 2024

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Trends and Hot Topics

Leveraging Section 179 for Optimal Savings in Construction Companies

Making Technology Work for You

by Derrick Rebello and Brad Carlson In the dynamic and competitive world of construction, good financial management is pivotal. Construction companies have multiple overheads ranging from labor to machinery, all of which can significantly impact their profitability. However, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides some relief in the form of Section 179, an often underutilized gem in the tax code. For construction businesses looking to save money, understanding and strategically using Section 179 can be transformative.

Understanding Section 179

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Section 179 of the IRS tax code allows businesses to deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment and/or software acquired during the tax year.

In essence, if you buy (or lease) a piece of qualifying equipment, you can deduct the entire purchase price from your gross income, reducing your overall taxable income.

The primary goal behind Section 179 is to incentivize businesses to invest in themselves by purchasing equipment and thereby stimulate the economy.

It’s designed especially for small to medium-sized businesses, although larger corporations can also benefit.

Best Practices for Section 179 for Construction Companies

Immediate Expense Deduction: Unlike the standard depreciation methods where a business has to wait several years to recoup the costs of an investment, Section 179 allows construction companies to deduct the full price of equipment in the year it’s purchased. This accelerates tax savings and aids in better cash flow management.

Diverse Qualifying Equipment: For construction companies, a vast array of equipment qualifies for the Section 179 deduction. This includes machinery, office equipment, vehicles primarily used for business, computer software, and

even office furniture.

Caps and Thresholds: As of the last update, there’s a cap to the total amount written off ($1,080,000 for 2023), and a limit to the total amount of the equipment purchased ($2,700,000 for 2023). These figures are generous and accommodate the needs of most construction firms.

Plan Your Purchases: Consider advancing or delaying equipment purchases based on your taxable income.

If you foresee a year where you’ll be earning more, it might make sense to invest in equipment during that year to benefit from a higher deduction.

Leasing vs. Buying: While buying equipment might seem like the straightforward choice, leasing can sometimes be more advantageous. Section 179 permits deductions for leased equipment, which can be an excellent option for companies that do not have the upfront capital to buy.

Limitations and Considerations

While Section 179 offers remarkable benefits, it’s not without limitations.

There is a spending cap, so if your equipment purchases exceed the set threshold, the Section 179 deduction begins to phase out on a dollar-for-dollar basis. The net income limitation means that your deduction cannot exceed the net taxable business income. Any excess can be carried forward to the next year.

Not all equipment qualifies under Section 179. Always double check the IRS’s latest guidelines or consult with an accountant.

Section 179 is an invaluable tool for construction companies aiming to optimize their tax savings. By understanding its nuances, staying updated on changes, and strategizing equipment purchases, businesses can significantly reduce their taxable income, thus improving their bottom line.

Tax codes, including Section 179, are subject to changes. Keep abreast of any modifications to ensure you’re getting the maximum benefits. Due to the intricacies and nuances in the tax code, always work closely with an accountant who’s familiar with the construction industry. They can guide your decisions to maximize savings.

Derrick Rebello, CPA and Brad Carlson are partners in the Construction Practice Group at Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP. They can be reached at (781) 4070300 or powerofmore@gggllp.com.

January 2024

21

Mixed-Use Grand Opening Held for Dot Crossing in Dorchester Boston – The City of Boston, TLee Development, MassHousing, the Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation, local elected officials, and residents recently celebrated the grand opening of Dot Crossing, a new mixeduse, transit-oriented development with first floor retail space tailored to the neighborhood.

The new building created 29 new apartments on an underutilized parcel at 1463 Dorchester Ave. in Dorchester, with 25 workforce housing units and four affordable units. The 29 apartments will be affordable to households earning up to 90% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The affordable, 1,200sf of first-floor commercial space is currently being built out for the Words as Worlds bookstore, which has a rent restriction grant from the City of Boston’s Affordable Commercial Assistance Fund through the Mayor’s Dot Crossing Office of Housing to subsidize its rent for seven years. created a new transit-oriented, mixed-use development, created by TLee Devel“The City of Boston is proud to have development with 29 income-restricted opment, is made possible in part with worked with all of our partners and apartments and a new bookstore – Words financing from the City of Boston, Massresidents here today on the new Dot as Worlds. Congratulations to the new Housing, the Massachusetts Housing InCrossing Development,” said Chief of residents of Fields Corner and best of luck vestment Corporation’s (MHIC) Healthy Housing Sheila Dillon.

“Where there to the new bookstore.”

Neighborhoods Equity Fund, developer J&Bad23(NEREJ).qxp_Layout 1 6/22/23 11:54 AM Page 1 was once an underutilized lot, we have This new transit-oriented, 5-story equity, and the 81 neighborhood investors

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who contributed a total of $142,500 to gain equity in the development.

The new building features small-unit housing built under the City of Boston’s Compact Living Pilot. The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), a co-sponsor of HNEF, screened Dot Crossing with HealthScore, a proprietary tool developed

by CLF, to ensure that this new transitoriented housing is equitable, and climate-smart and energy efficient to promote both resident, community and environmental health.

The new building is in proximity to the MBTA Red Line, MBTA bus stations and Dorchester Parks. The Fields Corner Main Streets District includes destinations for nightlife, diverse culinary options, and boutique shopping. Amenities within the building include an elevator for enhanced accessibility, central air conditioning, a community area on the first floor, a 24-hour fitness facility, a shared laundry room and a courtyard with green space and a grilling area for residents.

The general contractor was MCR Construction, Inc.; the architect was J. Garland Enterprises; and the management agent is TLee Property Management.

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January 2024

BPDA Approves new Developments in Boston Boston – The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) board of directors recently approved nine new development projects which will support approximately 2,643 construction jobs and 256 permanent jobs.

The project at 125 Tremont Street will build a new all-electric, 6-story building to serve as the first of its kind Holocaust museum and educational center in Boston.

The physical building will be developed with materials designed to protect its occupants and visitors, the surrounding neighborhood, and the sensitive and irreplaceable contents within. The project advances PLAN: Downtown draft recommendations for uses, public realm, and urban design. The project is intended to activate the area, while affirming its distinct historic and cultural identity.

At 15 Washington Street in Brighton, what is currently a Whole Foods grocery store will be redeveloped into 229 new rental and homeownership units, 41 of which will be income-restricted, and a new Whole Foods on site, which will be slightly relocated. The project will retain the existing grocery store and contribute to achieving citywide housing goals while also improving the public realm.

The Mary Ellen McCormack Redevelopment Phase I project will redevelop more than half of the site of one of the largest public housing developments

15 Washington Street

in New England, replacing 529 of the existing deeply affordable housing units and adding almost 800 mixed-income units. The new buildings will also include retail space and the new Billy McGonagle Community Center.

Located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, the Independence project will renovate 147 hotel rooms at the Constitution Inn into 100 income-restricted residential units. The remaining space within the building will be leased back to the YMCA, currently on site, which will renovate it for the continued operation of a fitness and wellness facility. Of the 100 units, 48 will be dedicated to the Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) model.

The 25-39 Harvard Avenue project will build a 6-story building with housing

Wishing Everyone a Prosperous 2024!

and retail space in Allston. The building will contain up to 170 housing units, including 29 income-restricted units. An outdoor plaza connected to the residential lobby will be designed to hold both public and private events.

The 131 North Beacon Street project will convert a North Beacon Street lot that currently has a vacant one-story commercial building and a parking lot into a new 6-story building with 76 home-ownership units and first-floor retail space. Of those units, 13 will be income-restricted.

Located in the Fields Corner section of Dorchester, the 1420 Dorchester Avenue project is a 5-story building providing 46 housing units and retail to the neighborhood. Seven of the units will be income-restricted. The development

will provide space on site for a future public art installation.

The 81 Hancock Street project on Hancock Street in Dorchester will bring 36 housing units to the neighborhood, while maintaining the operation of the site’s current retail space. Six of the units in the all-electric building will be income-restricted. Approximately 16 new trees will be planted, along with other public realm improvements.

The 415 Newbury Street project includes a 3-story building with 38 homeownership units and an 11-story building with 95 housing units on what is currently a parking lot on Newbury Street. A total of 23 units will be incomerestricted. The project will also create residential amenities and new facilities for the Harvard Club of Boston.

Located in Dorchester, the Columbia Point Crossing project at 35-75 Morrissey Boulevard has received a Planned Development Area (PDA) Plan Approval (individual development projects within these PDAs will be considered by the board separately). The project will completely redesign the existing site with seven new buildings to include a mix of residential, retail, commercial, and office space. Almost half of the site will be made up of publicly accessible open space, and new roadways and connections.

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Dellbrook|JKS Celebrates Progress at The Beck in Haverhill Haverhill, MA – Dellbrook|JKS joined The Procopio Companies, MassWorks, MDM Transportation Consultants, Cube 3 Architecture, Senator Barry Finegold, and Mayor James J. Fiorentini, along with other city officials on Dec. 5, 2023 to celebrate the commencement of construction on The Beck, a new mixed-use multifamily project, and the Elm Street intersection improvement plan. Both projects serve to transform an underutilized space and improve living in the area.

Situated at 39 Railroad Ave, The Beck Project is located at a vacant factory site along the Merrimack River. The transit-oriented development, spanning 266,449sf, neighbors the Bradford Commuter Rail Station, providing access to Boston.

Plans for the 5-story waterfront structure include wood-and-steel frame over podium construction and the creation of 347 parking spaces. The mixed community integrates residential and commercial spaces, with 7,587sf of ground-floor restaurant space, featuring a terrace overlooking river views and 1,126sf of retail space positioned beneath 290 market-rate apartments.

The Beck

Mayor James J. Fiorentini

Other amenities of The Beck include a riverside boardwalk leading to a pocket park at the development’s west end and a full-size park to the east, including an amphitheater, playground, dog park and walking paths interconnected to the city’s riverwalk loop.

Al Nassar, senior superintendent at Dellbrook|JKS, said, “Dellbrook|JKS is a proud partner with The Procopio Companies, and we’re excited to be collaborating with its team again for The Beck. This property has played several roles in the Haverhill community, and we look forward to revitalizing this space into a place the city can enjoy once more.”

Since beginning the project’s foundations in June 2023, Dellbrook|JKS and its partners have finished over four stories of wood frame construction on The Beck’s first half. The Beck is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025 and marks the third collaboration between Dellbrook|JKS and The Procopio Companies, following the completion of Mosaic and Caldwell in Lynn.

(l-r): Al Nassar; Keith Shepherd, superintendent; Kyle Harris, assistant superintendent; Lou Mascolo, project manager; Kevin Power, assistant project manager; and Devin Cudmore, field safety & risk manager

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Multi-Residential

January 2024

Organizations and Event

NHPF Closes on $30M of Construction Financing Curtis Cofield Estates PWC CTfor Welcomes New IIBoard New Haven, CT – The NHP Foundation (NHPF), a national not-for-profit provider of quality affordable housing, announced it has closed on $30 million of construction financing for Curtis Cofield ll Estates in New Haven.

The development will be constructed on vacant land purchased from the City of New Haven. The development is in partnership with West River Self-Help Investment Plan (West River SHIP), an investment group based on the doctrine of the late Reverend Dr. Leon H. Sullivan, pastor of the Zion Baptist Church in Philadelphia, whose principles address racial and economic emancipation through participation in profit-making initiatives by minorities that have been traditionally deprived of involvement in substantial capitalistic endeavors.

The 56 units of new affordable housing will be available for 44 households at or below 60% AMI and 12 affordable to residents at 100% AMI. Of the 44 low-income households, another 14 are reserved for supportive housing. The development will be spread across 11 townhouse style buildings and will range in size from one to three bedrooms.

There will be 62 on-site surface parking

Hartford, CT – The Professional Women in Construction Connecticut Chapter (PWC CT) recently welcomed its new board of directors for the 2021-2022 program year.

Patricia Bilotto returns as chapter president. She is the manager of marketing and business development for van Zelm Engineers. She has nearly 30 years of Rendering of Curtis Cofield ll Estates experience in marketing, communications, andSustainability business development in theofAEC is at the center the spaces with four electrical vehicle industry,Alland presently serves onZero the project. buildings will be built to charging ports. The property will offer program,Ready membership, and awards Energy Home and Passive House approximately 580sf of commercial space committees.

Design standard for energy efficiency for a coffee shop/bakery to be run by a minority-owned operator. The site will and conservation of resources to achieve between 50%-90% energy savings, plus also include a 2,700sf community center, solar paneling. It will be 100% electric ancillary office space, a playground, and and have no gas connections. an outdoor gazebo.

The development is in one of New Ha“We are pleased to recognize the ven’s priority Neighborhood Revitalizanamesake of the project, the late Rev. Dr. tion Strategy Areas. A key component of Curtis Cofield II, who was considered the the Comprehensive Plan for the Hill/West ‘dean’ of Connecticut’s black Baptists Laurann Asklof, principal of Shipman River neighborhood is the development and a stalwart advocate of New Haven’s & Goodwin, willcommunities serve on the board of affordable LLP, housing comhomeless and people with AIDS; he was as vicewith president.

She has approximately the former leader of West River SHIP bined retail, services, and amenities 30 years of quality experience area of and visionary of this development,” said that improve of lifeinforthe residents. construction law and She will NHPF’s Micah Hunter, lead developer of Added Anthony B. litigation.

Dawson, president, continue to SHIP, participate in thethechapter’s the project who added that the site was West River “Breaking ground programs, mentorship, and has scholarship for Curtis Cofield ll Estates been 22 a 40+ year vacant failed Urban Renewal committees. years in the making and we couldn’t have highway project in need of revitalization.

reached this crucial juncture without the help of many government officials including Governor Ned Lamont, CT Department of Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno, CHFA Chief Executive Officer Nandini Natarajan, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Alexandra Daum, New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker, New Haven Board of Alders President Tyisha Walker-Myers, City agency Livable City Initiative, and community groups like West River Neighborhood Service Corp., The Hill and the Dwight Neighborhood ManageThe 2021-2022 PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Kha ment Team, Friends of West River Peace and Jen Kyma Ganzer, Garden, and Yale New Haven Hospital Kurth,LawCPA, CFE, of La andCarolyn Yale University School.”

CohnReznick, will return as treasurer. he Local social service agency Columbus She serves on the scholarship committee. rec House will be the supportive services Dawn Meeker, director at Marcum, Ri provider for the 14 supportive housing LLP, is returning for a second year as me units. Operation Pathways will provide chapter secretary.

She now serves as the resident services for the project as well membership chair and will continue as a Ro providing a resident services coordinator volunteer on the awards committee. bo to serve all residents of the property.

Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI on Construction on Curtis Cofield ll Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year Estates, located at 714-802 Rev. Dr. on the board. as the669-767 awards Co Martin Luther She Kingserves Jr. Blvd., committee chair. ye Legion Avenue, and 90-108 Tyler Street, Kyma Ganzer, project manager at co New Haven, began on Dec. 4.

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$10M in Funding Issued for Affordable Housing in Taunton Taunton, MA – MassHousing has closed on approximately $10 million in financing through the CommonWealth Builder Program to Tremont Development Partners LLC to develop 30 new townhomes for purchase by moderateincome, first-time homebuyers in the Gateway City of Taunton.

The MassHousing funding will allow Tremont Development Partners to transform a site with a vacant former medical office building into a new residential community for first-time homebuyers. Four of the new homes will be sold to homebuyers earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and 26 homes will be sold to homebuyers earning up to 100% of AMI. Homes are expected to sell between $195,000 and $255,000.

“MassHousing is excited for the 30 households who will be able to purchase a new home they can afford to put down roots in Taunton,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay. “As homeowners, they will begin to build equity and wealth, which they one day may pass along to

a new generation. We are pleased that CommonWealth Builder will help build these new homes, with all the benefits homeownership can bring.”

“This site offers a tremendous opportunity to create homeownership opportunities in the City of Taunton at an attainable price point for first-time homebuyers,” said Rich Mazzocchi, principal of Tremont Development

Partners. “We are truly grateful for the support of our financing partners and the City of Taunton, and we look forward to achieving the successful delivery of these homes to the community.”

The CommonWealth Builder Program is an initiative to address the racial homeownership gap in Massachusetts by creating new homeownership and wealthbuilding opportunities in communities

of color. It provides market-based subsidies to support the construction of new, moderately priced, single-family homes and condominiums in the City of Boston, the state’s 26 Gateway Cities, and Framingham and Randolph.

In addition to the $10 million in CommonWealth Builder financing from MassHousing, Eastern Bank is providing $7.5 million in construction financing and the Greater Attleboro/Taunton HOME Consortium is providing $600,000.

The new housing will replace an abandoned, single-story medical office building, which has been demolished.

The 30 two-bedroom townhomes will be contained in four buildings.

The development will be located near downtown Taunton, Taunton City Hall and open space.

The general contractor is Congress Construction. The architect is Davis Square Architects and the management agent is Maloney Properties.

All-electric Affordable Housing Development Completed in Roxbury

Saige on Fountain

Boston – In the Fountain Hill neighborhood of Roxbury, an affordable housing development, Saige on Fountain, recently debuted as the city’s first allelectric, multi-unit residences. Developed by a Boston-based partnership that includes Oxbow Urban with collaborators DVM Housing Partners and Our Village Initiative and designed by Cambridgebased architecture and interior design firm PCA, the homeownership units fulfill the vision of the development team, the City of Boston, and the Fountain Hill neighborhood to create affordable and transit-accessible ownership opportunities for first-time homebuyers.

“So many community residents in Boston were historically denied the opportunity to own a home and build

wealth and home equity,” said Laura Homich, principal with PCA and the lead architect for Saige on Fountain. “Seeing the enthusiasm and pride of ownership as first-time buyers move in is tremendously rewarding for everyone on the team who worked through all the obstacles and now celebrate this joyful opening.”

Designed with the intention of creating intimate spaces that provide a strong sense of home within a multifamily setting, Saige on Fountain’s 40 affordable units, ranging from studios to three-bedroom residences, feature modern finishes, abundant daylight, and amenity and outdoor spaces for social and community gatherings.

The long vacant parcel of land, cleared as part of the Washington Park

Community lounge

Urban Renewal efforts more than 50 years ago, was previously owned by the Fountain Hill Square Condominium Association.

Association trustees sought a buyer dedicated to affordable homeownership. Oxbow Urban acquired the land and worked closely for years with the neighborhood and the Mayor’s Office of Housing to make the development a reality. ‘‘Saige represents the best of what Boston can accomplish when all the diversity and talent of individuals from all parts of the city are given a chance to have their voices heard. PCA’s design reflects the community’s vision and offers a model for delivering sustainable, affordable, and beautiful housing outcomes in Boston,” said Kevin Maguire, founder of

Oxbow Urban.

Saige on Fountain is the first multiunit housing to open following a 2023 city building code change adopted to encourage developers to install allelectric systems instead of gas or oil.

The building and its infrastructure are designed to achieve carbon neutral status.

“From the art to the infrastructure, we ensured that this project reflects the rich culture of Roxbury,” said Dariela Villón-Maga, president/owner of DVM Housing Partners. “Housing production targeted to local low to moderate income individuals and families is of paramount importance to my company’s mission, and I am particularly proud to have built homeownership units in the heart of our city, Roxbury.”

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January 2024

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Awards AGC/VT Celebrates Best Builder Awards Burlington, VT – The Associated General Contractors of Vermont (AGC/VT) held its annual meeting and Best Builder Awards on Dec. 5-6. The first day of the event was held virtually with Vermont State Senator Peter Welch kicking off the meeting with a keynote speech. The second day was held in-person at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain in Burlington.

The Best Builder Awards Banquet closed out the two-day meeting with Vermont Governor Phil Scott, a former president of AGC Vermont, giving a speech. Also in attendance were Vermont state representatives, senators and lobbyists.

James G. Murphy, founder of ADA

Traffic Control, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award. Maynard “Mac” McLaughlin, former owner and president of Bread Loaf Corporation, was honored with a posthumous winged hammer award.

The DEW Construction team accepted their award from Richard Wobby, Jr., executive vice president of AGC Vermont (center). / Photos courtesy of AGC/VT

McDonald Hall at Champlain College in Burlington, Vt.

Army Mountain Warfare School

Richard Wobby, Jr. (l) presented Michael G. McLaughlin, president of Bread Loaf Corporation, with the posthumous winged hammer award for Maynard “Mac” McLaughlin.

Vermont State Representative Kenneth Goslant with James G. Murphy

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Trends and Hot Topics

Drafting a Purchase Order between a GC and Subcontractor

By Girard R. Visconti A general contractor in the ordinary course of business subcontracts a portion of its work to another subcontractor or material supplier as to purchasing materials, equipment, etc., from a supplier.

Therefore, it is important to bind your sub or supplier to various documents that you are bound to with the owner.

For example, it is extremely important that your sub or supplier be bound to the specification and drawings in question as well as other documents such as general conditions, supplementary conditions, special conditions, etc., that may affect the work that you are subbing or the material that you are purchasing.

For example, any warranties or guarantees that you give to the general or the owner should be passed on to your particular sub or supplier in question. Other

examples include insurance requirements, payment provisions (including the retention), change order procedures, especially overhead and profit allowances, temporary site facilities, liquidated damages, etc.

In the event that you have an arbitration clause with the owner, it is suggested that you have the same arbitration clause with your sub or supplier that you have with the owner for consistency of arbitration procedures and results. In the event that you go to arbitration, chances are you could demand arbitration against your supplier and consolidate the matters.

A sample purchase order can be used for a guideline in drafting your own purchase orders to meet the requirements of your particular organization, which generally could be used with a vendor.

Of course, when subcontracting a portion of the work, a standard subcontract agreement should be utilized.

It is imperative that when issuing a subcontract or purchase order to a supplier, that at a minimum the following should be included: • Commencement or completion dates.

• Any schedule that the sub is bound to.

• Price.

• Specific attachments as to specifications and drawings.

• Insurance requirements.

• Any dispute resolution procedures between the subcontractor and the

general contractor.

These are just some of the basic suggestions that should go in the purchase order to avoid substantial issues between the sub and the general.

Girard R. Visconti, Esq. is partner at Savage Law Partners, LLP.

Report: Manufacturing-related Construction Drives Growth in Third Quarter New York – The Marcum Commercial Construction Index for the third quarter of 2023 reports that the construction industry’s momentum continued through summer despite high interest rates, tight credit conditions, and labor shortages.

Infrastructure and manufacturing-related construction once again outperformed, while other nonresidential categories struggled. The index is produced by Marcum’s National Construction Services group.

With demand for construction services elevated, contractors increased their staffing levels throughout the third quarter.

“The construction industry added jobs for the seventh straight month in October,” said Dr. Anirban Basu, Marcum’s chief construction economist and author of the report. “Much of the hiring over the past year has been concentrated in the nonresidential building category, which saw a 6% increase in employment between October 2022 and October 2023.”

Hiring likely would have been faster if not for labor shortages. “Despite strong hiring over the past year, worker shortages and rising labor costs represent a pressing issue for the industry,” said Basu.

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Anirban Basu

Joseph Natarelli

“Average hourly earnings for construction workers increased at more than twice the rate of economywide earnings in October and have outpaced broader wage growth over the past year.”

As was the case in the first two quarters of 2023, employment gains and increases in construction spending are largely attributable to manufacturingrelated megaprojects. “Bolstered by the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS Act, and the private sector desire to reshore capacity, manufacturing-related construction continued to outperform

during the third quarter,” said Basu.

“Spending in the category is up more than 60% of the past year and, despite the pace of increase moderating since May, is still up more than 150% since the start of the pandemic.”

While commercial construction remains weak, certain subsegments have outperformed. “Commercial construction spending has increased a modest 8% over the past year (spending data is not adjusted for inflation) but remains up nearly 44% since the start of the pandemic,” said Basu. “This progress is almost entirely

concentrated in the warehouse category, a subsegment that has come to dominate the commercial category due to the rise of E-Commerce.”

Despite the industry’s momentum, there are signs that the consumer side of the economy is weakening, threatening the broader economic outlook.

“Approximately 5.8% of credit card debt was seriously delinquent (90+ days overdue) in the third quarter, the highest share since the fourth quarter of 2011,” said Basu. “That will slow economic growth, increasing the chance of both a recession and rate cuts in 2024.”

Marcum’s national construction leader, Joseph Natarelli, said, “Warning signs and historical trends of a downturn are out there and have been for some time now.

The construction industry, always the first to feel the pinch and last to be relieved of it, experienced some minor downturns in June. Despite plenty of jobs and low unemployment, nonresidential spending hasn’t grown in the past year, including the increases we saw in governmental and infrastructure spending. For now, we are advising our clients to take a skeptical and informed eye to the future.”

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J.E.D.I. Builders of Color Coalition Announces 12 Members of Capital Task Force Boston – The Builders of Color Coalition (BCC) recently announced the launch of its two-year research and analytics study to enforce its mission of increasing access and diversity in the real estate sector and to promote the economic well-being of minority-owned businesses whose products and services serve the real estate industry. With this announcement, BCC also set out to create task forces focusing on three sectors: Capital, Education, and Project Impact.

Led by 12 industry leaders, the Capital Task Force will compile and assess the efficacy of interventions to expand access to commercial real estate financing for developers of color and opportunities to mobilize capital to investors of color. The task force members will be chartered to share knowledge with other industry experts, guiding and informing BCC’s research and development efforts in industry-specific functions, goals, and interests.

The Capital Task Force members are: • Saeed Coates: president and portfolio manager, Genesis Property Group • Darryl Settles: CEO, Catalyst Ventures Development • Sharniece Benders: assistant vice president of capital markets, Berkshire Residential Investments • Andy Elliot: commercial real estate mortgage broker in the New England market and director of debt & structured finance with The Senne Company • David Grossman: president, First Boston Capital Partners of The Grossman Companies • Aidan Hume: senior vice president and team leader, Cambridge Savings Bank • Karen Kelleher: president, BlueHub Loan Fund • Nik Ligris: co-managing partner, Ligris + Associates • Martha Nay: managing director in the Boston office, JLL Capital Markets, America • Katherine Martinez: vice president of business development for the Greater Boston region, MassDevelopment • Megan Mulcahy: director of lending and chief credit officer for multifamily rental lending, Massachusetts Housing Partnership • Kenneth Willis: senior vice president and director of housing and community investment, Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston “We are thrilled to share the news of the Capital Task Force appointments, as we have carefully chosen individuals who excel in their respective roles,” said Colleen Fonseca, executive director at BCC. “At Builders of Color Coalition, we are committed to advancing our main message by promoting greater

Top row (l-r): Saeed Coates, Darryl Settles, Sharniece Benders, Andy Elliot, David Grossman, and Aidan Hume.

Bottom row (l-r): Karen Kelleher, Nik Ligris, Martha Nay, Katherine Martinez, Megan Mulcahy, and Kenneth Willis

inclusiveness and accessibility in Boston’s commercial real estate sector.

By announcing the first of the three task forces, we are ready to make a lasting impact on the greater community by breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all.”

With the guidance of the Capital Task Force, BCC will gather a comprehensive list of relevant funding sources, streams,

and products from banks and other lending sources and perform a needs assessment to understand the gaps in the current funding streams and capital options for minority developers, including but not limited to, relevant maps, charts, and data visualizations.

BCC will lead this multi-phase effort to inform and influence the commercial real estate industry to adopt industry-wide best

practices, make policy recommendations, and advocate for systemwide changes that transform the landscape of who is represented and gets access to the commercial real estate sector. Although each task force will work on distinct areas and inform different stakeholders, it is a layered approach that will work collaboratively to advance equity across the same ecosystem.

DBIA Releases New Free DEI Resources for Projects Washington – As part of ongoing efforts to reaffirm diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as fundamental to excellence and innovation in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) has released two new resources available at no cost to download in the online Bookstore: DBIA’s Position Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and DEI Contract Addendum.

Representatives of DBIA say the Position Statement capitalizes on the organization’s unique position as the only organization convening multiple disciplines and stakeholders whose varied perspectives help prepare and support its members to address complex issues in the industry.

The Contract Addendum includes example DEI contract provisions and guidance, sample non-discrimination language and an exhibit for meaningful inclusion of Underutilized Businesses that can be attached to DBIA’s Standard Form of Request for Proposals.

Representatives say both documents support DBIA’s long-standing belief that diversity in all areas, including perspectives, backgrounds and experiences, drive us to better serve society, enrich the design-build process and move toward a more equitable and inclusive future. This commitment builds on DBIA’s core values of mutual

respect for and appreciation of diverse perspectives and ideas, as well as its commitment to professionalism, fairness and the highest level of ethical behavior.

The representatives add that eradicating racial and gender bias when undertaking a design-build project requires owners and practitioners to intentionally involve and engage historically underrepresented companies and individuals, prioritizing fair treatment without racism or bias.

These documents are designed to assist in achieving those goals.

“DBIA’s stance is that we have a responsibility to educate our members and industry on the importance and value of DEI for our individual growth, the good of our industry and to ensure our capital projects consider the impact

on the communities we serve,” said DBIA executive director and CEO, Lisa Washington, CAE. “Resources like the DEI Position Statement and Contract Addendum will help move the industry toward a more inclusive environment where diverse people, views and perspectives are valued. We strongly believe DEI belongs among our important group of position statements focused on practices that drive designbuild success.”

The DEI Position Statement and Contract Addendum were made possible through a collaboration between several of DBIA’s working committees, including the DBIA National Contracts and DEI Committees.

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Education VBA Completes Historical Preservation of Hopkinton Daycare Center

Kidsborough

Hopkinton, MA – The VBA Construction Management team recently completed a multi-floor renovation for Kidsborough, a before and after school program for children in grades K-8 and its new daycare program Littleborough, in Hopkinton.

The project converted a 7,150sf, two-level aftercare space into daycare and preschool classrooms and a 4,200sf loft on the third floor for the afterschool program.

“The challenge for VBA was to preserve the architectural integrity of our old mill building while incorporating the latest features and designs in childcare settings,” said Cori Lucius, director of Littleborough. “They accomplished

both while always being there to test out my wild ideas and provide in-depth explanations for my never-ending inquiries.”

VBA’s restoration work involved restoring the original wooden floors and industrial post and beam structures. The open ceilings in the loft were preserved, LED lighting was installed to highlight the wooden beams, and cloud shaped acoustic panels were added for noise mitigation and to reduce echoes.

Indoor gross motor spaces, a giant whimsical reading tree, spacious classrooms, among other innovative elements along with the required HVAC, lighting and fire protection required a

tremendous amount of extra work from VBA. “The project had so many unique design elements,” said Keivan Russo of VBA. “We listened closely to the project team to ensure we brought their creative vision to life. Our entire team is excited by how well the new space is working and how it fosters creativity and community.”

Some of the key design elements were custom millwork house seating niches that anchor the open play space, chalkboard walls that allow for creativity and personalization, and a floor design, including crosswalks, to help with navigation around the spaces.

For safety and health reasons, rubber

flooring, which provides a sustainable solution to vinyl, was installed in the new Littleborough daycare space. “This type of flooring is important to many of the construction projects we do,” said Tyler Amore of VBA. “It withstands heavy traffic, spills, and temperature fluctuations.”

“Even with the numerous last-minute setbacks, VBA was able to finish the project according to our tight deadlines,” Lucius added. “And most importantly our parents and kids love the new space from the bright colors, murals, and climbing wall to the ‘big room’ where there is lots of space for movement and play.”

$10M Bond Issued for new Additions to Lighthouse School in Chelmsford

Lighthouse School’s 22,000sf addition at 25 Wellman Ave. in Chelmsford / Rendering courtesy of TBA Architects, Inc.

Chelmsford, MA – MassDevelopment has issued a $10 million tax-exempt bond on behalf of Lighthouse School, Inc., a nonprofit serving the needs of students living with disabilities, which will use proceeds to build an approximately 22,000sf building on the school’s existing campus at 25 Wellman Ave. in Chelmsford.

The new building will serve the school’s younger students (pre-K through fifth grade) and provide for their specific needs. Lighthouse School expects to hire 15 full-time members and one part-time

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team member over the next three years.

Construction is expected to begin this summer and be complete in time for the start of the 2024-2025 school year. TD Bank purchased the bond, which helped Lighthouse School achieve a lower cost of capital.

“This new 22,000sf building on Lighthouse School’s campus will enhance inclusive learning experiences and create human service jobs,” said MassDevelopment president and CEO, Dan Rivera. “We look forward to the positive impact this expansion will have

on the school’s young students and their families.”

Lighthouse School has been in operation since 1967 as a private, nonprofit, Chapter 766-approved human service organization serving the needs of students with disabilities. It is both a school and a treatment center. Students attending the school are ages 3- 22 and have diverse disabilities and needs. The organization’s services are designed to promote total life development, both in school and at home. Students live in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and

Maine and are transported to and from Lighthouse School daily.

“We are so pleased to be able to work with MassDevelopment and TD Bank on this important project,” said Lighthouse School chief financial officer, Suzanne Grecco. “Once completed, the new addition to our campus will provide our youngest students with a state-of-the-art, experiential treatment environment that is tailored to their unique needs. More importantly, we will have the space we need to continue to serve all of our students long into the future.”

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Green Suffolk Announces Launch of Sustainability Group Boston – Suffolk announced the establishment of its Suffolk Sustainability Group and hiring of sustainability thought leaders to meet its goal to lead the nation in sustainable planning throughout the entire building lifecycle.

Steven Burke will serve as senior director of sustainability for Suffolk and Michael Swenson will assume the role of director of sustainability for Suffolk Design, the contractor’s design-assist business unit.

“Sustainable building is critical for the environment, for our clients and for the future,” said John Fish, chairman and CEO of Suffolk. “Launching our Sustainability Team and hiring experienced leaders in the sustainability space demonstrate our strong commitment to strengthening our leadership position in the green building space and delivering the most sophisticated green buildings that will raise the bar for contractors throughout America.”

The Sustainability Group, overseen

by Suffolk executive vice president, Nick Dhimitri, will strengthen Suffolk’s in-house expertise and ability to assist clients and partners in envisioning, designing and executing a wider range of green building solutions. Suffolk’s

Steven Burke

Michael Swenson

sustainability planning processes, design support, sophisticated technologies and leveraging of data will also allow Suffolk teams to provide expanded technical services and identify the most costeffective sustainable solutions for clients.

Previously, Burke led the sustainability strategy for a multibillion-dollar contractor and guided sustainability processes for projects totaling 30 million sq. ft. in sectors including education, residential, office and retail. He co-founded the Sustainable Construction Leaders

network, a collection of sustainability professionals in construction, and helped create the Contractor’s Commitment, a roadmap for construction companies to operate more sustainably with more than 20 signatories representing $30 billion in market revenue.

Prior to his role at Suffolk Design, Swenson led interdisciplinary teams focused on sustainability and commissioning projects at BR+A Consulting Engineers where he offered technical services spanning decarbonization master planning for large

campuses to providing detailed analyses of large data sets to correct building performance in alignment with energy and carbon goals. He has also led Harvard University Green Building Services, where he integrated campus sustainability policy with capital projects to meet fossil fuel free and healthier material goals.

“Suffolk is uniquely positioned to deliver sustainable services that further demonstrate the company’s leadership in creative and innovative solutions that provide value throughout the entire life cycle of a building,” said Burke. “The unique corporate culture encourages regular review of processes and predictive analytics across verticals. I look forward to leveraging this culture and infrastructure to create environmentally and socially impactful solutions that are novel, inspiring and scalable.”

Suffolk is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and ranked No. 9 on the Engineering News-Record (ENR) magazine list of “Top 100 Green Building Contractors” in 2023. To date, Suffolk has completed more than $15 billion and more than 60 million sq. ft. of projects meeting third-party green building certification standards.

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Organizations and Events A Q&A with CBC Board President, Ryan Scrittorale The Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) announced its new board president, Ryan Scrittorale, at its Meet the Board Fall Social this past September. He assumes leadership from Alana Lovegren, associate principal at Svigals+Partners, who served as board president for the 2022-2023 term. Scrittorale has been involved at the CBC for over a decade with increasing leadership roles from committee to board level. He is currently a senior project manager at Benesch with 17 years of experience and background in all aspects of civil engineering and site design.

Since the 1950s, CBC has created a forum for building professionals to connect, learn, and grow. Members come from every facet of the AEC industry: architects, engineers, and contractors; owners; suppliers; attorneys; bankers; accountants; insurers; developers; and consultants. Monthly evening programs provide networking with presenters who share industry insights, trends, and upcoming projects. CBC’s annual golf tournament provides an opportunity for members to spend a memorable day on the greens, all while contributing to a meaningful cause. Each year, CBC uses

Anastasia Barnes: Can you share some key initiatives as the president of the CBC, and how they align with the organization’s mission and the needs of its diverse membership base?

Ryan Scrittorale

the proceeds of the annual golf tournament to award scholarships to deserving high school seniors who represent the future of the building industry.

High-Profile’s Anastasia Barnes sat down with Scrittorale to discuss what’s next for the CBC.

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Ryan Scrittorale: I am truly honored to serve as the CBC president for the 2023-2024 term. My key initiative is to ensure our members stay informed and well-connected with interesting programs addressing current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the AEC building industry. I am centered on advancing CBC’s legacy mission while fostering a sense of belonging among our members and increasing overall membership engagement with leadership committee to board opportunities. I am charged with creating an environment where building professionals from various backgrounds feel welcome, supported, and recognized for their committee and board leadership.

AB: What main goal you have set during your tenure as president at CBC? RS: My main goal is to bring together Connecticut’s AEC building professionals with programs that cover topics relevant to the evolving needs of our members. The dynamic field of construction remains collaborative, requiring strong industry partnerships and building ties to create a robust network for our members for future projects. CBC’s evening programs will keep our members at the forefront of building industry trends.

AB: I understand that the CBC hosts monthly evening programs featuring industry speakers. Can you provide insight into some of the upcoming programs and the topics they will cover?

How can these programs contribute to the professional development of CBC members?

RS: Our upcoming monthly evening programs will cover topics such as repurposing higher-ed campuses, the state of the healthcare market within construction, and innovation construction in the digital age. We also scheduled two special evening programs focusing on emerging leaders in the construction industry and a project showcase of The Great Wolf Lodge, a $300 million project over a decade in the works. These programs provide a platform for members to learn from industry experts and share experiences while networking with peers.

Knowledge and connections gained from these events contribute significantly to the professional development of our

members while helping them stay active and informed.

AB: Let’s talk about 2024’s Project Team Awards. Can you share more about the awards – the types of projects that are recognized, and the impact they have on the industry and members?

RS: CBC’s Project Team Awards recognize outstanding building projects that exemplify project team excellence and represent the best practices in teamwork by project owners, architects, engineers, constructors, and trades. Small and large projects of landscape architecture/ public spaces, senior living, multi-family/ mixed use, civic, civil/structural/utilities, commercial/industrial, environmental, healthcare, higher education, preK12 schools, power and energy, and transportation are welcome to submit a PTA application. First Place and Merit recognitions are awarded to projects that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to quality. The impact of these awards extends beyond project recognition. CBC’s Annual Project Team Awards promote and celebrate project team efforts throughout Connecticut, highlighting excellence in public and private construction projects completed in recent years. CBC’s PTA is scheduled for June 11, 2024, and call for entries will be opened in January.

AB: Membership in the CBC comes with various benefits, including special recognition at events and the opportunity to participate on the board of directors and committees. How do you encourage members to actively engage with these opportunities, and what leadership opportunities does CBC offer to its members?

RS: Members from the design, construction, and facilities management industry have the opportunity to participate on the board of directors, committees, task forces, and initiatives with other members and industry leaders.

We engage board and committee members in the strategy and decision-making process, allowing members to contribute to CBC’s advancement. The collegial environment fosters active engagement among our members and emphasizes the networking benefits of serving on the board or committees.

High-Profile: Organizations and Events

January 2024

33

NAWIC Launches Vermont Chapter 395

Nicole Benton (left)

South Burlington, VT – On Dec. 5, a chartering ceremony was held for the new Vermont Chapter 395 of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC).

ReArch Company’s Nicole Benton has been elected as the president of

the chapter. Representatives of ReArch Company say that Benton, along with her colleagues Heather Fontaine, Sarah LeClair, and Majken Poley, played a crucial role in establishing this chapter, and that their hard work and dedication have paved the way for a more inclusive

NAWIC VT group leadership

and empowering construction industry in Vermont.

“The resurgence of the Vermont chapter for NAWIC will provide Vermont’s construction industry with much-needed awareness, enthusiasm, leadership, and camaraderie. It’s no secret

that the skilled trades and construction industry have been struggling. Local chapter associations like the NAWIC Vermont Chapter will help bring life back to the industry and bring newer and younger talent to the table for years to come,” said Benton.

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January 2024

34

Philanthropy Suffolk, Massport Partner to Assemble Care Packages for Military Service Members

(l-r): Sam Sleiman of Suffolk, Sen. Edwards, Gen. Rice, and John Fish

Boston – Suffolk and The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) recently partnered with the United Service Organizations (USO) to produce 1,000 USO care packages for active-duty military members.

Suffolk, Massport and the USO

gathered with more than 50 volunteers at Boston Logan International Airport to put together the care packages filled with necessities for the deployed service members who can’t be home this holiday season.

A speaking program was held outside

(l-r): John Fish, State Sen. Lydia Edwards, Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, and Ed Freni

the USO Center at the airport, featuring words from Ed Freni, interim CEO of Massport; John Fish, chairman and CEO of Suffolk; and Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, director, Air National Guard, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C., board chair for New England USO and retired 3-star

general. The speaking program was followed by care pack assembly and USO Center tours.

The USO is a nonprofit dedicated to the well-being of all people serving in the U.S. military and their families.

Cummings Employees Direct $495,000 to Nonprofits

Shannon DePierro and Mike DePierro

Woburn, MA – Cummings Properties announced its employees recently directed nearly half a million dollars to local nonprofits. Through Cummings Community Giving, the Woburn-based commercial real estate firm annually invites staff members to each select a local nonprofit to receive up to $2,000 from the company in their name.

The program, now in its 12th year, aims to support the communities where Cummings team members live and work.

This cycle’s $495,000 will help fund more than 200 causes in approximately 100 local cities and towns.

“Corporate citizenship is about more

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than just giving back,” said Cummings Properties president, Eric Anderson.

“It’s about giving everyone a voice, and allowing all values to be represented in the process.”

Team members select their causes for any number of reasons. Associate Purchasing Manager Mike Kashgegian, an eight-year Cummings colleague, annually directs his donation to Perkins School for the Blind. “It’s a great opportunity to support a local organization,” said Kashgegian. “I’ve lived in Watertown for nearly 15 years, and the school is practically right next door.”

Account Manager Shannon DePierro

Mike Kashgegian

and her husband, Carpentry Team Leader Mike DePierro, each directed $2,000 to Amirah. The Beverly-based organization provides support for women seeking to exit the commercial sex trade.

“We felt passionate about contributing to a nonprofit that helps underserved individuals,” they said. “Amirah works with a stigmatized, often traumatized population whose unique needs likely aren’t being directly addressed by many other organizations. And when we learned that Amirah happens to be a Cummings leasing client, we were even more gratified by our selections.”

Cummings Community Giving is open

to staff at Cummings Properties as well as its affiliated senior living communities, New Horizons at Choate, in Woburn, and New Horizons at Marlborough. In recent years, the program has expanded to include longtime leasing clients and Cummings Foundation volunteers.

Each eligible nonprofit may receive up to $6,000 per cycle. Through this year’s employee cycle, 20 recipients reached the maximum, including Boston Children’s Hospital, Friends of Woburn Veterans, Jamie McKeown Boys & Girls Club of Woburn, Cape Ann Animal Aid, and Marlborough Fire Department.

High-Profile: Philanthropy

January 2024

35

North Branch Construction Donates Safety Fine Program Proceeds to Easterseals NH Concord, NH – North Branch Construction announced it has donated the proceeds from the firm’s annual Safety Fine Program to Easterseals New Hampshire.

North Branch Construction developed its Safety Fine Program 16 years ago, with the intent to increase hazard recognition, reduce risk of injury, and create an overall safer working environment for all personnel working on North Branch Construction jobsites. At a minimum, the program requires subcontractors, as well as North Branch Construction’s own employees, to abide by the OSHA Construction Industry Regulations at all times. When safety violations are observed, it is North Branch Construction’s objective to correct them immediately. Consequently, the firm warrants safety fines for any repeat violations.

Each year, North Branch Construction donates all proceeds from the Safety Fine Program to nonprofit organizations the firm has worked with during that year.

North Branch Construction is currently working with Easterseals New Hampshire building the new 30,000sf, 2-story addition to Easterseals’ Gammon Academy on Zachary Road in Manchester. The new addition will include 15 new classrooms each with their own designated restrooms, as well as multi-purpose and administrative spaces.

North Branch Construction presenting Easterseals New Hampshire with proceeds from its annual Safety Fine Program (l-r): North Branch Construction executive vice president, James Schwartzkopf; Easterseals senior director of major gifts & planned giving, Kathy Flynn; North Branch Construction president, Joseph Campbell; Easterseals president and CEO, Maureen Beauregard; Easterseals chief development officer, Pamela Hawkes; Easterseals senior vice president, programs, John Soucy; North Branch Construction project manager, Nick Trudel; and NorthBranch Construction project superintendent, Evan Dewire

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January 2024

36

Build Better Podcast Constructing Tomorrow: Luciana Burdi’s Leadership in a Transforming Industry On season 3, episode 4 of the Build Better podcast, Anastasia welcomed Luciana Burdi, director of capital programs & environmental affairs at Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), to discuss her journey, the challenges she’s overcome as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and her vision for the future of commercial construction. Burdi also talked about how Massport has tackled challenges in the wake of the COVID pandemic, the evolving flexible work environment, and the impact of new technology on construction projects.

In her role, Burdi is responsible for the development, administration, and execution of the Capital Investment Program (CIP) for all Massport facilities which includes Logan International Airport, Worcester Regional Airport, Hanscom Field, Conley Container Terminal, Flynn Cruiseport Terminal, and other real estate properties. She leads the Authority’s environmental permitting and management, safety program, utilities management and the in-house design and design technologies integration teams.

She is also leading the shift of Capital Programs toward a more innovative, progressive, data and design technology-

Luciana Burdi

driven department.

Burdi is the first woman to hold her current position at Massport. She says her approach is to step back and really understand a challenge or problem before addressing it and implementing a solution. She believes every member of the team makes a difference, and that really understanding a project thoroughly ultimately contributes to its success. This includes encouraging her staff to do a

Special thanks to our sponsor.

Gemba walk – going and observing a space – before beginning a project, and talking with and learning from those who will be utilizing the space in order to put in place practical and useful solutions for the end user on each project. Burdi also prioritizes diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace and credits former CEO Lisa Wieland for supporting and embracing diversity during her time at Massport.

Burdi also says she is working to better integrate data-focused decision making at Massport. She is developing a dashboard to help all members of a project team have access to timely and accurate information and to better share information with clients. Additionally, a Massport Infrastructure Condition Assessment (MICA) is being used to evaluate buildings and utilities to ensure efficient operation and maintenance.

Burdi became the director of capital programs & environmental affairs midway into the Covid pandemic. While a huge challenge, she says the pandemic gave her the opportunity to better understand employees varying needs and recognize the need for flexibility and remote work opportunities, and better

move forward with those needs in mind.

Additionally, she says she feels the recipe for success is all members of the team – architects, builders, subcontractors, subconsultants, and owners – working together to successfully execute a project for maximum benefit to the client and end users.

In her role, Burdi is responsible for the development, administration, and execution of the Capital Investment Program (CIP) for all Massport facilities which includes Logan International Airport, Worcester Regional Airport, Hanscom Field, Conley Container Terminal, Flynn Cruiseport Terminal, and other real estate properties.

The design and construction industry is not just about buildings.

It’s about the people behind the buildings.

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January 2024

37

People Kelley Joins Connolly Brothers

APH Names New President Norwell, MA – Joseph F. Clancy of American Plumbing & Heating Corporation (APH) announces the promotion of Sara T. Clancy to president.

Most recently, Sara Clancy held the position of principal, director of administration. Representatives of the firm say she has a strong track record of inno-

Clancy

vation and operational excellence and that she is the ideal president to lead APH into its next chapter of growth and success.

Sara will work closely with Joseph Clancy, who transitions to CEO overseeing all aspects of APH as Sara assumes her new role.

Bowdoin Welcomes Leclerc on our operations team,” stated Needham Heights, MA – Bowdoin Construction Bowdoin president, Andrew announced that Andrew Leclerc Buckman. “His contributions has recently joined the firm as a have been valuable from the project manager. start, and we’re looking forward Representatives of the firm to having him with us long term.” say that, with 14 years of project Leclerc’s experience ranges management experience, Leclerc from corporate/industrial/lab brings a great deal of knowledge, Leclerc projects to multifamily housing, and has made an easy transition.

“We are very happy to have Andrew healthcare and retail.

Gallucci Joins Maugel DeStefano Architects estate industry working with an Harvard, MA – Maugel architectural design firm and DeStefano Architects announced providing fire and life safety that Angela Gallucci has joined solutions to clients in various the firm as the director of markets across Massachusetts business development. and Rhode Island. She has In her new role, Gallucci extensive knowledge spanning will cultivate new business new construction, adaptive reuse, opportunities and strengthen and phased migrations. existing relationships with Gallucci Gallucci is an active member clients across the firm’s core in industry organizations such as Women markets. in Construction, NAIOP, ISPE, PBN, and Before joining Maugel DeStefano, CREW Boston. she spent 15 years in the commercial real

Beverly, MA – Connolly Brothers announced that Julia Kelley has joined the team as the in-house marketing coordinator.

“Julia has a unique skill set that will take Connolly’s marketing program to the next level and refine our branding within the markets we serve,” said Stacey Vega, business

Kelley

development manager. “I look forward to working with her and am excited at the prospect of what she will bring to the team.”

Kelley obtained her B.A. in strategic communication and her M.A. in composition, rhetoric, and digital media from Nova Southeastern University in South Florida.

Lightstone Welcomes Maciejczak In his role on the Lightstone Boston – Lightstone announced that Chris Maciejczak has joined team, Maciejczak will lead all the firm as SVP of life sciences. aspects of the firm’s life sciences He comes to Lightstone after vertical, from strategic direction leading the Life Sciences of the team, to developing platform at Boston Properties.

Lightstone’s portfolio, leading With over 19 years of asset leasing and tenant management, management, operations, and development experience focused and overseeing all life science Maciejczak in both the national and Greater assets. His key objectives are to Boston life sciences space, Maciejczak stabilize Lightstone’s existing portfolio brings extensive expertise in both and processes, while also strategically developing and executing life science growing the firm’s life sciences vertical. portfolio strategies as well as operational He will be working out of Boston. leadership.

Caritas Promotes Connell, Rittchen Braintree, MA – The board of directors of Caritas Communities announced that Frank Connell, formerly interim executive director, has been named executive director, and Gregory D. Rittchen, previously director of real estate and interim chief financial officer, is now permanently appointed to both of those roles.

The board named Connell and Rittchen to the interim positions in September 2023 upon the departure of Karin Cassell Mitterando, who resigned as executive director after about 10 years with the organization.

“We welcome Frank and Greg in their important new permanent roles,” said Ruby Cherfils, chair of the Caritas board, speaking on behalf of the board. “Both of them achieved a lot in their previous positions at Caritas, and we look forward to continued growth and success as we assist them in supporting our residents in the homes we provide.”

Connell

Rittchen

Connell joined Caritas in October 2018 and held various positions culminating in his appointment to director of strategic initiatives in February 2022.

Rittchen started at Caritas as director of real estate assets in June 2021 and continues in that role, leading the asset management team, overseeing the financials and strategy for the organization’s housing portfolio, and completing more than $1.5 million in rehabilitation and renovation of properties.

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January 2024

38

Calendar CBC January 16 at 5:30 PM Repurposing Higher-Ed Campuses This Connecticut Building Congress event includes a conversation with campus leaders from Connecticut’s colleges and universities about opportunities to reexamine goals of capital improvement plans. Attendees will learn how the AEC industry is collectively tackling new approaches to next-gen space within existing footprints and how to make what is old, new again. Impacts of enrollment forecasts, the economy, public health, and evolving student/faculty needs will be covered as focal points for reinventing what the “college experience” looks like in the second quarter of the 21st century – for living, working, and educational environments.

MBC January 17 at 7:30 AM Innovation Builds Innovative Construction Projects This breakfast program, led by BOND Building, will cover the interpersonal and technical skills required to build innovative projects of tomorrow. With technologies like 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, and digital twins, attendees will learn how BOND Building is meeting the

challenging demands of building projects designed to the millimeter, highlighting its Commonwealth Fusion Systems project in Devens, Mass.

NAWIC Boston January 17 at 6:00 PM Winter Social with ASPE Attendees of this event will have the opportunity to network with colleagues at NAWIC Boston and the local chapter of American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE). It will be held at Central Wharf in Boston, and will include heavy appetizers and a cash bar.

BSA January 17 at 6:00 PM COTE: Designing for Ecosystems Speakers for this event are Liz Stetson, senior director of capital assets & planning, Mass Audubon, and Elizabeth Randall, principal and director of practice, Reed Hilderbrand. At Brewster’s Woods Wildlife Sanctuary, Mass Audubon engaged Reed Hilderbrand to develop a framework plan to convert the former residential property into a resilient, habitatrich sanctuary for humans and non-humans alike. This talk will describe how a deep understanding of the natural and cultural features of the site became the basis of the concept design, how the design is intended to support the ecological health of the site over time, and how the design encourages a reconnection of people to place.

Next Issue

AGC MA

ISPE Boston

January 18 at 4:00 PM SheTalks Presents SheEnvisions This workshop is for those who want to uplevel any goals they might have for 2024 and beyond. Attendees will create vision boards for their goals and have the opportunity to network with like-minded peers. Appetizers and drinks will be served.

January 25 at 6:00 PM Winter Social This winter social bash will be held at Night Shift Brewing in Lovejoy Wharf, Boston.

Door fee includes admission to the event, appetizers and two drink vouchers.

CT ABC

January 25 at 4:30 PM YLG Backstage Tour Join ULI for this the exclusive pre-opening guided tour at 525 LINC in Boston, a cutting edge co-living project developed

by Arx Urban and Boylston Properties.

Guided by the developers themselves, participants will have the unique opportunity to explore all features of the building, including amenities, common areas, outdoor space, and residential units.

January 18 at 5:00 PM Trivia Night Join CT ABC for a night of networking, food, drinks and trivia with some young professionals. The event will be held at J. Timothy’s Taverne in Plainville, Conn.

Registration deadline for members and non-members is Jan. 15.

BSLA Maine January 25 at 6:00 PM Winter Social This event includes a night of bowling with Maine BSLA members and nonmembers at Bayside Bowl in Portland, Maine. All are welcome.

ULI Boston/New England

NAIOP MA February 6 at 5:00 PM Sip N’ Skate Join NAIOP for a night of networking hosted by Samuels & Associates at The Rink at 401 Park in Boston. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with colleagues, skate and enjoy snacks provided by Time Out Market. Tickets include entry, skate rentals and light refreshments.

Send your calendar announcements to editor@high-profile.com.

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January 2024

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