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Architecture | Construction | Education | Energy | Engineering | Legal | Technology | Manufacturing | Oil and Gas | Safety | Transportation

September 2021 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 66th Edition

Subcontractors USA works with city, county, state agencies and corporations to provide resources that bring prime and subcontractors together.

Keith “MR.D-MARS” Davis, Sr. President & CEO Vaskey Media Group, Inc. 16-17

INSIDE

04

PVAMU’s School of Architecture Helps PV Grad Build a Strong Foundation

31

Bexar Co. Business Conference: Commodities, Services & Construction | Registration Open

26

TxDOT Names Brian Barth as Deputy Executive Director for Program Delivery

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

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

HMSDC

Subcontractors USA 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.

Woman-owned businesses (WBEs), minorityowned businesses (MBEs), veteran-owned businesses (VBEs), businesses owned by economically disadvantaged individuals (DBEs), and Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWDBEs) can face challenges connecting to and receiving contracts with primes. Subcontractors USA continues to expand, serving Houston and the surrounding areas and the State of Texas. We pride ourselves on being a resource for these businesses, opening doors to connect them to primes.

The Subcontractors USA journal highlights small businesses and primes, providing credible industry content, but it is also an extension of our company,

Port of Houston

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BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla 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

serving a diverse clientele that includes city and state government agencies, corporations, and universities.

WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs, who are also clients, are able to engage with primes, increasing their opportunity to do business with primes. Through our events, journal, business consulting and development services, and expansion plans, we will continue to close the gap between primes and these businesses.

These efforts in turn, support primes in meeting and exceeding their supplier diversity program goals.

We are a resource bringing primes and small businesses together, and if that results in a business partnership, it makes for a stronger economy.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Subcontractors USA. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work.

Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

“Small businesses are the engines of our economic progress; they’re the glue and the heart and soul of our communities.”

—Joe Biden, President of the United States

City of Houston

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08 CONSTRUCTION 08 July Construction Employment Lags Pre-Pandemic Peak in 36 States as Delta Variant of Coronavirus Threatens To Hold Down Further Gains 10 NAHB Accepting Entries for 2021 Global Innovation Awards Through Oct. 18 12 ENERGY 12 CPS Energy’s Customer Outreach Resource Effort (Core) Receives Top Honors as Proactive Campaign Continues To Help Customers 13 Study Reinforces a Brighter Economic Outlook When America leads World in Energy Production 14 OIL AND GAS 14 Minority Serving Institutions Initiative (MSI) Developing in Oil and Natural Gas Industry 14 New Edition of Global Pipeline Standard Enhances Safety and Strengthens the Environmental Sustainability of Pipelines

18 Commissioner Wayne Christian Pens Letter to the President on OPEC+ Discussions 16-17 COVER STORY 16-17 Subcontractors USA Continues to Expand, Fostering Economic Growth for This Industry 20 PERMITS 20 5 Things To Consider When Permitting a Building With a Change of Use 22 SAFETY 22 Call 811 Before Digging: Free Service Will Help Keep You Safe 22 U.S. Department of Labor Issues Updated Guidance on Protecting Unvaccinated and Other at-Risk Workers From the Coronavirus 22 US Department of Labor, Industry Leaders, Stakeholders Call On Employers, Workers to Combat Surge in Construction Worker Suicides 26 TRANSPORTATION 26 TxDOT Names Brian Barth as Deputy Executive Director for Program Delivery 28 CapMetro Marks Another Milestone in Project Connect, Brings On-Demand Service to South Menchaca 30 Travel Rebound Steadily Growing in Houston

VBE

DBE

OUR SERVICES

CONTENTS 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 PVAMU’s School of Architecture Helps PV Grad Build a Strong Foundation 06 Shining the Spotlight on The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) 06 Builder Confidence at 13-Month Low on Higher Material Costs, Home Prices

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ARCHITECTURE

PVAMU’s School of Architecture Helps PV Grad Build a Strong Foundation

By Andrew Cohen PVAMU School of Architecture Contributor

A

s befits a new Master of Architecture, Yesenia Davila has methodically designed a career during her years at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU). Davila came to PVAMU in 2015 from her hometown of Houston, the first member of her family to attend college.

She graduated in May 2020 with undergraduate degrees in architecture and construction science and began work on her master’s that summer.

Davila still remembers what it’s like to come to college without having had family to help show her the ropes.

“Being a first-generation college student means that you can’t rely on family members to teach you about university life,” she said. “Everything was so new to me. So that meant that I had to step outside my comfort zone and do things without having a clue about what I was doing.”

“Fortunately, PVAMU has served as an extended family of sorts,” Davila said.

“What I love the most about PVAMU is that there is a support system with professors and advisers who are willing to help you every step of the way,” she said. “I have managed to create a family atmosphere that makes all this easier to go through.”

Among the other building blocks of Davila’s budding career were memberships in professional organizations and one key internship. Davila participated in three groups related to her field — the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), Women in Architecture (WiA) and the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) — and for two years held an internship with the School of Architecture’s Fabrication Center. There, she was known as someone “always ready to help in any printing/plotting/laser cutting for the School of Architecture and the university,” according to SOA Dean Ikhlas Sabouni, who specifically recalled her CAD (computer-aided design) and plotter work helping to prepare the letter stencils that were used to paint “Black Lives Matter” on University Drive last summer.

“Working in the Fabrication Center helped me out a lot,” said Davila.

“It helped me improve my communication skills and got me out of my comfort zone, and I was able to expand my skills while working there.”

Davila has been putting those skills to work this summer at Sevan MultiSite Solutions LLC, for which she served as a summer intern and recently accepted a full-time position. She had learned about the opportunity at the firm, which provides design, engineering, program management and construction services, from a former PVAMU colleague.

“I am looking forward to expanding my skills and gaining experience out in the field,” said Davila, who maintains even loftier aspirations as a licensed architect. “I hope to create designs that will be attractive, safe and functional. My dream job has always been to plan out a project and make it happen.”

PVAMU, she said, “always encouraged us to be ‘Productive Panthers,’ and being here has given me the confidence to go out in the real world with that mindset in the knowledge that it cannot be touched in any way.”

Davila hopes that that kind of confidence touches all of her former classmates. “The university offers so many things, but it’s up to you to take advantage of them on your own,” she said. “My advice to current students is to always push through and never give up on your dream. The unexpected things that you know will come your way doesn’t mean you should let go of your goals. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and try everything offered. Most of all, make connections and discover those opportunities.”

Source: PVAMU School of Architecture

Introducing: Opportunity Business Equity at Port Houston Our NEW Business Equity Division provides resources to small, minority- and woman-owned businesses seeking to participate in Port Houston procurements.

Learn more about how we can help support your business at: www.porthouston.com/businessequity

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ARCHITECTURE

ARCHITECTURE

Builder Confidence

at 13-Month Low on Higher Material Costs, Home Prices

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

H

SHINING THE

SPOTLIGHT

on The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)

igher construction costs and supply shortages along with rising home prices pushed builder confidence to its lowest reading since July 2020, according to the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) released recently. Builder sentiment in the market for newly built single-family homes fell five points to 75 in August.

“Buyer traffic has fallen to its lowest reading since July 2020 as some prospective buyers are experiencing sticker shock due to higher construction costs,” said NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke. “Policymakers need to find long-term solutions to supply-chain issues.”

“While the demographics and interest for home buying remain solid, higher costs and material access issues have resulted in lower levels of home building and even put a hold on some new home sales,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz. “While these supply-side limitations are holding back the market, our expectation is that production bottlenecks should ease over the coming months and the market should return to more normal conditions.”

AIAS enriches communities in a spirit of collaboration:

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) is an independent, nonprofit, student-run organization dedicated to providing unmatched progressive programs, information, and resources on issues critical to architecture and the experience of education. The AIAS aims to promote excellence in architectural education, training, and practice; to foster an appreciation of architecture and related disciplines; to enrich communities in a spirit of collaboration; and to organize students and combine their efforts to advance the art and science of architecture.

The AIAS vision and mission: • VISION: Empowering voices, ideas, and actions for the future • MISSION: Advancing leadership, design, and service among architecture students

AIAS promotes excellence in architecture, education and training: Architectural practice is constantly evolving and they understand that a large part of this evolution begins within education. The AIAS strives to be ahead of the curve, providing their members with invaluable experiences that will prepare them for entering the profession and beyond.

AIAS fosters an appreciation of architecture, design, and related disciplines: Their events and programs are geared towards encouraging students to discover and ignite their true passions. Each AIAS opportunity is developed to appeal to students of varying backgrounds, experience levels, and interests.

Through the Freedom by Design™ program and other community outreach, AIAS empowers their members and students as a whole to be good citizens on their campuses and in their communities.

AIAS organizes students and combines their efforts to advance the art and policy of architecture: AIAS are the sole student voice in the collateral discussion and decision-making process that include The American Institute of Architects (AIA), The Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), and The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

These value statements reflect their programs, events, initiatives, and culture that can help tell the story of an AIAS member.

AIAS value statement: • IMPACT: AIAS advocates for and enacts positive change.

• COMMUNITY: AIAS fosters an inclusive network of peers that learn from, support, and drive one another.

• GROWTH: AIAS inspires students to reach their greatest potential through meaningful learning opportunities.

• PASSION: AIAS pursues large goals and aspirations through each member’s enthusiasm.

• PERSPECTIVE: AIAS links the profession’s opportunities to architectural education.

• BALANCE: AIAS promotes respectful relationships, an environment of diversity, and a thriving studio culture.

Derived from a monthly survey that NAHB has been conducting for 35 years, the NAHB/Wells Fargo HMI gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sales expectations for the next six months as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as “high to very high,” “average” or “low to very low.” Scores for each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates that more builders view conditions as good than poor.

The HMI index gauging current sales conditions fell five points to 81 and the component measuring traffic of prospective buyers also posted a five-point decline to 60. The gauge charting sales expectations in the next six months held steady at 81.

Looking at the three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, the Northeast fell one point to 74, the Midwest dropped two points to 68, the South posted a three-point decline to 82 and the West registered a two-point drop to 85.

HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics is also available at Housing Economics PLUS (formerly housingeconomics.com).

For more information, please visit nahb.org.

For more information, please visit www.aias.org.

Source: The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)

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Source: The National Association of Home Builders

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CONSTRUCTION

July Construction Employment Lags Pre-Pandemic Peak in 36 States as Delta Variant of Coronavirus Threatens To Hold Down Further Gains

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

C

onstruction employment in July remained below the levels reached before the pre-pandemic peak in February 2020 in 36 states, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government employment data released today. Association officials said construction employment would benefit from new federal infrastructure investments and urged the House to quickly pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill.

“This data shows that full recovery remains elusive for construction in most states,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “In fact, the fastspreading COVID-19 delta variant may make it harder to find employees eligible to work on restricted sites and may also depress demand if some owners defer projects.”

From February 2020—the month before the pandemic caused project shutdowns and cancellations—to last month, construction employment increased in only 14 states and was flat in the District of Columbia. Texas shed the most construction jobs over the period (-56,200 jobs or -7.2 percent), followed

by New York (-52,600 jobs, -12.9 percent) and California (-35,100 jobs, -3.8%). Louisiana recorded the largest percentage loss (-15.3 percent, -21,000 jobs), followed by Wyoming (-13.5 percent, -3,100 jobs) and New York.

Of the states that added construction 2020, Utah added the jobs since February most (7,900 jobs, 6.9 percent), followed by North Carolina (5,700, 2.4 percent) and Idaho (4,400 jobs, 8.2 percent). The largest percentage gain was in Idaho, followed by South Dakota (7.5 percent, 1,800 jobs) and Utah.

From June to July construction employment decreased in 18 states, increased in 30, and was unchanged in Kansas, Tennessee, and D.C. The largest decline over the month occurred in Colorado, which lost 1,600 construction jobs or 0.9 percent, followed by a loss of 1,500 jobs each in Oklahoma (-1.9 percent), Texas (-0.2 percent), and Pennsylvania (0.6 percent). The steepest percentage declines since June occurred in New Hampshire (-2.2 percent, -600 jobs), followed by 1.9 percent losses in Oklahoma and Arkansas (-1,000 jobs).

North Carolina added the most construction jobs between June and July (4,300 jobs, 1.8 percent), followed by New Jersey (4,000 jobs, 2.7 percent) and Illinois (3,700 jobs, 1.7 percent). The largest percentage gains were in New Jersey and Connecticut (2.7 percent, 1,500 jobs), followed by South Carolina (2.4 percent, 2,600 jobs).

Association officials warned that construction employment was being impacted in many parts of the country because of supply chain challenges and growing market uncertainty caused by the resurgent Delta variant. They said new federal infrastructure investments would provide a needed boost in demand and help put more people to work in construction careers.

“New federal infrastructure investments will help put more people to work in high-paying construction careers,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “The House can help put Americans back to work by immediately approving the infrastructure measure that passed the Senate with broad, bipartisan support.”

For more information, please visit www.agc.org.

Source: The Associated General Contractors of America

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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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CONSTRUCTION

NAHB Accepting Entries

for 2021 Global Innovation Awards Through Oct. 18

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is now accepting entries for its 2021 Global Innovation Awards (GIA) through Oct. 18, 2021. The NAHB GIA program annually recognizes the most cutting-edge products, homes and communities, and individuals who champion home building from around the world.

Applicants are invited to submit in the following five categories: • NAHB Global Innovation Home of the Year • NAHB Global Innovation Building Materials and Construction Components • NAHB Global Innovation Research and Exchange • NAHB Global Innovation Special Purpose Project • NAHB Global Land Planning

“The theme this year, Rise Up – Be Recognized – and Shine On 2021, was chosen to recognize individuals and entities that have exceeded expectations by reaching beyond themselves to connect with and improve the world,” said Jillian Pritchard Cooke, founder of Wellness Within Your Walls and co-chair of the 2021 NAHB Global Innovation Awards.

“The GIA program recognizes innovators who know we have a responsibility to one another and are acting upon that knowledge to advance the global community,” said Lita Dirks, CEO and principal of Lita Dirks & Co Interior Design and co-chair of the 2021 NAHB Global Innovation Awards.

Previous NAHB GIA winners and finalists have recognized the many benefits of participating in the awards competition: “Being recognized for our Energy Center has helped to bring Schneider Electric’s global energy initiatives into the homes and hands of the North American residential market,” said Ansul Rajgharia, director of Connected Products and Surge, Home & Distribution Division at Schneider Electric.

Schneider Electric’s Square D Energy Center was named the 2020 NAHB GIA recipient for Best Exterior/Interior Product of the Year.

Award winners will be recognized at The Nationals awards ceremony during the 2022 NAHB International Builders’ Show® in Orlando, FL. The entry deadline is Oct. 18, 2021. For more information about award entries and sponsorships, please visit www.nahb.org/GIA, or contact Giuliana Nava-Cord via email at gnava@nahb.org or at (202) 266-8182.

For more information, please visit nahb.org.

Source: The National Association of Home Builders

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ENERGY

CPS Energy’s Customer Outreach Resource Effort (Core) Receives Top Honors as Proactive Campaign Continues To Help Customers makes this happen. These dedicated team members have a near 90 percent success rate in getting results for our customers.”

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

C

PS Energy’s Customer Outreach Resource Effort (CORE) received top honors from two leading industry organizations, CS Week and Chartwell. Through CORE, CPS Energy proactively contacted thousands of residential and commercial customers starting in June 2020 to check in on their wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. CORE connected customers with bill assistance resources offered by the utility, as well as other resources available through local governments and community agencies.

This empathetic and personable outreach, in tandem with the utility’s suspension of service disconnections, provided timely and meaningful assistance to customers in need.

“This initiative was developed to ensure our customers knew we were here to help them and to provide information on assistance programs and other resources, but it became so much more than that. It allowed our team to connect with customers on a deeper level and make a lasting impact on their lives,” said Rudy Garza, Chief Customer & Stakeholder Engagement Officer for CPS Energy. “It is a program like no other in our industry and we are extremely proud of the team that

Since June 2020, CPS Energy representatives on the CORE team have: • Spoken to 58,766 customers • Provided agency referrals or payment arrangements to 51,719 customers • Worked with community partners to connect customers with $31.7 million in bill assistance

Some of the many community partners CPS Energy has worked with include: • The City of San Antonio: • Department of Human Services • Neighborhood & Housing Services Department • Bexar County Economic & Community Development • Alamo Area Council of Governments Bexar Area Agency on Aging • SAMMinistries • Daughters of Charity Services of San Antonio • Catholic Charities • Bexar Military & Veterans Services • St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. John Neumann • St. Anthony Clarets Pantry • Community Council of South Central Texas, Inc.

Overall, the utility works with over 100 different organizations – a number of which are United Way agencies– to help customers with bill assistance, rental assistance and other resources. The award-winning CORE initiative is an extension of those efforts.

CS Week’s Expanding Excellence Awards program recognizes outstanding contributions, innovations, and excellence in utility customer service. CS Week recognized CPS Energy’s CORE Campaign as a 2021 Expanding Excellence Awards Winner. CORE was recognized in the Innovation in People & Process category. This award recognizes projects that emphasize soft skills, low-tech solutions, and non-automated approaches to engage customers and improve services in the meter-to-cash customer experience lifecycle.

“Company-wide Expanding Excellence Awards represent the best in utility customer service. They stand for dedication, achievement, attention to detail, and resourcefulness. They serve as role models, trailblazers, inspiration, and sometimes even a kick in the pants for other utilities. Despite the physical challenges presented this year by a remote workplace due to the pandemic, these utilities accomplished great projects, launched bold initiatives, and implemented major technological systems, many while working from home,” noted Rod Litke, CS Week CEO. Chartwell also recognized CORE in the 2021 Best Practices Awards. The awards recognize excellence among electric and gas utilities with respect to projects, programs, and service initiatives. The categories include Billing and Payment Programs, Communications, Customer Service, Digital Experience, and Program Marketing.

CPS Energy’s overarching goal is always to help its customers. Accordingly, the CORE initiative will continue as CPS Energy prepares to resume normal operations starting in September 2021, after what will be a year and a half of suspending disconnects.

Customers are encouraged to answer outreach calls from CPS Energy to get bill assistance or be placed on a payment plan, or call the utility directly at (210) 353-2222. Either approach will lead to a conversation with one of the company’s talented and well-trained Energy Advisors.

Customers also should watch out for scammers. CPS Energy does not call its customers to demand payment or threaten disconnection. Customers who question whether they are receiving a real or fake call are encouraged to hang up and call CPS Energy directly.

For more information, please visit cpsenergy.com.

Source: CPS Energy

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ENERGY

Study Reinforces a Brighter Economic Outlook When America leads World in Energy Production

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

ccording to a new study, America’s natural gas and oil industry will need to serve as a vital driver of the nation’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

The industry counts as critical to every sector of the U.S. economy and supports millions of jobs across all 50 states, according to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers that compiles the latest available government data.

The 134-page study, which explores the economic impact of the oil and natural gas industry, revealed that the business supported 11.3 million jobs and contributed nearly $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2019.

The study authors reported that the impacts are the result of three channels: • Direct impacts from the employment and production within the oil and natural gas industry.

• Indirect impacts through the industry’s purchases of intermediate and capital goods from a variety of other U.S. industries.

• Induced impacts from the personal

purchases of employees and business owners both within the oil and natural gas industry and its supply chain, as well as from the personal spending by shareholders out of the dividends received from oil and natural gas companies.

In addition to supporting well-paying jobs, the natural gas and oil industry, directly and indirectly, contributed an estimated $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2019, representing 7.9 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product.

Researchers found through wages, taxes, capital investments, and support to other industries, the economic impact extends beyond traditional natural gas and oilproducing states.

“Every state in the nation has a stake in continued access to U.S. natural gas and oil reserves, which are critical for the nation’s economic recovery,” the study authors wrote.

In short, as the nation continues to recover from the pandemic and the economic downturn that resulted, the natural gas and oil industry will serve as an engine for long-term growth.

“The industry continues to create goodpaying jobs and deliver reliable American energy to enterprises, including healthcare, retail, manufacturing, education,

and more, in communities across the nation,” researchers concluded.

According to the findings, in 2019, the natural gas and oil sector directly and indirectly: • Supported more than 11.3 million total jobs or 5.6 percent of total U.S. employment.

• Generated an additional 3.5 jobs elsewhere in the U.S. economy for each direct job in the U.S. natural gas and oil industry.

• Produced $892.7 billion in labor income, or 6.8 percent of the U.S. national labor income.

• Supported nearly $1.7 trillion to U.S. gross domestic product, accounting for 7.9 percent of the national total.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration noted that global oil and liquid fuels consumption is expected to surpass 2019 levels in 2022, as economic activity and travel patterns normalize.

“This represents an opportunity for the U.S. to meet the world’s rising demand for affordable, reliable fuels with homegrown natural gas and oil,” American Petroleum Institute President and CEO Mike Sommers wrote in an email.

“That said, America’s economic outlook

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depends on federal and state policy proposals that incentivize resource development, modernize energy infrastructure and streamline burdensome regulations,” Sommers maintained.

“The nation’s hard-fought energy security and GDP growth are at stake, even as the natural gas and oil industry continues to drive the nation’s post-pandemic recovery.”

Sommers continued: “As America’s economy comes back, the natural gas and oil industry will serve as the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity.

“Every state across the country – both blue states and red states – rely on American energy to fuel each sector of the economy and support millions of U.S. jobs.

“This study reinforces that America’s economic outlook is brighter when we are leading the world in energy production, and it serves as a reminder of what’s at stake if policymakers restrict access to affordable, reliable energy and make us more dependent on foreign sources.”

Visit api.org for the full report.

Source: NNPA

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OIL AND GAS

Minority Serving Institutions Initiative (MSI) Developing in Oil and Natural Gas Industry

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

W

ith individuals of color expected to fill about 54 percent of the projected 1.9 million job opportunities in the natural gas, oil, and petrochemical industry over the next two decades, the American Petroleum Institute (API) has added more historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) along with Minority Serving Institutions to its Minority Serving Institutions Initiative (MSI).

API is providing Grambling, Southern, Prairie View A&M, Fort Valley State, and New Mexico State University, among the universities, free access to a library of world-class standards for oil and gas equipment, processes, and systems.

This access will allow the schools to introduce their students to practical knowledge and industry standards, and the tools will apply to their future careers.

“API is proud to make our standards catalog available to educate and prepare our nation’s future energy workforce,” said Debra Phillips, senior

vice president of API’s Global Industry Services.

“A diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce is an essential part of our industry’s future success and API is honored to play a small part in supporting progress toward these students’ bright futures.”

Reportedly, the mission of the MSI Initiative is to develop and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the natural gas and oil industry by providing API’s 700+ standards catalog to students at HBCUs and other Minority Serving Institutions.

API standards are widely used by the natural gas and oil industry globally to ensure health, safety, and environmental protection and advance sustainability.

Therefore, students will benefit significantly by increasing their familiarity and understanding of the standards themselves and the development process.

The MSI Initiative reflects the commitment by API and the industry to help people of color thrive in professional careers, officials noted.

Officials stated that partnering with these highly regarded institutions fosters the oil and natural gas industry’s drive toward a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce.

API is continuing to partner with additional HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, and other minority-serving institutions as they grow the MSI Initiative.

Access to these standards will enhance the students’ overall educational experience, making them more knowledgeable and competitive in the job market.

In addition to standard catalog access, API’s Global Industry Services division is offering internships to students at participating schools. Applications are currently being accepted for the internships.

API has operated as the global leader in establishing and maintaining standards for the natural gas and oil industry since 1924.

API standards help enhance operational safety, environmental protection, and sustainability while ensuring that industry knowledge is accurately transferred amongst engineers and across organizations.

These standards and recommended practices are also relied upon by regulators worldwide, with more than 600 references in U.S. federal regulations, 3,800 citations in U.S. state regulations, and over 789 references by international regulators.

If you would like to learn more about the initiative or have a connection with a qualified institution, contact API’s Scott Garten at gartens@api.org or go to https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards/ msi-initiative.

OIL AND GAS

New Edition of Global Pipeline Standard Enhances Safety and Strengthens the Environmental Sustainability of Pipelines

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

T

he American Petroleum Institute (API) today published Standard (Std) 1104, 22nd Edition, Welding of Pipelines and Related Facilities, updating an important global standard that supports industry-wide actions to strengthen environmental sustainability efforts while meeting growing energy demand.

“Standard 1104 is API's most widely utilized global standard, used in nearly 100 countries, and its update applies new technology advancements and improvements based on pipeline operating experience to increase safety and enhance environmental protection,” API Global Industry Services (GIS) Senior Vice President Debra Phillips said. “Federal regulations already incorporate previous editions of API 1104, and the updated

document strengthens the safe and environmentally sustainable transmission of crude oil, carbon dioxide and a variety of petroleum-based products by pipeline.”

The new edition of API Std 1104, provides requirements for gas and arc welding used in the construction and in-service repair of pipes and components for the compression, pumping and pipeline transmission of crude oil, petroleum products, fuel gases, carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

These requirements improve pipeline safety, structural integrity and efficiency by providing detailed welding procedures for qualified professional welders, inspectors and engineers.

The foundational document and the updates included in the new edition enhance practices during the operation, regular maintenance and repair of pipeline, reducing the possibility of structural breakdowns and releases.

Changes Changes in in the the 22nd 22nd edition edition of of Std 1104 include: Std 1104 include: • Modified qualifications for what constitutes repair welding, mechanized welding and in-service welding to add more specificity to the criteria under the standard.

• Clarifications and updates for welder requirements, such as testing parameters for welding and requalification requirements, to reduce ambiguity surrounding welder qualifications.

• Updates to requirements for the use of ultrasonic and radiographic

inspection for girth welds, which are vitally important in maintaining a pipeline’s physical integrity, to help welders account for the latest highstrength materials, welding practices, equipment and inspection methods.

Portions of Std 1104 have been incorporated in regulations, mandating the use of the API requirements and recommendations for the majority of transmission pipelines in the United States. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) incorporated the 20th edition of Std 1104 into its safety regulations for pipelines, and a notice of proposed rulemaking was published on January 14, 2021 to incorporate the 21st edition of Std 1104 into regulation. These important updates support the industry’s commitment to continuously improve operational safety and sustainability, while enhancing performance and efficiency.

Please visit the API website for more information at www.api.org.

Source: The American Petroleum Institute

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Source: NNPA

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SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Proudly Serving th

“We are here to close the gap between primes and WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs. We happily work with the city, county, state agencies, and corporations to help provide resources bringing primes and small businesses together, and if that results in a business partnership, it makes for a stronger economy.

We will continue to proudly serve the State of Texas.”

—President and CEO of Subcontractors USA, Keith J. Davis Sr. aka “MR. D-MARS”

PRIMES AN

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

ccording to recent statistics via Zippia, the most common ethnicity among general contractors is White, which makes up 77.5% of all general contractors. Comparatively, there are 13.8% of the Hispanic or Latino ethnicity and 3.8% of the Black or African American ethnicity. When it comes to gender among general contractors, 9.9% of them are women compared to 86.2% which are men. And The U.S. Census Bureau recently released estimates, highlighting veteran-owned businesses making up about 5.9% of all businesses. Woman-owned businesses (WBEs), minority-owned businesses (MBEs), veteran-owned businesses (VBEs), businesses owned by economically disadvantaged individuals (DBEs), and Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWDBEs) can face challenges connecting to and receiving contracts with primes.

Subcontractors USA continues to expand, serving Houston and the surrounding areas and the State of Texas. We pride ourselves on being a resource for these businesses, opening doors to connect them to primes.

The Subcontractors USA journal highlights subcontractors and primes, providing credible industry content, but it is also an extension of our company, serving a diverse clientele that includes city and state government agencies, c or p or a t ion s , and universities.

WBEs, MBEs, V BEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs, who are also clients, are able to engage with primes, increasing their opportunity to do business with primes. Through our events, journal, business consulting and development services, and expansion plans, we will continue to close the gap between primes and these businesses. These efforts in turn, support primes in meeting and exceeding their supplier diversity program goals.

President and CEO Keith J. Davis Sr. aka “MR. D-MARS” leads Subcontractors USA, with over 20 years of experience in business and publishing. “Many of our clients that include state and government agencies, corporations, and universities are prime contractors, who have supplier diversity programs and are looking to reach WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs and provide them with relevant information on how to do business with them. We are honored to be regarded all over Texas as a vital element in helping to reduce the gap between primes and and these businesses. It is a phenomenal thing to see how we are opening doors for these subcontractors to be invited to a seat at the table and connect with primes, something they wouldn’t otherwise have had the opportunity to do,” said MR. D-MARS. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) highlights small businesses making up 99.9% of U.S. businesses and employing 47.1% of U.S. employees. And while statistics continue to come together in regards to the impact COVID-19 had on the small business economy, some indicators reveal that 38% of essential Small And Midsize Busi-

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he State of Texas as a Bridge Between

ND SUBCONTRACTORS supplier diversity program objectives.

“The pandemic was something that none of us were prepared for, but what I have found is that WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs are resilient and persistent in their pursuit of seeking opportunities with primes for growth.

Subcontractors USA has not been immune to the difficulties brought about by COVID-19, but like our prime and small business clients, we have learned to adapt. Adaptability and expansion is what we have done and will continue to do, serving with excellence for successful results,” MR. D-MARS said.

Our company’s array of services include: • Business Consulting • Business Development • Marketing & Advertising • Social Media Consulting • Print & Design • Email & Social Media Marketing • Content Writing • Web Design • Photography • Public Relations • Signature Award & Networking Events

nesses (SMBs) stayed open in 2020 and 59% of entrepreneurs expect the COVID-19 impact to affect their bottom line for two years or less.

Every year, countless new business enterprises open, and many are currently struggling to stay afloat, having to adapt to the unforeseen challenges brought on by COVID-19. MR. DMARS and the team understand this, making it a great priority for the company to expand at this time, meeting and surpassing expectations of WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs, also being an asset to primes and their

“We work diligently with city and state government agencies, universities, and corporations, being beneficial to them in meeting supplier diversity program goals, as well as WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs. Our journal, services, and expansion efforts will further aid primes and small businesses,” expressed MR. D-MARS. With Subcontractors USA’s expansion, expect additional social media strategies and engagement, networking events, and other initiatives relevant for primes and WBEs, MBEs, VBEs, DBEs, and MWDBEs to excel. To join our mailing list and for more information about the company, upcoming events, the latest articles, and services, please visit www.subcusa.com. And feel free to contact us at (713) 373-5577 or contact@subcusa.com.

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OIL AND GAS

Commissioner Wayne Christian Pens Letter to the President on OPEC+ Discussions Recently, Commissioner Wayne Christian wrote a letter to President Joe Biden encouraging him to reconsider discussions with OPEC+ and instead unleash the private sector to produce oil domestically in America. The formatted letter is below: Dear Mr. President, I write to you concerning the Biden Administration’s recent discussions with OPEC+ to increase the supply of oil by expanding production of foreign oil to lower gasoline prices in America.

These discussions tacitly acknowledge the important role of fossil fuels for American families to have access to cheap, plentiful, and reliable energy. While I appreciate your support for increasing the production of oil, quite frankly, we do not need to rely on other countries for natural resources we can produce right here at home.

In recent years, the United States surpassed Saudi Arabia and Russia to become the top producer of oil and natural gas in the world — producing a record 12.4 million barrels of oil in August 2019. Unfortunately, over the last two years, COVID-19, ESG investing, and regulatory uncertainty from the federal government have stripped us of our hard-fought energy independence.

By frequently attempting to weaken the American oil and gas industry you are not reducing emissions, you are merely shipping them overseas while killing American jobs, increasing costs to American consumers, and harming our country’s national security. Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy summed it up well when he recently stated that “cutting production in the U.S. only to see that demand met by dirtier producers elsewhere in the world results in more pollution and more environmental damage.

Instead, we should be promoting cleaner production here at home.” It is confusing to me why an American president would be so hostile to American industry, jobs, consumers and national security.

Here’s the truth. The environment in the United States is getting cleaner, not dirtier. Over the last fifty years, the six major pollutants regulated by the EPA have fallen by 77 percent while the U.S. economy grew 285 percent and its population by 60 percent1. While natural gas production increased more than 50 percent between 1990 and 2017, methane emissions from natural gas decreased by more than 14 percent2. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, between 2005 and 2019, total U.S. electricity generation increased by almost 2 percent while related CO2 emissions fell by 33 percent3.

Meanwhile, China — already the largest carbon emitter on Earth4 — commissioned more coal-fired electric generation capacity last year than the rest of the world retired5. More than 50 percent of the raw materials required to make solar panels and wind turbines are now mined in China by power generated from fossil fuels6. This means wind and solar generated electricity in the United States isn’t reducing global carbon emissions, it is just outsourcing them to China.

Mr. President, I implore you to reverse course on your policy decisions and rhetoric regarding American oil and natural gas.

“Freezing” new oil and gas exploration on federal lands and revoking the permit for the Keystone XL Pipeline provide negligible environmental benefits compared to its cost. Climate change is not the same thing as a climate crisis, and these public policy decisions are harming real Americans living paycheck to paycheck.

America has proven we do not need to rely on OPEC+ or any other nation for our energy needs. We can produce the natural resources we need right here at home. History has shown us time and time again that oil and natural gas production and a clean environment are not mutually exclusive. America has proven that through technological innovation we can maintain a clean environment AND achieve energy independence.

Thank you, Wayne Christian Railroad Commissioner State of Texas Citations: 1. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2020-05/2019_baby_graphic_1970.png 2. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2019-02/documents/us-ghg-inventory-2019-chapter-3-energy.pdf 3. https://www.eia.gov/environment/emissions/carbon/pdf/2019_co2analysis.pdf 4. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/chinas-greenhouse-gas-emissions-exceed-those-of-all-other-developed-countries-combined/ 5. https://globalenergymonitor.org/press-release/new-report-record-coal-plant-retirements-in-u-s-and-eu-offset-by-china-coal-plant-boom-in-2020/ 6. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/Energy-security-fears-rise-anew-in-shift-to-clean-16039857.php

Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

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SMALL BUSINESS ON THE MOVE Take your company to new heights!

ARCHITECTURE/ ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

GENERAL SERVICES

SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT

METRO’s OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS OFFERS: • Outreach • Certification • Compliance

• Virtual one-on-one • Small Business University (SBU) • Business Development

For more information, contact METRO’s Office of Small Business at smallbusiness@RideMETRO.org or call 713.739.4844.

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PERMITS

5 Things To Consider When Permitting a Building With a Change of Use

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

T

here are too many times to count where our PermitUsNow team members have answered the company’s 1.844.PERMIT.4 line, and the voice on the other side says, “I am having problems getting a permit.” We ask the caller basic questions like the scope of work, location, type of use, and their city permitting project number. The caller rattles off the scope, physical address, and then indicates the use of the building. We then ask the caller, “What was this prior use of property?” They respond, “It was a furniture store; and before, it was a residence.” The conversation concludes with the caller advising they are building out a medical spa.

This can be the cause of permitting woes as jurisdictions often require a full set of plans when a change of use is involved. And while project owners are focused on location, doing so without understanding the impact of obtaining a site with a change of use can be and often is costly.

So, what does change of use mean? Basically, a change of use means when a building undergoes major remodel for another use or may incur no physical changes but has a change in type of business use. For example, if the building was a residential property and is being converted for retail or if the building was a grocery store and is being converted into a school. Both illustrate a

different type of way the building will be used and as a result, must comply with the appropriate building codes and obtain a change of use permit.

What is a change of use permit? A change of use permit validates that the jurisdiction has reviewed and approved plans for the proposed use. Approval signifies that the plans comply with applicable building codes.

Once approved, a change of use permit is issued, and construction work can start.

If you’re a general contractor who has a building project involving a change of use, below are 5 things to consider with permitting.

• What is the current use of space versus the proposed use?

Answering this question will dictate how stringent the departmental reviews will be after submitting to the jurisdiction for a change of use permit. Suggest meeting with a city plan reviewer early.

• Conduct a site visit with a contractor, key consultants, and if possible, with the project owner to assess the work to be done and what type of changes will be needed to meet code. We have found that these changes are beyond what the project owner has thought about and a site visit helps minimize any surprises down-the-road.

• Do you have existing building plans?

Jurisdictions usually require a full set of plans when a change of use is involved. If the project owner does

not have plans, check with the landlord or property management. If these options do not yield any drawings, then contact the jurisdiction to see if plans are in the archives.

• Taking buildings as-is? If so, then another route to consider is going straight to occupancy to ask for an inspection. After paying the inspection fee, city occupancy will schedule a site visit. During this visit, inspectors will indicate what is needed to meet code and provide you with a written report. You can then take this report (most of the time) and use it as a punch list to address all items that require fixing.

Once fixed, call for occupancy inspection again, and if approved, you are on your way to obtaining your certificate of occupancy and then are ready to open.

• Need help in obtaining change of use permitting? Consider contacting a building permit expert who has experience in permitting projects that involve a different use. Doing so can save time and money, plus alleviate frustrations with permitting.

Change of use permits can be a pain and present challenges in obtaining approval. The 5 things to consider are designed to get you to think and in doing so, develop an approach to minimize delays in permitting and starting construction. I love helping businesses to open and the 1.844.PERMIT.4 line is open now to take your request on permitting your next project. Visit permitusnow. com for all of our services.

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#BuildSafe

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SAFETY

SAFETY

U.S. Department Call 811 Before Digging: Free of Labor Issues Service Will Help Keep You Safe Updated Guidance

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he RRC’s mission to protect neighborhoods around Texas extends to helping residents and excavators identify the vast network of underground utilities they need to pay attention to.

Pipelines and other important underground utilities can easily be severed when unsuspecting individuals dig haphazardly, potentially risking harm. The RRC works with Texas 811 to highlight the critical importance of calling 811 before digging.

Calling 811 is required by law. By doing so, utility locators will come to your property free of charge and mark areas that should not be dug into. Today, Aug. 11, is the National 811 Day, a reminder of the value of the service.

Since the Railroad Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention program started on Sept. 1, 2007, the state has made significant progress in reducing incidents resulting in pipeline damage. Pipeline damage is not

as common as it used to be because people are calling before digging. In 2008, there were 6.44 pipeline damage incidents per 1,000 requests to locate underground utilities. In 2020, the number has dropped to 2.5 incidents per 1,000 requests to locate.

Throughout the year, RRC staff attends outreach to ensure the public understands the law and avoids tragic encounters with pipelines. Staff has attended 51 such events, virtually or in-person, so far this fiscal year.

“While pipelines are the safest means to transport hydrocarbons, they must remain intact to efficiently carry out their intended purpose,” said Ryan Hejl, the Railroad Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention Manager. “It’s not just pipelines that could be under the ground at people’s homes. There could also be water and sewer lines, electric cables, and other utilities. It’s better to call 811 before moving a bunch of dirt and potentially hurting yourself.”

Texas homeowners, excavators, and contractors are required to call 811 at least two days before digging.

The caller tells the location of the dig, and affected pipeline and utility companies in the area will send locators to the dig site to mark the approximate location of buried lines with flags or paint.

A request to locate can also be made via the Texas811 website at www.texas811.org.

Source: Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

SAFETY

US Department of Labor, Industry Leaders, Stakeholders Call On Employers, Workers to Combat Surge in Construction Worker Suicides

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

W

hile the hazards most often associated with workplace deaths in the U.S. construction industry – falling, being struck-by or crushed by equipment or other objects, or suffering electrocution are well-known – a recent study finds that another potential killer is taking lives at an alarming rate.

In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that men working in construction have one of the highest suicide rates compared to other industries.

Their rate of suicide is about four times higher than the general population.

While the CDC continues its research to understand the disparity, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has formed a task force of industry partners, unions and educators to raise awareness of the types of stress that can push construction workers into depression and toward suicide. In addition to alerting stakeholders, the task force encourages industry employers to share and discuss available resources with their workers. The task force is calling on industry to take part in a weeklong Suicide Prevention Safety Stand-Down, Sept. 6-10, to raise awareness about the unique challenges construction workers face. The stand-down will coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month in September.

“Work-related stress can have severe impacts on mental health and without proper support may lead to substance abuse and even suicide,” stated Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Jim Frederick. “Workers in construction

face many work-related stressors that may increase their risk factors for suicide, such as the uncertainty of seasonal work, demanding schedules and workplace injuries that are sometimes treated with opioids.”

The Suicide Prevention Safety Stand-Down started as a regional initiative in OSHA's Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri, offices with these task force members: Builders Association, Associated General Contractors of Missouri, University of Kansas, University of Iowa, Washington University, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, local unions and several employers. More than 5,000 people participated in the 2020 Suicide Prevention Safety Stand-Down, and OSHA encourages others to join the effort in 2021.

“Like many workplace fatalities, suicides can be prevented,” said OSHA Acting Regional Administrator Billie Kizer in Kansas City, Missouri. “We encourage employers to use all available resources, familiarize themselves with the problem and learn to recognize the warning signs of depression. We also urge workers to seek help if they feel overwhelmed or overcome by a loss of hope.”

For more information, please visit www.osha.gov.

on Protecting

Unvaccinated and Other at-Risk Workers From the Coronavirus

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently issued updated guidance to help employers protect workers from the coronavirus. The updated guidance reflects developments in science and data, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's updated COVID-19 guidance issued July 27.

The updated guidance expands information on appropriate measures for protecting workers in higher-risk workplaces with mixed- vaccination status workers, particularly for industries such as manufacturing; meat, seafood and poultry processing; high volume retail and grocery; and agricultural processing, where there is often prolonged close contact with other workers and/ or non-workers.

OSHA's latest guidance: OSHA's latest guidance: • Recommends that fully vaccinated workers in areas of substantial or high community transmission wear masks in order to protect unvaccinated workers; • Recommends that fully vaccinated workers who have close contacts with people with coronavirus wear masks for up to 14 days unless they have a negative coronavirus test at least 3-5 days after such contact; • Clarifies recommendations to protect unvaccinated workers and other at-risk workers in manufacturing, meat and poultry processing, seafood processing and agricultural processing; and • Links to the latest guidance on K-12 schools and CDC statements on public transit.

OSHA continues to emphasize that vaccination is the optimal step to protect workers and encourages employers to engage with workers and their representatives to implement multi-layered approaches to protect unvaccinated or otherwise at-risk workers from the coronavirus.

As part of the agency's ongoing commitment to review the COVID-19 Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard every 30-days, OSHA also said that the safeguards set forth by the standard remain more important than ever. After reviewing the latest guidance, science and data, and consulting with the CDC and partners, OSHA has determined the requirements of the healthcare ETS remain necessary to address the grave danger of the coronavirus in healthcare. OSHA will continue to monitor and assess the need for changes in the healthcare ETS each month.

OSHA’s priority is the safety and health of workers, and they will continue to enforce the law to ensure workers are protected from the virus while they are on the job, including through OSHA's National Emphasis Program on COVID. For more information, please visit www.osha.gov.

Source: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Source: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

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TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION

TxDOT

Names Brian Barth as Deputy Executive Director for Program Delivery

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he Texas Department of Transportation recently announced the selection of Brian Barth as the department’s second Deputy Executive Director. Barth assumed his new role on August 1 and will serve alongside Deputy Executive Director Brandye Hendrickson, who joined TxDOT on July 19. Both positions report to Executive Director Marc Williams with Barth responsible for leading TxDOT’s program delivery overseeing all roads, bridges and maintenance throughout the entire state to ensure transportation projects meeting the needs of Texans are delivered efficiently and effectively.

Most recently, Barth served as TxDOT’s Director of Project Planning and Development, where he oversaw TxDOT’s Transportation Planning and Programming, Right of Way, Environmental Affairs, Professional Engineering Procurement and Transportation Programs divisions.

“TxDOT’s mission is Connecting You With Texas, and that means delivering needed transportation projects across the state to improve safety and mobility,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Brian is a proven leader with a strategic mindset and a commitment to follow-through to ensure we get it done.”

Barth’s extensive transportation experience includes serving as the district engineer for TxDOT’s Fort Worth District from 2013-2018 working to solve Metroplex-area transportation issues.

Under his direction as district engineer, he oversaw over $1 billion in construction work each year in addition to major projects on I-35W, SH 360 South and the I-30/SH 360 Interchange.

“Governor Greg Abbott asked me to ‘turn dirt’ and therefore my mantra for TxDOT is ‘execute, execute, execute’ when it comes to meeting the transportation needs of Texans and Texas communities,” said Texas Transportation Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr. “Our state continues

to grow and Texans have entrusted us with keeping them moving. With Brian’s demonstrated leadership moving our Texas Clear Lanes initiative forward to tackle congestion in our busiest metros, I’m pleased to have his experience and expertise focused relentlessly on delivering on our robust program of transportation projects statewide.”

Barth began his career at TxDOT in 1988 as an engineering assistant in the Dallas District after graduation from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.

Brian Barth

In 2003, he was appointed as the Dallas District’s director of transportation planning and development. From 2009 to 2013, Barth served as the Fort Worth District’s deputy district engineer, providing joint oversight and development of the DFW Connector, North Tarrant Express, I-35W, I-30, and Chisholm Trail Parkway.

“I look forward to serving in this new and critical role,” Barth said. “I know firsthand that the women and men of TxDOT share my commitment to tackling complex challenges with rigor, dedication and meaningful results.”

For more information, visit txDOT.gov.

Source: The Texas Department of Transportation

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TRANSPORTATION

CapMetro Marks Another Milestone in Project Connect, Brings On-Demand Service to South Menchaca

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

C

apital Metro has launched a new zone for Pickup by CapMetro in the neighborhoods surrounding South Menchaca, bringing ondemand public transportation to the community and fulfilling an important component of the Project Connect system.

Expanding neighborhood circulators is a key element of the Project Connect program of projects that voters passed in November 2020, and launching the service in South Menchaca is another important step in implementing the program.

“Capital Metro has always been focused on bringing more equitable transit options to neighborhoods in our service area,” said Chad Ballentine, VP of Demand Response and Innovative Mobility. “As part of Project Connect, our team will continue to work on bringing Pickup to more neighborhoods in the Central Texas community.”

Customers can download the Pickup by CapMetro app from their phone's app store (iOS and Android), register for an account and book a trip. Those in the service zones without access to the smartphone app may call 512-369-6200. A one-way ride costs $1.25, the same charge as a Single Ride pass used to take MetroBus and MetroRapid services. A Capital Metro Day Pass, 7-Day Pass or 31-Day Pass will cover a Pickup ride as well.

Kids ages 18 and younger ride free. Children 10 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

“Pickup by CapMetro is an easy, reliable and affordable option for people to get a ride to grocery stores, medical offices and other important places nearby in South Austin,” said Capital Metro board member and Austin City Council member Ann Kitchen. “We are so excited to bring the Pickup service to South Austin – the Slaughter and South Menchaca area. This new program is part of the Project Connect citywide transportation system for Austin.”

Service in the South Menchaca service zone is available weekdays between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. The wheelchair accessible service will pick customers up from their location within 15 minutes or less. Pickup service can help customers in South Menchaca get to important locations, such as shopping centers, medical services, schools and parks.

Capital Metro piloted the Pickup service in 2017 and 2018 in Northeast Austin, including the Mueller and Windsor Park neighborhoods. In June 2019, the agency launched service in Manor after which additional zones in Austin and Leander were added. The Pickup service app was developed in partnership with Via which operates on-demand ridesharing networks in New York City, Chicago and Washington, D.C. The company licenses its technology to transportation providers globally, including neighboring cities of Arlington and Fort Worth.

For more information, visit CapMetro.org.

Source: CapMetro

TRANSPORTATION

Travel Rebound Steadily Growing in Houston

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

ravel rebound is steadily growing and nearing pre-pandemic levels. Houston Airports uses three measurements to gauge passenger travel: Enplanements, Capacity and Load Factor.

• June 2021, enplanements — the boarding of an aircraft by a passenger— gained 2.24M, an increase of 15% over the previous month.

• Capacity — the number of seats made available by carriers — is still -14% below pre-COVID levels of June 2019.

• The load factor — the percentage of available seating capacity that has been filled by passengers — reached another COVID record high of 85%.

In June, Houston Airports recovered 85% of domestic and 71% of international enplanements from 2019; this is an improvement of +9% for domestic and +7% for international compared to last month.

In addition, travel from Houston to Mexico is at an all-time high and has surpassed even 2019 numbers.

Currently, the enplanement is 132% recovered—which is 32% over 2019.

Travel is more heavily focused on leisure and visiting friends and family travel with industry experts forecasting a recovery of pre-pandemic levels in the 2024 time frame.

The COVID-19 pandemic crippled air traffic worldwide. In 2020, Houston Airports was on pace to set record level highs for passenger traffic with airlines starting new service and enhancing existing service.

However, in April 2020 Houston Airports took its lowest dip ever with passenger service declining -95% compared to the year prior.

In the meantime, Houston Airports remains committed to keeping its facilities safe and secure for passengers and offering a 5-star airport experience for travelers. This includes enhanced amenities. Passengers traveling through the airports will see renovated restrooms, power seating in some gate areas, children play areas, dedicated mothers’ rooms, service animal relief areas, new flooring and more.

For more information on FlySafe Houston, the airports’ safety and health initiative, please visit www.fly2houston.com/flysafe.

Source: Houston Airport System

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