June 2023 Construction Outlook

UCANE’s 49th Annual Scholarship Awards

Isabella Bruno

Isabelle Pacella Morgan Rainville

Edward Hines

Lily Jameson

Ellen Losordo

Veronica Crispin Garcia

Fiona DiCerbo

Cailyn Hayden

Martin Connolly

Lillian Mullen

Cailyn McCarthy

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JUNE, 2023

5 President’s Message: Finding the Next Generation of Workers

7 Legislative Update:

• Massachusetts Senate Passes FY24 Budget Proposal; Conference Committee to Meet

• UCANE Weighs in on Water Infrastructure Funding

• Attorney General Announces Bureau Leadership Teams

• AGO Announces Revised Non-Profit Reporting Requirements

• News in Brief

23 Legal Corner: Massachusetts Public Works Construction: The Awarding Authority’s

Editor: Jeff Mahoney, Senior Editor: Anne Klayman, Associate Editor Suzanne Hatch, Magazine Designer/Assistant Editor: Sherri Klayman, Head Writer/Assistant Editor: Mike Lenihan Construction Outlook Chair: Ryan McCourt Editorial Board: Ryan McCourt, Brian Cooney, Chris Valenti, & Querino Pacella

Finding the Next Generation of Workers

With the summer months upon us, I hope members are busy out on jobsites, while also being able to enjoy some time with their families. As I have written many times in this space, we have a once in a generation opportunity to update our underground utility infrastructure with the additional funding being provided by the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, stimulus monies, and surplus funds. UCANE’s priority is to make sure we take advantage of this opportunity and ensure the maximum amount of funds are used on these critical infrastructure projects.

However, along with promoting the work, we must also prioritize working with other construction associations and stakeholders to address workforce development. We must work with our elected officials, educators, and partners to find ways to recruit and retain the next generation of diverse workers for our industry.

The allocation of this money began this year, and is expected to peak in 2027 and 2028. According to a recent McKinsey study, nationally there is an estimated shortfall of more than 160,000 workers in the contractor and subcontractor sector, 145,000 workers in the materials sector, and 40,000 workers in the engineering and technical-services sector. These shortfall estimates are just for the year in which demand peaks, not over the five year span of the additional funding.

Within Massachusetts, there have been widespread industry efforts to attract a younger, diverse workforce, but the results still have not replaced the aging workforce. The most current estimates are that employers will need to fill nearly 43,000 job openings in construction occupations. At present rates, the Commonwealth’s vocational schools are projected to meet only about 23% of the expected demand in construction. There needs to be more targeted workforce training, to provide our industry with the next generation of skilled employees.

I am hopeful that working together we can create more scalable career pathways for the construction industry. These have always been good paying jobs, and industry wages are growing at their fastest rates in 15

years. The prohibitive cost of many four-year colleges and associated debt, have led many younger folks to look towards alternatives. Likewise, the economic uncertainty and contraction happening in other sectors can benefit our recruiting efforts. There is unfortunately no “silver bullet” to the problem, but an increase in investment for construction workforce recruitment and training by both the public and private sector will go a long way in closing the gap. UCANE members are ready, willing, and excited to do the work that lies ahead!

I would like to conclude by congratulating the 12 recipient of UCANE’s 2023 Scholarship Program. Each year I am amazed at the talent and accomplishments of our recipient, and this year was no exception. Thank you to all who attended our Scholarship Awards Dinner in May. I was grateful to be in attendance to hear the inspiring words of our guest speaker, Matt Brown. You can read more about the event, Matt, and our scholarship recipients beginning on page 42. It was an honor for me to be able to present two of the scholarships, one in memory of my father, Richard McCourt, and the other in memory of my grandfather, Frank McCourt.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, I sincerely want to thank all of our members who have supported this program over the last 49 years. I want to wish all of this year’s recipients continued success in their college careers and future endeavors. I also wish everyone a safe, healthy, and busy summer! n

Mark Molloy, Esq.

Massachusetts Senate Passes FY24 Budget Proposal; Conference Committee to Meet

The Massachusetts Senate passed its version of the fiscal year 2024 (FY24) budget proposal towards the end of May. According to a report by the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, the Senate’s budget proposal includes $55.9 billion in total line-item spending, having added $82.2 million in new spending and 34 outside policy sections through a budget process that considered 1,049 amendments.

Two of the focus areas of the Senate FY24 budget involved community colleges and transportation funding. With respect to community colleges, the Senate FY24 budget proposal includes $20 million for Mass Reconnect, as a first step towards free community college in the Commonwealth for those aged 25 and older; $20 million for a free community college program for nursing students as a pilot to support a high-need workforce area and build towards universal free community college in the fall of 2024; and $15 million for Free Community College Implementation Supports to collect necessary data, develop best practices, and build capacity for free community college in the fall of 2024. With respect to transportation, the Senate proposal includes $190 million for MBTA capital investments for critical capital resources for both the subway and commuter rail systems; $25 million for an innovation grant program for transportation providers across the Commonwealth for initiatives such as electrification, infrastructure, capital investments, new and innovative service delivery models, expanded service hours or weekend service, rural connectivity, and connectivity improvements across regional transit authority service areas; and $100 million in supplemental aid for roads and bridges, half of which will be expended consistent with the Chapter 90 program, while the other half will be spent with a focus on the total mileage of participating municipalities and, finally, $50

million for a reserve to provide matching funds for transportation projects that are eligible for federal funds, which will help the state better compete for increased federal transportation funding.

For UCANE’s purposes, the Senate FY24 budget included level funding for the Clean Water Trust’s contract assistance line-item at $63.3 million, which was the same as the House proposal. While the Commonwealth’s Sewer Rate Relief Fund was not funded in the Senate proposal, this reflects an ongoing House-Senate dynamic. For its part, the underground storage tank (UST) program was funded at $10 million which, again, was the same as the House proposal. Finally, the House budget proposal increased funding for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to slightly over $51.9 million, higher than the House proposal for the same agency.

Among policy areas of note, the Senate FY24 budget proposal recommended:

• Community Preservation Trust Fund. Requires the Comptroller to transfer $30 million to the Massachusetts Community Preservation Trust Fund, prior to the certification of the FY 2023 consolidated net surplus. This trust fund provides matching funds to municipalities that have adopted the Community Preservation Act.

• Debt Limit Exception for School Building Projects. Allows for debt authorized by a city or town to pay for the costs of a school building project, not funded by the Massachusetts School Building Assistance (MSBA), to be excluded from the municipality’s debt limit. Authorized debt for school building projects participating in the MSBA project pipeline is currently excluded from local debt limits.

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Legislative Update continued from page 7

• Mobility Pricing Commission. Creates a special commission to investigate, study, and make recommendations on the development of regionally-equitable public transportation, roadway, and congestion pricing.

• Codifying Preventive Health Services Coverage. The Senate’s FY24 budget codifies into law the Federal Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) provisions that protect access to preventive services. Preventive services include, but are not limited to screenings for cancer, diabetes, HIV, and depression, as well as preventive medications such as statins, immunizations, and PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV)

Similar to the House budget proposal, the Senate FY24 budget proposal contains less policy initiatives, often contained in outside sections of the budget, than any recent budget back to the fiscal year 2018 Senate budget. that the body just passed an extensive tax relief/tax reform initiative. A conference committee of three House members and three Senate members will now negotiate a compromise budget for the Governor to consider. To review the Senate FY24 budget proposal, please visit: http:malegislature.gov/ Budget/SenateBudget.

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UCANE Weighs in on Water Infrastructure Funding

The Joint Committee on the Environment and Natural Resources held a hearing in May on House Bill 852, An Act Relative to Municipal Assistance for Clean Water and Economic Development Infrastructure. Filed by Representative Jay Livingstone, the legislation would create a ten-year program, funded at $100 million in bonded funds each year, to provide municipalities and regional water authorities with a longer-term water infrastructure funding solution. Despite the short-term infusion of federal funds through the America’s Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), UCANE continues to support initiatives that provide a longer-term solution to address the Commonwealth’s water infrastructure needs. In supporting the legislation, UCANE wrote:

“For an extended period of time, the Commonwealth has relied on substantial funding from the federal government. While the ARPA and IIJA have provided short-term funding, it is not a feasible strategy to simply hope the federal gov-

ernment will provide “once in a lifetime” / future funding of this type. While the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust (“CWT”) has tried to fill the existing and future water infrastructure funding gap by leveraging federal dollars to provide contract assistance to municipalities and regional water authorities, it is simply not enough. Municipalities that have undergone maintenance and upgrades in the past are still struggling with existing debt and cannot finance new projects regardless of needs. Other municipalities have ever-growing needs, but insufficient capital available to get any new projects off the ground. There is a clear need for a new solution.

Accordingly, to close the water infrastructure funding gap, I respectfully urge the Committee to provide a favorable report to House Bill 852, An Act Relative to Municipal Assistance for Clean Water and Economic Development Infrastructure. This legislation provides a

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mechanism to meet municipalities’ and regional water authorities funding needs. This legislation, which establishes a Water Infrastructure Improvement Fund under the auspices of the CWT, will provide for a water infrastructure funding program similar to the model used under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90 for funding road and bridge work within the Commonwealth. In particular, the legislation will provide for an annual appropriation of $100 million each year for 10 years to close the aforementioned water infrastructure gap. The CWT will administer and disburse these grant funds based on the formula within the legislation.”

The Joint Committee on the Environment and Natural Resources will hold a public hearing on UCANE’s proposed water infrastructure funding initiative, HB803 / SB453, that will fund water infrastructure without the issuance of bonds, at a later date. To review these and other bills, please visit the legislature’s website, https://malegislature.gov/, and enter the corresponding bill number under the section “Bill & Laws”.

Ferguson offers a complete line of products to cover all your water, sewer and storm water management needs, and our relationships with the waterworks industry’s top vendors give our customers peace of mind through unmatched customer service, on-time delivery, and industry leading fill rates.

Attorney General Announces Bureau Leadership Teams

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell has announced the appointment of new and continued leadership across the various bureaus within her office. The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) has five bureaus: Criminal Bureau, Energy and Environment Bureau, Government Bureau, Health Care and Fair Competition Bureau, and Public Protection and Advocacy Bureau. Leadership within the various bureaus shall include the following:

• Criminal Bureau. Ms. Jen Cotter will serve as Chief to the AG’s Criminal Bureau, which works to protect the public by investigating and prosecuting a wide range of criminal cases, including public corruption, financial fraud, organized crime, major narcotics offenses, human trafficking, gaming, insurance fraud, amongst other issues. Ms. Cotter has been with the AG’s Office since 2008 and has held leadership positions with the Criminal Bureau since 2016, most recently Deputy Chief of the Bureau and, before

that, Chief of the Office’s White Collar and Public Integrity Division, in which she oversaw and led cases involving criminal misconduct against public agencies, by public officials, and violations involving other trusted institutions. Ms. Stacey Pichardo will serve as Deputy Chief of the AG’s Criminal Bureau.

• Energy and Environment Bureau. Mr. Richard Johnston will serve as Chief of the AG’s Energy and Environment Bureau, which works to promote clean energy, represent the interests of utility ratepayers, protect the environment, and reduce the threat of climate change within communities across Massachusetts and nationwide. From 2015 until this appointment, Mr. Johnston held the title of Chief Legal Counsel at the AG’s Office, where he was involved in many energy and environmental issues. Prior to joining the AG’s Office, he was a litigation partner in the Boston office of WilmerHale. Mr. Turner Smith

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will serve as Deputy Chief of the AG’s Energy and Environment Bureau.

• Government Bureau. Mr. Robert Toone will continue to serve as Chief of the AG’s Government Bureau, which represents Massachusetts and the state’s agencies, officials, and employees in a broad range of civil litigation and conducts government oversight. Mr. Toone has served in this position at the AG’s Office since 2015. Previously, he was a Partner with Foley Hoag LLP, served as Counsel to Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, and worked as a civil rights attorney at the Southern Center for Human Rights. Ms. Anne Sternman will continue to serve as Deputy Chief of the AG’s Government Bureau.

• Health Care and Fair Competition Bureau. Ms. Courtney Margarita Aladro will serve as Chief of the AG’s Health Care and Fair Competition Bureau, which protects access to health care, nonprofit, government and other services through enforcement of health care, Medicaid fraud, charities, false claims and state antitrust

laws. Most recently, she served as Division Chief of the Office’s Non-Profit Organizations/ Public Charities Division. Ms. Aladro was previously a litigator at Choate, Hall & Stewart LLP. Ms. Mary Freely will continue to serve as Deputy Bureau Chief of the AG’s Healthcare and Fair Competition Bureau.

• Public Protection and Advocacy Bureau. Ms. Cynthia Mark will continue to serve as Chief of the AG’s Public Protection and Advocacy Bureau, which protects Massachusetts residents from discrimination, fraud, unfair labor or business practices, amongst other scams and crimes. She has held the title of Bureau Chief since 2020, which she was appointed to after holding the title of Division Chief in the AG’s Fair Labor Division for five years. For 10 years, she was the managing attorney of Greater Boston Legal Service’s Asian Outreach Unit. Ms. Mychii Snape will now serve as Deputy Chief of the AG’s Public Protection and Advocacy Bureau.

Information about the Attorney General’s Office and the laws it enforces can be found at: https:// www.mass.gov/orgs/office-of-the-attorney-general.

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We specialize in solving complex issues and provide a full range of construction law and dispute resolution expertise including Compliance, Crisis Response & Management, Dispute Resolution, Government & Internal Investigations, Procurement, Risk Management, Surety, Insurance and Contract Negotiations

AGO Announces Revised Non-Profit Reporting Requirements

In a press release issued by her office towards the end of May, Attorney General Campbell stated that her office will no longer require nonprofit organizations with gross support and revenue of $25,000 or less to submit a Federal Form 990 as part of their annual filings and disclosures. In making these changes, the Attorney General stated that she “hopes this change will help to facilitate compliance and transparency from smaller, often volunteer-run organizations.” This revision also places Massachusetts in closer alignment with other states that require public charities to submit annual financial filings.

In an additional effort to promote efficiency in the completion and processing of charities filings, effective September 1, 2023, charities will need to fulfill their regulatory filing obligations to the AGO using the online “Charity Portal,” launched in 2022. After August 31 of this year, the AGO will no longer accept paper submissions. This online filing mandate provides a more efficient way for charities to comply

with annual filing obligations and enables the AGO to make the information available to the public on its website quicker.

To support the non-profit sector through this transition, the Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division will run several in-person filing clinics at locations around the Commonwealth and will host monthly online webinars to demonstrate the use of the Charity Portal and respond live to questions from users about the filing process. These learning opportunities are in addition to the live hotline, in-Portal support, and instructional materials and videos already available on the AG’s website.

For more details about these training materials or to learn more about the webinars and filing clinics and sign up to attend, please visit: https://www. mass.gov/event/live-support-how-to-use-the-massachusetts-online-registration-and-filing-portal-forpublic-charities-2023-06-13t103000-0400-2023-1212t103000-0500.

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Legislative Update continued from page 19

• Augustus Named Secretary of Housing. In late May, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll appointed former Worcester City Manager Ed Augustus to serve as the state’s first Housing Secretary in more than 30 years. Secretary Augustus, who helped to create thousands of new housing units at all income levels during his tenure in Worcester, will lead the new Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities beginning June 1. Secretary Augustus served as City Manager of Worcester from 2014-2022. As City Manager, Augustus managed a $750 million budget, as well as the $90 million, 20-year Urban Revitalization Plan. As reported in a press release by the Governor’s Office, Secretary Augustus spearheaded the $240 million landmark redevelopment of Worcester’s Canal District, including leading the complex negotiation to relocate the Boston Red Sox AAA-affiliate (now the WooSox) to the city and construction of the multi-use Polar Park stadium, hotel, and housing development, as well as the Kelley Square intersection redesign. Prior to joining the City of Worcester, Augustus served as State Senator for the 2nd Worcester District and Chief of Staff for Congressman Jim McGovern, among other positions.

• Gobi Named Rural Affairs Director. In a separate statement from the aforementioned, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll also announced that State Senator Anne Gobi will join the Administration as the new Director of Rural Affairs in the Executive Office of Economic Development. In this new role, Senator Gobi will serve as a dedicated advocate and ombudsman cultivating economic development within rural communities. She will ensure that the needs of rural and regional economies are incorporated into the economic development plan being developed by the Executive Office of Economic Development and will be responsible for coordinating with secretariats and state agencies to ensure that state government is attuned to the unique needs of these towns. An avid outdoorsman, Senator Gobi co-founded the Sportsmen’s Caucus, which convenes supporters of fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. She also serves as a member of the Veterans and Federal Affairs Committee. Prior to being elected to the Legislature, she taught at Leicester High School,

had her own law office, and worked with victims of domestic violence at Central Mass Legal Assistance. A lifelong Spencer resident, Gobi graduated from Worcester State University and the Massachusetts School of Law.

• Knapp to Take over External Affairs at DCAMM. The Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM), which is responsible for state government's capital planning, public building construction, facilities management, and real estate services, announced that Ms. Stephanie Knapp will be their new Director of External Affairs. Ms. Knapp most recently led communications for the Barbara Lee Family Foundation and the Barbara Lee Political Office. She previously managed communications for BlueHub Capital, a community development financial institution, and worked in publishing -- as an editor with Seal Press and Crown Publishing -- for nine years. Ms. Knapp holds an MBA with a focus in social impact from Boston University's Questrom School of Business, and a bachelor's degree from New York University. n

Massachusetts Public Works

Construction: The Awarding Authority’s Investigation of Bidder Responsibility

Generally speaking, bid protests challenging an awarding authority’s determination of bidder responsibility are among the most difficult to win. While M.G.L. c. 30, § 39M requires an award to the “lowest responsible and eligible bidder,” the public works construction statute defines this phrase to refer to the bidder “whose bid is the lowest of those bidders possessing the skill, ability and integrity necessary for the faithful performance of the work.” Thus, Section 39M has both an objective component and a discretionary component. The bid must not only be objectively low, the bidder must have the “skill, ability and integrity” necessary to faithfully perform the work. This is a discretionary decision for the awarding authority to make.

Because the awarding authority has discretion to determine bidder responsibility, the decision of the awarding authority will typically only be overturned in limited circumstances, such as where the decision is arbitrary and capricious. This is a high standard and the fact that a disappointed bidder may disagree with the awarding authority’s determination will not be enough to win a bid protest.

However, bidders should know that the awarding authority’s discretion is not “unconstrained.” An awarding authority generally cannot act in disregard of facts and circumstances. The awarding authority must make a reasonable investigation and base its decision on relevant facts. The decision must be justified on the record.

Importantly, an awarding authority may

conduct its own investigation and consider information beyond that which is submitted at bid time. Sometimes, third-parties supply awarding authorities with information concerning a particular bidder. This was the subject of a recent bid protest decision of the Bid Unit of the Massachusetts Attorney General (the “Bid Unit”).

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Construction & Public Contracts Group, Hinckley Allen, LLP

Christopher Morog Partner Robert T. Ferguson Partner

Legal Corner continued from page 23

The case arose out of a municipal roadway and intersection improvement project. After bid opening, a third-party provided the awarding authority with information regarding the apparent low bidder, including information regarding prior Wage Act, DPU, and OSHA citations. The awarding authority did not promptly notify the low bidder of this development, did not request any information from the low bidder, and did not contact any of the low bidder’s references. Instead, the awarding authority rejected the low bid after confirming the citation information using an online “Violation Tracker” database and without performing any further investigation. When it advised the low bidder of its decision, the awarding authority did not identify the reasons for rejection. A bid protest ensued.

The Bid Unit determined that the awarding authority arbitrarily rejected the low bid without providing the apparent low bidder with an opportunity to respond and without conducting a “meaningful investigation” of bidder responsi-

bility. The Bid Unit stated that when an awarding authority receives third-party information, the awarding authority must disclose that information to the bidder “as soon as the information is received . . . regardless of whether the awarding authority reviewed or relied upon the information.” (Emphasis in original). The Bid Unit recognized the importance of affording the bidder an opportunity to respond before the awarding authority makes its determination. The Bid Unit added that a bidder “should not have to resort to retaining counsel and filing a public records request in order to learn the actual facts and circumstances of its rejection.”

The Bid Unit concluded by recognizing that there is “no statutory requirement” that a bidder have a “completely error-free” record to be found responsible. Bidders are entitled to a “meaningful, balanced investigation” by the awarding authority. Because that did not happen in this case, the Bid Unit allowed the protest. n

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aruso Jonathan Duggan Jordan Tirone

UCANE Members Travel to Washington DC to Meet with Congressional Delegation

UCANE members recently traveled to Washington, DC to participate in Infrastructure Week as part of the Clean Water Construction Coalition (CWCC) to discuss local and national water infrastructure and construction issues with members of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation. UCANE President Ryan McCourt, McCourt Construction Co., Treasurer Chris Valenti, GVC Construction, Inc., and Executive Director Jeff Mahoney, were joined by representatives of UCANE member firm P. J. Keating Company of Lunenburg, MA, as well as our partners at Construction Industries of Massachusetts (CIM).

UCANE members discussed the Clean Water Construction Coalition’s priorities including:

PRIORITY #1: Fully Fund Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Commitments

• Fund Drinking Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, Water Reuse Programs to IIJA levels + Base FY Appropriation Levels for FY24:

• Clean Water SRF Funding at a minimum of $4.58 Billion ($2.95 Billon IIJA + $1.63 Billion FY Base). In addition:

• Drinking Water SRF Funding at a minimum of $4.05 Billion ($2.95 Billion IIJA + $1.10 Billion FY Base)

• Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), including State WIFIA (SWIFIA) at a minimum of $80 Million

PRIORITY # 2: Accelerate the Work

• Enactment of legislation, policies, regulations, and specifications that accelerate the project pipeline and bring more water projects to construction in a timely manner. Advocate that EPA require State SRF’s to streamline review and approval processes for the replacement or improvement of existing water infrastructure assets.

PRIORITY #3: Price Escalation/Supply Chain

• Recognize near-term challenges, such as inflation, disruptions to supply chains, and lack of domestic capacity or supply when implementing new domestic preference procurement requirements for construction materials and manufactured products. Protecting public health and the environment, while maintaining affordable user rates, requires the flexibility to source the most cost-effective materials and best available technologies.

The Clean Water Construction Coalition (CWCC) was formed in 2006 by several large construction associations that came together to promote federal legislation that improves

water and wastewater infrastructure nationally. CWCC includes 27 dedicated associations from across the country representing over 10,000 firms and several other associated groups. The states represented in the Coalition account for approximately 72 percent of the total annual funding for the Wastewater and Drinking Water SRF programs nationally. The CWCC is a member of the US Water Alliance and is working within that framework with partners to ensure that clean, reliable water is available for all, now and in the future. n

(L-R) UCANE Treasurer Chris Valenti, (GVC Construction, Inc.), UCANE Executive Director Jeff Mahoney, and UCANE President Ryan McCourt (McCourt Construction Co.)

with UCANE’s Officers and Board Members

Will you please give us some information on your background and tell us how you got started in the construction sales business?

Growing up I was surrounded by Civil and Utility Construction. I began in this industry very young. I started working for my grandfather and uncles doing underground utility construction work part time in my youth. I went on to study at Wentworth Institute of Technology and continued working for my family’s business full time until making the switch to EJP.

How long have you been with E. J. Prescott, Inc., and what is your role in the company?

I have been with EJP for a little over 16 years now. I currently handle account and project management for contractor clients. I am focused in municipal, private, and federal civil and mechanical construction projects.

What types of construction products does E. J. Prescott, Inc. specialize in selling to public works contractors, and in what areas of New England do you provide sales of these products?

Our founder, Everett Prescott, opened the first EJP store in Gardiner, Maine in 1955. This would be the first Waterworks operation North of Massachusetts. The family-run company now has 29 branch stores

David Hamilton

E. J. Prescott, Inc.

and partners throughout New England and New York. We specialize in water, wastewater, stormwater, and geo-products. We represent some of the best and most trusted brands in the business. EJP also has warehouse and sales operations in the Mid-West for our underground products and we cover an even greater geography for many of our product lines.

How long has EJP been a UCANE member, and why did you accept our invitation to serve on UCANE’s Board of Directors?

EJP has been a proud UCANE Member for 44 Years. I have been involved in many of the UCANE events/functions/programs for years now. I have witnessed many talented individuals from our industry get

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UCANE Board Member

Under the Hard Hat continued from page 29

involved with UCANE and have seen the benefits of a strong and healthy organization. When I was presented the opportunity to join the Board and collaborate with professionals who were passionate about our industry, I could not say “no.”

The COVID pandemic in 2020 and 2021 brought with it some serious supply chain issues affecting the horizontal construction industry. Some of these supply chain problems softened in 2022. Looking at 2023, what products can our contractors expect will still face supply chain issues and cost/availability concerns?

The last couple of years have been very stressful for all involved parties. Availability issues, pricing instability, as well as supply chain, and trucking shortages all have played a role in the stress for both distribution houses like ours, as well as for our contractor clients. As we move forward into the 2023 construction season we have seen a pla-

teau of sorts with many of the issues from the last couple of years, but we are not “back to normal” quite yet. We have been working tirelessly to increase local inventory levels and make sure our clientele is well positioned headed into the season. We are still seeing some delayed shipping times in pipe, service brass, and specialty valves. We are hopeful that things will continue to level set. In the meantime, we are working with our customers to plan ahead and take material in advance of scheduled requirements as much as possible. n

“Air Rights” Projects over the Massachusetts Turnpike are Gaining New Momentum in Boston

After more than 10 years of planning and reviews two projects finally break ground

History of the Massachusetts Turnpike

Construction of the Massachusetts Turnpike, also coined at the time as “The Western Expressway,” was the key element in the State’s 1948 Transportation Master Plan. It was intended to bolster the economy in the City of Boston, which had seen a decline since the end of World War II. Creating a better East to West roadway for commuters and trucks would revitalize both Boston and the state’s second largest city, Worcester.

In 1952, enabling legislation was passed to create a quasi-public agency called the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority (MTA). Bonds were quickly issued and hard-driving William F. Callahan, former Massachusetts Director of Public Works, was named MTA Director.

Engineering for the turnpike project and eminent domain takings proceeded at a rapid pace and by 1955 construction projects were being put out to bid. Callahan directed multiple segments of the Turnpike to be under construction simultaneously. By late 1957 the Massachusetts Turnpike was completed from the New York border to Route 128 in Weston, MA, a distance of 125 miles. All that highway construction accomplished in less than three years was an impressive accomplishment even by today’s standards.

But the remaining 13 miles from Route 128 into Boston, known as the “Boston Extension,” was a much more challenging and politically sensitive route. This final segment of the turnpike was held up for another five years by right of way and eminent domain challenges and difficulty with existing railway properties. Lawsuits from the City of Newton, and negotiations with Prudential Insurance Company, who had just purchased a 28-acre parcel in Boston along the planned route, further complicated the Boston Ex-

tension project. Only through the relentless efforts of MTA Director Callahan, and with some support from his friend, and newly elected President, John F. Kennedy, were obstacles resolved and construction of the Boston Extension moved forward in 1962. By 1965, the 13 miles of remaining turnpike was finally connected to the Central Artery in Boston, and the Prudential Center was on its way to completion. Ironically, William Callahan, the driving force behind the construction of the Massachusetts Turnpike, did not live to see the final milestone, passing away in 1964 from a heart attack.

Air Rights Projects History

Along the way, the Prudential Center Complex, currently owned by Boston Properties, became the first project built over the Massachusetts Turnpike and it even had its own (eastbound only) exit onto the property. The Prudential Tower was built adjacent to the Turnpike Tunnel, not directly on top of it. At 52 floors and 749 feet, the Prudential Tower is still the second tallest building in Boston, behind 22 Clarendon Street (formerly the John Hancock Tower at 790 feet), and remains an iconic impression on the Boston skyline.

Similar to the Prudential Center, another negotiated arrangement between Star Market Company and the MTA occurred at the same time in the early 60s that resulted in the first supermarket being built on top of the turnpike in Newtonville, where it still sits today.

After the Prudential Center project and the Star Market Project, the MTA delved deeper into “Air Rights” and created and negotiated 99-year leases to allow construction on top of the Turnpike in Boston for the Hancock Garage (1976) and for Copley Place (1983). In 1993, the MTA performed a study of potential building sites over the turnpike that might be considered suitable for “Air Rights” development. There was little interest by developers except for one project called Columbus Center. After 10 years and $100 million worth of planning, Columbus Center failed in 2008 without breaking ground.

In 2009, the MassDOT took ownership of all MTA property and absorbed MTA employees. Still with limited interest from investors in “Air Rights” projects on parcels above the “Pike,” MassDOT did another study of potential buildable parcels over the Turnpike (now called I-90). They came up with 23 separate parcels (44 acres total) of varying shapes, sizes, and complexity within the three mile section of at-grade turnpike within Boston city limits. They all include air rights over the busy turnpike and some even include air rights over active commuter and freight railroad tracks. These parcels will require the design and construction of elaborate foundations, footings, and 20-foot high walls alongside and in the median strip of the turnpike. Massive beams and decks will be required that can span the turnpike and railways to create pads upon which buildings can be constructed.

Obviously, the logistics and expense to construct a building that spans across and above active highways and railways are immense and not for the faint-of-heart. Only the largest and most well-heeled developers are able to participate in these risky ventures which may take a minimum of 10 years from conception to completion.

The permit process is long and starts with developing conceptual plans, geotechnical investigations, and cost estimates for such a project. Negotiating a Parcel Fee and a 99-year leasing agreement with MassDOT and meetings with various agencies and neighborhood groups will consume more time and resources. During these years of planning, permitting, and construction, your project will be subject to national and local economic swings, inflation, and changes in supply and demand for commercial or office or other type space. Such “Air Rights” projects only become financially viable when the demand for space (commercial, retail, research, or residential) in Boston is at record high levels.

on page 35

Prudential Tower 1965 – Tallest Building in the world outside of New York at the time continued

Planning for the future of your business and your family.

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We understand that the issues faced by a privately held or family owned business often reverberate through the broader family dynamic, and that a clearly defined strategy for running and transitioning the business is essential for both corporate and familial harmony.

Our attorneys can assist with a variety of legal issues: including succession and tax planning issues, employment-related issues, retaining quality outside directors and advisors, and managing exit transactions.

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“AIR RIGHTS” continued from page 33

New Air Rights Projects Emerge

The last Air Rights project constructed over the Turnpike was Copley Place completed in 1983. After nearly a 40-year absence, two new “Air Rights” projects have managed to go through 10+ years of planning and reviews and are currently under construction in Boston. The first to break ground in 2020 is known as Parcel 12, an 80,000SF parcel over I-90 near Boylston Street and Massachusetts Avenue in Boston’s Back Bay district. Samuels & Associates of Boston, will develop 700,000SF of mixed-use space including an office component, a hotel component, a 2-level, below grade parking facility with 150 spaces, as well as retail and restaurant space.

The $700 million complex features two high-rise buildings on either side of the turnpike connected by a one-acre landscaped pedestrian plaza built over I-90. The layout calls for the foundation for the two high-rises to anchor into bedrock adjacent to and 150 feet below the Turnpike. The creative design puts less

weight on the air-rights deck which helped to manage project costs.

Building over eight lanes of highway and four MBTA Commuter Rail tracks requires extensive coordination. Samuels and Associates chose Suffolk Construction as the Construction Manager/General Contractor. UCANE member J. Derenzo Co. performed the sitework and assisted with the foundation and deck portions. As of June 2023, the foundation continued on page 37

DigSafe.com or Call 811 Before You Dig It’s

Follow these steps for a safe excavation:

• Pre-mark the location of intended excavation using white stakes, paint or flags.

• In MA, ME, NH and RI, notify Dig Safe® at least 72 hours in advance, not including weekends and holidays.

• In Vermont, notify Dig Safe® at least 48 hours in advance.

• Notify non-member facility owners.

• Maintain the marks placed by underground facility owners.

• Use caution and dig by hand when working within 18” of a marked facility.

• If a line is damaged, do not backfill. Notify the affected utility company immediately if the facility, its protective coating, or a tracer wire is damaged.

• Call 911 in the event of a gas leak, or if a damaged facility poses a risk to public safety.

• Know your state’s excavation requirements.

• Go to digsafe.com for educational material and current laws.

“Air Rights” Parcel 12 over I-90 at Boylston & Massachusetts Ave.

smart. It’s free. It’s the law.

“AIR RIGHTS” continued from page 35 and the connecting deck are complete and the steel superstructures for both high rise buildings are well underway.

The Parcel 12 project is moving toward a mid-2024 completion date.

The second “Air Rights” project, known as Fenway Center, broke ground in 2021. It is located on Parcel 7 which, at 90.000SF, is the largest of the Air Rights parcels being offered by MassDOT. The developers of the Fenway Center mega-project are IQHQ, a Real Estate Investment firm with offices in Boston and San Diego, and Merdith Management, a Real Estate Developer and Property Manager based in Beverly, MA. Merideth’s second generation owner John Rosenthal has developed many prime properties in the Boston area and is one of the largest property managers in Massachusetts.

Fenway Center is being developed in two Phases. Phase 1 is a more conventional development of mid-rise buildings built on land adjacent to the turnpike and to historic Fenway Park. Approved plans call for 312 residential units and 37,000SF of retail space across two buildings and parking lot construc -

tion. Phase 1 is well underway and scheduled for occupancy in 2024.

Phase 2 is the most challenging portion of the Fenway Center project. It is anything but conventional and will encompass the entire area above I-90 between the Brookline Avenue Bridge and the Beacon Street Bridge. That is a footprint of nearly two acres above which will be constructed a 22 story and a continued on page 39

J. Derenzo Co. performing sitework on Parcel 12 Project

Badger

“AIR RIGHTS” continued from page 37

12-story building and a parking garage. The finished project will create approximately one million square feet of office, laboratory, and retail space.

For the construction of Fenway Phase 2, the Developers chose to divide the project into two components and select a CM/GC for each component. For the very complex Foundation Support and Deck Package, the developers chose UCANE Member and Framingham based J. F. White Contracting Co. The vertical construction component of the project, to be erected on the J. F. White-constructed “two acre canopy” to be built over the Turnpike, will be handled by John Moriarty and Associates, Inc. from Winchester, MA.

A detailed update on the Fenway Center Phase 2 Foundation Support and Deck Package being constructed by UCANE contractor J. F. White Contracting Company, will be published in the July issue of Construction Outlook magazine. n

“Air Rights” Parcel 12 rises up over Mass. Turnpike at Boylston St. - Nov. 2022 Photo Courtesy of Samuels & Associates

UCANE’s 43 rd Annual Golf Classic

Monday, July 10, 2023

Brookmeadow Country Club • Canton, MA

Hosted By

TAYLOR OIL COMPANY

E. J. PRESCOTT, INC.

$ 25,000 “Hole-in-One”

McCOURT CONSTRUCTION

COMPANY

$10,000 Putting Contest

DAGLE ELECTRICAL CONST. CORP.

“Beat the Pro” against a Former

N.E. Patriots Player

CORE & MAIN

Photos with Sports Celebrity

RITCHIE BROTHERS

AUCTIONEERS/IRON PLANET

Golf Ball Dartboard

J. F. WHITE CONSTRUCTION CO.

Chevrolet Silverado

“Hole-in-One”

McLAUGHLIN CHEVROLET

Continental Breakfast

ATS EQUIPMENT, INC.

Closest to the Pin Contest

CONCRETE SYSTEMS, INC.

Goody Bags

P. GIOIOSO & SONS, INC.

Guest Sponsors

JAY CASHMAN, INC. (4)

55-Inch Smart TV

SCRAP IT, INC./

MINICHIELLO BROS., INC.

Cold Drink Carts

GVC CONSTRUCTION, INC.

NATIONAL TRENCH SAFETY

T-QUIP SALES & RENTALS, INC.

TRIUMPH MODULAR

UNITED CONCRETE PRODUCTS

Golf Carts

IUOE - LOCAL 4

Barbecue Lunch

AQUALINE UTILITY, INC.

PATRICK DiCERBO -

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

J.J. KANE AUCTIONEERS

MABBETT & ASSOCIATES, INC.

RJV CONSTRUCTION CORP.

SHEA CONCRETE PRODUCTS, INC.

UNITED CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY

Social Hour

PATRICK DiCERBO -

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

FERGUSON WATERWORKS

HUB INTERNATIONAL

NEW ENGLAND

All Signage ROADSAFE TRAFFIC SYSTEMS

For sponsorships or reservations call the UCANE office at 617.471.9955

Lobster Clambake Sponsor

Corporate Sponsor

UCANE’s 49th Annual Scholarship Awards Night at Brookmeadow Country Club

Sponsored by C. N. Wood Company, Inc.

“Education is the Key that Unlocks the Golden Door to Freedom”

On May 9, UCANE once again hosted our Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner, honoring 12 deserving students for their outstanding achievements during their high school or college years. Our scholarships are awarded to children and grandchildren of UCANE members and their employees. The venue for the ceremony was Brookmeadow Country Club in Canton, MA.

This year’s recipients represent the “best of the best “of today’s youth and they exemplify what UCANE stands for as an Association: honesty, dedication, commitment to family and community, and no fear of hard work. The students were smartly attired for this event, looking very much like the successful future leaders they are sure to become, and many were accompanied by their proud parents and siblings.

UCANE’s commitment to provide financial support for the next generation of executives and leaders in their chosen fields has been unwavering for 49 years, and uninterrupted even by a worldwide pandemic. UCANE member’s generosity is unparalleled when it comes to our Scholarship Awards Program. Our Association has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships since initiating the program in 1974.

Before dinner, students and their parents were able to meet with UCANE members and exchange pleasantries in the upstairs function room overlooking the first tee. After a cold drink and hors d’oeuvres, it was time for dinner, and the Brookmeadow staff

did not disappoint and served a sumptuous meal for the crowd of 175 to enjoy. Simply “par for the course” according to the club’s function manager, Christine Nickel!

As dinner was winding down and dessert was about to be served, UCANE’s Executive Director, Jeff Mahoney approached the podium and began the Awards Program. Jeff congratulated the scholarship winners for their impressive resumes and he wished the students continued success as their educational portion of their lives continues. He also recognized the parents who no doubt deserved a large amount of credit for supporting and guiding their children along their path, especially considering the challenges and distractions that their children face in these times.

Keynote Speaker – Matt Brown

Jeff then introduced our keynote speaker for the evening, Matt Brown from Norwood, MA who was sponsored by UCANE member Todd McDonald of Broadstone Advisors. Being from Norwood himself, Jeff has known Matt Brown and his family for many years. Matt’s story is one that countless people in Eastern Massachusetts are familiar with. It is story of grit and determination, defying odds, and having faith and hope that will surely resonate with our young award winners who will soon be facing some choices and challenges of their own as they embark on life’s journey.

~ George Washington Carver

Matt Brown was a 15-year-old sophomore at Norwood High School when he suffered a spinal cord injury during a high school hockey game in 2010. He spent 21 days at Children’s Hospital Boston, then 100 days in Atlanta, GA at the Shepherd Center Rehabilitation Center before returning home.

From the beginning, Matt was determined that he was not going to let the injury define the way he was going to live his life. He had missed four months of school but had a goal of graduating with his class. He committed to taking classes over the summer, started his junior year on time, and one year later graduated from high school on time, receiving the “Golden Diploma Award” for overcoming adversity. He went on to attend Stonehill College in Easton MA, where he lived on campus all four years and earned a degree in Communications.

Matt is the author of the book Line Change, which he wrote with Todd Civin, which chronicles his experiences, from the day of the accident to the current day. The book gives the reader a personal account of what Matt was feeling and experiencing over the last 10 years, as well as hearing from his family and friends on how Matt has affected their lives.

Matt is a motivational speaker to high schools, colleges, and professional organizations about dealing with challenges and change, and overcoming adversity.

Matt also congratulated the award recipients and he recognized the hard work that each of them put in to earn the UCANE scholarship. He reminded the group to always remember the friends and family who gave them positive support along life’s way. Seek new friends in college that are positive people and have a moral compass. Although our young guests will face challenges ahead both academically and socially,

continued on page 45

Scholarship Awards Night continued from page 43

Matt advised them not to hold things inside and not try to go it alone when choices seem difficult or intimidating. Instead, do not be afraid to share your feelings with your “inner circle”– your trusted friends and your family, before making major decisions that could affect your future. Lastly, Matt reminded the students that their college years will fly by before you know it, so be sure to put the books aside sometimes, enjoy the college experience, and have some fun along the way!

Jeff thanked Matt for his inspiring remarks and then began the formal Scholarship Awards presentations. He explained that the criteria to earn a UCANE scholarship was more than just academics and class rank. The award is also weighted on a student’s participation in school activities, dedication to teamwork via sports and clubs, after school work, and community engagement. Each application is reviewed by a committee of educators who are not affiliated with UCANE.

As Jeff introduced each scholarship recipient and impressed the audience with that student’s impressive credentials, the family members looked on with pride. UCANE members were in awe of how many accomplishments each had already made in their young lives. With a lifetime ahead of them it seems the “sky is the limit” for this group.

Some UCANE history permeated the room as each scholarship was dedicated in honor of, and in memory of prior UCANE leaders who were instrumental in creating the strong and respected association that UCANE is today. Descendants and employees of these industry icons were on hand to say a few words to each winner and to offer their congratulations.

The 49th Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner was an overall great evening and a fitting tribute to UCANE history while, at the same time, all attendees recognized

continued on page 47

Scholarship Awards Night continued from page 45

that the future looks bright for all of us, based on the caliber of the students introduced tonight.

*Matt Brown’s inspiring book, “Line Change”, is available for purchase on Amazon at: https:// www.amazon.com/Line-Change-Matt-Brown/ dp/1643072102

You can also learn more about the Matt Brown Foundation at https://www.mattbrownfoundation.org/

Executive Director Jeff Mahoney closed our awards ceremony by congratulating our Scholarship recipients , thanking Matt Brown and his father Mike for making tonight a special event for all who attended, and by recognizing the UCANE members who made this night possible by each year gratuitously supporting our Scholarship Program without hesitation.

Isabella Bruno

Arnold Belli Memorial Scholarship

Isabella is the daughter of Jamie and Nicholas Bruno of Bourne, MA. Nicholas works for UCANE member firm Barletta Heavy Division of Canton, MA. Isabella attended Saint John Paul II School in Hyannis, MA where she was on the academic honor roll throughout her high school career.

She was secretary of the National Honor Society, a Le Moyne College Heights Award winner, she was on the speech and debate team, and a member of the year book club. In addition to her demanding course of study and school activities Isabella volunteered at Big Brother/Big Sister and Kind Hearts for Kids. She is a figure skater in a nationally acclaimed program, and a learn to skate instructor.

Her guidance counselor wrote, “Isabella is well respected by both her peers and the staff of St. John Paul. Her enthusiasm is often infectious as is her compassion. She is a quiet leader yet at the same time, a good soldier. I expect great things of her in the future.”

She will attend Fairfield University where she plans to study biology on a pre-med track to become a dermatologist.

Isabella received the Arnold Belli Memorial Scholarship. Arnold was the former President of A. R. Belli, Inc. of Newton, MA. One of Arnold’s passions was UCANE’s Scholarship Program and to this day, his four daughters, Linda, Karen, Cindy, and Lisa continue their father’s tradition. Arnold was also the recipient of UCANE’s highest honor, our Contractor Member of the Year Award. Karen Keaveney and Cindy Sementelli presented this scholarship in memory of their father to Isabella.

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Martin Connolly

William Zoppo Memorial Scholarship

Martin is the son of Jill and Brian Connolly of Quincy, MA. Brian is President of ATS Equipment, Inc. of Boston, MA. Martin attended Boston College High School in Dorchester, MA where he maintained honors and high honors all throughout high school.

He loves studying classical languages and has won multiple awards in Latin, Greek, and Chemistry. He has also won the GPA Scholarship Athlete Award, the upper level Certamen Division at the College of the Holy Cross Classics Day in 2022. Outside of school he is a member of the competitive rowing team, Neponset River Rowing, and rowed seven seasons, earning three varsity letters and scholar athlete award with the BC Crew team, and volunteered at the Boys/Girls Club in Dorchester, My Brother’s Keeper, Saint Agatha’s, and Father Bills. He also helped raise funds for Good Samaritan Mental Health Fund-Matthew’s Crew, Suicide Prevention.

Martin’s school counselor said, “The top five words to describe Martin are: industrious, positive, thoughtful, faithful, and persevering. Martin is upbeat and focused every day in school and genuinely cares about the wellbeing of his peers and teachers. He is deeply empathetic towards others, particularly those who are experiencing adversity in their lives.”

Martin will attend Holy Cross College where he will study Classics/History and Writing.

This scholarship was funded by R. Zoppo Corp. in memory of William Zoppo, former President of R. Zoppo Corp. of Stoughton, MA. Mr. Zoppo received UCANE’s highest honor that of Contractor Member of the Year. Bill was a second-generation member following his father Rocco, who was one of UCANE’s founding members. Later, Bill’s son David continued the family tradition by becoming a third-generation member, who served as UCANE President and as a member of our Board of Directors for many years.

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Veronica Crispin Garcia

Albanese Brothers, Inc. Family Scholarship

Veronica is the daughter of Beatriz Garcia and Ariel Crispin of Worcester, MA. Ariel works for UCANE member firm R. H. White Construction Co., Inc. of Auburn, MA. She attends Worcester Polytechnic Institute and is an Architectural Engineering Major-focusing on the science and engineering aspect of building design, and she currently has a 3.64 GPA. She works as a Peer Learning Assistant, is a Senator in WPI’s Undergraduate Student Government Association, and she is also the fundraising Chair of the Society of Hispanic and Professional Engineers. In addition, Veronica was the coordinator of a Saturday catechism program for children from low-income families. Veronica was also a recipient of a Presidential Award and the Leonard H. White, Greater Worcester Community Foundation Scholarship.

Her calculus professor wrote, “Veronica is one of the most dedicated students in my 130 student Calculus II course. She regularly attended office hours and consistently earned good grades in the course earning a final grade of ‘A’. Beyond her academic performance, she is a student who really stood out for having a positive attitude and dedicated work ethic. She showed excellent emotional maturity while going through the challenges of learning calculus. I thought she had a good personality and character to work for our department as a Peer Learning Assistant (PLA)”

Veronica’s goal is to work in the AEC field in construction or designs that make a safe functional space that fits people’s necessities. She wants to find innovative and sustainable ways to assemble a building or project.

This scholarship was funded by Albanese Brothers, Inc. in an effort to help support our next generation. Albanese Brothers, Inc. is a 45-year-old private family business. It was originally founded by brothers Marco and Giovanni Albanese in 1978, and is now owned and operated by Marco’s children Marcella, Maria, and Otto Albanese. The company is highly respected in our industry and has been a huge supporter of UCANE over the years.

DiCerbo

Herman Snyder Memorial Scholarship Fiona

Fiona is the daughter of Jennifer and Patrick DiCerbo of Schenectady, NY. Pat works for UCANE member firm Northwestern Mutual of Albany, NY. She attends Texas Christian University where she is studying finance. She currently has a 3.92 GPA, and she was on the President’s List her freshman year and the Dean’s Honor List her sophomore year.

During her high school years she was a peer leader. Outside of her studies she was a TCU Powerlifting Club member and earned first place in her weight class at her first ever competition.

Fiona’s professor wrote, “I have had the pleasure of teaching and observing Fiona in my classes, and I can confidently say that she is among the brightest and most dedicated students I have ever encountered in my academic career. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional intellectual abilities and a strong work ethic. Outside of academics, Fiona is a valued member of the TCU Power Lifting Club, displaying commitment to health and fitness while balancing her academic responsibilities. Additionally, involvement in community service as a peer tutor demonstrates a sincere willingness to help others and contribute positively to the community.”

This scholarship was awarded in memory of Herman Snyder, a founder of the prestigious construction law firm Hinckley Allen LLP. Hinckley Allen has been UCANE’s legal counsel for over 40 years and it is through their generosity that this scholarship is awarded.

Go Beyond Tracking

Cailyn Hayden

Richard McCourt Memorial Scholarship

Cailyn is the daughter of Kristina and Robert Hayden of Troy, NY. Kristina works for UCANE member firm Broadstone Advisors LLC of Latham, NY.

She attended Tamarac High School in Troy, NY, where she was in the top 20% of her class. She was a member of the National Honor Society, a Student Senate member, Board of Education Student Liaison, and the Students Against Destructive Decision Secretary. Cailyn received the Physical Education Leadership award, and the Russell Sage Recognition Award.

Cailyn’s school counselor wrote, “Cailyn is respectful, hardworking, focused, and cooperative. These qualities pay off for her in the classroom setting. She will be receiving an Advanced Regents Diploma in June. She has community service experience…coaching JV volleyball and helping 4th and 5th graders learn to play basketball…she is well rounded and a pleasure to work with.”

Cailyn will be attending Russell Sage College to study Nursing.

Cailyn received the Richard McCourt Memorial Scholarship, which was presented in memory of Richard McCourt, former President of McCourt Construction Company. Rich was one of the most respected contractors in our industry. Although his company performed mostly road and bridge projects, he was determined to support UCANE and our industry by becoming a member and taking an active role in our Association. Richard’s son Ryan McCourt presented this

Edward Hines

Tony & Anthony Umbro Memorial Scholarship

Edward is the son of Gina and William Hines. Bill works for UCANE member firm J. F. White Contracting Co. of Framingham, MA.

Edward attends the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, where he is studying computer science and math and has earned a 3.8 GPA. He is on the Dean’s List, is a member of the UMass Cybersecurity Club, the UMass CIC Soft, UMass Machine Learning Club, and Hack UMass 2022.

His academic advisor wrote, “Edward is assiduous, proactive, and eager to take advantage of new opportunities and challenges. He is completing a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics…I have worked with thousands of wonderful students in my career, and Edward ranks among some of the best in terms of intelligence, motivation, and work ethic. The computer science program at UMass is rigorous, ranking among the top 20 programs in North America and he is an excellent student in our program.”

Edward received the Tony and Anthony Umbro Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was funded through the generosity of the Umbro family in memory of two family members, Tony Umbro and his son Anthony. Tony came to this country at the age of 17 and in 1973 he started Umbro & Sons Construction Corp., with his wife Georgette as Office Manager. Later, their sons joined the business. Tony’s son Anthony went on to become President and General Manager of Umbro & Sons Construction Corp. Paul Umbro presented this scholarship to Edward.

Lily Jameson

Robert B. Our, Sr. Memorial Scholarship

Lily is the daughter of Shannon and Everett Jameson of Marshfield, MA. Lily is an employee at UCANE member firm The Driscoll Agency of Norwell, MA.

Lily attended South Shore Charter Public School in Norwell, MA where she achieved First Honors in her senior year. She was a member of the Muslim Student Association and an intern for her teacher as a social media account manager. Lily received the Jaguar Award and the math class Workshop Warrior Award. Her English teacher wrote, “Lily is a dedicated student and she has contributed well to class discussions and her writing has always been clear, strong, and descriptive. She is kind hearted and an extremely hard worker. She has so many positive qualities that will make her a wonderful teacher for her students. Lily has various roles in her community that all portray her as a positive role model for others. Academically she pushes herself to the best of her ability and always strives beyond.”

Lily will attend Bridgewater State University where she will major in Secondary Education and minor in English Tesol.

Lily received the Robert B. Our Memorial Scholarship. Robert B. Our Sr. was the former President of the Robert B. Our Company, Inc. of Harwich, MA. Because the Our family has been so incredibly supportive of UCANE and especially our scholarship program, 11 years ago, our Board of Directors unanimously voted to present one of our scholarships in memory of Robert Our Sr. However, we later received a letter from his son John who wrote, “my family could not think of a better way to honor our father’s name, and all he stood for, so the Our family is proud to begin funding this scholarship on an annual basis.” Robbie Our presented this scholarship to Lily in honor of his grandfather.

Ellen Losordo

Philip Jasset Memorial Scholarship

Ellen is the daughter of Stephanie and Neal Losordo of Braintree, MA. Neal works for UCANE member firm P. Gioioso & Son, Inc. of Hyde Park, MA.

Ellen attended Braintree High School where she achieved honor roll status all four years of high school. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the Swim Team, Best Buddies, Students Against Destructive Decisions, and Mock Trial. Ellen completed over 40 hours of community service, and is a camp counselor.

Her English teacher wrote, “Ellen is a hardworking, enthusiastic, and capable young woman who I greatly enjoyed working with for two years. One of her greatest strengths is her presence in the classroom. She always came to class ready and willing to do what was asked of her.Another highlight is her enthusiasm. When Ellen is passionate about something she goes above and beyond. Overall she is a wellrounded and capable student and it was a sincere pleasure to work with her.”

Ellen will attend the University of Tennessee. She is undecided about her undergraduate major and wants to become a corporate lawyer.

Ellen received the Philip Jasset Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship was presented in memory of our dear friend Phil Jasset, a longtime UCANE member, friend, and mentor to many officials in state and local government. Phil was literally the historical librarian of all construction programs in our industry and was considered the “go-to-person” by many agency heads when questions arose on the clean water laws and funding mechanisms used to fund these programs.

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Cailyn McCarthy

Joseph D’Amico Memorial Scholarship

Cailyn is the daughter of Jennifer and Michael McCarthy of Hanover, MA. Michael works for UCANE member firm C & S Insurance Agency of Mansfield, MA.

Cailyn attended Hanover High School, where she earned a 3.75 GPA. She was on the honor roll all four years and earned high honors her sophomore year. She was the Varsity Soccer Captain her senior year, Varsity Ice Hockey Captain her junior and senior years, and Varsity Lacrosse-Captain her senior year. She was a member of the Be Better Club, the Yearbook Club, Chess Club, Student Government-Elected Class Representative 2019-2023, Elected Head of the School-Wide Relations Committee, Hanover Special Needs Athletic Partnership-Mentor, Hanover Foundation for Educational Enrichment 20202023, and an End Hunger New England Outreach Program Volunteer. She received the Patriot Ledger All-Scholastic, Eastern Mass. Conference, Second Team All Star, Patriot League Conference Team All Star, Boston Bruins/MIAA Sportsmanship Award Winner , Hobey Baker Award Winner, and she received the Joe Masi Award for Outstanding Sportsmanship.

Her guidance counselor wrote, “Cailyn is a driven and kind person who has displayed an exceptional work ethic over the past four years. She is sincere, personable, and dedicated in all areas of life. Academically she has challenged herself with a substantial course load during her high school career and has shown her resolve to test herself while being a leader as a three-sport captain. She is a grounded student who has shined in the time I have known her.” Cailyn will be attending Saint Anselm College where she will major in Business/Management.

This scholarship was presented in memory of Joe D’Amico. Joe and his brothers Nino and Paul owned J. D’Amico, Inc and were valued members of our Association and the underground utility contracting community for more than 40 years. Joe served on our Board of Directors for more than 25 years and later became UCANE President. He also received UCANE’s highest honor, that of Contractor Member of the Year. Mike Lenihan and Nick Biello presented this scholarship to Cailyn in honor of Joe D’Amico.

Lillian Mullen

Robert DeSanctis Memorial Scholarship

Lillian is the daughter of Caterina and Andrew Mullen of Georgetown, MA. Andrew works for UCANE member firm Weston & Sampson Engineers, Inc. of Reading, MA.

Lillian attends UMass Dartmouth Honor’s College where she is studying Civil Engineering with a structural design focus, and she has earned a 3.76 GPA. She is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, holds a college research position, is a Peer Tutor, leads a mindfulness group, and volunteers at Our Neighbor’s Table. She has been a member of the Chancellor’s List, the Dean’s List, she is a Chancellor’s Scholarship recipient, and is a High Demand Scholarship recipient.

Her English professor wrote, “Lillian is an individual who excels in the classroom, but just as importantly, she possesses qualities that will make her a clear success outside of the classroom, as she begins to prepare for her career. Even as a member of the Honors Section, she stood out amongst her peers.”

This scholarship was funded through the generosity of Adam DeSanctis in memory of his father Bob DeSanctis. Bob, who was President of the DeSanctis Insurance Agency, joined UCANE in 1979, and over the years supported virtually every one of our programs. Jordan Tirone presented this scholarship to Lillian.

Pacella

Ronald Pacella Memorial Scholarship Isabelle

Isabelle is the daughter of Nancy and Richard Pacella, Jr. of Foxborough, MA. Richard Jr. is President of UCANE member firm R. M. Pacella, Inc.

Isabelle attended Foxboro High School where she graduated with a 4.143 GPA. She earned high honors and was a member of the National Honor Society. She participated in the Treble Choir, the Concert Choir, Be the Change, Club Soccer, Volleyball, and NHS Tutoring. She volunteered for Elementary School Fall Ball, the Father/ Daughter Dance, she was also a summer camp volunteer/counselor, and the Samaritans Purse Outreach-Operation Christmas Child. Her passion is for horses and she is a high-level rider.

Her English teacher wrote, “Isabelle’s determination, compassion, and self-reflection have continuously impressed me. I have had great relationships with students-but many of them dissipate once they leave my classroom; adolescents do not always have the genuine compassion that Isabelle has. She is a bright, hardworking, diligent student, but she is also a genuinely wonderful human being…through all the disappointments that the past few years have brought, through all the missed opportunities, and through all the denied experiences Isabelle has remained optimistic, grateful, and focused. She is truly resilient.”

Isabelle will attend Johnson & Wales University where she will major in Equine Studies.

This scholarship was presented by the Pacella family in memory of Ron Pacella who worked in the construction industry for more than 50 years. Over the years Ron served on our Board of Directors and held all of our elected offices. In addition, he served two terms as UCANE President and in 1991 he served as President of the National Utility Contractors Association in Washington, D.C. Ron was also the recipient of UCANE’s highest honor, that of Contractor Member of the Year. Querino Pacella presented this scholarship to Isabelle.

Frank McCourt Memorial Scholarship Morgan Rainville

Morgan is the daughter of Lynn and Richard Rainville of Oakland, RI. Richard works for UCANE member firm Milton CAT of Milford, MA.

Morgan attended Burville High School, Harrisville, RI. She was a member of the 2023 Class Officers Group, Student Council, Varsity Athletes Against Substance Abuse (VAASA). She earned honors and high honor roll all four years of high school and was named Outstanding Student in Forensic Science and Outstanding Student in Criminal Law and Society. Morgan volunteered as a lacrosse and field hockey youth coach, and a Rhode Island Mood and Memory Alzheimer’s Institute volunteer.

Her History Teacher wrote, “While it is Morgan’s work ethic that has made her stand out from the crowd, it is her quiet yet steadying personality that truly makes her special. She is intuitively bright and has a unique perspective on who she is as a person and what she wants for the future. When so many young women of her generation struggle to find a role model to emulate and are often left disillusioned, Morgan has uniquely decided to be her own person. For all these traits and attributes she is highly regarded by her peers and faculty alike and without exception.”

Morgan will attend Worcester State University and major in Nursing. This scholarship was awarded through the generosity of the McCourt family, in memory of Frank McCourt who was Chairman of the John McCourt Company. His company specialized in major construction projects including Logan Airport, Boston’s Central Artery Project, the Callahan Tunnel, and the widening of Route 128. Ryan McCourt presented the Frank McCourt Memorial Scholarship in memory of his grandfather.

Construction Safety & Compliance: An Interview with

Thomas McNally, CSP Safety Manager, J. F. White Contracting Co.

Construction Outlook magazine editors recently caught up with Thomas McNally at a busy construction site in Boston. Tom is the designated Safety Manager for UCANE Member J. F. White Contracting Co. on the Fenway Center Project. We were able to get a few minutes of Tom’s time to speak with him about this unique project and the importance of safety in today’s heavy civil construction industry.

Will you please tell us a little about your background, why and how you chose to get into the field of Construction Safety, and how you arrived at J. F. White Contracting Co.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the magazine. I first got started in safety in 2003 when enlisting in the United States Air Force as a Bioenvironmental Engineer. There, I spent 15 years on active duty, traveling throughout the country and the world focusing on military bases’ safety compliance. After an early retirement from active duty in 2018, I was fortunate enough to join the team at J. F. White Contracting Company.

Please tell us a little about J. F White Contracting Co. What type of projects does the company construct and in what regions do they pursue work?

J. F. White Contracting Co. (JFW) is an extremely diverse construction contractor with 99 years of history building projects primarily in and around the Greater Boston area. We have multiple work disciplines within the heavy civil, pile driving, electrical and mechanical spaces and projects that are involved with highways, bridges, railroads, electrical substations, mechanical rooms, and airports.

J. F. White has long been recognized as a successful heavy contractor that is not afraid of construction challenges. Can we talk a

little bit about this unusual Fenway Center Project where White is both Construction Manager and General Contractor for a monstrous foundation and building pad – (OVER THE MASS. TURNPIKE!)? How many workers, subs, and shifts are typically performing work at this site, and at what stage of construction are you at the moment?

One of the exciting aspects of working for JFW is the multi-disciplines that the company possesses and its abilities to target complex projects such as the Fenway Center Project. JFW is CM/GC for the foundation and deck of the Parcel 7 Air Right’s project. The deep foundation components alone are

continued on page 62

Safety & Compliance continued from page 61

comprised of 21 miles of driven h-piles at a depth of 220 feet along the shoulders and median of I-90 East and West along the Mass. Turnpike. Additionally, there were areas which required 14 miles of drilled micro-piles. The project has seen upwards of 150 workers in any given 24-hour period covering three shifts, six and sometimes even seven days a week. Over the years JFW has been involved in constructing some of Boston’s most visible and “Landmark” type projects. I am very grateful to be a part of this one. As of June 2023, the foundation and deck package is at about 60% completion.

As the lead Safety Manager for this Fenway project, what are some of the safety challenges your team faces on a daily basis?

As the Safety Manager for the Fenway Center Project, I would say that the most prevalent safety challenge, as with most construction projects, is maintaining constant communication with all levels of management, both in the field and in the office, throughout all phases of the project. In order to ensure we make forward progress every day, it is critical to plan every shift effectively and to try to anticipate any potential challenges that we might encounter.

With multiple shifts working almost every day, the project evolves and changes quickly. The restricted work areas and vehicle access points often change literally overnight.

Working inside very narrow work zones with numerous pieces of heavy equipment from excavators, loaders, cranes, scissor and boom lifts, and drill rigs, to dealing with the Mass. Pike traffic, alongside and under our construction activities, requires all our crew members to be on their A-game at all times. Because of this, almost all the lifting, handling, and installation of materials to include h-piles, pipe piles, and steel deck components require redundant rigging connections to account for potential rigging failure and ensure public safety. Lack of laydown area on the project requires off-site staging, which increases the transporting and handling of equipment, tools, and almost every material incorporated in the work. Many of these challenges, all with potential risk to our team members and/or the travelling public can be avoided through effective planning of our work activities and close communication between shift personnel.

On a typical week how many J. F. White tradesmen and subcontractor workers

continued on page 63

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Safety & Compliance continued from page 62 might be working across the company’s active projects, and will you please describe the safety culture that exists throughout the company?

Across the company, JFW employs approximately 200 union trades men and women ranging from laborers, equipment operators, pile drivers, carpenters, electricians, and pipe fitters. Additionally, throughout many of the active projects we have another 100 or so subcontract employees working on various sites.

The safety culture that has been instituted here at JFW is solid and is a unifying characteristic in which we all conduct our day-to-day business. We dedicate an enormous amount of time and effort into ensuring the operations that JFW conducts are as safe as possible. We dedicate over a hundred hours each month in foreman specific training and even more time with specialized training events throughout the year like Rigger 1 & 2, Signalperson, Critical Lift Directors, First Aid/CPR/AED, and OSHA specific courses, to ensure our workforce is a high functioning and safe group of people.

The construction industry continues to struggle with staffing issues for most trades as well as many professional positions. Has J. F. White been able to recruit new safety talent? As a safety professional what is your advice to others who are considering a career in construction safety?

Yes, even though the construction industry continues to struggle with staffing issues with most trades, JFW has been able to maintain a fully staffed Safety Division. There are many opportunities to network with other safety professionals in the area such as participating in UCANE activities, local university events, and networking internally with sister companies located throughout the region and country. But, with JFW known for having such a robust safety culture, we believe that our reputation precedes us, which makes staffing effortless.

As a safety professional, the best advice I could lend to others considering a career in construction safety, would be to never turn down an opportunity, be deliberate in your professional development, and work hard at maintaining relationships and creating new ones. n

Value of Water Index

On an annual basis, the Value of Water Campaign polls American voters to better understand their opinions about the state of our nation’s water infrastructure and what they view as priorities for action and potential solutions.

The Value of Water Campaign is pleased to share the results of our eighth annual national poll of over 1,000 American voters, conducted by the bipartisan research team of Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz, and Associates (D) and New Bridge Strategy (R).

The poll was conducted between March 22 and March 29, 2023. This year, we continued to seek insights into how Americans feel about the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, as well as how water ranked in comparison with other issue areas Americans believe the federal government should tackle.

Of 10 options given, ensuring a reliable supply of water received the greatest support with 85% of voters classifying it as extremely or very important. Respondents ranked this priority equivalent to strengthening the economy, with 85% of voters finding this extremely or very important (but with fewer voters finding it extremely important). Reducing inflation was the third highest-ranking voter issue with 84% finding it extremely or very important, followed by addressing water contamination with 82% finding it extremely or very important. Water remains at the top of voters’ minds, even as prices and inflation dominate media coverage.

85% of voters find ensuring a reliable supply of water extremely or very important.

Voter ranking of top issues for the federal government to address this year Extremely important Very important Other Ensuring a reliable supply

Only 42% of voters knew of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law...

Familiarity with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law dropped from 48% to 42% between 2022 and 2023 (likely due to the story leaving media coverage), but after reading a short description of the Law, voter approval revealed 77% support, which is up from 75% in 2022. This support continues to cut across political parties, races, regions, genders, income levels, and ages. To keep maximizing the Law’s potential, messaging must persist to ensure voters remain informed of its content and impact.

...but 77% of voters approved of the Law once informed.

While awareness of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law hasn’t grown, once voters were informed, approval of the law continues to be broad and strong.

Ensuring a reliable supply of water remains a top concern for voters.

Tim Hunt, CHST Dir. of Envt’l, Health and Safety W. L. French Excavating Corp.

Patrick W. Saltmarsh Corporate Safety Director J. Derenzo Companies

Trenching by the Numbers

A trench is a narrow excavation or ditch that is deeper than it is wide. Trenches can vary in size and length depending on their intended use. Trenching work involves digging trenches for various purposes, such as laying pipelines, installing utilities, or creating foundation structures. While trenching is a necessary activity in many construction and infrastructure projects, it can also be hazardous if not properly managed.

OSHA repor ts that 39 people lost their lives in trench incidents in 2022. That number is more than double the total from 2021. Trench col lapses can occur within seconds, oftentimes without warning. One cubic yard of soil can weigh as much as a small car, nearly 3,000 pounds.

Here are some of the dangers associated with trenching work:

Cave-ins: One of the most significant dangers in trenching is the potential for cave-ins. Trench walls can collapse, burying workers under the soil or de bris. Cave-ins are often sudden and can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Falls and slips: Trenches are usually deep, and workers may need to climb in and out or work near the edges. Without proper safeguards, there is a risk of falls or slips into the trench, leading to injuries.

Falling objects: Trenches may have heavy machinery or equipment operating near or above them. Objects like tools, construction materials, or spoil can accidentally fall into the trench, posing a risk to workers inside.

Hazardous atmospheres: Trenches can contain hazardous gases, fumes, or low-oxygen environments. Excavation activities may release trapped gases, such as methane or carbon monoxide. With-

out proper ventilation or monitoring, workers can be exposed to toxic or suffocating atmospheres.

Engulfment: Trenches can fill with water, soil, or other materials, leading to engulfment. If a trench is not adequately protected against water accumulation or if there is a sudden release of a large volume of material, workers can be trapped and suffocate.

Underground utilities: Trenching work often involves working near existing underground utilities like gas lines, electrical cables, or water pipes. Accidental contact with these utilities can cause electrocution, explosions, or water-related hazards.

Equipment-related risks: Operating heavy machinery and equipment in and around trenches

continued on page 69

Safety Corner continued from page 67

presents risks such as entrapment, struck-by incidents, or equipment overturning. Lack of training, equipment failure, or unsafe practices can lead to accidents.

Poor visibility: Trenches can create restricted visibility conditions, especially if they are deep or narrow. This can increase the risk of collisions between workers, equipment, or vehicles.

To mitigate these dangers, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines and regulations specific to trenching work. This includes implementing systems like sloping, shoring, or shielding the trench, providing proper training to workers, ensuring adequate ventilation, conducting regular inspections, and promoting a culture of safety awareness on the worksite.

The 2,3,4,5 and 6 Rule or Trenching by the Numbers will help to address the hazards of trenching activity.

• 2–Keep the spoil piles 2 feet back from the edge of the trench.

• 3–The access ladder needs to extend 3 feet above the surface.

• 4–At 4 feet in depth, access needs to be provided with no more than 25 feet of lateral distance between the work area in the trench and the location of the ladder.

• 5–At 5 feet in depth the trench walls need to be protected. Remember the 3 ways to protect from a trench collapse: Slope It, Shore It, or Shield It.

• 6–Whenever workers are exposed to a fall of 6 feet or more, fall protection needs to be provided. It could be guardrails or a personal fall arrest system. Trenching work plays a crucial role in various construction and infrastructure projects, but it also comes with inherent dangers that must be addressed to ensure the safety of workers. The risks associated with trenching, such as cave-ins, falls, falling objects, hazardous atmospheres, engulfment, contact with underground utili-

ties, equipment-related incidents, and poor visibility, can have severe consequences. However, by adhering to safety guidelines and regulations, such as the 2,3,4,5, and 6 Rule, which emphasizes maintaining proper distances, providing access and protection, and implementing fall protection measures, these hazards can be effectively mitigated. Employers, supervisors, and workers need to prioritize safety, promote a culture of awareness, and implement proactive measures to safeguard those involved in trenching work. By doing so, we can minimize accidents, injuries, and fatalities, ensuring a safer working environment for all. n

Serves over 2500 customers a week and is one New England's largest buyers, sellers and processors of scrap metal. For over 60 years our goal has remained the same - to provide the best prices in the industry along with top notch customer

Serves over 2500 customers a week and is one of New England’s largest buyers, sellers, and processors of scrap metal. For over 60 years our goal has remained the same - to provide the best prices in the industry along with top notch customer service! Call Fred Rogers at 617-595-5505

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Women Can Fill the Construction Worker Gap if a Few Adjustments in Practices are Made

Any number of challenges are hobbling the construction industry these days, but one of the biggest and most persistent is the shortage of qualified workers.

It’s not unique to the U.S., where the shortage is expected to reach 500,000 by 2025. Nor is it unique to mainstream commercial and residential builders. As spending accelerates under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the demand for workers for water, sewer, and underground utility projects is growing as well.

A2022 McKinsey study suggested one way to solve the shortage: recruit workers from nontraditional population segments. It specifically mentioned formerly incarcerated individuals and veterans. What it left out was women.

Indeed, women accounted for 12.5% of the total construction workforce in 2016, increasing to only 14% by 2022. Nearly 75% of the women in the industry believe they’ve been passed over for advancement because of their gender. They also are under-represented in water utility works; globally, less than one in five water workers are women.

The numbers though are encouraging in Massachusetts where the percentage of women in the field leads the nation. Since 2012, the Commonwealth has seen a 300%+ increase in female apprentices in the trades. With numerous organizations cropping up across the state and region, dedicated to providing women the tools to enter, learn, excel, and thrive in the industry, these numbers will only continue to grow.

Still, there are areas for improvement that will open the door to a more inclusive setting, to improve the industry’s recruitment and retention efforts for women.

1. Consider the fit. Personal protective equipment (PPE) doesn’t, in fact, fit all, yet what management keeps on hand is usually sized for men. Oversized work gloves, hard hats, safety vests, etc., jeopardize women’s personal safety and hinder their ability to get

work done. The solution: management should contract with vendors who sell right-sized PPE for women –and keep adequate supplies in stock. The idea is to meet every employee’s needs to do the job safely and smoothly.

2. Sanitation counts. Think about improving toilet facilities or establishing gender-designated units – and more of them for large jobsites. Especially when there’s only one portable unit on smaller sites, maintenance is a big issue. Women are likely to avoid using them, which can lead to bladder and kidney infections. The importance of cleanliness can be reinforced with a regular, strictly followed toilet sanitation schedule. Also important are internal locking systems that work and are strong and ensuring lighting is sufficient around facilities at night.

continued on page 72

3. Ergonomics – a special concern for women workers. Ergonomic injuries – musculoskeletal disorders and repetitive motion strains – account for a third of all worker injuries. Women are two to five times more likely to suffer from one. Mitigating the risk to all construction workers requires measures such as workplace monitoring, training people in body mechanics, and considering pre-shift exercise routines. Women’s greater risk lies in using equipment not designed for their body composition, combined with other factors such as personal fitness and medications. The solution is to provide tools that weigh less and have smaller handles and implement restrictions on how much they can lift. Adjustable equipment handles to accommodate their lower center of gravity is also a benefit.

top, grounded in an open system of communication, and reinforced by regular training sessions on positive values. Also key is a policy for investigating harassment or other concerns; women should be made to feel comfortable reporting incidents. Finally, compensation should be based on non-discriminatory factors, and equity – regardless of gender – should be the goal.

There’s certainly work to be done but, there’s also every reason to believe that women are and will continue to be an integral part of moving the trades and the industry forward. n

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4. Counter reproductive risks. From chemicals to dust or lead, various risks to women’s reproductive health can be found on a construction site. Safety data sheets should be posted listing any chemicals on site, and diligence in wearing PPE at all times encouraged. Women workers should be encouraged to consult their physicians on all the physical risks of the job so remedial actions can be taken. And don’t forget the legal requirement to accommodate pregnant employees in later stages.

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Creating a Technology Triangle: Connecting Financial Management, Estimating and Operations Systems

Entering the same data more than once and managing it in multiple places are wellknown barriers to the efficiency, accuracy, and easy access to timely intelligence contractors strive for. This is an area where smooth integration between the systems used for financial management, estimating, and operations pays big dividends.

Accounting/ERP systems, estimating software and applications for key operational workflows like scheduling, performance tracking, and equipment maintenance are all essential. At the most successful construction companies, they play complementary roles. Accounting is the authoritative system of record where profits and losses are recorded.

Estimating and operations are where profits are won or lost. Technology to manage these functions sets contractors up with potentially profitable bids and helps them execute according to plan to realize that potential. Without connectivity across these three areas, employees typically enter and manually reenter bid data, cost codes, labor and equipment hours, materials, and a range of additional information into the various systems at different times. Each instance creates extra work, opportunities for errors, and lag time in making the information available to someone else in the organization who could use it.

A cohesive, connected approach essentially allows estimating, operations and finance – and their respective teams – to communicate with a common language across the various phases of a project.

Communication Between Estimating and Accounting

The ability to transfer resource data from an accounting/ERP system to an estimating system is im -

portant. This ensures that labor rates, material and equipment costs, information on vendors and subcontractors, and other information is up to date when bids are generated.

Likewise, when contractors win a bid, estimating software should allow them to transfer details of the estimate directly to the accounting/ERP system to create a budget. This eliminates the need to manually reenter the job into accounting, saving time and preventing discrepancies between how jobs were bid and how they will be billed and accounted for.

These data transfers between estimating and the accounting/ERP system can be accomplished through an import/export function. Contractors should look for software suppliers that have set up

Greg Norris, B2W Software, Inc.

Technology in Construction continued from page 73 specific capabilities that help their systems work together. Alternatively, web services or API (application programming interface) capabilities can be established to bring automation to the transfer process.

Eliminating Manual Job Setup

Estimating software can also send information needed to set up schedules and field logs directly from the bid to the applications used for those workflows. This data can be organized with as much, or as little detail, as a contractor requires according to tracking accounts that relay the estimated labor cost and hours, equipment cost and hours, material types with quantities and costs, and the subcontractor and vendor information.

Some contractors instead opt to first transfer this bid data from estimating to their accounting/ERP system and then to operations. In both workflows, compatibility across the systems allows them to bypass manual job set up and duplicated effort.

Transferring Data Between Operations and Accounting

Field tracking software should allow field employees to capture daily production quantities, labor hours, equipment utilization, materials and other data and transfer it electronically to the accounting/ERP system. The information drives billing and financial reporting.

This direct transfer is especially valuable for payroll, as it can expedite processing significantly, while reducing errors and staffing requirements. Personnel previously burdened with data entry can instead move to a role of checking data rather than keying it in, freeing them up for more valuable tasks.

Reporting is another area where financial and operations systems should complement each other. Field tracking software can provide immediate reporting on how jobs are performing versus a plan or estimate daily or even

in real time. These reports are accurate enough to guide leaders in the field in making timely operational adjustments.

Reports from the accounting/ERP system are equally valuable and serve different purposes. They will come out later, but will be accurate to the penny, reflecting any after-the-fact adjustments in billing or rates for the specific job. A ‘true-up” function between accounting and operations systems is a nice feature to have, particularly for larger or longer jobs, as it can periodically bring these reported values into alignment over time. n

Your Company Must Have A Comprehensive Safety Program!

This year’s Safety Manual includes information on:

• Massachusetts Safety Standards - COVID-19

• OSHA’s Final Rule on Silica Exposure Limits

• OSHA’s Final Rule on Improved Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

• OSHA’s Final Rule on Confined Space in Construction

• OSHA’s New Requirements for Reporting Severe Injuries

• OSHA’s Updated Trenching & Excavation Safety

Promote A Safe Working Environment

It should be your company’s policy to provide a safe place to work, with the prevention of accidents being your ultimate goal.

Your Insurance/Bonding carrier requires a Safety Program. State and Federal Agencies require a Safety Program.

OSHA Inspectors Will Be Enforcing:

• Overall Construction Safety (29 CFR 1926)

• Excavating Standards

• Written Safety and Health Plans

• Hazard Communications Programs

• Drug Free Workplace

• OSHA 10-Hour Training Requirements

Examine The UCANE Pocket Directory

When ordering Company Safety Manuals, the Safety Manual section only, in the back of UCANE’s Pocket Directory, will be made up into an individual Employee Pocket Safety Manual with Your Company Name & Logo printed on the cover. Employee signature cards verifying compliance with safety manual procedures are included. When signed, these cards should be placed in each employee’s file.

Employee Pocket Safety Manual Order Form

Company Name:_________________________________ Authorized By:______________________

Pocket Manuals w/ Signature Cards: Qty.__________________ x $4.75 Ea. = $________________

Printing and Set Up Charge for Personalized Covers: $________________

Postage and Handling: $________________

Date:____________

❏ Company Logo Enclosed

Company Logo to be mailed

Total: $________________

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