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TEXAS JOURNAL

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July 2021 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 64th Edition

Michael D. Bryant Director, Civil Rights Division, Texas Department of Transportation

Keith “MR. D-MARS” Davis, Sr. CEO, Vaskey Media Group, Inc. (Subcontractors USA-TEXAS) Renee Watson Director, Bexar County - Small Business and Entrepreneurship Department

Carlecia Wright Chief Diversity Officer, Lone Star College System

Gregg T. Reyes President and CEO, Reytec Construction Resources, Inc.

2021 Subcontractors USA Awards Luncheon:

“Growth and Expansion” 15-26

INSIDE

Construction Employment Declines In 40 States Between April And May As Soaring Material Costs, Supplychain Disruptions Impede Recovery

What Do High Lumber Prices Have To Do With Pulling Building Permits?

Port Houston Records Best May Ever Double-Digit TEU Increases

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr. CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

The Subcontractors USA Texas Journal highlights opportunities and news relevant to the construction, energy, architecture, manufacturing, education, engineering, oil and gas, transportation and IT industries we serve. We hope you find this issue not only informative, but inspiring and educational as well. This month’s issue highlights the 2021 Top 25 Prime & Sub Con-

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Amber P. Jones ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Helen Callier Lawrence Dean Stacy M. Brown Julianne Malveaux Subcontractors USA News Provider

—Louis Green, former president, National Minority Supplier Development Council

Port of Houston

Metro

BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

“The future of supplier diversity is all about delivering results. With the demographics of this country changing so rapidly, the fate of our nation's economy rests on the growth of minority businesses. Minority businesses represent the biggest potential growth sector in our economy. We need to be able to create, build and sustain minority businesses. And more than ever before, we need to accurately report our impact to win public support for what we do.”

City of Houston

HISD

06 CONSTRUCTION 06 The Home Depot Foundation Partners with Girl Scouts of the USA to Launch Skilled Trades Training Program for Young Women 06 Construction Employment Declines In 40 States Between April And May As Soaring Material Costs, Supply-chain Disruptions Impede Recovery 08 Construction Jobs That Need More Female Construction Workers 10 ENERGY 10 TXU Energy Kicks Off 2021 Beat the Heat Program, Providing Thousands of Fans and A/C Units to Those in Need 14 Centerpoint Energy Foundation and Company Vendors and Suppliers Contribute More Than $3 Million To Support Severe Winter Weather Relief and Recovery Efforts 12 ENGINEERING 12 SiriusXM to Launch Special Series Highlighting the People and Stories Behind the Historic Rebuilding of the New World Trade Center

15-26 SPECIAL SECTION 15-26 2021 Subcontractors USA Awards Luncheon: “Growth and Expansion” 28 PERMITS 28 What Do High Lumber Prices Have To Do With Pulling Building Permits? 30 SAFETY 30 US Department of Labor Announces Availability of More Than $21M in Grants for Training on Workplace Hazards, Infectious Diseases 30 AGC Victory on New OSHA COVID-19 Safety and Health Standard 30 TRANSPORTATION 30 METRO Makes Top Grades According to Major Ratings Agency 32 A New Start Up, STOW IT, Is offering the Best Monthly Parking Rates at Major Houston Airports 34 Texas Central Signs Contract With Webuild To Serve as Design-Build Lead For Historic Project 36 IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program Surpasses 2-Million Man Hour Milestone with Outstanding Safety Record

HUB

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OUR SERVICES

CONTENTS 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 NFF 2021 Cohort Announced 04 The Enclave in Frisco, Texas

tractors & Supplier Diversity Champions Awards Luncheon. This luncheon is a chance for Subcontractors USA to highlight agencies, primes and subcontractors who all work together to foster supplier diversity across the state of Texas. This year’s group of deserving honorees realize the importance of being inclusive and have made it a point to display that in their business. This annual event celebrates those who are contributing to Texas’ economic growth and prosperity.

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION GRAPHIC DESIGN • Logos • Flyers • Ads • Folders • Brochures • Door Hangers PRINTING • Business Cards • Flyers • Folders • Pull-up Banners • Step and Repeat Banners • Brochures • Door Hangers • Letterhead • Envelopes PHOTOGRAPHY • Headshots • Event Photography Online & Email Marketing Social Media Advertising

14 OIL AND GAS 14 RRC Begins Implementing Legislative Bill to Bring Rate Relief to Customers of State’s Natural Gas Utilities

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ARCHITECTURE

NFF 2021 Cohort Announced By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) announced its third class of 24 architecture students as the 2021 summer cohort of the NOMA Foundation Fellowship (NFF). NFF is a two-month research fellowship hosted both virtually and in-person at leading architecture firms across the country this summer. Additionally, the NFF 2021 cohort will engage in design research and benefit from firm mentorship. NFF provides professional experience to underrepresented students to connect them to the profession and provide a pipeline to eventual employment. “I’m excited about NFF’s third cohort of fellows because they are the next generation of Black and minority architects and designers. This fellowship provides mentorship and firm access for these young professionals which is crucial to achieving our 2030 Diversity Challenge goals,” said NOMA President and Gensler Senior Associate Jason Pugh, NOMA, AIA, AICP, LEED AP. “This is more than just an opportunity for NOMA fellows to get a foot in the door; it is an opportunity to blow the door of its hinges and begin to pave the way for minority architects and designers that follow.”

Respondingto tothe theDiversity DiversityChallenge Challenge Responding The NOMA Foundation Fellowship program was the first initiative to launch since the announcement of the AIA Large Firm Round Table (AIA LFRT) 2030 Diversity Challenge. It called for the industry to increase the number of licensed Black architects from 2,300 to 5,000 by 2030. Doing so will expand representation from 2 percent to roughly 4 percent Black licensed architects in the U.S. NOMA originally launched the NFF as a three-month summer design fellowship in 2020. However, COVID-19 forced the restructuring of the program. It now ensures fellows and firms are availed of meaningful experiences while protecting their health and wellness. To provide the most flexibility for firms, the NFF 2021 cohort will be able to experience both Virtual and In-Person internships for the 2021 program. The fellowships application process for the NFF 2021 cohort was open to National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS) members in good standing. The summer program will run for eight weeks from June 14th – August 6th, 2021. Fellows will receive a $2,560 stipend and $1,000 Licensure Stipend if they become licensed architects within 5 years of completing the fellowship. The program and application process was managed by Melanie Ray, AIA, LEED Green Assoc., NOMA, NCARB, NOMA Northeast University Liaison and an Associate at Hord Coplan Macht.

Meetthe theNFF NFF2021 2021Cohort Cohort Meet The NFF 2021 cohort includes the following architecture students and graduates placed at design firms across the United States:

• Yasmeen Abdelaal, The University of the District of Columbia, at EYP • Gladis Y. Adorno, Kean University, at Gould Evans • Moid Ali, Illinois Institute of Technology, at WRNS Studio • Kristal Audish, Cal Poly Pomona, at CannonDesign • Emmanuella Bakare, Penn State University, at HGA – Boston • Teisha Bradley, Rhode Island School of Design, Salazar Architects • Xochitl Castel, Illinois Institute of Technology, at HGA – Minneapolis • James Chidiac, California Baptist University, at Valerio Dewalt Train • Milamem Lauriane Donang, Georgia Tech, HKS • Onyi Egbochue, Pratt Institute, at Perkins&Will – NYC • Jalyn Grays, Hampton University*, at Moody Nolan • Andrea Gomez, Rice University, at LS3P • Gabriela Gonjon, The City College Of New York, at ZGF Architects – Seattle • Durmon Jones, Morgan State University*, at Quinn Evans • Kelsey Mitchell, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, at Perkins&Will – Atlanta • Shaela Nelson, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, at Snow Kreilich Architects • Nwando Onochie, The Ohio State University, at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill • Himesh Patel, Columbia University, at RS&H, Inc. • Diana Hernandez-Serrano, California Baptist University, HGA – Alexandria • Miranda Sharp, Louisiana Tech University, at Ayers Saint Gross • Amalia Sosa, California Baptist University, at OTJ • Damla Begum Sucuka, Illinois Institute of Technology, at Perkins&Will – Chicago • Alexander Thomas, Macalester College, at FX Collaborative • Jeter Vasquez, Kean University, at Valerio Dewalt Train

Five of NFF 2021 cohort are either students or graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities* (HBCUs). Founded after the Civil War but before the 1964 Civil Rights Act, HBCUs created education and degree opportunities for African Americans when no other colleges or universities would. Specifically, the Morrill Act of 1890 required states to provide landgrants for colleges to serve Black students. It allowed HBCUs to build their own campuses. As land-grant funded schools, HBCUs mission was not only to educate free and newly free Blacks, but also people from all low socioeconomic populations, including Whites. HBCUs are historic institutions. More importantly, their mission statements show their ability and desire to educate those who were denied higher education, both by law and by practice.

TheImpact Impactof ofNOMA NOMA Foundation Foundation Fellowships The To date, over 60 students have been awarded NOMA Foundation Fellowships since the program’s founding in 2020, which started during the Covid-19 pandemic. “I applaud the individuals at the NOMA fellowship for adapting quickly last year during the pandemic. I was able to complete my fellowship virtually and make a lifetime connection with my mentor. ” said Dejanae Wright, a graduate architecture student at Morgan State University and NOMA NFF alumni. “Being able to continue my professional development during such an uncertain time was important for my growth and I have to thank the NOMA fellowship for that.”

The Enclave in Frisco, Texas By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ults Commercial Real Estate recently announced that The Enclave in Frisco will be a new class A post-Covid 19 designed corporate office campus located in one of the most dynamic office submarkets in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. A number of design elements have been incorporated into the project to help offset and buck the recent occupancy trends from COVID. The Enclave in Frisco is a new lifestyle campus in a suburban location in southern Frisco at the northwest quadrant of North Dallas Tollway and Sam Rayburn Tollway. The campus offers lower density buildings (25% site density 120,000 square feet on 11 acres), low-rise, efficient, design (7 single-story buildings and 2 two-story buildings with limited elevators). It is an ideal development solution to attract a single tenant corporate relocation to the campus likely coming from a higher taxed state such as California, Illinois or New York. Highlights of The Enclave in Frisco include: Designed for Hea lt h & Wellness in a new workstyle environment; Convenient: In the heart of the Legacy/ Frisco submarkets of Far North Dallas, home to over 100 world-class corporate neighbors; Adaptable: Multiple outdoor work areas offering a variety of work mode choices; Green: Sustainably designed with lush landscape and natural stone exterior walls; Flexible: Nine 1 & 2 story buildings with high performance glazing to provide an abundance of natural light; Dynamic: A secluded suburban setting with an unparalleled quantity of restaurants, hotels, retail, and residential within 1-mile radius. Amenities include ample parking with 90 percent covered with solar panels; highly filtered HVAC system; electric car charging stations; dedicated exclusive tenant entries; site-wide Wi-Fi connectivity; covered outdoor patio & meeting space with firepit, grille, and ceiling fans; sport courts including basketball and pickleball; secure, weatherresistant bike storage; contiguous jogging/walking/biking path; environmentally friendly exterior planting walls; inviting campus setting with indoor & outdoor meeting spaces; multiple densely wooded exploration areas and flowing creek; covered outdoor relaxation zone with grille overlooking creek; solar panel shade system providing sustainable energy to the campus; Wi-Fi outdoor meeting areas including getaway "treehouse" work area.

For more information visit, www.noma.net/nff.

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Source: Fults Commercial Real Estate

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CONSTRUCTION

The Home Depot Foundation Partners with Girl Scouts of the USA to Launch Skilled Trades Training Program for Young Women

New Experiential Workshops to Provide Girl Scouts with Training Opportunities and Continue the Foundation's Missions to Fill and Diversify the Trades Industry By Lawrence Dean Regional Director, Zonda Intelligence

he Home Depot Foundation recently announced a new strategic partnership with Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) to provide introductory trades training experience and career education for young women. The Foundation and GSUSA will host the first-ever joint construction workshops for Cadette, Senior and Ambassador level Girl Scouts (8th – 12th grades). This pilot program, launching in Fall 2021, will engage troops throughout Atlanta, Denver and Houston, providing hands-on experience with carpentry and other building construction trades. These skilled trades workshops will be led by female industry professionals and will offer career guidance and additional education touchpoints for young women seeking trades training opportunities. In 2020, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported data showing only 11% of construction workers and 27% of architecture and engineering professionals are women. Furthermore, the National Association of Home Builders' 2019 Builder Member Census shared just 9% of their members are women and less than 0.5% are Black. "The statistics undoubtedly underline the imbalance of talent and roles held by women within the construc-

tion trade industry," said Shannon Gerber, The Home Depot Foundation's executive director. "We recognized a natural intersection between the mission of The Foundation's Path to Pro program and GSUSA's focus on highlighting a variety of career pathways, leading to the creation of this joint effort. We're proud to introduce this next step on our journey to preparing youth for the skilled trades, and we're especially grateful to help bridge the opportunity gap for young women." "At Girl Scouts, we help girls discover who they want to be by introducing them to a wide variety of experiences to see what sparks their interest. From the very beginning, one of those experiences has been the skilled trades," shared Suzanne Harper, senior director of national programs and partnerships. "We are thrilled to partner with The Home Depot Foundation to provide this innovative hands-on skilled trades experience that will allow girls to see themselves in these essential careers

by connecting with role models to whom they can relate." To deepen this initiative, The Home Depot Foundation will extend scholarship opportunities to select high school senior Girl Scouts as part of its recently announced $250,000 Path to Pro scholarship program. This program grants financial assistance to eligible candidates for trade college or postsecondary programs. For more information on the Path to Pro scholarship program, visit https://www.myscholarship.app/ home-depot-foundation. Earlier this month, the Foundation announced trades training partnerships with 100 Black Men of America, Inc. and The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) to focus on eliminating racial and social inequities through education and workforce development for Black youth and Black entrepreneurs. For more information, please visit http://www.homedepotfoundation.org Source: The Home Depot Foundation

CONSTRUCTION

Construction Employment Declines

In 40 States Between April And May As Soaring Material Costs, Supply-chain Disruptions Impede Recovery By Lawrence Dean Regional Director, Zonda Intelligence

onstruction employment in May remained below the April level in 40 states and the District of Columbia, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government employment data released today. Association officials said skyrocketing materials prices and excessive delays in receiving key construction supplies were holding back the industry’s recovery. “Today’s numbers show that impacts from the pandemic on demand for projects and on materials costs and the supply chain are weighing down construction in most parts of the country,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “In the few states where industry employment has topped the pre-pandemic levels of February 2020, most gains are likely attributable more to demand for homebuilding and remodeling than to most categories of nonresidential building and infrastructure projects.” From April to May, construction employment decreased in 40 states and D.C., increased in only eight states, and held steady in Maryland and Utah. The largest decline over the month occurred in New York, which lost 5,900

construction jobs or 1.6 percent, followed by Illinois (-5,600 jobs, -2.5 percent) and Pennsylvania (-3,300 jobs, -1.3 percent). The steepest percentage declines since April occurred in Vermont (-3.9 percent, -600 jobs), followed by Maine (-3.5 percent, -1,100 jobs) and Delaware (-3.0 percent, -300 jobs). Florida added the most construction jobs between April and May (3,700 jobs, 0.6 percent), followed by Michigan (1,600 jobs, 0.9 percent) and Minnesota (1,200 jobs, 0.9 percent). Oklahoma had the largest percentage gain for the month (1.3 percent, 1,000 jobs), followed by Minnesota and Michigan. Employment declined from the pre-pandemic peak month of February 2020 in 42 states and D.C. Texas lost the most construction jobs over the period (-49,100 jobs or -6.3 percent), followed by New York (-45,200 jobs, -11.1 percent) and California (-30,800 jobs, -3.4%). Wyoming recorded the largest percentage loss (-15.3 percent, -3,500

jobs), followed by Louisiana (-15.1 percent, -20,700 jobs) and New York. Among the eight states that added construction jobs since February 2020, the largest pickup occurred in Utah (5,000 jobs, 4.4 percent), followed by Idaho (3,400 jobs, 6.2 percent) and South Dakota (1,200 jobs, 5.0 percent). The largest percentage gain was in Idaho, followed by South Dakota and Utah. Association officials noted that cost increases and extended lead times for producing many construction materials are exacerbating a slow recovery for construction. They urged the Biden administration to accelerate its timetable for reaching agreement with allies on removing tariffs on steel and aluminum, and to initiate talks to end tariffs on Canadian lumber. “Federal officials can help get more construction workers employed by removing tariffs on essential construction materials such as lumber, steel and aluminum,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “These tariffs are causing unnecessary harm to construction workers and firms, as well as to the administration’s goals of building more affordable housing and infrastructure.”

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Source: The Associated General Contractors of America

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CONSTRUCTION

Construction Jobs That Need More Female Construction Workers By Subcontractors USA News Provider

epresentation of women in the construction industry has been a topic of discussion over the past several decades with more and more female construction workers opening up about being hired in traditionally male-dominated positions. Female construction workers currently make up around ten percent of all construction jobs, hovering around one million women in the industry collectively. And while this is a great improvement from as little as five years ago, many of these jobs held by female construction workers include managerial and office related roles. So, while we celebrate the women who have achieved leadership roles within the industry, it’s time to also focus efforts on employing more female construction workers in on-site positions that are currently underrepresented.

Here’saalist listofofcommon common Here’s construction-relatedjobs jobsthat that construction-related employaalow lowpercentage percentageofof employ femaleconstruction constructionworkers workers female withinthe theindustry industrytoday. today. within Roofers According to numbers from late 2020, female construction workers only made up around 0.5% of the entire roofing industry in the United States. There are several groups that are dedicated to seeing this number continue to grow, including the National Women in Roofing, founded in 2016 out of the International Roofing Expo. Through outreach and education, NWIR acts as an advocate to help construction businesses and roofing companies understand the importance of diversity within their hires. Welders Female construction workers in the welding workforce only saw a 1% increase in representation between 2010 and 2018, according to statistics referenced by Forbes.com. However, outreach programs such as Weld Like A Girl™ and Women Who Weld are working to see a larger increase of representation over the next several years. These groups are designed to appeal to young women discovering their passions, hoping to inspire the next generation of female construction workers and welders. And while there are other important organizations that fight for female welders to receive fair wages as compared to their male counterparts, these groups uniquely work towards building more awareness about the opportunities for female construction workers in the welding industry. Masonry workers One sector of the construction in-

dustry that is still seeing a struggle in the recruitment of female construction workers is in masonry. According to data from the online publication Concrete Construction, there are only around 180,000 female masonry workers across the United States. And although that number is small, it’s a large increase from thirty years ago when only approximately 2,000 women were employed in a masonry-related job. The publication also suggests that a lack of exposure to the craft may be one of the biggest reasons that there aren’t more female construction workers in masonry jobs, encouraging groups like Girl Scouts of America to take troops to visit job sites and learn more about the industry. Crane operators A staple of construction-related equipment, cranes are used for the most heavyduty projects in the industry. But as common as cranes are on construction sites, seeing a woman operating one isn’t. As little as 0.7% of tower crane operators and 5.4% of steel crane operators are female construction workers. There are several prominent female crane operators in the industry today, however. One crane operator, Jen Mutas of Bigfoot Crane Company, recently recognized the positive shift towards fair representation in the industry, stating, “We shouldn’t say, “Oh, she’s really good for a girl,” we should be saying, “she’s really good,” period. And we’re getting closer to that.” The National Association of Women in Construction has over 115 chapters across the United States. With membership open to all female construction workers, NAWIC can connect members with amazing resources to help them gain confidence in their abilities and develop more leadership skills. Any female construction workers interested in joining NAWIC can apply for membership by using either the online form or downloadable application to fill out and mail in - both of which are available on the NAWIC website. There are also several membership options available for flexible pricing and membership terms. To learn more about the unity of female construction workers through membership with NAWIC, contact us through our social media pages, our website, or use our “find a NAWIC chapter near you” tool. For more information, please visit www.nawic.org. Source: National Association of Women in Construction

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ENERGY

TXU Energy Kicks Off 2021

Beat the Heat Program, Providing Thousands of Fans and A/C Units to Those in Need By Subcontractors USA News Provider

s Texans work to build back from the hardships of 2020, TXU Energy remains committed to helping fill the gaps – supporting the health and well-being of our neighbors. The company’s 23rd annual Beat the Heat program includes drive-thru distributions of new air conditioning units and fans, summer energy conservation tips, and information on financial assistance available both at the state level and for TXU Energy customers. “For too many Texas families, the summer season brings stress. Whether that’s worrying about how to pay their electricity bill or facing the dangerous reality of not being able to keep cool, TXU Energy wants to lighten the load,” said Scott Hudson, president of TXU Energy. “This summer, there’s a record amount of assistance available – but you have to know where to look. Our team is dually focused on helping provide immediate relief from the heat and spreading the word about a range of bill-payment assistance options for those in need. We want people to know that help is available.” TXU Energy’s latest $75,000 Beat the Heat contribution directly supports 10 social service organizations assisting people across Texas. With donations to be distributed throughout the summer, Beat the Heat giving highlights include, among others:

• Dallas – The Senior Source: $25,000 will go toward the purchase of new window air conditioning units for older adults. This donation helps The Senior Source achieve its goal of giving away at least 200 air conditioning units this year. The drive-thru distribution event takes place on July 17. • Houston – BakerRipley: $10,000 will fund the purchase of 550 fans for neighbors across the Houston area. BakerRipley will distribute the fans, along with fresh fruits and vegetables, during a drive-thru event on June 15. • Tarrant County – Meals On Wheels: $7,500 will help purchase fans and air conditioning units for seniors and homebound Meals On Wheels clients across Tarrant County. • Corpus Christi – Mission 911: $5,000 will go toward purchasing box fans for neighbors in need. Fans and box lunches will be distributed at a Mission 911 event on July 26. • Abilene – United Way of Abilene: $5,000 will fund the purchase of box fans to be distributed to partner agencies in West Central Texas’ Basic Needs Network.

Summer 2021 bill-payment assistance is available: • State Relief: Stimulus funding has significantly increased the assistance dollars available to Texans, including an additional $134 million to the state’s Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and $1.3 billion to the Texas Rent Relief Program. These programs can help customers pay current, past due, and even future electricity bills. Customers do not need a disconnect notice to apply. For information about Texas Rent Relief visit texasrentrelief.com or call 1-833-989-7368. For information about CEAP and other assistance programs call 211 or visit 211texas.org and type “electricity bill assistance” in the search box. • TXU Energy Customer Relief: TXU Energy continues to provide bill-payment assistance to customers in need through its TXU Energy AidSM program. For over 35 years, these funds, donated by employees, customers, and the company, have been distributed by TXU Energy Aid partner agencies. For information on which social service agencies are providing assistance, Texans should call 211 or visit 211Texas.org and type “electricity bill assistance” in the search box. Visit txu.com for more information. Source: TXU Energy

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ENGINEERING

SiriusXM to Launch Special Series Highlighting the People and Stories Behind the Historic Rebuilding of the New World Trade Center By Subcontractors USA News Provider

iriusXM recently announced the launch of Top of the World: Lessons from Rebuilding the World Trade Center, an 11-part series featuring the people at the heart of the historic rebuilding of the new World Trade Center. The special programming premiered July 6 on Business Radio channel 132, and will broadcast for 11 consecutive weeks in the lead-up to the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Each week Top of the World will explore the rebuilding through the eyes of those at the center of the action. These individuals will share lessons learned from the recovery after 9/11, the challenges Downtown Manhattan has faced throughout the last two decades, and the insights they've gathered about how the city and the country can better recover and rebuild after the pandemic. Among the major figures featured throughout the series are World Trade Center developer Larry Silverstein; former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg; WTC Master Planner Daniel Libeskind; National 9/11 Memorial architect Michael Arad; the architects and engineers behind the new World Trade Center office towers; Downtown Manhattan business and community leaders; the artists, filmmakers and photographers who have captured and documented the historic rebuilding effort; and many more. Celebrity interviews offering support for the revitalization of Lower Manhattan will be interspersed throughout the series, as well. "Rebuilding the World Trade Center has been - and continues to be - the passion of my life," said Larry A. Silverstein, Chairman, Silverstein Properties. "As we approach the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, it is important to reflect on our collective mission to restore, revitalize, and re-invent Downtown Manhattan, and examine how the lessons we learned can inform our response to the devastation wrought by the tragedy of the pandemic." Top of the World premiered on Business Radio at 7:00pm ET on July 6, with all episodes becoming available as podcasts on Pandora and Stitcher on September 6. The special series was created in collaboration with Silverstein Properties and MuddHouse Media. The Episodes Include: • Larry Silverstein, World Trade Center developer - Larry Silverstein purchased the Twin Towers at the age of 70 on July 24, 2001, only to see the complex destroyed in the 9/11 terror attacks. He has devoted the rest of his life to rebuilding the Trade Center. Despite many major obstacles over the past two decades, he has convinced some of the world's leading companies to move into his new office buildings, and helped transform Lower Manhattan into a vibrant live-work neighborhood. A year into the pandemic that has temporarily brought the neighborhood, the city and the country to a halt, Silverstein reflects on his experience, and the road to recovery for New York and the nation. • Daniel Libeskind, WTC Master Plan architect - How do you rebuild a city within a city after the devastation of the worst terror attacks on American soil? Architect Daniel Libeskind won a star-studded international competition to lead the design process for the world's most emotionally charged site. He talks about what inspired him as a young immigrant to the United States, the enormous challenges he faced, the magnificent

place he created, and how it can help shape the future of cities in a post-pandemic world. • New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg - Michael Bloomberg was sworn in as Mayor of New York City just four months after 9/11, and for the next 12 years, he oversaw much of the area's and the city's remarkable recovery. He was one of the earliest proponents of Downtown's transformation from a 9-5 business center into a vibrant mixed-use 24/7 neighborhood. Mayor Bloomberg shares his thoughts on how the city can recover from the pandemic, and the lessons we can draw from the World Trade Center rebuilding. • Mary Ann Tighe, CEO of CBRE's New York TriState Region - Over 15 million square feet of New York's

newest office space were destroyed on 9/11, forcing a mass exodus of office tenants from Downtown to other parts of the city. Mary Ann Tighe talks about what it took to convince companies to return to the new World Trade Center, and how the area became the media, communications and technology capital of New York, home to Condé Nast, Spotify and Uber, as well as luxury brands including Moet Hennessy and Diageo. She discusses the future of office space after more than a year of working remotely, and what the recovery from the pandemic means for the World Trade Center, Downtown Manhattan and cities across America. • Sean Johnson, Carlos Valverde, and Duan He, 3 WTC project executives; Michiko Ashida, 4 WTC design director - The people who built the new office towers for Larry Silverstein offer a behind-the-scenes look at the design, engineering and construction challenges of overseeing 3,000 daily construction workers build a $20 billion project in the heart of America's oldest and most iconic business district. They discuss the sustainable design and security features in the new buildings, and how their work inspired high-rise design and construction all over the world. • Jessica Lappin and Catherine McVay Hughes - Jes-

sica Lappin, President of the Alliance for Downtown New York, and Catherine McVay Hughes, a 33-year resident of Lower Manhattan and former chair of Manhattan Community Board One discuss their experience living and working in Lower Manhattan as their community recovered from the 9/11 attacks. They talk about the challenges of attracting new companies, businesses, residents and visitors back to the area, and offer insight on how Downtown can recover from the pandemic, and once again become one of the most popular, successful 24/7, mixed-use neighborhoods in the country. • Joe Woolhead, WTC photographer, "Once More to the Sky," Judith Dupré, author, "One World Trade Center," Mike Marcucci, producer, "16 Acres," Grace Capobianco, publisher, "Downtown" magazine - As the unofficial chroniclers of the World Trade Center rebuilding, Joe Woolhead, Judith Dupré and Mike Marcucci talk about the obstacles and highlights of documenting - through film, photography and books - the 16-acre site on a daily basis over the past 20 years, and what is next for New York City. They are joined by Grace Capobianco who has been reporting on the rebirth of Lower Manhattan for 20 years. • Leslie Koch, President, Perelman Center for the Performing Arts - Leslie Koch offers a guided tour of the under-construction performing arts center, which will be the next building to open at the WTC site. She discusses the importance of arts and culture to Lower Manhattan and to a city that is just now beginning to recover from the pandemic. We witness the very first musical performance in the new building with violinist Gregory Harrington and cellist Eleanor Norton. • Kerry Irvine, Joohee Park, Lady Aiko, Risa Boogie, Cristina Martinez, Komikka Patton - Before any companies moved into the new World Trade Center towers, a small group of artists set up makeshift studios in raw space overlooking the site. From this rare perch, they began to capture and document the massive construction project below. These artists tell their personal stories of passion, hope, renewal and perseverance from their studios in the sky, and the important role that art and creativity continues to play in Lower Manhattan. • Robert Whitlock, KPF; Maria Masi, Brookfield Properties; Marty Burger, Silverstein Properties; Dawanna Williams, Dabar Development Partners - Architect Robert Whitlock, and developers Maria Masi, Marty Burger and Dawanna Williams talk about 5 WTC, the only residential tower proposed for the WTC site. Featuring 1,325 apartments, including 330 that will be permanently affordable, this will be the country's most significant and anticipated energy efficient and sustainable apartment building when it opens in 2026. • Michael Arad, 9/11 Memorial architect - How do you create a place of remembrance in the heart of a bustling city? Michael Arad was a young, unknown architect when he beat out 5,200 others to win a competition to design the National 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center. He talks about what inspired him, changes he was forced to make to his design, the opening of the Memorial on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, and his thoughts on a national memorial to the victims of Covid-19.

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Source: Silverstein Properties; SiriusXM

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OIL AND GAS

RRC Begins Implementing Legislative Bill to Bring Rate Relief to Customers of State’s Natural Gas Utilities By Subcontractors USA News Provider

elief is on the way for customers of the state’s gas utilities who were facing potentially high gas bills resulting from Winter Storm Uri. On June 16, Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1520, which directs the RRC and the Texas Public Finance Authority to work together to issue customer rate-relief bonds, the proceeds of which gas utilities would use to pay for the extraordinary cost of natural gas due to high demand during February’s winter storm. The bonds would provide rate relief to customers by allowing gas utilities to recover the extraordinary cost of gas through customer bills over a longer time period, rather than potentially through a single billing statement. The bill provides financial relief to gas utilities that choose to apply for the bonds by providing for a low-cost source of financing to fulfill outstanding obligations to natural gas suppliers. A gas utility that chooses to participate in the process would submit information and documentation to the RRC regarding its extraordinary costs to procure natural gas during Winter Storm Uri. The agency would review the application and, if the agency determines that issuing bonds is cost-effective, direct the Texas Public Finance Authority to issue bonds. The RRC sent gas utilities a Notice to Operators providing further information related to the bill. “Throughout my time at the Railroad Commission of Texas and especially in the aftermath of Winter Storm Uri, consumer protection has been a priority,” said Chairman Christi Craddick. “I am grateful to the Legislature for passing this important bill and look forward to

working with my colleagues and agency staff to ensure that we prevent any undue burden on natural gas customers who might have experienced extraordinarily high gas bills otherwise.” “High demand for energy during the storm caused gas prices to rise and utilities incurred extraordinary gas costs to procure the supply needed to maintain service,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “HB 1520 allows for the high cost of gas from the storm to be securitized, utilizing the creditworthiness of our state to lower interest rates. This will ensure our constituents do not receive large, unexpected bills from their natural gas utility provider in the wake of Winter Storm Uri.” “I commend the members of the Texas Legislature for getting this across the goal line,” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “Winter Storm Uri was an unprecedented event, and Texans should not have to shoulder the cost alone. Securitization will allow gas utilities to remain afloat while lessening the burden on their customers.” House Bill 1520 was authored by Representative Chris Paddie and sponsored by Senator Kelly Hancock. Gas supply was uninterrupted for a vast majority of Texas residents during Winter Storm Uri: 99.5 percent of customers connected to natural gas maintained service during the storm. For more information, please visit www.rrc. texas.gov. Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

ENERGY

Centerpoint Energy

Foundation and Company Vendors and Suppliers Contribute More Than $3 Million To Support Severe Winter Weather Relief and Recovery Efforts By Subcontractors USA News Provider

enterPoint Energy recently announced that through contributions from both its charitable foundation and generous donations from its vendors and suppliers, more than $3 million has been donated to the Houston-Harris County Winter Storm Relief Fund. The Relief Fund, which was established by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, is aimed at supporting low-income Houstonians without insurance who were impacted by February's severe winter weather. Dave Lesar, President and Chief Executive Officer of CenterPoint Energy, and Chair of the Relief Fund's Advisory Board, said, "We are deeply grateful for all of our vendors and suppliers who gave so generously to the Relief Fund. Led by Quanta Services' donation of $1 million, these funds are going a long way in helping the fund fulfill its mission of meeting the unmet needs of families who need additional help recovering and filling the gaps that may not be met by other local and federal efforts." The Greater Houston Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston jointly oversee and administer the grant distribution process with the help of a grants committee, which includes local philanthropic professionals. To date, $17 million in donations has been pledged to the fund by generous companies and individuals and more than $13.1 million has been distributed through a network of Houston area nonprofits for relief efforts. A final round of grants will be distributed later this month. CenterPoint Energy would like to recognize the following vendors and suppliers for their contributions: • Accenture • Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP • Baker Botts LLP • Burns & McDonnell • Central Moloney, Inc. • Cisco • Deloitte • EN Engineering • Hewlett Packard Foundation • Homeserve • Irby, a Sonepar Company • Itron • J.P. Morgan • Love Advertising • Magna Legal Services • MRC Global • MRE Consulting • Osmose Utility Services • PwC • Quanta Services, Inc. • R&D Strategic Solutions • Shipley Snell Montgomery LLP • United Healthcare Retiree Solutions • Utegration • Wise Men Consultants, Inc.

For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com Source: CenterPoint Energy

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TEXAS VOLUME ll

Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors

8TH EDITION

2021 TOP

SUPPLIER DIVERSITY CHAMPIONS Fort Bend Independent School District

Minority / Women Business Enterprise

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Prime Contractors June 23, 2021 Dea r Friends: On behalf of the constituents of the Eighteenth (18th) Con gressional District and the Uni States House of Repre-sentative ted s, plea se allow me to convey my warmest greetings to you this most importa nt occasion. on In the spirit of peace and prosper ity, I take great pride in joining the Top 25 Contrac-tors and Supplier Diversity Cha mpi-on s in their mission to create opp ortunities for sma ll, women and minorit y-owned businesses. I especially congratu-late you for your tremendous outreach acro the state of Texas. Diversity in ss business is critical to success in today’s marketplace and the wor you do to ensure that inclusio k n is paramount. Let me congratulate all of this yea r’s honorees. The 2021 Top Prime Contractors and Supplie Diversity Cha mpions have bro r ken barriers in their respective fields and left an indelible mar on the face of business today, k throughout their un-derstandin g of the need for diversity and mentorship. I would also like to tha nk Sub contractors USA for honoring the prime contractors and age who work relentlessly to suppor ncies t diversity. I recognize the valu e added to the state of Texas by MW BE and sma ll business own ers and the importa nce of pro viding them with opportuniti for growth and empowerment. es

Turner Construction

I am especially tha nkf ul for you r providing such timeless and selfless services on be-half of my constituents. We are honored and truly fortunate to have such an out-standing business and community development partner within our community.

BTG Drive288

Rice and Gardner Consultants Inc.

Reytec Construction Resources, Inc. Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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Prime Contractors HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WASHINGTON , D. C. 205 1 5

AL G R EE N ICT 9T H CONGR E SS IO NA L DISTR HO U ST ON , T EXA S

2021 23,2014 June t 13, Augus

Dear Friends:

actors Contr 25 Top l25onPrime Top its 2021 its 2014 USAs on ss Journa ntract Busine e Subco D-Mar the ors to congr tulate to congra I would like likeatulat I would ity tuents consti er Divers the of f Suppli behal and On ity ony. Divers for Cerem s ers Award Engine & pions ects Cham sityArchit ctors, ier Diver SupplContra and Prime Ninth the of ipants uents partic constit and the izers of behalf , I salute all organ ony. ctOn of Texas s Cerem Award nal Distri ions Cong ressio the Ninth of Champ zers and participants on their all organi I a salute of Texas, tmakin event. Distric rable al memo ession this Congr g to ation dedic on their event. rable dedication to making this a memo

USA and its supporters for their ters enthusiasm, I applaud Subcontractors s Business Journal and its suppor With great With great enthusiasm, I applaud D-Mar ing menprovid for ers ers suppli and ing ctors provid for contra prime suppli the and ctors nizing recog contra t to itment to recognizing the prime itmencomm comm for their ngg bridge bridgess s and unitie buildin andbuildi comm ity unities minor comm in h ty growt minori in ess h busin growt ing ss foster busine p, ng torshi mentorship, fosteri to ue to continue you contin as you on as occasion great occasi this great on this you on e you tulate atulat I congra sses.I congr esses. busine smallbusin forforsmall Housto. n area. Greate the state ofr Texas across the life across of life quality thequalit y of improv ve ethe impro

AUTOARCH Architects

on future ss Journalvors s Busine the D-Mar g with and to workin forward to with future endea I look USA on ess. ntractors Subco rd to working Best wishes to all for I look forwa Congr of er Memb a as well you g servin to g and excitin an endeavors and for all to s wishe Best ress. g you well as a Member of Con-g servin an exciting and enjoyable evening. enjoyable luncheon. Sincerely,

Al Green Member of Congress

®1 1

SER Construction

TLC Engineering

TGM Houston - JR Thomas Group, Inc

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Texas House of Representatives

Top Sub Contractors

RON REYNOLDS

State Representative-‐District 27-‐Fort Bend County

August 13, 2014 June 23, 2021

GREETINGS GREETINGS

Congratulations to the award recipients of the 2014 d-‐mars.com Top 50 Prime Contractors, Architects and Engineers, and the Supplier Diversity Champions. Congratul to the award recipients of the 2021 Subcontra ctores on. I adm Your hardations USA Top ire work, de 25 dication a nd successes are de serving of recogniti Prime Contractors, Engineers, Architects, Construction, Transportation, IT and the your integrity and commitment to excellence.

Supplier Diversity Champions awards. Your hard work, dedication and successes are deserving of recognitio n. I admire your integrity and commitment to excellence. In today’s marketpl ace divers ity in busi ness is cri

tical. I salute the Champions for the work they do to ensure th at inclusio n is param ount. This evening w ill be one In today’s marketplace, diversity in business is critical. I salute the Champion s to remembe r with recognizin for the work they do d-‐mars.co celebratin g to ensure m your magnanim that inclusiong isand paramoun t. This day will be oneous to achievements remember in the ctors with Subcontra industry USA and your g invaluable recognizin and celebratin contributi g your achievem ons to ents the incommunit the industry y. and your invaluable contributions to the community. Best Best wishes wishes for for your your continued continued success success for f your work in the community you serve.

or your work in the community you serve.

MCA Communications

CDM7

IPSUM General Contractors, LLC

Sowells Consulting Engineers

Moreaux Transportation Services Inc

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Top Sub Contractors

Permit Us Now

Kay Davis Associates LLC

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Subcontractors USA-TEXAS takes great pride and pleasure highlighting those top primes and agencies who open doors for great things to happen for small businesses. Through Subcontractors USA, we are able to give our prime contractors the accolades they deserve for their achievements in the industry and their contributions to the community. We are especially proud to have representation from agencies and companies from across the State of Texas. When diversity is embraced, the economy and the workforce are strengthened. I find it extremely rewarding that we are able to highlight agencies, primes and subcontractors and those in the industries of engineering, architecture, construction, transportation, IT, petrochemical, oil and gas, and energy and manufacturing who work together to foster diversity in Texas’ business world. As a minority-owned publication and media company, it is our privilege to celebrate those companies that do meet their minority participation goals, striving to be the bridge that fosters growth across Texas for small businesses that want to do business with their larger counterparts. We realize it is important to be inclusive. It is critical to have diversity in the marketplace, and this annual event highlights those who are contributing to Texas’ economic growth and prosperity. Keith “MR.D-MARS” Davis, Sr. President & CEO Vaskey Media Group, Inc. Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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Ethan (son) and Kailyn (granddaughter) of MR. D-MARS

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Supplier Diversity Champions

June 23, 2021 Dear Friends, On behalf of the constituents of Dist rict 146 and the Texas House of Rep resentatives, it is a privilege to welcome and congratulate the honorees of the Top 25 Prime Contractors & Supplier Diversity Champions 2021 awards ceremon y. I also extend my appreciation to d-mars.com and Subcontractors USA for hosting this important event, which hon ors those whom have proven them selves to be champions of inclusivity and dive rsity. We must continue to encoura ge, promote, and protect the process of sourcin g supplies from businesses that histo rica lly have been underutilized and underrepres ented. It is my pleasure to congratulate all of the honorees again for earning this esteemed award. Your excellent work and commitment to supplier diversity are worthy of recognition and distinction. Warm regards,

Lone Star Community College State Representative Shawn Thi

erry

Texas House District 146 Capitol Office - Austin (512) 463-0518 main (512) 463-0941 fax District Office - Houston (713) 667-4146 main (713) 839-0934 fax

University of Houston HUB

H-E-B

Houston Airports

Houston Minority Supplier Development Council

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Supplier Diversity Champions TIA PLUMMER DDS COUNCIL MEMBER LETIarge Position 4 Houston City Council At-L

June 23, 2021

Dear Friends,

and award recipients today and congratulate the honorees It is my honor to welcome our guests n and commitment to 25 Prime Contractors. Your dedicatio of the 2021 subcontractors USA Top success is worthy of recognition. rity business mitment to fostering growth in the mino I thank Subcontractors USA for its com ing and build th l businesses have a pathway to weal community. Because of this, these smal due to small ities mun com lly difficult for underrepresented prosperity which has been traditiona business disparities and inequities. well on their future and award recipients and wish them Once again, I congratulate the honorees luncheon. endeavors. I hope everyone enjoys the Sincerely,

Houston Public Works

st • Houston, Texas 77002 City Hall Annex • 900 Bagby, 1 Floor .gov (832) 393-3012 • atlarge4@houstontx

Houston Community College Procurement SMALL Business Development

NAMC Houston

South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency

Houston Minority Business Development Agency Business Center Operated by Houston Community College

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Supplier Diversity Champions

June 23, 2021

Texas Department of Transportation

Martha Castex-Tatum City of Houston Vice Mayor Pro-Tem City Council District K

Bexar County - Small Business and Entrepreneurship Department

June 21, 2021

Dear Friends: As the City of Houston Vice Mayor Pro Tem and Council Member for District K, and as Chair of the Council Economic Development Committee, I congratulate the Subcontractors USA on its 2021 Top Prime and Sub Contractors. Subcontractors USA’s commitment and contributions to economic growth through fostering and connecting Prime and Sub contractors to industries in their field of services deserve this recognition. I also commend the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity, under the directorship of Marsha E. Murray, Esq., for ensuring business diversity and development and ensuring opportunit ies are available to underutilized businesses. The various programs offered by the Office of Business Opportuni ty, notably the Turner School of Construction Management, are an asset to both established and up and coming businesses. The City of Houston Public Works Department is also to be commended for the opportunities provided to Prime and Sub contractors through the numerous projects initiated to Build Houston Forward. I extend my thanks to all agencies and industries who have made economic success a reality, for these 2021 Top Prime and Sub Contractors, and look forward to expanding our reach to even more contractors. As we strive for more equity in the business environment, it is incumbent upon all of us to ensure businesses have opportunities to build capacity and thrive. It is an honor to recognize the accomplishments of these businesses and I wish them continued success.

Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum

Sincerely,

Martha Castex-Tatum Vice Mayor Pro Tem, City of Houston Council Member, District Chair, Council Economic Development Committee

NOT IN ATTENDANCE: NAMC DALLAS

COMMITTEES: Economic Development, Chair | Budget & Fiscal Affairs | Ethics,

Election & Council Governance | Housing & Community Affairs | Regulations & Neighborhoods Affairs | Transportatio n, Technology, & Infrastructure

900 Bagby, 1st Floor · Houston, Texas 77002 · (832) 393-3016 · districtk@h

oustontx.gov

METRO

City of Dallas

Regional Black Contractors Association Dallas Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc

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Supplier Diversity Champions

Dallas Independent School District, Minority Women Business Enterprise

City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

Special Awards

Industrial Welding Academy Fort Bend Independent School District

CenterPoint Energy

Mark Praigg with HCC MBDA

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Title Sponsors

CDM7

H-E-B

MCA Communications

Presenting Sponsors

Rice and Gardner Consultants Incorporated

University of Houston HUB

Houston Public Works

AUTOARCH Architechs

Permit Us Now

City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

TLC Engineering

Kay Davis Associates LLC

Platinum Sponsors

L WELDING ACAD STRIA EMY NDU

Fort Bend Independent School District “Integrity with Attitude” 713-672-WELD (9353)

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The Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program at the University of Houston (UH) is committed to promoting the inclusion of HUB vendors in university procurements. The HUB Program ensures compliance with state HUB laws, assists UH departments in locating HUB vendors; as well as offering HUBs assistance to facilitate access and contracting opportunities.

For more information about how to do business with the University of Houston, bid opportunities, or to learn about events, workshops and seminars, visit: www.uh.edu/hub

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PERMITS

What Do High Lumber

Prices Have To Do With Pulling Building Permits? long can a permit be held before it expires, as they are considering waiting out the high prices.

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

ime is money, so let me get right to the point on the connection between high lumber prices and building permits. It is no secret that since early 2020, lumber prices have increased to its highest point in history. High lumber prices combined with some jurisdictions taking much longer than usual in completing plan reviews and issuing permits caused many contractors to make tough business decisions. Here are three real situations that the PermitUsNow team has heard over the last 6 months from contractors stressed financially due to higher upfront material costs.

• Some contractors started work without obtaining a building permit and were caught by City Code Enforcement. • Others took their demo permit too far and began actual construction. • Smaller contractors were flabbergasted with the set of cards dealt. • And a couple of developers have asked how

The 2020 pandemic and its lingering bruises placed another straw on the camel’s back that stressed the supply of available lumber across the U.S. and North America. This added weight from increased homeowners’ DIY projects, boom in housing new start construction, workers staying at home, a nd ma ny lumber sawmills in North America being closed or working at a reduced capacity in 2019. Many sawmills were barely eking out operations because lumber futures pricing was too low for them to make a profit and survive. Visit the Nasdaq (www.nasdaq. com) and search “lumber futures.” So, when the demand for lumber drastically increased in 2020, many sawmills in North America were what I call “flatfooted” and not prepared to handle the

production demand with workers out and basically in quasi-shut down mode. Economists who focus on the lumber industry indicate that lumber prices will be volatile for the rest of this year and longer. Even as I write this article, there a re si g n s of lumber yards working regular hours which may indicate another shift. For sure, the industr y is bracing that lumber prices will most likely not return to earlier levels like in 2019 or 2018. With the lumber scenario, I suggest that contractors across all markets be proactive and follow the 7 suggestions below to pull permits in a timely manner. • Start early in gathering all necessary documents for permitting. • QA/QC construction plan sets and prerequisite documents prior to submitting to jurisdiction. • Realize if doing remodels that 1-day per-

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mits are almost a thing of the past. In many jurisdictions, a 1-day permit now takes 3 to 5 days to obtain. • Ask for help. Jurisdiction plan reviewers are available to answer any questions you might have in satisfying the building code. Call and schedule an appointment with a plan reviewer or connect live virtually. • Respond as quickly as possible to any city rejection comments. • Sign up for jurisdiction newsletters and alerts to stay on top of changes in jurisdiction permitting processes, new building codes implemented, operational hours, staffing levels, and other areas. • Avoid the risk of being issued a violation and placing your customer in jeopardy. Put safety first and pull the right building permits before construction. And remember that rural areas follow different guidelines.

Market cycles occur and the lumber prices are reflective of one such cycle that has pressed many contractors against the ropes. Stay current, be proactive in pulling permits as shared in the above 7 tips, and adjust your contracting business in a manner to flourish. #BuildSafe and call 1.844. PERMIT.4 anytime to reach one of our permit experts. And you can visit us online at permitusnow.com.

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SAFETY

US Department of Labor

SAFETY

AGC Victory on New OSHA COVID-19 Safety and Health Standard

Announces Availability of More Than $21M in Grants for Training on Workplace Hazards, Infectious Diseases M By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he U.S. Department of Labor today announced funding opportunities for more than $21 million in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training grants for non-profit organizations. The first availability will provide $10 million under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Workplace Safety and Health Training on Infectious Diseases, including the Coronavirus grants.

To be eligible for these grants, applicants must develop training that focuses on four program emphasis areas: • Identifying and preventing workplace-related infectious diseases, including the coronavirus, in industries with high illness rates, those employing frontline workers or those serving susceptible populations. • OSHA standards that address infectious diseases, including coronavirus. • Workplace hazards identified in OSHA special emphasis programs or other priorities associated with infectious diseases, including the coronavirus. Applications must be submitted at www.grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT on July 26, 2021. Applicants must possess a D-U-N-S number and have an active System of Award Management registration. Obtain a free D-U-N-S number from Dun & Bradstreet. The second funding availability is for the Susan Har-

wood Training Grant Program. Funding of $11,787,000 is available for Targeted Topic Training, Training and Educational Materials Development, and new Capacity Building grants. Applicants can apply for a grant under one of the following funding opportunities: • Targeted Topic Training grants support educational programs that identify and prevent workplace hazards. These grants require applicants to conduct training on OSHA-designated workplace safety and health hazards. • cDevelopment grants support the development of quality classroom-ready training and educational materials that identify and prevent workplace hazards. • Capacity Building grants assist organizations that need time to assess needs and formulate a plan before moving forward with a full-scale safety and health education program, as well as expand their capacity to provide occupational safety and health training, education and related assistance to their constituents. Applicants may apply for and receive both an ARPA “Workplace Safety and Health Training on Infectious Diseases, including the Coronavirus” grants and the standard Susan Harwood Training grants. Applications must be submitted at www.grants.gov no later than 11:59 p.m. EDT on Aug. 23, 2021. Applicants must possess a D-U-N-S number and have an active System of Award Management registration. Obtain a free D-U-N-S number from Dun & Bradstreet. OSHA awards grants to nonprofit organizations, including community and faith-based organizations, employer associations, labor unions, joint labor/management associations, Indian tribes, and local and state-sponsored colleges and universities to provide infectious disease workplace safety and health training. The Harwood Training Grant program supports remote and in-person hands-on training for workers and employers in small businesses; industries with high injury, illness, and fatality rates; and vulnerable workers, who are underserved, have limited English proficiency, or are temporary workers. Learn more about the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program at https://www.osha.gov/harwoodgrants. For more information, please visit osha.gov. Source: OSHA

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ecently, the U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh announced that the long-anticipated federal COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will only apply to healthcare settings. This represents a significant change from early reports that the new standard would apply to a broad range of industries, including construction. The fact that the ETS only applies to healthcare settings is a significant victory for The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the industry. AGC led a broad coalition effort to question the need for the standard, considering the widespread adoption of coronavirus vaccines and the fact the construction industry has been operating, safely, since the start of the pandemic. This announcement comes just a few weeks after AGC successfully convinced OSHA to suspend enforcement of the agency’s recordkeeping regulations related to adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines, whether required or recommended. Source: The Associated General Contractors of America

TRANSPORTATION

METRO Makes Top Grades According to Major Ratings Agency By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ETRO has once again received solid ratings for its creditworthiness from major credit rating agency, Standard & Poor's Global Ratings. S&P Global affirmed its "AAA" rating on the Authority's sales and use tax bonds. This reflects S&P Global's highest ranking. S&P Global stated that despite the onset and continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, METRO sales tax collections are relatively stable and continue to provide extraordinary debt service coverage exceeding five times maximum annual debt service. The Authority was also recognized for its rigorous but achievable standards for operational performance, experienced leadership team, track record of successfully managing its system, and transparent public reporting of financial and operating performance and plans. "This rating reflects the committed effort of our staff who has diligently worked through the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic to ensure at all levels METRO is fiscally sound," said METRO President & CEO Tom Lambert. For more information, please visit ridemetro.org. Source: The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County

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TRANSPORTATION

Crunch Time Heavy Machinery Characterizes Ongoing

TRANSPORTATION

Construction as Terminal Modernization  A New Start Up, Program Advances STOW IT, Is By Subcontractors USA News Provider

f you’ve  departed or  arrived at  George Bush Intercontinental Airport recently, you have likely noticed the  roadway  construction  that  is paving the way for a new  elite and  technologically advanced international terminal,  which is one  of two  main  projects  under the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program, ITRP.   Roadway and utility construction on North Terminal Road at Bush Airport has necessitated the temporary reduction in  the number of lanes leading to Terminals C, D and E. Traffic congestion is likely during peak times for passengers departing from  these terminals.  Passengers are encouraged to  build an extra hour  into their trip time and – very important – follow the signage.  “During this  time of  tremendous  growth and expansion, communication with  passengers, stakeholders and the community is  critical,”  Houston Airports  Director of Communications and Public Relations  Foti Kallergis  said.  “This expansion puts our intentions on full display as we create facilities for which the airport, the city and the country can truly be proud. We want everyone to know that this temporary inconvenience will yield great dividends for our city.”

TERMINAL TERMINAL CONSTRUCTION UPDATE:  CONSTRUCTION UPDATE:  The Terminal D/E Parking Garage is now permanently closed, making way for construction of the incredible new international terminal arrivals and departures hall. The new hall  will  vastly  improve the experience for passengers traveling to and from international destinations and will create jobs for Houstonians. Additional ITRP construction  activities  includes  the ongoing  Radio Intermediate Distribution Frame, RIDF, Relocation Project which will enable and improve the airport’s extensive communications network.      These lane closures and  temporary inconveniences to some passengers are being minimized as much as possible in making way for the  further  modernization of  Bush Airport, the highest-ranked U.S. airport and the second-best airport in North America at the 2020 Skytrax World Airport Awards.  In June, construction included: • installation of a new Centerpoint Energy electrical duct bank to serve the ITRP projects; • foundations started for the temporary sterile cor ridor adjacent to existing Terminal D;

• utility work continues for the new D West Pier and; • new waterline began installation on North Terminal Road for service capacity expansion in the central terminal area.

In July, construction entails: • continuation of roadway improvements on North Terminal Road; • CenterPoint continues with the installation of an electrical duct bank on North Terminal Road; • foundation work begins for the new D West terminal and; • selective demolition begins at night for the existing Terminal D/E Garage. The overall ITRP scope is comprised of two large projects making up the International Terminal Complex and enabling projects.

The International Terminal Complex is comprised of:   • The International Terminal – North Concourse Project.  This is comprised of two parts – the refurbishment and re-life of the existing Terminal D facility;  and the demolition and construction of the New Terminal D West Concourse. • The International Terminal - Central Processor (ICP) and Federal Inspection Services (FIS) Project.  This is comprised of the demolition of the existing Terminal D-E Garage, roadway modifications and construction of the new International Central Processor (ICP) building. In addition, there will be modifications to the existing Federal Inspection Services (FIS) building. The Program’s careful  planning includes safeguarding for  even  further  expansion of  the international terminal  as passenger and airline traffic grows beyond the record levels attained in 2019, pre-pandemic.  For more information, please visit https://www.fly2houston.com/

offering the Best Monthly Parking Rates at Major Houston Airports By Subcontractors USA News Provider

his summer travel is on the rise and a new Colorado based start-up named STOW IT has partnered up with parking facilities at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to help long-term travelers secure a parking space for their vehicle while they are away. STOW IT is offering the cheapest monthly parking programs available for airport parking across the United States and offers the lowest monthly rate at both of Houston's airports. The rates at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) are $140 a month for uncovered parking and $175 for covered parking. As for the William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) STOW IT offers uncovered parking for $140 a month. STOW IT works with many parking facilities nationwide to offer very affordable monthly rates for individuals who travel long-term. Many of STOW IT's customers include business travelers, second homeowners, and individuals who go on long vacations, or anyone else who may need monthly parking at IAH airport or HOU airport. The parking facilities at these two Houston airports provide 24/7 shuttle service to and from the airport and are generally only a 5 to 10-minute drive to the main terminals. These spots also have security cameras and on-site staff to ensure the safety of your vehicle while you are away. There is also automated entry and exit that allows you to come and go with ease. STOW IT has made finding and reserving affordable monthly extremely easy for Texan travelers. You can find a reserve a spot all in one place on their website at https://stowit.com/Houston-Airport-long-term-parking for IAH airport parking and at https://stowit.com/ view-rental/6021c5e2e3d1424ff2d387b9 for HOU airport parking. The process is super simple and allows flexibility with check-in and check out dates and even offers a month-to-month option which works great for individuals who do not have a set return date. For more information, please visit stowit.com

Source: Houston Airports

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Source: STOW IT

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TRANSPORTATION

Texas Central

Signs Contract With Webuild To Serve as Design-Build Lead For Historic Project By Subcontractors USA News Provider

exas Central, developers of the high-speed train between Dallas and Houston, has signed a $16 billion contract with Webuild, operating in the U.S. market with The Lane Construction Corporation, a global leader in engineering and construction to lead the civil construction team that will build the Texas passenger line. Webuild is one of the largest civil engineering contractors in the world. This selection by Texas Central reflects the participation of industry leading organizations that are designing and building the high-speed train. "Our goal is to put together a team of the best players in the world from each industry needed to bring this project to life. The addition of Webuild helps us accomplish that goal," said Carlos Aguilar, CEO of Texas Central. "Webuild has 115 years of experience designing and building some of the worlds' best-known projects and we are proud to have them as a leader on this historic project." Webuild is active in more than 50 countries on five c ont i nent s , with experience building 8,500 miles of ra i lway a nd metro infrastructure around the world – in Australia, Europe, Asia and the Americas. It has built many high-speed train projects in Europe, and some iconic, complex projects in the wider transport sector, including the expansion of the Panama Canal, the Grand Paris Express and the Anacostia River and Northeast Boundary tunnels in Washington, D.C. The company has worked in the U.S. since the 1980s and expanded its presence in 2016, merging with The Lane Construction Corporation, a U.S.-based company with almost 130 years of experience in infrastructure work. "We are truly honored to have been chosen by Texas Central, which relies on our worldwide expertise to bring sustainable mobility to the country with the first true 'end-to-end' high-speed railway," said Pietro Salini, CEO of the Webuild Group. "Being part of such a challenging project as leader of the design and construction of the railway is a unique experience that we are extremely proud of. This is a wonderful opportunity to further focus our presence in the US, our biggest single market, together with Lane, the company building first class

transport infrastructure for the country for the past 130 years." The announcement is the latest milestone for the investor-led project – a 200 mph train connecting the state's largest population and economic regions in 90 minutes, with a midway stop in the Brazos Valley. The project will create a super-economy, connecting people in the 4th and 5th largest U.S. markets looking for safe, reliable, green and productive travel options. According to the contract, Webuild will execute all the heavy construction for the project, designing and building all 236 miles of the alignment, nearly half of it on viaduct. Much of the alignment is elevated to reduce impacts as much as possible on landowners and residents of the counties it will traverse. Webuild will also build all maintenance and industrial buildings, train depots and facilities. The system Texas Central Railroad proposes to build in Texas will replicate the proven Japanese Tokaido Shinkansen high-speed rail system, as operated by the Central Japan Railway Company (JRC). Texas Central chose this system because it is one of the safest and most punctual train systems in the world. In its 55+ year history, it has transported over 10 billion passengers with an impeccable safety record of zero operational passenger fatalities and zero accidents since first deployed. This technology reliably moves more than 400,000 passengers every day. The project will create an estimated 17,000 direct jobs during the six years of construction, over 20,000 supply chain jobs and more than 1,400 direct permanent jobs when the train is fully operational. The Texas Central project will use $7.3 billion of materials from US companies across 37 states. And, over the next 25 years, this project will have a direct cumulative economic impact of $36 billion. Texas Central has a comprehensive Business and Workforce Opportunity Program with a mission to promote the value and development of small, rural, and minority-, woman-, veteran- and disabled individual-owned businesses by offering fair and competitive opportunities to bid and participate in building and operating the Texas high-speed train. Source: Texas Central High Speed Rail

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IAH Terminal

Redevelopment Program Surpasses 2-Million Man Hour Milestone with Outstanding Safety Record By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program, ITRP, reached another significant milestone in April, surpassing more than 2 million manhours without a reportable incident since its inception in 2015. Reportable incidents include inpatient hospitalization, amputations, heart attacks that happen to workers on the job, or work-related fatalities; these are all directly reportable to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, usually within hours. A recent review of ITRP safety statistics with Stephen Buwalda, Manager of Program Controls, noted that the program’s to-date recordable incident rate (RIR) is an outstanding 0.10. “The U.S. Construction industry average is 2.8 (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics),” Buwalda said. “But the standard we aspire to every day is zero. We are extremely pleased to report no significant time lost due to injury in the seven-year period since the program started.”    The incident rate is calculated based on multiplying 100 people working the average work year of 2,000 hours for each individual—200,000 hours. The number of incidents is multiplied by 200,000 and then divided by the number of actual man-hours worked. Buwalda said he recognized a lot of the previous ITRP work has been design, but construction work is now well underway. He pointed to the completed Infrastructure Division Office, the demolition of Terminal Old C North, and demolition of the garage helix and the bridge going across it as substantive construction efforts with no injuries. Success has been possible due to making safety a priority, working together through communication and coordination between owners, contractors, subcontractors and many others associated with the program. “Houston Airports and the program have always emphasized a very strong safety culture,” Steven Andersen, Executive Program Manager of ITRP said. Since the first pre-procurement meetings, Andersen has always identified safety as a top priority, emphasizing the standard and high expectation for safety performance to continue even more so as ITRP moves into the significant construction activities. Safety is integral to the success of Houston Airports’ strategic priorities, which include: • Make our passengers happy • Act responsibly to achieve social, environmental

and economic sustainability • Build the platforms for future success • Invest in our partnerships and our employees Andersen said that a commitment to safety is ingrained in each of those priorities, and as Houston Airports works toward establishing itself as a 5-star gateway, safety will continue to be imperative to achieving those goals. Regular training classes held at the IDO are indicative of that safety culture. The Houston Airports Construction Education Collaborative (HACEC) provides OSHA training, and ultimately construction trades training, to all construction employees engaged in work on major capital projects at IAH. Prior to mobilizing on a project, all construction employees have either already completed requisite OSHA training or are afforded the opportunity to complete the OSHA training on the Bush Airport campus at no cost to the employee. Construction workers are required to attend an OSHA-sanctioned 10-hour construction class that covers such topics as trench safety, ladders, fall protection, electrical safety, pinch points, awareness, and the rights one has within OSHA. At the end of the training, there is an additional two-hour HACEC orientation on the roles regarding security, safety, badging and working at the airport. Andersen said that OSHA regulations are minimum standards that Houston Airports goes far beyond. The ITRP lost-time incident rate is 0.00, the most favorable achievable metric. The lost-time incident rate is an OSHA metric that calculates the number of incidents that result in time away from work. The COVID-19 pandemic set the stage for organizations and individuals to be even more mindful of safety. Houston Airports’ award-winning FlySafe Houston initiative was a major offshoot of the efforts to counter the devastating effects of the pandemic. Wearing masks properly, utilizing signage, installing plexiglass sneeze guards, and enforcing social distancing are still important factors in keeping ourselves and others safe, Andersen said. With ITRP contractors that include two Construction Managers at Risk (Hensel-Phelps and the AustinGilbane Joint Venture), one Design-Build Contractor (Burns and McDonnell), and many other contractors and subcontractors, Buwalda stressed how important coordination is in maintaining an effective safety program on the ITRP. For more information, please visit https://www.fly2houston.com/

Photo Credit: Port Houston

M/V One Modern arriving to Barbours Cut Container Terminal.

Port Houston Records Best May Ever Double-Digit TEU Increases By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ort Houston continues to make waves with another month of double-digit container cargo increases through the Houston Ship Channel and its best May ever for container TEUs. TEUs in May showed a 30% increase, with 288,127 TEUs compared to last year’s 222,250 TEUs for the same month. Year-to-date, Port Houston container terminals have recorded an increase of 8% over last year, with a total of 1,315,166 TEUs so far in 2021. This comes after a record-breaking 2020 for TEUs through Port Houston. In 2020 Port Houston surpassed the 3 million TEU mark for the first time, with a total of 3,001,164 TEUs for the year. General cargo also saw gains this month, contributing to a total tonnage increase of 8% this May over last. Steel imports, auto imports, and bagged goods imports were all up compared to the same month last year. Notably, commodities like lumber, machinery, plywood and bagged foods increased, indicating a comeback of industries hard hit by the pandemic. Continued growth in cargo into Port Houston is expected, particularly containerized cargo. The new EC6 service from THE Alliance & Evergreen made its maiden call this week at Barbours Cut Container Terminal and will connect Taiwan, China, Hong Kong and Korea to Houston. This new service into Port Houston represents increasing demand for Asia imports in Texas. Port Houston continues its focus on the future and its people, building infrastructure, and expanding the Houston Ship Channel. As the advocate and a strategic leader for the Houston Ship Channel, Port Houston is driving growth of the nation’s busiest waterway. The Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11 is underway, breaking ground in May. The work will enhance safety and navigation along the Channel, which supports more than $800 billion in economic value to the nation. Port Houston is the sixth largest container port in the United States and the dominant container port on the U.S. Gulf Coast.

Source: Houston Airports

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For more information, please visit porthouston.com. Source: Port Houston

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