High-Profile: July 2024

July 2024 Life Sciences and Awards

INDUSTRY EXPERT ARTICLES:

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: FEATURING INDUSTRY AWARDS:

Plumbers Local 12, Greater Boston PCA Support HS Vocational Programs

Skanska Selected to Oversee Dartmouth Decarbonization Program

Construction Institute Hosts 2024 Annual Dinner & Awards

UMass Chan Unveils new $350M Education and Research Building

BETA Technologies Manufacturing Facility Awarded by CMAA

A.P. Construction’s Tom Walsh Honored with Lifetime Recognition Award

WS Development, Turner Construction Near Completion on One Boston Wharf

Marcus & Millichap Closes $13M Sale of Shopping Center in Vermont

MOCC Welcomes Two

Chronley

Laureen Poulakis

St. Peter

Suffolk Construction recently wrapped up work on 2 Harbor, a 418,000sf, Class

building in Boston’s Seaport District, for Beacon Capital Partners. / Photo courtesy of Robert Benson Photography

Publisher’s Message

Anastasia Barnes

This issue features our biannual focus on Life Science Facilities and Industry Awards. Our cover story this month is on Beacon Capital Partners’ 2 Harbor life science campus, located in Boston’s Seaport District. Sean Nelligan of Suffolk Construction and Zoya Puri of Beacon Capital Partners detail the unique sustainability elements of the project and the challenges associated with its location adjacent to the Ted Williams Tunnel. This project adds another life science building to the Seaport, which remains a go-to area for biotech and pharmaceutical companies to set up shop. Read more about 2 Harbor on page 16.

Speaking of Boston’s Seaport District, I had the opportunity to meet Mike Cusic of WS Development at the Building Trades Employers’ Association (BTEA) Northeast’s stand down during its 4th Annual Recovery Week. The event

was located at 45 Boston Wharf Road, also known as One Boston Wharf. WS Development is nearing completion on this massive project which, when completed, will serve as a gateway into the Seaport District from Downtown Boston and the Fort Point Channel Landmark District. This building is beyond impressive, and soon Amazon employees will be working in the largest net-zero carbon office building in Boston. Turn to page 24 to read the full story.

That same day, I also met Meghan Petruzziello, project safety manager at Turner Construction. This issue features a Q&A with her as she breaks down her role in ensuring Turner’s jobsites remain

safe and why it’s important to prioritize employees’ mental health in addition to their physical health. Read the full interview on page 26.

Congrats to this year’s Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) Project Team Award winners. This is CBC’s 28th year celebrating project team excellence. Winning projects include Bristol City Hall in Bristol, Conn. and Cranbury Elementary School in Norwalk, Conn. Check out the full list of winning projects on page 28.

In our Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence section, representatives from KBE Building Corporation, Erland Construction and

Callahan Construction share what new technologies they are utilizing to create efficiencies in their workflows and prioritize safety in the workplace. Read their insights on page 34.

Next month’s focus is Retail/ Hospitality and Entertainment Venues. This includes projects for sporting venues and casinos. Be sure to share news of your projects with us and your insights on the latest developments in these sectors. The deadline for submissions and ad reservations is July 23.

Hope everyone has a safe and festive Independence Day!

Enjoy the read,

Bristol City Hall was recognized at the CBC’s Project Team Awards on June 11.

Ground Broken on $65M Alta Altitude Multifamily Development

Warwick, RI – Ground was officially broken on May 22 for the Alta Altitude multifamily development in Warwick. The $65 million project is a collaboration between Wood Partners and Schiavo Enterprises.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Warwick officials and representatives from Schiavo Enterprises,

Partners, and DiPrete Engineering. Wood Partners will oversee the construction, with an estimated five to seven supervisors managing up to 100 workers at the height of the building phase.

The first of two Class A apartment buildings, which will include 214 units on a 6.5-acre site across from T.F. Green

International Airport on Post Road, is scheduled to open in July 2026. Previously an off-site parking area, the new development will include a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Amenities will include a central courtyard with fire pits and lounging areas, a full-size gym, work-from-home suites, a grand lounge,

a dog spa, a resort-style swimming pool, and private resident garages.

Plans for the project include developing surrounding properties with amenities that will support the residential community. Robert Schiavo, project developer, said, “I’m hoping it is opening the floodgates to more development.”

Highgate Commons Sells for $13M

Saint Albans City, VT – Marcus & Millichap announced the sale of Highgate Commons, a 224,000sf grocery-anchored shopping center in Saint Albans City. The asset sold for $12,975,000.

James Koury and Alex Quinn, investment specialists in Marcus & Millichap’s Boston office, exclusively marketed the property on behalf of the seller, Commons Associates, a Vermont limited partnership. Adamo Mariani and Jesse DiGennaro, investment specialists in Marcus & Millichap’s Montreal office, procured the buyer, a partnership registered in Quebec, Canada. Jeffrey Nick, Marcus & Millichap’s broker of record in Vermont, assisted in closing

the transaction.

Koury, senior managing director, investments, said, “The sellers originally developed the center over 40 years ago, during which time it has been an important part of serving the retail needs of the area’s residents. Now, it is time for new ownership to guide the center into its next phase of service.”

Located at 289 Swanton Rd., the shopping center is situated at the interchange of Interstate 89 and Route 207. Anchored by Hannaford and T.J. Maxx, the center is occupied by approximately 18 national, regional, and local tenants, which occupy about 60% of the square footage at the time of sale.

Highgate Commons

Wood

Rendering courtesy of The Architectural Team

Alta Altitude groundbreaking

Construction Underway on Integrative Arts Lab at Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT – Designed as a new hub for artistic expression and collaboration, Bruner/Cott Architects’ 18,700sf Integrative Arts Lab is now under construction at Wesleyan University in Middletown.

A former Mohawk Manufacturing Company building located midway between Wesleyan’s main campus and downtown Middletown is being converted into the new arts lab. Situated at the corner of Hamlin and College streets and occupied by a series of previous

tenants, the oldest structure on the site was constructed in 1850, with an addition built in 1922.

The new lab is designed to be a social hub that encourages community, collaboration, and conversation. Spaces within the building will be arranged to support students and encourage interdisciplinary work. The program includes those for visual and performing arts, as well as maker spaces and a flexible arts commons. Contemporary additions to the existing T-shape complex will

expand the capabilities of the new facility, blending old and new.

Representatives of Bruner/Cott say the project will reinforce Wesleyan’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility; meet aspirational sustainability goals that prioritize conserving resources and limiting embodied carbon through building reuse; and include measures to ensure occupancy health and wellness.

Performance space / Rendering courtesy of Bruner/Cott Architects

Wesleyan University's Integrative Arts Lab / Rendering courtesy of Bruner/Cott Architects

Bird’s eye view of construction site looking east / Photo courtesy of FIP Construction, Inc, DronesOverTheValley LLC

Construction Updates Announced for The Beck in Haverhill

Haverhill, MA – The Procopio Companies recently announced a construction milestone for The Beck. The 290-unit, mixed-use project in Haverhill is now weather-tight.

The 5-story, transit-oriented development, situated adjacent to the Bradford MBTA commuter rail station, is now proceeding with interior fit-out and facade finalization. The weather-tight status comes as other development milestones take place, including the start of construction on the new 1.4-acre public waterfront park, and the implementation of roadway improvements as a part of a $1.95 million MassWorks grant.

“This milestone moves us one step closer to delivering much-needed housing to the Greater Boston market,” said David Roache, vice president of development at Procopio. “As one of the largest multifamily developments under construction in Massachusetts, situated in a prime location next to an MBTA commuter rail station, The Beck will deliver on the housing production priorities outlined by Governor Healey’s administration.”

The Beck will include 6,000sf of retail and restaurant space in addition to the development’s 290 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. The property will include views of the Merrimack River, and amenities will include

a fitness center, sports lounge, and outdoor space with a resort-style pool, fire pit, patio, and barbecue area. The building will also feature bike storage, as the donated public park will lead to a riverfront multiuse path along the rear of the site. The park includes a playground, splashpad, dog park, and green space.

With the implementation of the Elm

Street improvements, bicyclists will have new accommodations including bike lanes on Laurel and Elm that will lead to commuter routes and the riverfront Bradford Rail Trail. The building is also in close proximity to downtown Haverhill.

The development was designed by architecture firm CUBE3, with Bohler as engineer and Dellbrook|JKS as the general contractor. The Beck is scheduled for completion in spring 2025.

The Beck / Photo courtesy of Dellbrook|JKS

Skanska Selected to Oversee Dartmouth Decarbonization Program

Hanover, NH – Skanska announced that its program management and consulting group, Skanska Integrated Solutions (SIS), has been selected by Dartmouth College to oversee the design and construction for its Decarbonization Program, a 10-15 year initiative involving 5.5 million sq. ft. of facilities and an evaluation of utility-scale clean energy sources.

“We’re incredibly excited to begin construction for Dartmouth’s Decarbonization Program, which represents an

important step forward for the school’s efforts to decarbonize its campus,” said Keith Martin, vice president, SIS Operations, Skanska USA Building. “SIS has been at the forefront of sustainable design and construction, and we look forward to helping Dartmouth transform its infrastructure to be more sustainable while still meeting its energy needs.”

The program will include the implementation of new geo-exchange borefields, geo-exchange heat pump

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plants, new hot and chilled water distribution system, and conversions of all campus buildings from steam to hot water.

SIS has overseen the design and construction of a multitude of Skanska’s most sustainable projects across the country and is playing a role in helping the company reach its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions along its entire value chain by 2045, with a 70% reduction in controlled emissions by 2030 globally.

Canton Industrial Building Sells for $13M

Canton, MA – R.W. Holmes announced it recently completed the sale of a 99,000sf industrial building in Canton for $13.85 million.

R.W. Holmes’ broker, Mike Fahy, along with Elizabeth Holmes, director of corporate services, and Dean Blackey, managing director, were hired by the seller, Berry Holdco, LLC, to advise on their real estate strategy and ultimately sell the property. R. W. Holmes was also responsible for procuring the buyer in this transaction.

Located at 50 North Street in Canton, the building was purchased by Seyon

Group Acquisitions, LLC. The building will remain occupied by the original tenant, H.T. Berry. The one-story building was originally built by H.T. Berry in 1977, with subsequent additions made over the years.

“It was a pleasure advising Berry Holdco through their real estate strategy and working with Seyon Group on this transaction. We are thrilled to have the building in such good hands,” said Fahy. “Investors are eager to find opportunities in this size range that have cash flow today with an existing single tenant but allow for upside in rent and potential subdivision in the future.”

50 North Street

Map courtesy of Skanska

Photo courtesy of Dartmouth College

Photo courtesy of Dartmouth College

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Governor Healey Tours Vineyard Wind 1 Facilities on Martha’s Vineyard

Boston – Avangrid, Inc., a sustainable energy company and member of the Iberdrola Group and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), specializing in green energy investment and offshore wind development through its affiliate Vineyard Offshore, recently joined Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey on Martha’s Vineyard for a tour of the operations and maintenance facilities that will provide long-term support services for the Vineyard Wind 1 project once it’s operational. As part of the visit, which took place on June 6, Avangrid CEO Pedro Azagra joined Healey to see the progress on two facilities: a newly constructed marine terminal and an O&M service building.

Vineyard Wind broke ground on the facilities in 2022. The same year, Avangrid finalized an agreement to assume responsibility as the operations and management services provider for Vineyard Wind 1, the first large-scale offshore wind project in the U.S.

“Governor Healey is a steadfast champion for clean energy, climate action, and historic Massachusetts communities like Martha’s Vineyard, so Avangrid was proud to join the governor to tour the critical facilities that will serve as the base of operations for our first-in-the-nation Vineyard Wind 1 project,” said Azagra.

“Locating our O&M headquarters in Vineyard Haven is a reflection the island’s proud history, as well as the important role this community will play in pioneering Massachusetts’ clean energy future.”

The marine terminal can support up to three Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs). Two CTVs, which serve to transport O&M technicians to the wind farm, were in

port during the tour. The O&M service building, located on Beach Road near the port, includes warehouse, storage, and office space. The building’s design incorporates sustainability and climate resiliency initiatives. It is elevated 10 feet above street level standing on steel piles, providing flood resiliency as well as parking. The building will also feature

solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and bike parking.

Vineyard Wind also constructed a hangar at the Martha’s Vineyard Airport to house a helicopter that will service the project. Like the O&M service building, the hangar also includes sustainability initiatives, including an all-electric heating system.

Pedro Azagra, Mass. Governor Maura Healey, State Senator Julian Cyr, and state and local officials at the tour of the Vineyard Wind 1 project on June 6.

Focus: Life Sciences

Callahan Completes Multi-Phase Renovation for Revolution Labs

Lexington, MA – Callahan Construction Managers announced it recently completed the multi-phase renovation for Revolution Labs in Lexington. The project features a 180,000sf core and shell research building that is occupied by anchor tenants Orum Therapeutics and Alchemab Therapeutics. The building is fully leased.

The facility was designed from the ground up to support both cutting-edge research and the lifestyle needs of today’s life sciences pioneers. Orum Therapeutics is a private, clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of degrader-antibody conjugates (DACs) for cancer treatment, while Alchemab Therapeutics is developing solutions that utilize the immune system to create novel antibody therapies for challenging diseases.

Callahan was chosen to first oversee the core and shell of the laboratory facility, and then later retained to manage the fit-out of the interior office spaces. The occupied nature of the building during the second phase posed challenges that included lining the pipes of the

structure’s sanitary system while the building was in use, requiring restricted water use and proactive planning with laboratory tenants.

Ongoing supply chain concerns made procurement of advanced laboratory components challenging, including specialty HVAC and electrical equipment. Callahan utilized the preconstruction phase to build a schedule

that met critical deadlines while also taking into account what equipment needed to be ordered first to ensure occupancy goals were not impacted by unpredictable delivery dates.

“We are thrilled to see this new research facility come to life to support the groundbreaking efforts of the researchers that work here,” said Steve Callahan, Jr., vice president – business development,

Callahan. “This project showcases the benefit of robust pre-construction planning, along with having a team that understands the specialized nature of lab construction. We wish Revolution Labs well as they utilize this space to its maximum potential.”

The building is on track to achieve WELL Certification.

Labs

Suffolk Completes Construction on 2 Harbor Life Science Campus in Boston

Boston – Suffolk Construction recently wrapped up work on 2 Harbor, a core and shell life science project in Boston’s Seaport District, for Beacon Capital Partners.

The 418,000sf, Class A lab/office building includes commercial space, associated amenities, parking, and open space designed to attract employers, employees, and the surrounding community. Building amenities for office tenants include a lobby, market hall, bike room, gym, lounge, conference center, exterior terrace and indoor/outdoor yoga room.

The facade is designed to reflect the character of the marine industrial surrounding buildings, with corrugated metal paneling and torqued copper-color horizontal and vertical metal bands, while also providing large triple-glazed windows to allow for natural daylight and a quiet working environment.

Sean Nelligan, vice president and project executive from Suffolk, says the facade is designed to reflect the character of the marine industrial surrounding buildings, with corrugated metal paneling and torqued copper-color horizontal and vertical metal bands, while also providing large triple-glazed windows to allow for natural daylight and a quiet working environment. Handel Architects was the architect on the project.

Mike Loring, senior vice president at Beacon Capital Partners, says, “2 Harbor is a first in class, purposebuilt life science building highlighted

in its structural, sustainable and lab infrastructure attributes. This LEED and WELL platinum project has focused on prospective tenant needs from high end amenities, vast floor plates with

360 degrees of harbor views and the base building core which maximizes flexibility for lab/office layouts. Our team is extremely proud of the high-quality design and construction shown in 2

Harbor’s finished product.”

The project presented a number of challenges including those associated with its South Boston Waterfront location. “This project was uniquely positioned adjacent to the Ted Williams Tunnel. Because of this, communication and coordination was required with Massport, MassDOT, and the BPDA’s Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (EDIC),” says Nelligan. “The building was designed to minimize the impact on the Ted Williams Tunnel, including modifying the design of some of the driven piles that support the building to minimize vibration.”

Other challenges during construction included industry delays in receiving some materials and equipment and the coordination of logistics when working on top of and adjacent to the tunnel. Additionally, design enhancements were implemented while the building was coming out of the ground which forced

2 Harbor / Photos courtesy of Robert Benson Photography

Yoga room

the project team to work hand in hand to ensure the schedule wasn’t impacted.

Nelligan says maintaining open lines of communication and a focus on collaboration were paramount in overcoming these challenges and delivering the project successfully. “This is probably the best example of a project having great synergy between the owner, the design team, and the trade partners. The stage was set by Beacon from day one that everyone’s going to roll up their sleeves to work together and focus on the big things that are driving the project, clear out any obstructions, and get the job done. We’re all extremely proud to be a part of this project and excited to see it flourish.”

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Brennan Continues in Seaport - 2 Harbor Street Survey

By Laureen Poulakis

Brennan Consulting is finalizing work on 2 Harbor Street Boston with Suffolk Construction, where 2 and 4 Harbor are Beacon Capital Partners’ newest products in the Seaport. The project sits in the transitioning mixed-use East Seaport on the edge of Marine Industrial Park and where maritime, high-tech, and life science sectors are investing millions in construction. Designed as a 418,000sf, 9-story lab and R&D building, with parking for 250 underground, 2 Harbor

includes a wellness center, lounge, flexspace and outdoor plaza overtop the Ted Williams Tunnel and is on track to certify LEED Platinum and WELL Gold.

Construction survey here included an unusual 500-foot-long control line in either direction due to heavy trucking, cranes, equipment, and support crews accessing both 2 and 4 Harbor, as well as the Northern Avenue revitalization project underway. Maintaining solid and repeatable control can become a challenge in the Seaport as site activities and native soil types may be vulnerable to movement. By establishing baseline at Harbor Avenue and Northern Avenue, Brennan crews continued to re-establish control line and reset points until steel was set atop the slab. The three ongoing construction projects competed for space compressing the already urban conditions, as access

driveways and control are often disrupted. To help offset this, Brennan delivered preconstruction and as-built surveys of Northern Avenue during roadway revitalization which includes new bike lanes, sidewalks and crosswalks.

Bordered by Northern Avenue and the Ted Williams to the north, Harbor Street to the east, and Channel Street to the west, 2 Harbor is located on landlocked Parcel T, originally tidal flats, and later filled in the 1800s. Soil deformation and stability under cranes, cavity expansion due to pile driving, dissipation of excess pore water pressures, dynamic vibration, incremental movement of soils, and induced settlement are modern-day Seaport concerns. Dewatering or increased hydrostatic pressures may cause fluctuations in adjacent buildings, tunnels, and utilities. Groundwater can vary due to precipitation, flow around utilities such as the 54-inch Boston Water and Sewer storm drain crossing the parcel, seasonal impacts, and tides. To track any movement, vertical deformation monitoring for the Ted Williams during 2 Harbor foundation construction was performed and 360 survey prisms were installed on top of the tunnel.

Floodproofing, flight approaches to Logan International, and long-term resilience are Seaport considerations as well. Surveys of 2 Harbor Street floodgate systems, below grade parking, FEMA Flood Certification, and FAA crane height and final building height elevation were included in the scope. Pre- and post-concrete pour elevation surveys with several hundred points per floor were completed during lift-slab construction and level runs re-confirmed back to the slab prior to lift. Challenges for a neighborhood in flux like the Eastern Seaport included maintaining control, by transferring to the parapet of adjacent buildings and garage and bringing control back into the new building. For floors 4-9, control was brought down to the ground and back up again to the upper floors. Seaport adds to a project complexity and Brennan Consulting expertise includes Innovation Square III, Black Falcon Terminal, Commonwealth Pier Harborwalk, Parcel O, Parcel P, and the Massport Haul Road Vehicle and Equipment Storage Building. Laureen Poulakis is president of Brennan Consulting, Inc.

1910 Representative Sections, Plan of South Boston Flats / Courtesy of State Library of MA

Rendering courtesy of Handel Architects

Dacon Completes InvaGen Expansion

Fall River, MA – Dacon Corporation has completed an expansion to InvaGen Pharmaceuticals’ Fall River manufacturing facility.

InvaGen is a subsidiary of Cipla (Chemical Industrial Pharmaceutical Laboratories), a global firm founded in 1935 by Dr. K.A. Hamied, whose mission was to make India self-sufficient in healthcare. Cipla manufactured the first respiratory inhalers in India, followed by the creation of the first triple HIV cocktail therapy for Doctors without Borders. This reduced AIDS treatment to

$1 per day, enabling accessible therapies to underserved populations. Today Cipla’s mission of affordable, highquality medicines spans a continuum of therapeutic categories, and its portfolio encompasses over 1,500 products in 86 countries.

Acquired in 2016 as part of a global initiative, the InvaGen Pharmaceuticals division is responsible for the research, development and manufacturing of respiratory medications for pediatric and adult use. The facility expansion is in response to employee and manufacturing growth.

Enhancing Laboratory Efficiency: Ceiling Utility Panels for Bench Connectivity

By Ed St. Peter

In modern laboratories, the efficient use of space and seamless connectivity are critical components that contribute to productivity and safety. Laboratory ceiling utility panels, also known as ceiling interface panels, play a pivotal role in achieving these goals. These panels are designed to integrate essential services directly above lab benches, facilitating a clutter-free and highly functional workspace. Let’s explore their significance and how they enhance functionality within a lab environment.

Purpose and Features

Ceiling Service Panels: Integrated into the ceiling grid, these panels provide a cost-effective method for delivering essential services directly to lab benches and equipment. This setup minimizes floor space usage and reduces the clutter of cables and hoses.

Services Provided: Ceiling panels offer various services such as power outlets; phone connections; data ports;

and optional gas, air, and vacuum service cutouts. This wide range of services ensures that all laboratory needs are met without compromising the workspace’s organization.

Materials: These panels are available in durable materials like painted steel, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to harsh laboratory environments.

Standard Features:

• 1-inch flange on all sides with mounting holes: Facilitates secure installation and integration into the ceiling grid.

• Cutouts for electrical and data services: Allows for the integration of electrical outlets and data ports, essential for laboratory equipment and communication needs.

• Optional gas, air, and vacuum service cutouts: Provides flexibility for laboratories requiring these specific services.

Optional Features:

• Larger 2-gang cutouts: Accommodate additional electrical and data services, expanding the panel’s utility.

• Custom cover plates: Offer tailored solutions to match specific laboratory aesthetics or functional requirements.

• Various RAL powder-coated colors: Provide customization options to fit the laboratory’s design scheme.

• Tailored sizes and designs: Ensure the panels meet the precise needs of different laboratory setups.

Benefits

Flexibility: Ceiling panels create maximum flexibility within the workspace. Researchers can move mobile benches freely without the need to redirect services, promoting a dynamic and adaptable lab environment.

Corrosion Resistance: The choice of robust materials like stainless steel and anodized aluminum ensures durability and resistance to the corrosive conditions often found in laboratories.

Integration: Combining electrical, data, and communication services into a single system streamlines connectivity and reduces the complexity of wiring and cabling.

Customization: Laboratories can configure panels according to their

specific needs, ensuring that all required services are conveniently accessible.

Applications

Research Laboratories: Ceiling panels enhance productivity by streamlining services for researchers, allowing them to focus on their work without interruptions.

Medical Laboratories: Efficient connectivity supports diagnostic processes and patient care, ensuring quick and reliable access to necessary services.

Pharmaceutical Laboratories: Precise experiments and analyses rely on seamless service access, which ceiling panels provide, ensuring consistent and reliable results.

Commercial and Retail Settings: Ceiling utility panels can be adapted for use in commercial and retail settings, offering additional connectivity when needed.

Installation

The best method for mounting ceiling service panels depends on field conditions. Typically, electrical contractors or other professionals provide the necessary mounting hardware and expertise to ensure secure and proper installation.

Conclusion

Laboratory ceiling utility panels bridge the gap between lab benches and essential services, ensuring efficient connectivity and organization. By integrating these panels into the ceiling grid, laboratories can maximize workspace flexibility, enhance durability, and streamline service delivery. Whether in research, medical, pharmaceutical, or commercial labs, these panels contribute significantly to a wellorganized and productive environment, allowing researchers to focus on their work without disruptions.

Ed St. Peter is managing member of STEM Solutions, LLC.

Ceiling Utility Panel installed by STEM Solutions LLC

Success in cGMP Construction in a Supply Chain Crisis

By Kevin Chronley

Nitto Avecia is a premier research and contract manufacturer in the innovative oligonucleotide market. They developed a strategy to build a new 2-story, approximately 100,000sf cGMP manufacturing facility with a bulk solvent tank farm and space for office, lab, and cGMP manufacturing operations.

The project’s design and the need to procure long-lead innovative process skid systems unfolded in the summer of 2021, therefore driving the procurement, construction, and CQV to unfold during the peak of the supply chain crisis. Delivery of the finished facility was scheduled and achieved for May 2023. To achieve schedule and budget objectives, throughout the project execution A/Z developed and implemented creative and alternative strategies to mitigate impacts, including:

• Contract Strategy – Although a design-bid-build contract strategy had been implemented, A/Z promoted

a collaborative and coordinated environment typically associated with Integrated Project Delivery, engaging the subcontractors in design-assist roles.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) – BIM proved to be exceptionally valuable by simplifying the change dynamics and integration challenges of the phased approach, enabling numerous workarounds, and sorting out both supply chain alternatives and labor availability.

• Team Building – Nitto Avecia and A/Z enjoyed an extraordinary level of team-building and safety behavior incentives, such as monthly food truck events, hockey games, and award raffles, enhancing interaction and shared culture. Although the extremes of the COVID supply chain crisis have passed, how A/Z

overcame those supply chain challenges is as relevant as ever. The underlying financial objectives behind most capital improvement projects benefit from creative alternatives and workarounds; A/Z implemented several to support the project:

• Electrical Switchgear – A major challenge was last-minute extended delivery dates ranging from 6-12 months. Working collaboratively with Brattan Electric, A/Z installed a temporary 2,400kW system to facilitate a phased CQV.

• Phased CQV – The challenge was to selectively schedule and phase CQV, starting with UPS water, chilled water, and HVAC. Our strategy included safety coordination, team member

development, and site controls to provide the CQV personnel with safe egress, isolation, and containment. These efforts ensured that utilities were made safe for CQV testing and inspections while construction continued. In addition, we implemented a preliminary phase of Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) technique whereby off-site SAT was used to facilitate preliminary IQ/OQ testing and inspection on defined systems and skids. This investment in preliminary testing bolstered operational confidence, resulting in a compressed commissioning and CQV phase.

• Prefabrication – Hart Design & Engineering assumed a design-assist role, providing procedures and workarounds even though the dynamic phasing didn’t allow for process design until the core and shell were well underway.

Ultimately, the project met the client’s budget, schedule, and CQV requirements and involved countless acts of collaboration, diligent technical expertise, and cGMP compliance. Some examples are highlighted within; however, the obvious lessons learned are that the success of a project is due to team members understanding their roles, active and focused participation, and relentless team support throughout the project’s execution. Kevin Chronley is president of A/Z Corporation.

Nitto Avecia cGMP manufacturing facility

UMass Chan Unveils new $350M Education and Research Building

Worcester, MA – A ceremonial ribbon cutting was held on June 7 for UMass Chan’s new $350 million education and research building.

Joining representatives from UMass Chan Medical School, The University of Massachusetts Building Authority (UMBA), and World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the unveiling were construction manager Shawmut Design and Construction and architects ARC/ Architectural Resources Cambridge and ZGF Architects. TERVA/Trident is the owner’s project manager for the project.

With 350,000sf of research and educational spaces spread over nine floors, the new education and research building will support the missions of all three graduate schools on campus. It

will be home to more than 70 principal investigators and their teams, with advanced core facilities to support basic research, translational studies, and clinical trials of new therapeutics developed at UMass Chan and around the world.

The design features a 2-story staircase joining the ground level with the second floor. The stairs, built both inside and outside of the building, are divided by a glass wall and provide access to a threeseason outdoor terrace. A “neighborhood concept” utilized in the lab spaces creates a central core of benches and research bays surrounded by support spaces designed to encourage spontaneous collaborations. To shape the foundation of the building, 40,000 cubic yards of soil were excavated. The building rises 183 feet above ground and contains 3,295 tons of steel, 379 miles

of electrical wiring, and 3,000 linear feet of lab benches.

Expected to achieve LEED Gold certification for energy efficiency and sustainability, the building includes the first geothermal system on campus, featuring 75 boreholes dug 500 feet deep designed to heat and cool the building in the most efficient and sustainable way possible. The system will provide 88% of the heating and 50% of the cooling needs and is expected to reduce the carbon footprint by approximately 2,400 tons per year, a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The exterior facade consists of 1,520 sections of unitized curtain wall made of prefabricated rectangular units with three layers of glass set in insulated aluminum and steel frames. This design exceeds the state’s building code for thermal perfor-

mance by 22%, minimizing heat loss in winter and reducing heat gain in summer.

The project was completed on time and on budget and exceeded goals set by the University’s Building Authority for hiring women and minority-owned businesses to contribute to the construction.

“Today’s ceremonial ribbon cutting heralds the start of a new, dynamic chapter in UMass Chan’s unfolding narrative; one where we will witness a convergence of hope and expectation, aspiration and realization, intent and impact,” said UMass Chan Medical School Chancellor Michael F. Collins. “The opening of the NERB represents a substantial down payment in furtherance of our institutional commitment to change the course of the history of disease – in Worcester, for the world.”

UMass Chan Medical School’s new education and research building

The construction and design teams for UMass Chan’s new education and research building

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Feature Story

WS Development, Turner Construction Near Completion on One Boston Wharf

Boston – WS Development and Turner Construction Company announced they are wrapping up construction on One Boston Wharf, a 945,000sf mixed-use development in Boston’s Seaport District.

The 17-story tower includes 707,000sf of office space as well as ground floor retail and a performing arts center that

One Boston Wharf / Images

features both a 100-seat and 500-seat live performance venue. Amazon has signed on as the single tenant occupying the building’s office space. The development also includes a 3-level, 200,000sf belowgrade parking garage connected to the existing L4 parcel that Turner completed in 2022.

According to Michael Cusic, director of construction – Seaport at WS Development, One Boston Wharf will serve as a gateway into the Seaport District from Downtown Boston and the Fort Point Channel Landmark District. The building is active on all four sides and emphasizes pedestrian comfort and porosity with an intimate, human-scale streetscape activated with vibrant retail, restaurant, and civic uses.

Upon completion, the development will be the largest net-zero carbon office building in Boston, and is targeting LEED Platinum. Cusic said, “One Boston Wharf is an all-electric building, which employs many redundancies built into the heating and cooling systems, including secondary condenser water loops, secondary chilled water loops, and secondary hot water loops. Additionally, the building’s envelope design includes high performance triple-pane glazing to reduce both heating and cooling loads.”

WS Development has also implemented a long-term power purchase agreement to source renewably-generated electricity for both base building and tenant electric loads. “This will ensure a true net-zero

“ Turner led a combined effort with Boston Sand & Gravel and the design team to engage Sublime Systems for topping slab placement. Sublime Systems has developed a means of manufacturing cement without fossil fuels. Turner is targeting a 24% embodied carbon reduction for all concrete mix designs and reinforcing steel.”

- Genci Leno, Turner Construction Company

courtesy of WS Development

One Boston Wharf

operation for the building and a 90+% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below the already-stringent requirements of the current Massachusetts state energy code,” added Cusic.

“We used our self-perform group for concrete placement and strategized to reduce the project’s embodied carbon in multiple ways. Turner Self Perform worked with Boston Sand & Gravel to utilize mix designs with cement replacement. A moisture retention method in lieu of wet-curing reduced the amount of required potable water,” said Genci Leno, construction executive at Turner Construction Company. “Turner led a combined effort with Boston Sand & Gravel and the design team to engage Sublime Systems for topping slab placement. Sublime Systems has developed a means of manufacturing cement without fossil fuels. Turner is targeting a 24% embodied carbon reduction for all concrete mix designs and reinforcing steel.”

The project team for One Boston Wharf also included Gensler, architect of record; Henning Larsen, design architect; Buro Happold, MEP engineer; and McNamara Salvia, structural engineer. “There is a very productive relationship between the design team and Turner. From early in the project, direct lines of communication were established which served the project well in incorporating constructability feedback

High-Profile: Feature

into the project details,” said Leno.

Cusic added, “By assembling our project team early on during the design process and sharing our team’s project

goals, vision, and values with all team members from the beginning, the project team developed a cohesive, respectful, and productive culture that has yielded

a beautiful and timeless end product that we hope will contribute much to the surrounding neighborhood and the city as a whole.”

One Boston Wharf

HP Interviews Meghan Petruzziello, Project Safety Manager at Turner Construction

High-Profile: Can you share a bit about your background and how you got started in the construction industry?

Meghan Petruzziello: I grew up in Malden, Mass. and received a bachelor’s degree for marine safety and environmental protection from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. I first got started in the construction industry with an internship during college with Veolia. I worked at the Kendall Power Plant in Cambridge, Mass. as a safety intern. From there I received a job offer from Turner Construction before graduation and I have currently worked with Turner for five years. My passion for construction comes from my family because most of them were union workers in the city. I am the first generation of my family to receive a college degree and have focused my career on creating a difference within the construction industry to make jobsites a better experience and safer place for our trade partners.

HP: As a project safety manager, what are your primary responsibilities and what does a typical day look like for you?

MP: As a project safety manager, my primary responsibilities are to manage the health and safety on the jobsite, logistics planning, and onboarding/ educating workers. My typical day starts with a sitewide stand down where the whole job comes together. The on-site wellness coach and I lead stretches to engage the workers and prime their muscles to reduce the risk of strains and sprains. Throughout the day, I do my site walks to ensure work being done is safe, check in with the workers to see if they need anything, and work with our superintendents to plan work and meet the needs of our client’s asks. A big part of my job description that is becoming more typical is the mental health work I do with our trade partners. As a safety manager, I also help workers access their benefits for mental health and recovery resources for either themselves or their loved ones. At Turner, we are continuously putting more effort and time into caring about our trade partners’ physical and mental health. What is going on inside the hard hat is extremely important to get to a level of total care and safety for an individual on a jobsite.

Promoting the Mechanical Contracting Industry for over

135 Years

HP: What are some of the biggest challenges you face in ensuring safety on construction sites, and how do you address them?

MP: Construction is constantly changing, and in the northeast region we have complexly designed buildings with tight logistics and aggressive schedules. The biggest challenge I typically face is making sure everyone is communicating properly at all levels. Communication is key to ensuring a safe job and creating a positive community. My approach as a safety manager is to be firm but fair and empathic with individuals. If a safety concern or issue arises it needs to be addressed seriously. I constantly remind people when faced with challenges on the job that safety policies are put in place to protect them so they can leave work and go home to their loved ones.

HP: How has your experience as a woman in construction shaped your approach to your role and interactions with your team?

MP: As a woman in construction my experience has been very positive, and I would encourage more women to join this field. My position in this industry has shaped my approach because I typically handle difficult or emotional conversations which has led me to have an empathic approach. As a safety manager, I handle my approach as the conscious of the job because it is my main priority to ensure the workers have an inclusive safe work environment and return to their loved ones every day.

HP: Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve worked on that you’re particularly proud of and explain why?

MP: I am currently helping Turner elevate our wellness program. This wellness program focuses on physical and mental health, suicide prevention and recovery in the workplace. Turner has been organizing trainings to help our team respond to mental health crises that may arise on job sites. Each mainstream project has a full-time wellness coach that is a resource for every worker to help them with any injury, post care, physical therapy, and nutrition. We also created a Peer-to-Peer Support team that is designed to be a proactive prevention and early intervention framework, which helps to increase awareness of mental health challenges while decreasing the stigma. A lot of these programs and ideas have come from partnering with the Massachusetts Building Trades Recovery (MBTR) Council. The connections I have made with the MBTR Council have been extremely beneficial in educating myself and hearing what the members’ needs are. Turner’s wellness program is what I am most proud of in my career so far. Working for a company that is encouraging our team to make a change and help individuals that are struggling is very fulfilling for me. Construction in Boston is like no other, from the complex design of the buildings to the complex mental health of the individual worker on the site. We need to keep advocating for these individuals because we lose members every year to substance misuse and mental health crisis and disorders. We need to keep fighting to save our members and give them hope that there is help available.

Meghan Petruzziello

Focus: Awards

BETA Technologies Manufacturing Facility Awarded by CMAA

South Burlington, VT – PC Construction announced it was awarded a Project Achievement Award from the Construction Management Association of America’s (CMAA) New England Chapter

CBC Holds 28th Annual Project Team Awards

Rocky Hill, CT – On June 11, the Connecticut Building Congress (CBC) held its 28th Annual Project Team Awards.

The event honors outstanding building projects that exemplify project team excellence and represent the best practices in teamwork by project owners, architects, engineers, constructors and trades. Each year, CBC recognizes projects whose team members have met or surpassed

goals and achieved higher project quality through this close collaboration.

This year’s judges were Doug Hague, CEO of Architectural Woodwork Institute; Allen Herring, retired building executive, CT DAS; Namhun Lee, PhD, CM-BIM, professor, Central Connecticut State University; and Dan Peruzzi, principal, Margulies Perruzzi Architects.

Senior Living – First Place

Bradley Home Renovations Meriden, CT

Submitting firm: LaRosa Building Group, LLC

Large Civic – First Place

Dixwell Community House (Q House)

New Haven, CT

Submitting firm: Kenneth Boroson Architects

Bristol

Bristol, CT

Submitting firm: QA+M Architecture

Large Civil – First Place

Innis Arden Golf Club

Greenwich, CT

Submitting firm: Turner Construction Company

www.e2engineers.com

Bristol City Hall

West Haven High School

Large Civic – Award of Merit

City Hall

Project Team Award winners:

Small Healthcare – First Place

Gaylord Specialty Healthcare, Institute of Advanced Rehabilitation Wallingford, CT

Submitting firm: Wohlsen Construction Company

Large Higher Education – First Place College Street Renovation New Haven, CT

Submitting firm: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

Large Pre-K-12 Schools – First Place Cranbury Elementary School Norwalk, CT

Submitting firm: Antinozzi Associates PC

Large Pre-K-12 Schools –Award of Merit

West Haven High School West Haven, CT

Submitting firm: Gilbane Building Company

Large Transportation –Award of Merit

Rehabilitation of Devon Bridge, Housatonic River Milford, CT

Submitting firm: M&J Engineering P.C.

The Devon Bridge

Cranbury Elementary School / Photo by Peter Brown Photography

(l-r): Karen Bryan and Tori Muscara of e2 Engineers and Laura Berdebes of Martinez, Couch & Assoc., LLC

High-Profile Focus: Awards

Preservation Massachusetts Announces 2024 Awardees

Plymouth, MA – Preservation Massachusetts recently announced the recipients of the 2024 Preservation Awards: A Lifetime of Celebration. A committee selected four nominated individuals and 20 exemplary projects that made significant contributions to preserving historic resources in communities across the Commonwealth.

Awardees were honored at a ceremony at the Massachusetts State House Great Hall on June 28. The event also serves as an annual fundraiser for Preservation Massachusetts.

Since 1988, Preservation Massachusetts’ highest honor, the Paul & Niki Tsongas Award, has recognized the very best in historic preservation efforts, individuals and achievements across the Commonwealth. Other awards include the Mayor Thomas M. Menino Legacy Award, for projects that embrace community partnerships; the Robert H. Kuehn, Jr. Award, for rehabilitation and active reuse projects; the Frederick Law Olmsted Award, for cultural landscapes; the Charles Eliot Award, for organizations for excellence in vision and planning; and the People’s Preservation Choice Award.

Paul & Niki Tsongas Award

• Charles (Charlie) M. Sullivan –Cambridge

• Fred Ecker – Cape Cod

• Robert J. Verrier – Chelsea

• William (Bill) Smith + Carlton Street

Footbridge – Brookline

• Boston Athenaeum – Boston

• F ábrica Lofts – Lawrence

• The First Church of Christ, Scientist

– The Mother Church Original Edifice and Extension Edifice – Boston

• Lower Basin Barracks – Boston

• Memorial Hall Roof Restoration at Harvard University – Cambridge

Mayor Thomas M. Menino

Legacy Award

• 34 East Springfield Street – Boston

• The Abbot Building – Cambridge

• Howe School – Billerica

• James Michael Curley House – Jamaica Plain

• Lincoln Institute of Land Policy –Cambridge

• Mason Square Apartments at Indian Motorcycle – Springfield

• Mountainside Bakery & Cafe –Princeton

• Southbridge Mills – Southbridge Robert H. Kuehn Award

• Edward A. Hatch Memorial Shell –Boston

• Forest River Bathhouse & Pool – Salem

• The Foundry – Cambridge

• Frost Terrace – Cambridge

• Robert Gould Shaw Memorial – Boston

Frederick Law Olmsted Award

• Waldyn – Manchester-by-the-Sea

Charles Eliot Award

• Coolidge Corner Theatre – Brookline

Lower Basin Barracks

Frost Terrace

Amanda Savage Receives BIA Award Law Firm Recognized by Chambers USA

Concord, NH – North Branch Construction business development manager, Amanda Savage, was recently honored with the NH Business & Industry Association (BIA) Above and Beyond Award.

Savage represents North Branch Construction through the company’s BIA membership, serving on the Economic Development Committee and the Manufacturing End Users Committee. In addition, she works to bring in new

members to the BIA and provides her industry expertise to benefit BIA programs and events.

“Everyone at North Branch Construction was pleased to hear about Amanda receiving the BIA Above and Beyond Award and not at all surprised given her interest and energy for making New Hampshire a better place to live and do business,” said Joseph H. Campbell, president of North Branch Construction.

Boston – In its 2024 edition, the legal directory Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business has recognized 24 Robinson+Cole lawyers, including one that has been recognized nationwide.

Chambers USA 2024 recognized the following Robinson+Cole lawyers in the designated categories of law:

• Nationwide: Privacy & Data Security –Linn F. Freedman. Freedman was also listed in the Chambers Global 2024 ranking guide in the area of Privacy & Data Security – USA.

• Bankruptcy/Restructuring – Natalie D. Ramsey and Rachel Jaffe Mauceri

• Construction – Joseph A. Barra

• Corporate/M&A – Matthew J. Guanci, Jr. and Eric M. Kogan

• Environment – Megan E. Baroni,

•

• Insurance – Dana M.

Daniel F. Sullivan, and Gregory P. Varga

• Labor & Employment – Stephen W. Aronson, Britt-Marie K. Cole-Johnson, Natale V. DiNatale, and Virginia E. McGarrity

• Litigation: General Commercial –Jeffrey J. White

• Real Estate – Garry C. Berman, Steven L. Elbaum, and Charles Martin III Robinson+Cole also earned rankings in the following practice areas: Bankruptcy/Restructuring, Construction, Corporate/M&A, Environment, Healthcare, Insurance, Labor & Employment, Litigation: General Commercial, and Real Estate.

ANASTASIA BARNES

for being honored with the Special Industry Recognition award by The Construction Institute!

(l-r): John Kacavas, past chair, BIA board of directors; Amanda Savage; and Katherine Garfield, chair, BIA board of directors

Robert S. Melvin, Earl W. Phillips, Jr., James P. Ray and Emilee Mooney Scott

Healthcare – Lisa M. Boyle and Patricia D. Weitzman

Horton,

Anastasia Barnes, owner and CEO of High-Profile Media Group (l), and Nancy Greenwald, executive director of The Construction Institute.

A.P. Construction’s Tom Walsh Honored

Stamford, CT – Tom Walsh, executive vice president of A.P. Construction Company, has received the Construction Institute’s David N. LaBau Lifetime Recognition Award. He was honored at the institute’s Annual Dinner & Awards event on June 6.

The David N. LaBau Lifetime Recognition Award honors a lifetime of dedication to the Construction Institute and a continued impact on the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Walsh joins Laura Cruickshank of the University of Connecticut as this year’s recipients.

For over four decades, Walsh has led numerous construction projects including high-tech semiconductor and pharmaceutical research facilities, highrise office buildings, and heavy industrial projects.

“Recognized for his expertise, Tom has frequently contributed as a speaker at the Construction Institute’s events, discussing leadership and economic growth. Beyond his career milestones, he has been a supporter of the institute’s ethos of cooperative leadership. His strategic insights at A.P. Construction Company have been pivotal in driving innovation and adding value to the industry. Tom’s impressive educational background and dedication to progress in his field exemplify the esteemed

Tom Walsh

career that the David N. LaBau Lifetime Recognition Award acknowledges,” said Nancy Greenwald, executive director, Construction Institute.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award from the Construction Institute. For over 45 years, I have been fortunate to work on a wide range of projects, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with so many talented colleagues and industry partners,” said Walsh.

Flow Tech Wins Marketing Awards

South Windsor, CT – Flow Tech, Inc. announced it has been awarded two Marketing Communications Awards (MCAs) by the Connecticut chapter of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS CT).

The awards highlight Flow Tech’s exceptional achievements in the following marketing categories:

• Innovative Social Media Campaign –Recognized for its innovative approach to social media, Flow Tech’s “Hopped Up” campaign was awarded for its results – attendance, traffic, and followers all increased, and the campaign was successful in promoting Flow Tech’s annual customer appreciation event, Flowtoberfest.

• Event Marketing – Flow Tech’s Demo Day was described as “a fun, engaging, and educational event, with impressive metrics.” Flow Tech surpassed its attendee goal, and came in under budget as well.

Flow Tech also announced that Nichole Petersen, CPSM, the company’s director of marketing, has been honored with SMPS CT’s Leadership Award. This accolade recognizes outstanding

leadership and significant contributions to the chapter and AEC marketing community. The award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and a continued commitment to advancing SMPS CT. Petersen was recognized for exemplifying these qualities through her volunteerism with SMPS, work at Flow Tech, and her active involvement in industry organizations. Petersen has spearheaded numerous events and educational programs at SMPS CT. Under her leadership, the chapter has achieved milestones that include:

• Strategic Growth: Implementing innovative strategies that have significantly increased brand visibility and market growth.

• Community engagement: Fostering strong relationships within the AEC marketing community, contributing to industry discussions, and mentoring upcoming marketing professionals.

• Innovative Programs: Launching creative and effective events and webinars that have set new benchmarks for success within the SMPS CT.

Nichole Petersen (l) and Mike Davis, PE, president, Flow Tech / Photo by Time Frozen Photography

Construction Institute Hosts 2024 Annual Dinner & Awards

Hartford, CT – The Construction Institute (CI) hosted its 2024 Annual Dinner & Awards on June 6.

This year’s event took place at The Society Room in Hartford. Team members from High-Profile Media Group were in attendance to celebrate the evening, which included a special industry recognition award for Anastasia Barnes, publisher of High-Profile.

Those awarded at CI’s Annual Dinner & Awards event are recognized for their outstanding contributions and achievements within the construction industry. The awardees are considered “those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and excellence in their fields.”

THIS YEAR’S WINNERS:

Industry Innovation Award

Michael Guglielmo Jr., Vice President for Facilities and Campus Operations at Brown University

Collaborative Leadership Award

Rita Joy, Director of Client Development at Interscape Commercial Environments

Educator of the Year

Jacob Kovel, Central Connecticut State University, Retired

Outstanding Young Professional Leader

Avishan Montazer, Project Engineer with The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

Special Industry Recognition Award

Anastasia Barnes, Owner and CEO at High-Profile Media Group

Distinguished Service Award

J’ana McCaleb, Project Director with The Construction Institute

David N. LaBau Lifetime Recognition Award

Laura A. Cruickshank, FAIA, Master Planner and Chief Architect and Associate Vice President for University Planning, Design & Construction at the University of Connecticut and

Tom Walsh, Executive Vice President of A.P. Construction Company, a division of The Ashforth Company

(l-r): Michael Guglielmo, Jr., J’ana McCaleb, Tom Walsh, Avishan Montazer, Laura A. Cruickshank, Anastasia Barnes, and Rita Joy (not pictured: Jacob Kovel) / photos by Matthew Lin

Angela Cahill of STV, Inc. (l) and Anastasia Barnes

(l-r): A CBC dinner guest talks with Mike Koshko and Mark Kelly of HIgh-Profile Media Group.

Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence

Can AI Transform the Construction Industry?

By Jason Costello

Artificial intelligence (AI) has clearly taken multiple industries by storm. Finance, marketing, academics, and myriad others are embracing the rise of AI while also trying to understand the exact role it will play in the workforce of the future. The construction industry is also beginning to explore the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning to drive efficiencies into the jobsite, along with improvements to safety and quality.

AI doesn’t mean you’re turning over the control of the jobsite to a machine; in fact, humans are likely to play an even greater role in daily operations as AI acts as a partner tool to allow project managers and executives to focus on high-quality work and begin leaving basic tasks in the hands of an AI solution.

At Callahan Construction, our internal AI council is already experimenting with AI tools along with the integration of software that uses AI to expedite key tasks. Below are some of the technologies Callahan is considering implementing to harness the power of AI:

• Using ReadAI and OtterAI for transcribing and providing notes on meetings, especially when sharing action items from coordination meetings with the team.

• Leveraging OpenSpace and AI to compare and track 360-degree camera captures against the project’s BIM model in real time.

• Using other LLM AIs (CoPilot, ChatGPT, etc.) to flush out concepts and help provide a framework to build from, which can be used to build a general outline of a presentation (among other specific use cases).

• Deploying General Search Engine AI (Google Gemini, Perplexity) for concise and consolidated search results to find answers to questions accurately and quickly.

For now, Callahan’s AI committee is looking to build out the various use

cases for AI and create a library that will provide guidance on how to standardize AI throughout the company. One path already being considered is using an AI tool like CoPilot to reference internal documents and provide Callahan-specific responses to prompts.

When it comes to helping free up its teams to focus on delivering highly specialized services to its clients, Callahan is eager to deploy AI tools that will take repetitive processes off a project

manager’s plate. The company is hoping AI will someday soon be used for specific tasks like reviewing plans and specs for building submittal logs, scanning preliminary reviews of submittals, finding potential scope gaps, and more. While it’s impossible to see what the future holds, it’s obvious AI will play an outsized role in the AEC industry.

Jason Costello is assistant project manager at Callahan Construction.

Photo by Chinburg Properties

Safeguarding Workers’ Well-being with Prevention through Design

By Atiya Rahim

Every year, thousands of occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities occur on jobsites worldwide. But what if there was a proactive approach to mitigate these risks before they even emerged? That’s where Prevention through Design (PtD) comes in. This safety initiative is revolutionizing the construction industry by embedding safety considerations directly into the design process.

A shining example of PtD in action is the collaboration between Erland, EMD Serono, PM Group, and BR+A on EMD Serono’s Horizon Building. By identifying 175 considerations and implementing 122 of those design changes, we successfully minimized occupational hazards and risks. Now, this same passionate team is back, this time working tirelessly on the Bourne Lab project to ensure safety remains a top priority.

The EMD Serono Bourne Lab project is a 15,000sf renovation within an active

life science facility. The space will require a significant electrical and connectivity upgrade. Erland will also overhaul the existing mechanicals, HVAC, and plumbing systems to accommodate the new lab’s layout. New ductwork, fume hoods, and sinks will also be installed.

In collaboration with PM Group, over 45 PtD considerations have been identified to date, and a significant portion of them have already been implemented. This project exemplifies a proactive approach to safeguarding workers’ well-being. The renovation involves intricate electrical upgrades, mechanical overhauls, and the installation of various systems crucial for laboratory operations.

So, how does PtD play a role in the Bourne Lab project? Let’s delve into a few notable examples:

1. Beam Clamps for Fall Protection – In the new UPS room, beam clamps have been strategically installed to enable personnel to work safely above and on the roof of the UPS room. This simple yet effective addition ensures that workers can perform tasks at heights without compromising their safety.

2. Shut-off Valves for Accessibility –Accessibility to utility supplies is crucial

for lab technicians and building service personnel. By incorporating shut-off valves above and below OSP, access to utility supplies becomes seamless, facilitating maintenance and emergency procedures.

3.

Centrally Located Lower-level Exhaust – The installation of a centrally located lower-level exhaust duct is a critical component of the Bourne Lab project. Designed to extract harmful fumes, this feature ensures a healthier and safer environment for all occupants. These examples represent just a fraction of the meticulous planning and execution involved in integrating PtD principles into the Bourne Lab project, and the results speak volumes: zero losttime incidents through countless hours of work and a safety culture that surpasses industry norms.

As construction safety continues to evolve, it’s imperative that we continue to prioritize it at every turn. Prevention through Design isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a paradigm shift toward a safer, more sustainable future. By embedding safety considerations into the very fabric of our designs, we can protect the most valuable asset of any project: its people.

In the end, it’s not just about constructing buildings; it’s about building a culture of safety that reverberates throughout the industry, ensuring that every worker returns home safely at the end of the day.

Atiya Rahim is project manager at Erland Construction.

Beam clamps installed

High-Profile: Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence

Managing Risk: Financial Project Management and Cybersecurity

By Jim Culkin

In an industry that is by its very nature unpredictable and risky, there are two key areas where business leaders can exercise at least some control over, with the help of technology: financial project management and cybersecurity.

When we talk about financial project management, we’re really focused on managing the financial information associated with every construction project and more importantly, how the analytics derived from this information can help keep the business on track.

On the cybersecurity front, it’s obvious – and ironic – that technology itself has made all of us vulnerable to theft of data and the spiraling costs and implications of that vulnerability. And all businesses today are faced with taking whatever steps possible to protect their business and their employees from cyberattacks. At KBE, we’ve put several systems in place to address these two areas.

First is our new financial and project reporting dashboard, powered by Microsoft’s PowerBi. This software connects multiple cloud-based systems to provide easy access to real-time data

for financial and operational KPIs. In simpler terms, this gives senior leadership an easily accessible view into project performance on every job, from financial metrics to compliance with project documentation. This lets us identify and focus on meeting our clients’ requirements. In turn, the dashboard has ramped up our ability to finely control projects and develop more targeted and accurate business forecasting.

Another key technology that we continue to invest in is cybersecurity

training and protective measures. Like nearly everyone else on the planet, KBE is constantly under attack by “malicious actors” trying to steal something –information, money – or looking for opportunities to wreak tech havoc on our business operations through phishing and other cyberattacks. We’ve implemented and continue to manage an ever-widening scope of tactics, applications, and solutions to keep the company’s data and our personal data safe and our systems operating at top

capacity. One such software is Abnormal Security, which provides email protection against a wide range of attacks. Over the last six months, we’ve thwarted nearly 12,000 attacks.

Increased Productivity

During this same period, Abnormal Security, which was implemented one year ago, filtered through incoming email to all KBE Companies employees to identify nearly 270,000 “grey mail” messages, and kept them out of our inboxes.

As the name implies, grey mail are messages that are most likely promotions, newsletters, or marketing advertisements. By automatically moving these to the “Promotions” folder in our mailboxes, we can keep our focus on the legitimate emails that do come our way. Projected time savings during that six month period: nearly 750 hours of employee time not spent weeding through unwanted and unimportant emails.

Being on Guard

One other technology we invested in eight years ago continues to pay off. We know that the ultimate protection comes from an educated workforce, so we implemented a mandatory cyber awareness training program, KnowBe4, that must be completed each month, covering a range of security topics. As part of that program, our IT team initiates a simulated phishing email attack once a month for all staff. As a result, we have all collectively made improvements in detecting bad actors, and our goal is to achieve 100% success in employee detection skills.

Jim Culkin, DBIA, is executive vice president and chief operations officer for KBE Building Corporation.

Multi-Residential

BPDA Approves new Multi-residential Projects

Boston – The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) board of directors recently approved four new development projects and one renovation of a current building. The board also approved the Net Zero Carbon Zoning initiative, and authorized initiatives focused on resilience and assessing land uses across the city.

The project at 539-551 Centre Street will include the renovation of a longtime multi-family affordable housing building with 147 residential units. The existing Forbes Building will be rehabilitated with a new facade and mechanical systems to bring the existing building performance in-line with the city’s Article 37 sustainable development requirements. The project also aims to improve the public realm with better sidewalks and new streetscape, and will support city

open space goals by adding green space, gardens, and new trees.

The 22-24 Pratt Street project in Allston will build a new 16-story, 318unit multi-family housing development on what is currently an industrial site. Of the units, 54 will be income-restricted. This project is responsive to the recently approved Allston-Brighton Needs Assessment by increasing housing that is accessible, affordable, and transitoriented. The Assessment also identified the need for more publicly accessible open space which this project will also contribute.

The project at 157 Humboldt Avenue and 76 Waumbeck Street will revitalize what is currently a vacant building that has not been used in more than 30 years, and the adjacent vacant land into 100% income-restricted family housing for the community. This will be a mix of one-,

two-, and three-bedroom units. These new buildings will be energy efficient and also include community space.

The 257 Washington Street project will convert an auto body shop and junkyard in Dorchester into 48 residential units, including ten income-restricted units. Its location on Washington Street was identified in the Fairmount Indigo Planning Initiative Four Corners/Geneva Station Area Plan as an opportunity to “leverage vacant and underused lots.” The 4-story building will also include a fitness center and ground-floor retail space.

The 9 Geneva Street project will combine seven parcels in East Boston to create a new 5-story, 28-unit apartment building. Five of the units will be income-restricted. This project aligns with PLAN: East Boston and the Coastal Flood Resilience Overlay District resilient design standards. It is a transit-oriented development, and will add a sidewalk connection to Maverick Street and street trees along the new sidewalk for shade

and pedestrian comfort.

The BPDA board also approved a petition to the Zoning Commission to amend the zoning code to include Net Zero Carbon (NZC) Zoning. This new zoning will introduce sustainability requirements for development projects that support the city’s goals of being carbon-neutral by 2050. NZC Zoning introduces a net zero emissions standard for new project filings after July 1, 2025 with 15 units or more, a minimum of 20,000sf, or additions of a minimum of 50,000sf or more to existing buildings. The amendment will now need approval by the Zoning Commission. Additionally, the board authorized a contract with Arcadis US, Inc. for a flood resilience planning, feasibility, and design study in the Charlestown Navy Yard, which will analyze site conditions and develop implementable design options to contribute to the protection of portions of it from future sea level rise and coastal

continued to page 38

9 Geneva Street

22-24 Pratt Street

257 Washington Street

539-551 Centre Street

Bald Hill Builders Completes 31 Tufts Street Project

Somerville, MA – Bald Hill Builders announced the completion of the 31 Tufts Street project in Somerville.

The development features 16 affordable, mixed-income rental housing units, all designed with highly sustainable features and certified to Passive House standards. The project includes a pocket park that representatives of Bald Hill

Builders say is perfect for community gatherings and enhances the local environment. The property is in close proximity to public transportation and is a five-minute walk to the East Somerville station on the MBTA Green Line.

Bald Hill Builders, a women-owned firm, in close collaboration with E3 Development, another women-owned

development firm, and Placetailor Architects, has brought this project to life. Together, the firms have delivered a number of community priorities identified in the RFP, including housing designed to meet the needs of different household types and a broad range of incomes. The development also emphasizes highly sustainable design features and provides high-quality open space designed to cre-

ate a strong sense of place.

“We are thrilled to have completed the 31 Tufts Street project,” said Brenda Laurenza, president of Bald Hill Builders. “This development addresses critical housing needs and integrates sustainable design and community-focused amenities that will benefit the local residents for years to come.”

BPDA Approves new Multi-residential Projects

storm events. The project will plan and develop the next flood resilient design solutions for the many properties at risk as well as the adjacent neighborhood.

The board also authorized the release of an RFP for a City-Wide Land Use Needs Assessment. The assessment is meant to encourage the city’s goals of

development that supports housing, vibrant business districts, and a strong regional economy, as well as a shift from reactive to proactive planning with the newly established Planning Department. The goals for this assessment are to analyze land use needs, economic and demographic trends, and recommend strategies for equitable growth.

31 Tufts Street

Healthcare

Lahey Hospital & Medical Center Completes Three Projects

Burlington, MA – Architectural and interior design firm Margulies Perruzzi (MP) announced it has completed three projects for Lahey Hospital & Medical Center (LHMC) in Burlington, Mass.

MP completed a 3,141sf modular building addition to create a third Electrophysiology (EP) lab at Lahey, using a crane to lift four 25,000-pound modular units on a new structural system on the fifth-floor courtyard roof adjacent to the existing EP labs. The project team also included Colliers Project Leaders, OPM; Walsh Brothers, GC/CM; CMTA, MEP engineer; Souza True & Partners, Inc., structural engineer; and Gale Associates Inc., exterior envelope consultant.

MP also renovated an existing 1,200sf Neurointerventional Radiology (NIR) room to support new equipment design requirements. The project team also included Colliers Project Leaders, OPM; BOND Building Construction, Inc., GC/CM; CMTA, MEP engineer; and Souza True & Partners, Inc., structural engineer.

Additionally, MP converted a 3,700sf Endoscopy clinic to create a new Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) clinic

and clinical trials. The project team also included BOND Building Construction, Inc., GC/CM, and CMTA, MEP engineer.

“We understand that healthcare environments play a crucial role in healing

and recovery. Designing healthcare projects requires a delicate balance between functionality, innovation, and sensitivity to the needs of patients and medical staff,” said John Fowler, AIA,

EDAC, LEED AP, director of healthcare and partner at Margulies Perruzzi. “We work hard to develop strong relationships with our clients, and we are proud Lahey has trusted us with its projects.”

Organizations and Events

Organizations and Events

Trends and Hot Topics

PWC CT Welcomes New Board

PWC CT Welcomes New Board

Perils of Design-Build Contracts

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

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

By Girard R. Visconti

completed at an earlier stage than the traditional lump sum contract.

Patricia Bilotto returns as chapter president. She is the manager of marketing and business development for van Zelm Engineers. She has nearly 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development in the AEC industry, and presently serves on the program, membership, and awards committees.

Patricia Bilotto returns as chapter president. She is the manager of marketing and business development for van Zelm Engineers. She has nearly 30 years of experience in marketing, communications, and business development in the AEC industry, and presently serves on the program, membership, and awards committees.

There are several forms of contracts between owner and contractor which necessarily involve the architect/engineer. Three basic types are as follows:

Lump Sum Method

The traditional and conservative method is the lump sum method of awarding a contract by an owner to a general contractor. The architect/engineer prepares the contract package including the plans and specifications. Thereafter, the project is placed out to bid with an award going to a general contractor.

Construction Management

The construction manager is hired, by the owner, simultaneously with the architect/engineer. Both the construction manager and architect/engineer work as a team to develop the project. When drawings are sufficiently complete, the construction manager gives the owner a guaranteed maximum price known as the “GMP” and signs a contract to construct the project. In the construction management method, the construction manager has no responsibility for design.

Design-Build

states that from the owner’s point of view the design-build contract may result in faster and less costly construction. The owner looks to one responsible entity i.e. the general contractor who is in fact also responsible for the architectural/ engineering aspects of the project.

Disadvantages of Design-Build

Carolyn Kurth, CPA, CFE, of CohnReznick, will return as treasurer. She serves on the scholarship committee.

Carolyn Kurth, CPA, CFE, of CohnReznick, will return as treasurer. She serves on the scholarship committee.

Laurann Asklof, principal of Shipman & Goodwin, LLP, will serve on the board as vice president. She has approximately 30 years of experience in the area of construction law and litigation. She will continue to participate in the chapter’s programs, mentorship, and scholarship committees.

The construction management approach sometimes known as “fast tracking” is often utilized when the project must be

Laurann Asklof, principal of Shipman & Goodwin, LLP, will serve on the board as vice president. She has approximately 30 years of experience in the area of construction law and litigation. She will continue to participate in the chapter’s programs, mentorship, and scholarship committees.

Dawn Meeker, director at Marcum, LLP, is returning for a second year as chapter secretary. She now serves as the membership chair and will continue as a volunteer on the awards committee.

Dawn Meeker, director at Marcum, LLP, is returning for a second year as chapter secretary. She now serves as the membership chair and will continue as a volunteer on the awards committee.

The “design-build” method is the subject of this article. The architect/engineer is not hired by the owner as in the other two methods but is a subcontractor to the contractor. Design-build is known as a “turnkey operation” because the contractor and architect/engineer construct a project and turn it over to the owner.

Advantages of Design-Build

Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year on the board. She serves as the awards committee chair.

Kim Colapietro, partner of EDI Landscape, LLC, returns for her third year on the board. She serves as the awards committee chair.

The design-build contractor occasionally

Kyma Ganzer, project manager at

Kyma Ganzer, project manager at

LaRosa Building Group, returns for her second year as a director. She is the recipient of the 2019/2020 PWC CT Rising Star Award. She will serve on the mentorship committee.

LaRosa Building Group, returns for her second year as a director. She is the recipient of the 2019/2020 PWC CT Rising Star Award. She will serve on the mentorship committee.

Choity Khan, associate attorney at Robinson Cole, makes her debut on the board as a director. She presently serves on the mentorship committee.

The basic disadvantage to the owner in utilizing the design-build concept is that the general contractor is responsible for 100% of design. There is no check and balance system to the owner since the owner does not have an architect or engineer to review the construction by the general contractor. The owner loses the traditional functions of an architect/ engineer that are usually spelled out in AIA documents. Those duties include review of applications for payment, project closeout, protecting the owner’s interest as to design criteria, project review, site review, review of change orders and costs, interpretation of contract documents, rejection of non-conforming and defective work, etc.

Choity Khan, associate attorney at Robinson Cole, makes her debut on the board as a director. She presently serves on the mentorship committee.

Jennifer Marks, principal at BL Companies, returns for her second year. She will serve as the mentorship committee chair.

Jennifer Marks, principal at BL Companies, returns for her second year. She will serve as the mentorship committee chair.

A disadvantage to the general contractor is the enormous risk that the general contractor is in fact the architect/ engineer with its contract with the owner, notwithstanding the fact that the general contractor subs out the architectural design to the architect/engineer. Basically the architect/engineer has a duty and responsibility to the owner to design the project in the interest of the owner, however, the architecture/engineer also has an obligation to the contractor since the architect/engineer is a subcontractor of the contractor.

Design-Build Project Forms

The industry has various forms for designbuild projects. Perhaps the most popular is the AIA Document A141 2004 Edition Standard Form of Agreement between Owner and Design-Builder which has supplements for Terms and Conditions, definition of Cost of the Work, etc. The AIA has revised the A141 with a 2014 Edition. In addition, AGC has various documents in relation to design-build.

The National Society of Professional Engineers, the American Consulting Engineers Counsel, and the American Society of Civil Engineers have also prepared documents known “AJCDC” documents for utilization in design-build projects.

Insurance and Bonding Requirements for the Design-Build Project Generally liability insurance for

Ronald Paolillo, M. Arch of DRA Architects, begins his third term. He serves on the PWC CT’s scholarship committee.

Ronald Paolillo, M. Arch of DRA Architects, begins his third term. He serves on the PWC CT’s scholarship committee.

Blerina (Bela) Pina, surety territory manager at Nationwide, returns for a second year. She volunteers on the chapter’s communications committee.

Blerina (Bela) Pina, surety territory manager at Nationwide, returns for a second year. She volunteers on the chapter’s communications committee.

Amy Ray, director of business development at EDM, makes her debut as a director. She serves as the communications committee chair and volunteer of the programs committee.

Amy Ray, director of business development at EDM, makes her debut as a director. She serves as the communications committee chair and volunteer of the programs committee.

contractors excludes or does not cover architectural, engineering, or other design functions. Therefore, it is imperative that design-build contractors obtain “design-build coverage.” Two endorsements may provide the required coverage. The first endorsement is called “Exclusion-Contractors-Professional Liability Endorsement” which covers certain design services but excludes certain damages. The second coverage is known as “Limited Exclusion Contract Professional Liability Endorsement” which covers bodily injury or property damage in relation to design services. Most professional liability coverage is made on a “claims made basis” which means that that insurance only covers claims during the policy period as opposed to the coverage in effect at the time of an “occurrence.” I recommend that in the event a “claims made policy” is utilized, that coverage be in effect at least three years from date of substantial completion of the project.

Usually an owner requires the designbuilder to carry a performance and/or payment bond. It is imperative that the bond does not exclude any coverage as to design-build liability.

Conclusion

I do not agree with the concept of designbuild construction, either for the owner, the architect/engineer or the contractor/ construction manager.

It is my preference that the owner retain an architect to draft plans and specifications and then place the project out to bid. If time is of the essence, the owner can issue an RFP to retain the architectural services and at the same time, issue an RFP for a construction manager to work with the architect which accomplishes the same timeframe as utilizing the design-build method. By having the owner contracting with the architect, the architect is loyal and works directly to the owner and the architect can perform construction administration on behalf of the owner. If an OPM is required, by state law or regulations, the OPM can be retained, excluding the duties that the architect shall perform for the owner.

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

The 2021-2022 PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Blerina Pina, Amy Ray, Patricia Bilotto, Dawn Meeker, Laurann Asklof, Carolyn Kurth, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer Marks. Not pictured: Kim Colapietro and Ronald Paolillo

The 2021-2022 PWC CT board (l-r): Choity Khan, Blerina Pina, Amy Ray, Patricia Bilotto, Dawn Meeker, Laurann Asklof, Carolyn Kurth, Kyma Ganzer, and Jennifer Marks. Not pictured: Kim Colapietro and Ronald Paolillo

Boston Sports Institute – Wellesley, MA

Fed Ex Distribution Center

Johnston, RI

Corporate

Nickerson Named Agency of Record for CREtech New York, BOMA New York

New York – Nickerson announced it has been named the agency of record for the Building Owners & Managers Association of Greater New York (BOMA New York), and for CREtech’s flagship conference, CREtech New York, on Nov. 13-14, at the Javits Center.

Nickerson will provide comprehensive PR and communications services, as well as on-site event support and coordination, to enhance BOMA New York’s outreach and engagement initiatives across New York. “BOMA New York is an ideal client-partner for our team, aligning seamlessly with our expertise in the real estate industry,” said Lisa Nickerson, CEO and founder of Nickerson. “Beyond our legacy developer/owner, broker, and AEC expertise, our collaboration with BOMA New York allows us to leverage our deep-rooted connections and influence in New York City. We are eager to amplify BOMA New York’s mission and initiatives through strategic communications, supporting their continued impact and growth.”

“Nickerson’s results-driven approach and commitment to client success

perfectly complement BOMA New York’s collaborative work style,” said Lori Raphael, executive director, BOMA New York. “We are confident their expertise and dedication will help us expand our

Milestone Construction Relocates

545 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, Conn.

New Haven, CT – Milestone Construction Services announced that, due to the growth in its business and the expansion of its team, the firm will be relocating to a new office space as of July 1. The new office location is 545 Long Wharf Drive, Suite 603 in New Haven.

“Milestone has always been committed to delivering exceptional service and high-quality projects and this move will further enhance abilities to do so,” said

President Frank Ferraiolo.

“Our team will work extremely hard to ensure that there is no impact on the communication, service and quality that our customers have come to expect and deserve from us,” continued Ferraiolo. “We are looking forward to the opportunities this new location will provide to better serve our clients moving forward.”

communications reach and showcase our industry-leading initiatives and advocacy. With Nickerson’s support, we look forward to achieving our shared goals and continuing to make a meaningful difference in the greater New York commercial real estate industry.”

The Nickerson team will lead the PR and communications efforts for CREtech New York and serve as the onsite media relations coordinator for all press associated with the event. “Our selection as agency of record for CREtech New York is directly aligned with our agency’s expertise of technology and innovation across the built environment,” said Lisa Nickerson. “Our presence in New York, coupled with our extensive media relationships, lend strength to a

partnership with CREtech as we position them as an industry leader, and drive meaningful engagement for this premier event.”

Michael Beckerman, CEO of CREtech, said, “I have known Lisa Nickerson for quite some time and always been impressed with Nickerson’s outstanding reputation in the real estate marketplace and specifically their track record in media relations. I look forward to collaborating with their team to create an exceptional user experience for our attendees and further establish CREtech as the premier platform for real estate technology and sustainability in the built world.”

NE Architecture Firm Announces Merger

Simsbury, CT – Phase Zero Design Corporation announced it has signed an agreement to join Colliers Engineering & Design.

“This strategic partnership supports our focus on continued growth for our clients, partners and employees,” stated Jim Kimball, AIA, principal, Phase Zero Design.

“Together with Colliers Engineering & Design, we will continue to provide our clients with a unique range of experiences and perspectives that ensure their design visions and goals are achieved,” added Matt Wittmer, AIA, LEED AP, principal, Phase Zero Design.

Phase Zero Design serves six key sectors: academic, healthcare, hospitality,

multi-family, residential, retail, and workplace. This merger will aim to strengthen and grow Colliers Engineering & Design’s architectural, interior design and branding services.

“We are excited to have Phase Zero Design join our team,” said Kevin L. Haney, PE, president and CEO, Colliers Engineering & Design. “This partnership enables us to strengthen our architecture service offerings nationwide and provide new services in existing markets. Our combined expertise will provide our clients with more resources and capabilities.”

This agreement maintains the firm’s senior leadership, and the anticipated closing date will be in Q3 2024.

Training and Recruitment

Plumbers Local 12, Greater Boston PCA Support HS Vocational Programs

Boston – The Labor Management Cooperation Trust (LMCT), a partnership between Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12 and the Greater Boston Plumbing Contractors Association (Greater Boston PCA), recently donated $9,000 to support high school vocational programs in Quincy, Somerville and Boston.

Checks of $3,000 each from the LMCT were issued to Quincy High School, Somerville High School and Madison Park Technical Vocational High School. The donations are part of a joint campaign by the LMCT, Local 12, and the Greater Boston PCA to support high school vocational programs and encourage students to consider plumbing industry careers.

“With the sky high cost of college, careers in the trades are a better option than ever for public high school students,” said Local 12 business manager, Tim Fandel. “We are always looking for the next great apprentice to join our union, help build our communities and experience the union difference. The surest path to the middle class is through a union job and these donations will help support students who choose to pursue careers in our industry.”

The checks were issued to the schools by Local 12 and Greater Boston PCA leaders during tours of the vocational programs at each school. Students met with leadership of both organizations to

learn about career opportunities in the plumbing industry.

“Union plumbers build the plumbing systems that keep our communities healthy and safe and we’re proud to support the next generation,” said Greater Boston PCA executive director, Andrew DeAngelo. “These funds will help each school continue to offer robust vocational training programs so that students have opportunities for success in the plumbing industry.”

Applications Open for ULI Program

Boston – The Urban Land Institute (ULI) of Boston/New England announced that applications for the 2025 Pathways to Inclusion Cohort are now open through August 30. This initiative, in partnership with the Builders of Color Coalition and African-American Real Estate Professionals New England (AAREP), aims to expand ULI membership and professional networks for minority developers and land use professionals in New England.

Pathways to Inclusion is designed to strengthen the participation of underrepresented groups in the land use and real estate sectors, including individuals of African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Middle Eastern, and Asian descent. The Cohort welcomes applicants at any stage of their career who have a strong interest in and/or foundational knowledge of the built environment. Benefits include an annual ULI membership and registration for the 2025 ULI Fall and Spring

Meetings, valued at $3,200.

“Pathways to Inclusion is an important part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the built environment, particularly as we want the real estate industry to reflect and represent all of the communities that we serve,” said Michelle Landers, executive director of ULI Boston/New England. “This program not only provides individuals of color the chance to expand their industry knowledge, network, and take advantage of the vast opportunities within ULI but also enriches the diversity of our network, benefiting all of our members and leaders.”

Cohort members will be able to attend ULI’s Fall and Spring Meetings at a complimentary or reduced registration fee. Additionally, the program includes receptions with ULI leadership and alumni to help expand participants’ professional networks, and the opportunity to attend convenings focused on housing affordability, property management, and career development.

ACE Mentor Program Receives Grant

Boston – ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston is one of 150 local nonprofits that will share in $30 million through Cummings Foundation’s major annual grants program. It will receive $150,000 over three years.

ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston is a volunteer-driven organization that introduces high school students to the professions of architecture, construction management, engineering and the trades. It also raises money for scholarships to high school seniors pursuing degrees in the design, engineering, and construction fields.

“It is an honor to be recognized and awarded a generous grant from the Cummings Foundation – a testament to the hard work over the years from our staff, volunteers, sponsors and partners,” said Ngan Han, board president of ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston. “The grant will not only support the continued growth of the organization as a whole, but will also allow us to focus on expanding our program reach to more schools in nearby cities and towns, invest in activity kits for students, and build our internship program.”

ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston was selected for the grant from a total of 715 applicants. The majority of the grant decisions were made by nearly 100 community volunteers. They worked across a variety of committees to review and discuss the proposals and then, together, determine which requests would be funded. Among these community volunteers were business and nonprofit leaders, mayors, college presidents, and experts in areas such as finance and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program primarily supports Massachusetts nonprofits that are based in and serve Middlesex, Essex, and Suffolk counties, plus six communities in Norfolk County: Brookline, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Quincy, and Wellesley.

“Greater Boston is fortunate to have a robust, dedicated, and highly capable nonprofit sector that supports and enhances the community in myriad ways,” said Cummings Foundation executive director and trustee, Joyce Vyriotes. “The entire Cummings organization is thankful for their daily work to help all our neighbors thrive.”

Madison Park Technical Vocational High School

Quincy High School

Somerville High School

Groom Construction Awards Scholarships to Local Students

Boston – Groom Construction Co., Inc. has awarded three scholarships to local high school students pursuing careers in construction and construction related fields.

Groom Construction recently awarded its annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship to Lindzy Silva and the Construction Management Scholarships to Alexander Wettengel and Mayrin Rodriguez Barrera. Silva and Wettengel are recent graduates of Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School, while Rodriguez Barrera is a recent graduate of Lynn Vocational Technical Institute.

Silva will be continuing her education in the Night Haws program to work toward her schooling hours for her Journeyman’s Electrical License. She says she would like to be one of the first women-owned and operated electrical companies on the North Shore.

Wettengel will be attending UMass Amherst in the fall, studying civil engineering. He says he aspires to design and construct vital infrastructures, fostering community well-being, and that he is looking forward to a fulfilling career in construction management.

Rodriguez Barrera will be attending

Trends and Hot Topics

Wentworth Institute, studying architecture. She says she has known since she was little that she wanted to do something in the design field that will help the public, and she also wants to motivate women

to never give up and to never let anyone tell them they can’t do something.

“Groom Construction is pleased to award these scholarships to these exceptional young leaders who are

destined to succeed in their chosen fields and who undoubtedly will make a profound impact on their community,” said Dwight Groom, one of the partners at Groom Construction.

Ask the Electrician: Is Summer a Prime Time for Commercial Electrical Maintenance?

By Brian Leborgne

The answer is “Yes!” While January marks the official new year, many businesses view September as a fresh start. This makes summer an ideal time for commercial property owners to schedule long-term electrical maintenance projects.

During the summer months, buildings are often less occupied, minimizing disruption to your tenants. This allows for a smoother execution of planned equipment changes, upgrades, or additions to the electrical systems.

Here are essential maintenance tasks we recommend for all commercial property owners:

• Prioritize Life Safety Systems: Regularly testing your fire alarm and emergency

lighting systems is paramount. These systems are critical during emergencies, ensuring the safety of everyone in the building.

• Quarterly Checkups: Schedule quarterly tests for your generator and Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) to verify proper operation.

• Annual Inspections: Once a year, have a qualified electrician inspect your transformer and distribution connections, and exercise the main breakers in your distribution panel.

• Distribution Panel Care: As the heart of your electrical system, the main distribution panel needs special attention. Maintenance services should include thermal imaging of all breakers to identify potential loose connections or issues within the panel. Additionally, it’s vital to keep the panel clear of debris or dust to ensure optimal performance.

• Beyond the Panel: A comprehensive maintenance program should also encompass lighting controls, fire alarm control panels, and major networking components.

Maintaining Your Electrical Room

Electrical rooms, often located in basements or out-of-the-way areas, can be neglected between maintenance visits. Summer provides the perfect opportunity for a thorough cleaning and inspection. Remember, electrical rooms deserve the same level of cleanliness as other parts of your building. Easy access to components is crucial in case of an emergency. Additionally, ensure unauthorized personnel are prevented from entering these vital spaces.

Planning for Smooth Operations

An ongoing electrical maintenance program is vital to prevent system failures. Reputable electrical contractors tend to be busy during peak seasons. Start planning early and budget for future enhancements, including EV car charging stations or other energy efficiency upgrades. By securing your maintenance slot in advance, you’ll guarantee a smooth and efficient project completion.

Brian Leborgne is regional manager – service at Interstate Electrical Services.

(l-r): Lindzy Silva; Alexander Wettengel; Tom Groom, principal, Groom Construction; Bernadette Butterfield, senior VP, business strategy & development, Groom Construction; and Michele Donovan, HR/travel coordinator, Groom Construction

Organizations and Events

AGC MA Marks 100 Years with Centennial Gala

Boston – Hundreds of local construction professionals gathered at The State Room in Boston on May 23 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of The Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA).

Martin Walsh, who formerly served as Boston Mayor and as U.S. Secretary of Labor, provided the keynote address. AGC MA CEO, John Ferrante, kicked off the event, which also featured comments from outgoing AGC MA board of directors chair, Bill Aalerud of Columbia, and incoming chair Jeff Navin of Consigli Construction. Brad Forrest of Walsh Brothers is the new vice chair.

“The leadership and membership of AGC MA have worked together for a century to ensure that our industry is meeting the challenges of today while embracing the world of tomorrow. Our resourcefulness, resilience, and hard work helped create the modern built environment,” said Ferrante. “At the same time, we have prioritized and championed the needs of our workforce, establishing and ensuring the safety and health protocols and protections that have made the construction sector a supportive place to build a long-lasting and satisfying career.”

Injunction Issued Against Davis-Bacon Rule

National – The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in Lubbock has granted The Associated General Contractors of America’s (AGC) motion for a nationwide preliminary injunction, temporarily blocking the AGC-challenged provisions to a rule issued by the U.S. Department of Labor expanding coverage of the Davis-Bacon Act (DBA).

AGC originally filed a narrowly tailored lawsuit in federal court against the department, challenging the agency’s unlawful expansion of coverage to truck drivers and material suppliers owned and operated by general contractors or subcontractors. The association also challenged the operation of law provisions making DBA requirements applicable to construction contracts even when the prime contract makes no reference to the DBA. All of these are provisions of the Department Davis-Bacon final rule that took effect on new contracts on or after October 23, 2023.

As the federal court declared, “Defendants engaged in egregious violations of Article II, section 3 of the Constitution, because rather than taking care to faithfully execute the DBA, Defendants instead usurped Congress’ law-making power and attempted substantive amendments to the DBA.

Presidents and their agencies act ultra vires and do violence to the Constitution when they attempt to unilaterally amend Acts of Congress to suit their policy choices. Under Article I, section 1 of the Constitution, Presidents and their agencies cannot amend by executive fiat acts of Congress. Doing so violates the Constitution, and this preliminary injunction shall be issued to prevent this blatantly unlawful action.”

“Our concern remains that the department is expanding the scope of the rule well beyond what Congress ever intended,” said Jeffrey Shoaf, the association’s chief executive officer. “This injunction restores the original intention of the Davis-Bacon Act.”

AGC of America was joined by coplaintiffs Associated General Contractors of Texas, and J. Lee Milligan, Inc. and the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce and worked with lead counsel Robert Roginson of Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart P.C., and local counsel for plaintiffs Fernando M. Bustos of Bustos Law Firm.

John Ferrante

Lisa St. Peter; Ed St. Peter, STEM Solutions, LLC; Cori DiDonato, STEM Solutions, LLC; and Michael McDonald

Francis Colantonio, Colantonio; Janet Chrisos, Massachusetts State College Building Authority; Jeffrey Navin, Consigli Construction Co. Inc.; and Brad Forrest, Walsh Brothers, Inc.

Shaun Lover, president, Columbia, and Carly Hayden, senior safety manager, Columbia

Martin Walsh

People

Weston & Sampson Hires Two

Portsmouth, NH – Weston & Sampson recently welcomed Rafic Khalil, PE to the firm as a senior project manager in its Transportation discipline, and Brion Wynn as a senior project manager in its Foxborough office.

Khalil has over 35 years of experience on a variety of bridge, transportation, and other infrastructure projects throughout New England. His experience includes managing the engineering team as the MassDOT’s owner’s representative for the Air Rights Parcel 12 over the Massachusetts Turnpike in Boston and overseeing the peer review of developers’ design and construction on behalf of MassDOT. Khalil is a Registered Professional Engineer in Massachusetts (structural) and New Hampshire. Wynn brings over 30 years of

professional experience in water and biological wastewater treatment design, membrane filtration, and aeration systems. He is also skilled in related electrical, HVAC, and automation systems for industrial, municipal, and institutional clients. He has been a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute for 12 years.

TFMoran Personnel Announcements

Bedford, NH – TFMoran announced that Michael Dahlberg has been promoted to senior vice president of the company. Additionally, the firm recently welcomed Project Engineer Allyson Jones and three summer interns to the Bedford office.

Dahlberg joined TFMoran in 2021 as an assistant vice president and survey department manager in the Bedford office. He has over 40 years of experience as a licensed land surveyor in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, and Vermont. Additionally, he is a certified New Hampshire septic system designer.

Jones’ recent experience includes working for a local Massachusetts firm, with a focus on transportation engineering for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. She graduated from Merrimack College in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering and a minor in mathematics. At TFMoran, Jones will assist the Stormwater Management department with daily tasks including SWPPP preparation and inspections, water quality monitoring, and flocculation treatment systems.

Tim Purcell, Brooke Stoncius, and Jackie Gamache have joined the TFMoran team as the 2024 summer interns.

Purcell is joining the Landscape Architecture department in the Bedford office. He is a senior at the University of Rhode Island, expecting his Bachelor of Science in landscape architecture next May. His internship includes working in the office with TFMoran landscape architect, Mike Krzeminski.

Stoncius is working in the Stormwater Engineering department in the Bedford office. She is returning as an intern for

a second year. She attends Endicott College where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Engineering. Her internship includes working in the field with Senior Project Manager Dan Blais.

Gamache is working in the Marketing department in the Bedford office. She is returning as an intern for a second year. Gamache attends the University of Rhode Island where she is pursuing her Bachelor of Communications degree. Her internship includes working in the office with Marketing Coordinator Julia Chartier.

Bowdoin Construction Promotes Two

Needham Heights, MA – Bowdoin Construction announced the promotion of Luisa Sheahan and Andrew Leclerc to the role of senior project manager.

Sheahan has been with Bowdoin since 2022, and Leclerc since 2023. Representatives of the company say that both have demonstrated leadership qualities, attention to detail, and the problem-solving aptitude necessary to be efficient and effective project managers. Sheahan and Leclerc have overseen a number of high-profile projects for the firm’s academic, healthcare, and commercial clients.

“Andrew and Luisa are strong contributors to our operations team and

Sheahan Leclerc firm overall. They bring enthusiasm to their work and are mentors to our up-andcoming junior associates,” said Bowdoin president, Andrew Buckman. “Both are well-deserving of this recognition, and we are happy to see them advancing in their careers here at Bowdoin.”

MOCC Welcomes Two

West Roxbury, MA – M. O’Connor Contracting, Inc. (MOCC) announced it hired Sudesh Rampersad as director of preconstruction and chief estimator, and Anthony Hraibe as director of field operations.

Rampersad brings over 25 years of experience in estimating and project management to MOCC. Throughout his career, he has worked with clients on large residential and commercial projects in the Boston area. He has a Bachelor of Science from Wentworth Institute of Technology in architectural engineering technology.

Hraibi has an extensive background and deep knowledge in all types of

Rampersad Hraibe construction. In his over 25 year career, he has served in a variety of construction management roles. He holds a B.S. in construction engineering technology from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Netland Named Chief Digital Officer

Albany, NY – CHA Consulting, Inc. has named Jeff Netland as EVP and chief digital officer, effective June 3.

In Netland’s role as chief digital officer, a newly created role at CHA, he will have overall responsibility of the technology and digital ecosystem. He will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team reporting to CEO Jim Stephenson, and work across

CHA’s business lines to further advance digital enablement. Netland’s background includes most recently serving as chief technology officer and vice president of engineering for Carrier Fire & Security. His experience in digital solutions and engineering also includes various leadership roles at Ecolab, Honeywell, and General Electric.

ACE Mentor Program Welcomes Hurley

Boston – ACE Mentor Program of Greater Boston (ACE) has announced the new executive director for the upcoming academic year. Effective immediately, Kristen Hurley will assume all roles and responsibilities as the nonprofit organization’s executive director. Hurley has over two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in maximizing business growth. She previously spent over five years leading partnership initiatives, client relations, and innovative business strategies as a member of the senior management team at Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute

of Technology. Prior to that, she spent 16 years at WGBH, managing partnerships and launching public media management. Currently, she is an active board member for the Browning the Green Space organization.

“The opportunity to contribute to an organization dedicated to shaping the next generation of leaders in architecture, construction, and engineering is inspiring and I look forward to utilize my experience and passion to empower students, foster innovation, and drive positive change within the diverse community at ACE,” said Hurley.

Netland

Khalil Wynn

Jones

Stoncius

Dahlberg

Purcell

Gamache

Hurley

Calendar

ASM

July 11 at 10:00 AM

28th Annual Golf Tournament

This event will be held at Pinehills Golf Club in Plymouth, Mass. and will include two scenic championship courses, side by side; the same tee time for all players (10:00 a.m.); a BBQ lunch on the course; all players together for a reception and dinner; recognition of the 2023 ASM scholarship winners; over $70,000 in prizes and gifts; a $50,000 cash prize for a hole-in-one; and a raffle to benefit ASM’s 2025 scholarship program. The tournament format is scramble, gross scores only. Golfer price includes green fees, lunch, reception/ dinner, gifts and prizes.

CT ABC

July 15 at 8:30 AM

36th Annual Lyman Golf Outing

This year’s Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut event will be held at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, Conn. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by breakfast at 9:00 a.m., and a 10:00 tee time.

Construction Institute

July 23 at 3:00 PM

2024 Connecticut Golf Tour

This stop on the tour will include networking and golf at the Indian Hill Country Club in Newington, Conn. Attendees are encouraged to bring a colleague or a client. Tee time is 3:00 p.m.

Next Issue

ABC NH/VT

August 8 at 6:00 PM

Seacoast Harbor Cruise

This Associated Builders and Contractors of New Hampshire/Vermont (ABC NH/ VT) event will include heavy appetizers and a cash bar while the M/V Thomas Laighton Boat cruises around the Portsmouth harbor, offering views of the New Hampshire coastline.

Interested in sharing your organization’s upcoming event? Email publisher@high-profile.com for more details.

ABC MA

August 29 at 4:00 PM

Last Blast of Summer & Associate - Supplier Members Market Place Networking Event

Attendees of this Associated Builders and Contractors of Massachusetts (ABC MA) event will have the opportunity to celebrate the last few days of summer while networking with fellow ABC MA members. It will be held at The Cove, located on Mount Hope Bay in Fall River, Mass., and will include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet with and learn more about some ABC MA Associate and Supplier Members and how to take advantage of the benefits they offer.

AUGUST

Retail/Hospitality and Entertainment

Our next issue will focus on the Retail/Hospitality and Entertainment sectors in New England!

If you are involved with any of the following types of projects, this next issue is for you!

• Hotels

• Retail Stores

• Restaurants

• Music or Theatre Venues

• Sports Complexes

Ready to go electric?

NECA contractors and IBEW Local 103 members are ready to plug you in!

As the demand for electric vehicles surges, so does the need for efficient and reliable charging infrastructure. We have the expertise and training to install and maintain the complex electrical system.

By working with our contractors, you’ll benefit from: Competitive pricing and reliable service