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AEC Firms and Organizations Address the Coronavirus Crisis, Seek New Ways to Stay Connected
by High-Profile
by Emily Langner
On March 11, the World Health Organization officially characterized the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic. The coronavirus was identified in all 50 U.S. states by mid-March, sending a number of cities all over the country into mandatory lockdowns.
After nationwide shortages of essential Personal Protection Equipment were reported, members of the New England architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) community immediately stepped up, issuing calls to donate much-needed supplies, including N95 masks, gloves, and gowns, to hospitals and medical facilities throughout the region.
On March 16, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh was the first mayor of a major city to order a construction shut-down in response to the crisis, with exceptions for work that is essential to the safety and wellbeing of the city’s residents. Cambridge soon followed. Within days, Massachusetts
For all up-to-date news on how COVID-19 is affecting our industry, visit www.high-profile.com/category/covid-19/ — Visit HP’s “AEC COVID-19 Resource Page” to connect with a variety of industry organizations’ resource pages. www.high-profile.com/covid-19-resources/
Governor Charlie Baker and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont issued orders requiring all businesses and organizations that do not provide “COVID-19 Essential Services” to close their physical workplaces and facilities to workers, customers and the public. Non-essential employees were urged to remain home and work remotely, and AEC organizations throughout New England cancelled all upcoming industry events.
Both Massachusetts and Connecticut deemed construction an Essential Business or Service, while Mayor Walsh doubled down on his order to halt construction in the city of Boston. As HP went to press on April’s issue, other New England states waited for official announcements with clarification on whether construction would be considered an essential business amid the crisis.
In the last several weeks, AEC organizations and businesses have modified plans, quickly changing inperson events to webinars or virtual events, and providing resources for industry professionals to stay informed, educated, and connected. Continue to page 10 to read about how AEC member organizations are continuing to serve their members and keep people connected during this uncertain time.
