DFW Airport Completes
Move of Innovative Megastructure Modules Across Airfield for Terminal C Expansion
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
allas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has completed a major milestone in its ongoing $3 billion plan to overhaul and expand Terminal C, successfully moving six megastructure modules across the airfield and into place at the site of the expansion that will welcome nine new gates in 2026. The engineering feat included moving a total of six massive modules – the largest measuring 204 feet long by 68 feet wide and weighing approximately 1,200 tons – across two closed runways overnight using selfpropelled modular transporters.
DInnovation is at the core of our airport’s DNA and the techniques being used to reimagine Terminal C are an example of that in action,
Sean Donohue, DFW’s Chief Executive Officer, said. “I’m proud of the DFW team for continuously pushing boundaries when it comes to proving forward-thinking construction processes. This is just one of the many important milestones on approach as we undergo this historic period of growth and expansion.”
Another Industry First in Airport Construction
This recent milestone has built on DFW’s breakthrough use of modular construction in 2022, with the airport again proving the success of new, industry-leading techniques to expedite project timelines. Continuing to be at the forefront of modularity evolution, DFW installed mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire-protection systems in the six modules prior to being transported to the site of new pier-style expansion.
“Modular construction reduces the impact on-site by using dual-site activity,” Mohamed Charkas, Executive Vice President of Infrastructure and Development at DFW, said. “This minimizes disruptions in terminal areas, keeping gate
ARCHITECTURE
Tclosures and airside complexities to a minimum while modules are built offsite. DFW is applying modular construction for expansions at Terminals A and C, as well as the new Terminal F.”
Modules for Terminals A and C are at least twice as large as the modules installed to create the new “High C” gate area in 2022.
More Major Construction Underway at Terminal C
In partnership with American Airlines, the 115,000-squarefoot expansion portion of the Terminal C project also coincides with the first of three phases that will completely reimagine the terminal’s existing footprint. A complete reconstruction of the adjacent parking garage is also underway, which will deliver more parking to accommodate the growth in gates.
Source: DFW Airport (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
San Antonio Port Board of Directors greenlights next phase of Innovation Tower
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
he Port San Antonio Board of Directors has unanimously given the go-ahead to take the next major step in the development of Innovation Tower, one of the most ambitious projects to date on the rapidly growing Tech Port campus. The tower is a component of a broad innovation campus development strategy the organization unveiled in the fall of 2024.
The Board approved $7.5 million to move the tower project from its preliminary phase to the finalization of architectural plans, budget, and schedule. The design phase is expected to take about one year, with an eye toward breaking ground in 2026 and completion of the state-of-the-art facility by 2028.
“Today’s action by the Board of Directors underscores the role of this campus as a unique and exciting place that is connecting people to a world of opportunities,” Port San Antonio Board Chair Margaret Wilson-Anaglia said. “Rising high over Tech Port and visible for miles, the tower will be a unique beacon for this community and an additional calling
card for our region as a fast-moving global capital of innovation.”
The building, whose conceptual design was revealed last year, will be a new iconic landmark for the region and a beacon for Port San Antonio’s 1,900-acre Tech Port campus. In recent years, tenant customers at the Port have added over 9,000 new jobs, bringing the campus-wide total to 18,000 today.
Operations by Port customers are on the leading edge of innovations that include aerospace, cybersecurity, defense, advanced
manufacturing, industrial robotics, and space exploration. A wide range of educational partners also deliver programming at Tech Port, from STEM/STEAM curricula to advanced workforce development and professional training.
Spanning more than 10 million square feet of properties, existing buildings at Tech Port are nearing full occupancy. Among the highly specialized facilities are aircraft maintenance hangars, industrial buildings for advanced manufacturing, a force-protected perimeter
for national defense operations and numerous offices that, like Innovation Tower, can accommodate cybersecurity labs and other secure functions.
The multi-story Innovation Tower, which will be located at the campus’ main entrance, will support growing demand by adding approximately 300,000 square feet of highend office space. The tower will also include amenities for occupants, including a health and wellness center, sauna and spa-quality locker rooms, and a large conference room.
Designed by world-renowned firm Pelli Clarke & Partners , with architect Bill Butler leading the project, the new tower will enable employers attract and retain top talent in their respective industries.
As planning for Innovation Tower is finalized, the Port continues to advance multiple projects across the campus. Together, they will bolster the work of more than 80 current tenant customers, support their growth, and attract new enterprises to the community.
The planned facilities will further elevate the Tech Port campus’ standing as one of the world’s leading innovation destinations, a distinction it earned in 2024 from the Association of University and Research Parks (AURP).
Source: Port San Antonio (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
Photo courtesy of DFW Airport
Photo courtesy of Port San Antonio
DART Starts Modernizing Cityplace/Uptown Station with New Escalators, Inclinators
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has begun working to modernize the Cityplace/Uptown Station.
The renovation is part of DART Transform, a modernization program that focuses on improving five core elements: vehicles, stations and passenger facilities, resiliency, a unified signaling system, and operating facilities.
Cityplace/Uptown Station is scheduled to receive upgraded lighting, new ticket vending machines, and improved walkways with the removal of digital kiosks, a news release stated.
The bulk of construction will initially focus on the removal of the existing escalators and inclinators and installation of new ones
to improve accessibility to the platforms. Demolition work began in mid-April, when the escalator and staircase on the tower side of the platform level will be removed. Construction will continue at the next level, with each escalator and inclinator taking approximately six to eight months to remove and replace.
As each escalator is removed, the other will be reprogrammed to only take customers up. As work progresses and the inclinator and escalator are both out of service, DART will provide a bus bridge with shuttle service to and from connecting stations to limit service interruptions.
DART will provide updates on the renovations and any impacts it may have on customers on social media and through its text alert system.
Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit
CITY OF SAN ANTONIO AND PARTNERS BREAK GROUND
ON SECOND SUPPORTIVE HOUSING COMMUNITY
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
he City of San Antonio, in collaboration with SAMMinistries, Bexar County, San Antonio Housing Trust, and others is proud to announce the groundbreaking of Commons at Acequia Trails, a development that will bring more than 200 Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) homes to City Council District 3. This innovative project builds significant momentum toward the City's commitment to providing stable housing and essential services for individuals and families experiencing chronic homelessness.
TLocated at 7222 Old Corpus Christi Road on the City’s southeast side, Commons at Acequia Trails is more than just a housing development—it's a comprehensive support system designed to help people regain independence and thrive. With a planned 10,000-square-foot Supportive Services Center, the community will offer on-site access to primary healthcare, behavioral health services, life skills training, workforce readiness programs, social wellness activities, and much more.
“Today, we break ground on a facility that is a bold declaration that San Antonio refuses to accept chronic homelessness,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg.
Homelessness can happen to anyone—through job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected hardships—but as a community, we stand together to ensure that no one is left without hope or a path forward.”
PSH is a proven, evidence-based model that combines affordable housing with voluntary, yet readily available, supportive services tailored to individuals’ needs. Designed for people facing chronic homelessness, PSH follows a clientcentered, trauma-informed approach—ensuring people have access to care while maintaining personal agency over their level of participation. Unlike traditional transitional housing, PSH does not impose time limits but focuses on long-term stability and recovery.
Commons at Acequia Trails is a $56.2 million development made possible through a public-private partnership, including $34.7 million from private sources, $9.1 million from the City of San Antonio’s 2022 Affordable Housing
Bond, $7.5 million in HOME-ARP provided by the City, $3.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds provided by Bexar County, and a $1 million land grant from the San Antonio Housing Trust.
2022-2031
Housing
Plan
for the City of San Antonio and Bexar County
“Commons at Acequia Trails is a project that turns vision into action—made possible by the trust of our community and the dedication of our coalition of partners,” said Veronica Garcia, Neighborhood and Housing Services Director. “By blending federal funding with local investment including the Affordable Housing Bond, this facility will provide not just shelter, but a second chance. This is what happens when we invest in people, dignity, and in a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive."
“This development is aimed at providing housing and resources for our community’s most vulnerable — helping our city meet the goals of its Strategic Housing Implementation Plan and at the same time reducing unsheltered homelessness and relieving pressure on overcrowded shelters,” said Nikisha J. Baker, SAMMinistries President and CEO. “SAMMinistries is excited to bring this long-awaited project to life and help build brighter futures for our neighbors in need.”
Originally approved in 2023, with a second funding award granted in 2024, Commons at Acequia Trails is set for completion in fall of 2027.
Source: City of San Antonio (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
People living at Commons at Acequia Trails will also benefit from direct access to public transit, reinforcing the city's dedication to fostering accessibility and opportunity.
Photo courtesy of DART
Photo courtesy of City of San Antonio
Noble Texas Builders Visits TSTC for Employer Spotlight
SBy
Subcontractors USA News Provider
ome Texas State Technical College Building Construction Technology students recently listened to a presentation about potential job opportunities that they might pursue after graduation.
During Noble Texas Builders’ first employer spotlight at TSTC’s location in Harlingen, representatives Juan Chavez
and Eric Delgado discussed the company’s mission, internship opportunities, current technologies being utilized, and other topics.
Delgado, the company’s vice president of building solutions, said they are looking to fill positions due to growth in La Feria, Houston, and San Antonio.
“We are seeking individuals who have a strong attention to detail, some construction experience is preferred, and those who know where they would like to be in five years,” he
said. He talked about opportunities for advancement at the company. “Every team looks into where they will be in one to two years,” he said.
That creates opportunities for new team members. For example, a laborer can transition to a superintendent, project manager, executive vice president, and a CEO.
Chavez, Noble Texas Builders’ vice president of leadership development and its corporate compliance officer, said the company’s employees work as a team to problem-solve.
“Our goal is to exceed customer expectations,” he said.
Chavez appreciated the students’ interest.
“They showed a willingness to be a part of something big with our company,” he said.
The recruitment presentation appealed to many of the students.
Colten Bauman, of Harlingen, who is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree, said the company’s desire to help employees develop their talent appealed to him.
“I’m interested in applying for the internship,” he said. “I appreciated that they are giving college students the opportunity to apply for a job and grow.”
Daniel Castillo, a native of Corpus Christi who now lives in Harlingen, is also pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree.
“I plan to apply for the internship,” he said. “I want to expand my knowledge by getting an OSHA certification. I used to work in the building construction industry, but I didn’t have the education. That’s why I enrolled in Building Construction Technology.”
Source: Noble Texas Builders (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
Photo courtesy of Noble Texas Builders
RUN CLEANER RUN LONGER
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS-LED TEAM SOLVES A BIG PROBLEM FOR FUSION ENERGY
By Subcontractors USA
Abundant, low-cost, clean energy took one step closer to reality, as a team of researchers from The University of Texas at Austin, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Type One Energy Group solved a longstanding problem in the field.
One of the big challenges holding fusion energy back has been the ability to contain high-energy particles inside fusion
reactors. When high-energy alpha particles leak from a reactor, that prevents the plasma from getting hot and dense enough to sustain the fusion reaction.
In their paper published in Physical Review Letters, the research team describes having discovered a shortcut that can help engineers design leak-proof magnetic confinement systems 10 times as fast as the gold standard method. This advance addresses the biggest challenge that’s specific to a type of fusion reactor first proposed in the 1950s, called a stellarator.
“What’s most exciting is that we’re solving something that’s been an open problem for almost 70 years,” said Josh Burby, assistant professor of physics at UT and first author of the paper. “It’s a paradigm shift in how we design these reactors.” A stellarator uses external coils carrying electric currents that generate magnetic fields to confine a plasma and high-energy particles. This confinement system is often described as a “magnetic bottle.”
There is a way to identify where the holes are in the magnetic bottle using Newton’s laws of motion, which is very precise but takes an enormous amount of computational time. Worse still, to design a stellarator, scientists might need to simulate hundreds or thousands of slightly different designs, tweaking the layout of the magnetic coils and iterating to eliminate the holes.
To save time and money, scientists and engineers routinely use a simpler method for approximating where the holes are, using an approach called perturbation theory. But that method is much less accurate, which has slowed the development of stellarators. The new method relies on symmetry theory, a different way of understanding the system.
This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Source: UT-Austin (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
TPUCT APPROVES PLAN FOR THE FIRST EXTRA HIGH VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION LINES IN ERCOT REGION
By Subcontractors USA
he Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) approved a plan in April to build the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region’s first extra high-voltage transmission lines to meet the Permian Basin’s rapidly growing power needs.
The PUCT is fully committed to building an ERCOT grid that will serve Texans reliably for decades to come,
PUCT Chairman Thomas Gleeson said. “Extra high voltage lines are more efficient and strengthen reliability.”
House Bill 5066, passed by the Texas Legislature in 2023 and signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott, required the PUCT to approve an electric reliability plan for the Permian Basin to support the growing electricity needs of West Texas communities. That plan was approved in Oct. 2024.
The Permian Basin reliability plan is the first step in a broader effort mandated by the Legislature and Gov. Abbott to evaluate transmission and distribution systems across the ERCOT grid and identify where improvements are needed.
The PUCT’s approval of the Permian Basin reliability plan follows a full analysis of the costs, equipment supply chains, and project completion timelines of both voltage options. Additionally, the PUCT and ERCOT hosted six workshops to gather input from members of the public, equipment
manufacturers, and the transmission service providers (TSP) who will build and operate the new lines.
ERCOT and the TSPs estimate the extra high voltage plan could cost 22% more than the lower-voltage alternative; however, it will provide many long-term benefits. Higher voltage lines can carry more power and meet higher levels of demand as the state continues to grow, reduce expensive congestion on existing transmission lines, and could save money in the long-term by avoiding the need to build new transmission lines to catch up to future demand.
Source: Public Utility Commission of Texas (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
Photo courtesy of UT Austin
The University
of Houston
continues to grow not just in student population but also in the construction of new buildings such as the John M. O’ Quinn Law Building and Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine.
UH’s facilities growth includes the continuous need to procure a variety of non-construction goods and services, all of which undergirds UH’s recognition as an institutional “Powerhouse.”
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
Subcontractors USA is presenting its third annual E.C.O. Summit & Expo, embracing its three pillars of Expansion, Collaboration, and Opportunity with this year’s theme of “Adapt and Overcome.”
“When I was in the military, things were always changing quickly, and one thing that we lived by was to always follow the motto ‘Adapt and Overcome,’” President & CEO of Subcontractors USA MR. D-MARS said.
ADAPTING
ADAPTING AND OVERCOMING: 2025 Subcontractors USA
To Adapt and Overcome means to adjust to a new situation or problem and then find a way to succeed in spite of it. It’s a mindset of resilience and resourcefulness, encouraging individuals to make necessary changes and find solutions to overcome challenges.
MR. D-MARS, President & CEO, Subcontractors USA
This involves making changes to your plans, strategies, or approaches to align with the current situation. It’s about being flexible and willing to adjust your course of action when necessary.
OVERCOMING
This means finding a way to succeed despite the challenges or obstacles you face. It’s about finding solutions, overcoming adversity, and achieving your goals.
In essence, “adapt and overcome” is a call to action to embrace change, be resourceful, and find ways to succeed even in the face of difficult circumstances.
In the constant-growing and ever-changing business of construction, it can be daunting to know where to begin, let alone know how to expand. That very feeling is why MR. D-MARS developed the yearly summit.
With the recent tariffs, increased cost of doing business, and constantly changing permitting processes, all aspects of this industry are learning how to navigate these new obstacles. It’s unprecedented for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop, and that doesn’t mean you can’t grow. Working to-
gether, we can expand our reach and learn from one another, because now more than ever, you need someone you can depend on.
No matter where you are, who you are, or what you do in the construction industry, you are not alone. This event serves as an opportunity for industry leaders, prime contractors, subcontractors, local agencies, suppliers, vendors, and much more to gather in one room and reach a common goal: developing the infrastructure of this great state. If you’re in the field of architecture, construction, education, engineering, technology, oil and gas, safety, transportation, TxDOT, energy, and utility and infrastructure, you need to be here.
Now is your chance to Adapt and Overcome
At the Summit & Expo, we’re providing you all the resources you need, so what will you do with them?
New & Established Businesses
Last year, Shurronda Murray, Manager, Outreach for METRO’s Office of Economic Business Opportunity, had no reservations to say “shame on you” to anyone involved in construction who did not attend this event.
Whether you’re new or established in this industry, you’ll be in a room filled with everyone you need. This ranges from those who can help you begin with the vital things like the permitting process, suppliers looking to equip you with the latest technology and innovations, and some of the biggest agencies in Texas.
Prime Contractors and Subcontractors
The relationship between prime and subcontractors is the lifeblood of the construction world. This symbiotic relationship provides both entities an opportunity to prosper, create contacts, and bolster their reputation.
Here, prime contractors will be able to meet with a plethora of subcontractors from all sectors to find the ones that best suit their needs. What better way to get to know who you’ll be trusting your business with than meeting someone face to face?
As a bonus benefit for subcontractors, they
IThe Construction Business Is Changing. Are Your Permitting Strategies Keeping Up?
By Helen Callier Contributing Writer
f you’ve been in the design and construction business for any length of time, you already know: the only thing constant is change.
Lately, the PermitUsNow team has been fielding a surge of calls from general contractors and project owners facing new market pressures — specifically around tariffs. The headlines are scary. Tariffs on imported equipment and materials are having a ripple effect across the construction industry. And it’s not just big contractors and project owners feeling it — small- and mid-sized contractors are shaking in their boots the hardest.
The result? More uncertainty. Delayed shipments. Rising material costs. And tighter budgets. But in all this disruption, one thing has become very clear:
Your permitting strategy is no longer a back-office formality — it’s now a vital part of your survival plan.
THE CALLS WE’RE GETTING
At PermitUsNow, we’ve pulled well over ten thousand permits for projects across Texas — from healthcare and retail to infrastructure and mixed-use. And lately, the questions we’re getting have changed.
Instead of just “how fast can we get this permit approved,” we’re hearing:
• “Can I phase this project to spread out the scope?”
• “What’s the last day I can start work before the permit expires?”
• “Can we defer certain scopes to avoid delays in imported material or long lead items?”
• “Can we swap out materials and still stay compliant with the city?”
• “How much can I do under a demo permit while I wait for equipment to clear customs?”
These are smart questions. Contractors are doing what they must to stay on schedule and protect slim profit margins. As I’ve mentioned in one of my recent LinkedIn videos, many are now playing what I call ‘the paper game.’
And when played correctly — with awareness of local permitting rules and compliance boundaries — that game can help contractors maintain momentum and avoid costly impact to their construction projects.
THE PAPER GAME, PLAYED SMART
So, what exactly is this “paper game?” It’s not
cutting corners. It’s about being strategic with your permit use:
• Phased permits: Breaking a project into smaller or similar scopes such as civil site or core and shell so work can begin while long-lead items are delayed.
• Deferred submittals: Pushing less critical elements to a later date without disrupting your main permit path. Key is to know which items the jurisdiction allows to be deferred.
• Demo permits: Starting selective teardown or site prep while awaiting full construction approval.
• Material substitutions : Identifying approved alternates that won’t trigger plan resubmissions or inspection failures.
When done with insight and proper coordination, these strategies can be the difference between a project that survives a
volatile market — and one that stalls out due to permitting missteps.
DON’T WAIT UNTIL YOU’RE TRIPPING OVER YOUR SHOESTRINGS
Here’s the bottom line: too many contractors wait until the pressure is on before calling us. But if you're building in today’s climate — especially with imported materials, long lead items, or sensitive schedules — it's critical to engage your permitting team early.
Whether you're planning a hospital expansion, a new grocery store, or a warehouse conversion, having a team like PermitUsNow in your corner helps you stay proactive, not reactive. We speak the City’s language. We understand building codes. And we know where flexibility exists — and where it doesn’t.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Change in the market is inevitable. Tariffs may rise and fall, but the way you prepare your construction projects doesn’t have to follow the same rollercoaster. With the right permitting strategy, you can weather the storm and even come out ahead.
If your project is facing material delays, cost pressure, or you're simply unsure how much room you have to pivot — reach out at 1.844.PERMIT.4. We’ll help you pull permits smarter, faster, and with fewer surprises. Let’s get your project ready to build — no matter what the market throws at it.
Helen Callier is the Founder of PermitUsNow, a leading building permitting firm serving architects, contractors, and project owners across Texas. Connect with her on LinkedIn or visit www.permitusnow.com to learn more.
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR HIGHLIGHTS SAFE CONSTRUCTION WORK PRACTICES
By Subcontractors USA
he U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration encouraged construction industry employers and workers, across the nation, to take part in its 12th annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction from May 5-9, 2025. This nationwide event spotlights preventing falls, the construction industry's leading cause of worker deaths.
Throughout the week, OSHA urged employers to pause during the workday to conduct "stand-down" activities, including safety demonstrations, hazard recognition and fall prevention training, and "tool-box" talks about hazards. Employers were also encouraged to have discussions about job-specific hazards, like roofing, ladder use, and working on scaffolds. Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling participated in the 2025 Stand-Down and provided remarks during an event at the National Institutes of Health campus in Bethesda, Maryland, where multiple construction and renovation projects are currently underway.
OSHA published a list of free, public events on its website to help employers and workers –both from the construction and other industries – find opportunities to get involved locally.
A cornerstone of OSHA's Fall Prevention Campaign, the National Safety Stand-Down, was developed in partnership with The Center for Construction Research and Training. The event also coincided with Construction Safety Week and its National Safety Stand-Down Initiative to help prevent falls in construction. Since its launch in 2012, the initiative has helped train more than 10 million workers on fall prevention.
Source: OSHA (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
City of Austin Adopts 2024 Technical Building Codes, Effective July 10
By Subcontractors USA
In a move aimed at improving safety, sustainability, and housing flexibility, the Austin City Council voted today to adopt the 2024 Technical Building Codes, along with a comprehensive set of local amendments tailored to support Austin’s unique environmental and housing goals. The updated requirements will take effect July 10, 2025. The newly adopted codes update 10 sets of technical standards that regulate building design, construction, and maintenance throughout the city.
Key Changes in the Updated Codes
1. Air Conditioning Standards
To enhance protections during extreme heat events, the updated code requires that all buildings—both new and existing—provide and maintain air conditioning systems that can keep indoor temperatures no higher than 85 degrees and at least 15 degrees cooler than outside.
2. Housing Design Flexibility – Single Stairways
In support of increased housing options, the Council adopted amendments allowing single-stairway designs in certain multifamily residential buildings up to five stories. This design option—common in other urban areas—can allow for more flexible layouts.
3. Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Expansion
To better address wildfire risk, the amendments expand the designated Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) and Proximity Zone C. This change will trigger more stringent construction requirements in these zones, such as fire-resistant materials and defensible space around buildings.
4. Innovative Building Materials – Hempcrete
The Council approved the use of hempcrete, a plant-based construction material, in residential construction. Hempcrete offers a low-carbon alternative to traditional concrete and aligns with the City’s broader goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector.
5. Energy Efficiency & EV Readiness
The updated codes introduce new energy efficiency standards for both residential and commercial buildings and require electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in new construction. These updates advance the City’s climate goals and prepare buildings for Austin’s growing population of EV drivers.
6. Additional Health and Safety Requirements
Other updates include:
• Expanding pest control standards to include bedbugs and scorpions in multi-unit buildings.
• Enhanced emergency lighting requirements for high-rise buildings to improve safety during power outages or emergencies.
These updates reflect the City’s continued efforts to align building standards with community needs and long-term sustainability goals.
Source: City of Austin (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
News Provider
Photo courtesy of OSHA
SAFETY
News Provider
By ESI Fire & Security, Inc.
odern businesses face an increasing need for effective and reliable security solutions. Integrated security systems have emerged as a comprehensive answer, combining diverse technologies like access control, video surveillance, and intrusion detection into a single unified platform. These systems improve efficiency, offer centralized management, and provide enhanced protection, making them a game-changer for businesses across all industries. At the core of integrated security systems is their ability to merge multiple technologies. Access control ensures that only authorized individuals can enter restricted areas, while video surveillance provides real-time monitoring and recorded footage. Intrusion detection adds another layer of security by triggering alerts in the event of unauthorized access or
suspicious activity. By bringing these components together, businesses can streamline their operations and enhance overall security.
One of the primary benefits of an integrated system is centralized management. Instead of juggling separate platforms for cameras, alarms, and building access, all systems can be monitored and controlled from a single interface. This simplifies security operations and enables quicker decision-making in critical situations. For example, if an alarm is triggered, security personnel can immediately access corresponding camera feeds to assess the threat, saving valuable time.
Integrated security systems also offer scalability, making them suitable for industries of all sizes. Retail businesses can benefit from monitoring both inventory and customer flow, reducing shrinkage while improving store layouts. Healthcare facilities can use these systems to safeguard sensitive areas
like pharmacies and patient records, ensuring compliance with strict regulations. Corporate offices can rely on them to protect employees and sensitive data, fostering a secure work environment.
For decision-makers, making the switch to an integrated security system signals a commitment to innovation and safety. These solutions are not only effective but also costefficient in the long term, eliminating the need for multiple disparate systems and reducing labor costs.
By investing in an integrated security system, businesses can achieve seamless protection, centralize their security efforts, and create a safer environment for employees, customers, and assets. It’s a smart, forward-thinking choice for any organization aiming to stay ahead in today’s fast-paced world.
Small Business Enterprise Program
PORT HOUSTON ADDS NEW HYBRID RTG CRANES
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
he Port Commission awarded a contract to Konecranes Finland Corporation for the purchase of 16 hybrid rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes for Bayport Container Terminal.
TThese new RTG cranes will be Port Houston’s first “oneover-six” container stacking units, setting a new standard moving forward while continuing to expand the port’s hybrid
fleet to 46 in total. While this purchase underscores Port Houston’s sustainability efforts, this record also marks Port Houston’s second-largest purchase of cranes and will help further optimize the use of terminal space.
The Port Commission also awarded a contract to Breaux Brothers Enterprises, Inc. for a new electric-diesel hybrid vessel to provide public tours of the Houston Ship Channel. The current tour boat, the M/V Sam Houston, has served the port for 67 years, providing free tours of the waterway to approximately 30,000 visitors every year.
The new ADA-compliant vessel will allow Port Houston to better serve guests with restricted mobility, expand its maritime education outreach, and once again reinforce the port’s commitment to environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality. The estimated construction time for the new vessel is 12-14 months.
Source: Port Houston (edited by Subcontractors USA)
HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL RANKED #1 U.S. WATERWAY
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
n Tuesday, April 29, the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority met for its regular monthly meeting. Chairman Ric Campo opened the meeting with an announcement that the Houston Ship Channel is once again ranked the No.1 waterway in the U.S., according to a recent report by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Houston’s port handles approximately 12% of the nation’s total waterborne tonnage.
OAn incredible 309.5 million short tons of cargo moved through the Channel in 2023, which is the most recent available data,
reflecting a 5.3% increase in total tonnage from the previous year and far more cargo than any other port in the nation. In fact, volumes along the Houston Ship Channel are so large that the tonnage gap between Houston and the second-ranked port is larger than 97% of ports in the country.
“This ranking reinforces just how vital the Houston Ship Channel is for our region and for the entire nation,” Chairman Campo said. “More than three million jobs depend on our Channel, and at Port Houston, it’s our job to protect this asset. With our Channel expansion project, known as Project 11, we are helping ensure this critical waterway remains open, safe, and competitive for decades to come.”
The 52-mile-long Houston Ship Channel serves more than 200 private and eight public terminals, in industries from
petrochemicals and heavy machinery to consumer goods and energy. Its economic influence extends far beyond port gates, supporting 3.37 million jobs nationwide and generating $906 billion in annual economic activity in the United States. Chairman Campo also commented on the current tariff situation. “We are, like everyone, analyzing the data and assessing the situation. Tariffs would impact our own expenses at Port Houston, including our STS crane purchases. We support the end goal of strengthening domestic manufacturing and encourage the administration to work with our industry to develop a path forward that minimizes unintended consequences on American workers, exporters and consumers.”
Source: Port Houston
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) and Federal Small Business Program Mission is to:
Provide opportunities to compete on a level playing field with all other suppliers for current and planned MDACC contracts
Increase our annual expenditures with women, minority, small, small disadvantaged, veteran, and service-disabled veteran owned businesses
Comply with all federal, state and local regulatory procurement guidelines
Register as a supplier at: www.mdanderson.org/suppliers
For list of bid opportunities: www.mdanderson.org/bids
Visit our website at: www.mdanderson.org/HUB
Certifications we accept:
State of Texas HUB and SBA Federal Small Business Certifications
State certification application: www.comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/hub/
To obtain Federal certification, go to: www.sba.gov/contracting
For further information:
Gabriela Zambrano, MBA Associate Director MGZambrano@MDAnderson.org
Barbara Howard, MBA Sr. HUB Coordinator: Bhoward@MDAnderson.org
Port Houston to Host 4th Annual Houston International Maritime Conference
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
ouston is home to the nation’s biggest port and is host city for maritime’s hottest event, the Houston International Maritime Conference. With the nation’s largest petrochemical complex, 5th-ranked container terminals, and the busiest waterway in the U.S. all located in Houston, it’s the perfect location for this premier maritime conference. The 4th annual Houston International Maritime Conference (HIMC25) will be held on Nov. 2-5, 2025 at the Hilton Americas in Downtown Houston. Registration for the conference opened April 29.
Building on the success of previous years’ sold-out events, HIMC25 will address the most urgent challenges and exciting opportunities facing the global maritime industry today. This year’s four-day event will bring together leading industry experts to explore critical topics, such as the evolving landscape of global supply chains, the influence of tariffs on international trade, and the regulatory changes that are impacting the maritime industry. HIMC25 will offer a platform for indepth discussions on how the sector is responding to these shifts and adjusting its strategies for long-term success. The conference will also feature panels on tanker shipping, port infrastructure, the foreign trade zone, supply chain fluidity, and a keynote presentation by Panama Canal Administrator Dr. Ricaurte Vasquez Morales.
This year’s event is expanding its focus to include conversations around the liquid bulk and chemical tanker market and petrochemical sector. The energy industry underpins the global economy — powering energy systems, manufacturing, and everyday lives around the world —and Houston is unmatched in its impact. With this addition, HIMC25 includes the full scope of maritime operations along the Houston Ship Channel — including container, breakbulk, and tanker shipping.
“At Port Houston, we don't simply react to shifts in the market — we are actively planning and driving the conversation,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO at Port Houston.
HIMC25 will allow leaders throughout the industry to share proven methods and new ideas to better position us all for the future.
HIMC25 will also offer expanded networking opportunities, providing attendees with ample chances to connect with key
industry players, including producers, BCOs, NVOCCs, ocean carriers, freight forwarders, tanker companies, petrochemical industry leaders, technology providers, motor carriers, and more. These interactions will foster collaboration, creating new opportunities for growth across the sector.
Registration opened April 29 with Early Bird pricing of $475 per ticket available until Aug. 31, 2025. Regular pricing of $575 takes effect on Sep. 1, 2025. Brand-visibility and sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Source: Port Houston (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
Building the Future
More than Bricks & Mortar
As one of the nation’s largest builders, Turner is dedicated to providing avenues of opportunity for Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses in Houston to achieve entrepreneurial success. Our commitment to social responsibility and fair play is not just on paper; it’s ingrained in our company culture. We are devoted to making contributions that not only strengthen the local economy, but also reflect the demographics of the community at large.
Turner is proud to celebrate our 35th year of The Turner School of Construction Management in partnership with The City of Houston, Office of Business Opportunity. We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow capacity in Small, Minority and Women owned enterprises in the communities where we work.
Photos courtesy of Port Houston
DIVERSITY
IS THE
SPICE OF Life AT H - E - B
H-E-B’s Supplier Diversity Program works hard to ensure we’re selling goods and utilizing services from a wide variety of Texan businesses. We’re proud that our suppliers are as diverse as the Lone Star State itself.
As a former small business ourselves, we believe in and celebrate the value & strength that working with small businesses, local businesses, and businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, Veterans, and disabled Texans brings to both our business and the communities we serve.
HOUSE BILL 3187 CAN END THE DALLAS AREA RAPID TRANSIT
allas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is issuing an urgent warning about the devastating consequences of Texas House Bill 3187. This bill would dismantle the region’s public transportation system, eliminate thousands of jobs, have more than 100k riders immediately lose access to transit, and cripple economic growth throughout North Texas.
The legislation, now moving through the Texas House, mandates a redistribution of DART’s voter-approved sales tax funding, stripping essential operational and capital funds from the agency, and forcing immediate and irreversible cuts.
In just the first year, the bill wipes out 5,800 jobs across North Texas, cancels planned capital improvements, and slashes service levels by more than 30% — jeopardizing the mobility of thousands of daily riders who rely on the system for work, school, and healthcare.
“This bill isn’t a tweak to funding. It’s a full-on dismantling of the DART system,” said Jeamy Molina, Chief Communications Officer, DART. “The people of North Texas voted twice to fund a unified, regional transit system. House Bill 3187 completely ignores their voice and puts the future of public transportation in jeopardy.”
If passed, the bill would stall or kill over $3.5 billion in transit-oriented development projects, many already underway
near DART rail stations. It would reduce transit access for essential workers, seniors, people with disabilities, and lowincome families, and undermine DART’s ability to prepare for major international events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The consequences of H.B. 3187 goes beyond service cuts. The bill represents an unprecedented break in the contract between DART and its voters. The agency’s funding was approved through democratic vote and reaffirmed through supermajority elections in member cities. H.B. 3187 effectively overrides the will of the people.
Source: DART (Edited by Subcontractors USA)
Photo courtesy of DART
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