MBEX Has the Scoop

Building Buzz: August 2023

We're keeping an eye on the headlines so you don't have to.

Below are projects, as well as noteworthy construction happenings and people of note, featured throughout the month of August in both Finance & Commerce and the Minneapolis / St Paul Business Journal.

NOTE: Post was formally named "Make the Most of These Featured Projects".

 

Minneapolis / St Paul Business Journal

North Loop Green Tower Hits Construction Milestone as Builders Top Off Structure
Finance & Commerce reports on a topping-off ceremony for the project's 35-story residential tower, meaning the last beam has been put in place. Construction on the tower, which includes 350 market-rate units and 100 short-terms rental units, is expected to finish next year. North Loop Green, which Hines began construction on two years ago, also includes an adjacent 14-story office building with 350,000-square-feet of space.

Sherman Associates buys St. Paul's Landmark Towers as part of plan to convert to apartments
Minneapolis-based developer Sherman Associates Inc. has purchased the Landmark Towers office building in downtown St. Paul as part of its plan to convert it into 187 apartments. The deal closed August 18 for $8.15 million, according to an electronic certificate of real estate value filing. It comes after the St. Paul City Council approved a #21 million tax increment financing plan to assist the conversion of the 213,000-square-foot office building.

Forest Service rejects Lutsen expansion to preserve tribal rights and natural resources
After nearly a decade of planning a $60 million skiing expansion into the Superior National Forest, Lutsen Mountain's owners have been told no by the U.S. Forest Service. According to a report from the Duluth News Tribune, Superior National Forest Supervisor Thomas Hall said he has decided to reject the permit because of the project's impact on natural resources and treaty rights concerns raised by Ojibwe bands. The Lutsen expansion concept has been in the works since 2014 to provide new and exciting terrain and increase amenities for skiers, as it already claims the title as Minnesota's largest downhill ski resort in Minnesota.

Mendota Heights racket club expands plans with more pickleball, padelball, squash courts
A pickleball, squash and padel club in Mendota Heights that had previously announced plans for indoor courts, now expects to get bigger --- and head outside, as well. Glenn Baron, a partner leading The Heights Racquet and Social Club, recently requested the city consider amending its zoning code to allow the facility to build outdoor courts to complement its existing plans for nine indoor courts. The Mendota Heights Planning Commission supported the amendment, which will soon go to the City Council. 

Construction of Tepetonka Club near Willmar inches closer following recent court ruling
The construction of the Tepetonka Club, a high-end golf course planned for a site about 10 miles north of Willmar, Minnesota, is closer to coming to fruition following a recent court decision. In April, a judge dismissed a lawsuit that aimed to block the sale of the 187 acres owned by Cedar Hills Century Farm Inc. to Tepetonka Club's management. In 2021, Dean Thorson sued his brother and sister --- as well as Cedar Hills Century Farm itself --- saying the $1.2 million price was too cheap at roughly $6,400 an acre. In the April ruling, the court found no basis to void the land sale, kicking off the next step of performing an environmental review for the proposed Kandiyohi County golf course, which was originally slated to open in May 2024.

Mortenson lands contract for $1.5 Athletics stadium in Las Vegas
M.A. Mortenson Co. has won the contract to build a new stadium for the Oakland Athletics in Las Vegas, the latest billion-dollar sports project for the Golden Valley-based construction firm. The A's, which plans to move to Nevada in the next few seasons, announced that Mortenson and Nevada construction company McCarthy would lead the project. The two companies previously collaborated on a $1.9 billion football stadium in Las Vegas for the NFL's Raiders, which also moved to Oakland.

City of Anoka buys 8-acre manufacturing site to enable redevelopment
The city of Anoka has taken possession of an 8-acre site with the goal of seeing it redeveloped. The city acquired the site, formerly a plastic injection modeling and tooling plant, for $9 million, according to an electronic certificate of real estate value filing made. The seller was listed as an entity associated with North Branch-based Frandsen Corp. The company operated the plant at the location until close it this year.

St Paul OKs TIF deal for Landmark Towers apartment conversion
St Paul's City Council approved a $21 million tax increment financing plan that will assist an office-to-apartments conversion of Landmark Towers, a 213,000-square-foot building in the city's downtown. 

Hollywood Theater reopens in Northeast Minneapolis after years-long renovation
The Hollywood Theater Northeast Minneapolis has reopened as an event space after decades of disuse and years of renovation under a new owner. Andrew Volna, who purchased the dilapidated theater from the city for $1 in 2015 --- acknowledging he paid too much --- recently announced the completion of remodeling.

Capital Partners' lands nVent as tenant for industrial development in Dayton
Industrial real estate firm Capital Partners has already fully leased one of its three speculative industrial developments under construction in the north and northwestern metro, with a 248,000-square-foot deal with electrical company nVent Electric. 

Roers Cos. proposes 152-unit apartment building in Minnetonka
Roers Cos. is proposing a new, 152-unit apartment building in Minnetonka. The Plymouth-based developer presented early plans for the redevelopment of a two-story office building to the Minnetonka Planning Commission. Early plans indicate that the development team plans to construct a six-story residential building at the 2.3-acre site at 1000 Parkers Lake Road, located near Interstate 494 and Highway 12. The office building is currently at the site would be removed, city documents say.

Dave's Hot Chicken, Hope Breakfast Bar to occupy proposed Maple Grove retail development
Maple Grove officials are considering a proposed development slated for Dave's Hot Chicken and Hope Breakfast Bar in the city's Shoppes at Arbor Lake retail district. Edina-based developer Launch Properties is proposing a 5,700-square-foot multi-tenant building on the far north side of the former AMC movie theater's parking lot in between Malone's Bar & Grill and Red Lobster at the southeast corner of Main Street and Elm Creek Boulevard, according to public documents submitted to the planning commission.

Wells Fargo building near Ridgedale Center could be replaced with restaurants, smaller branch
A proposed redevelopment of a Wells Fargo branch across from Ridgedale Center in Minnetonka would bring more shopping and dining options to the bustling retail corridor. One behalf of Wells Fargo, Florida-based developer OneCorp Global submitted a concept plan for the removal of an existing Wells Fargo building and the construction two new mixed-used buildings for a Wells Fargo branch, two restaurants and two retailers, according to public documents filed with the city.

Minnesota Vikings will get new turf at U.S. Bank Stadium
The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority plans to replace the playing surface at U.S. Bank Stadium next year for the second time since the Minnesota Vikings began playing there in 2016. Minnesota Public Radio has a report on the plans by the MSFA, which published a request for qualifications for contractors. No cost estimate for the project was included, though when the turf was last replaced in 2019, the cost of the field was estimated at about $1.5 million.

 

Finance and Commerce

Senior co-op being built in Mound
Adolfson & Peterson Construction has broken ground on Artessa Development's senior housing cooperative project in Mound. Artessa Mound Harbor will offer 52 "high-end senior co-op residencies" for people 62 and older, according to a press release. Indoor and outdoor amenities range from pickleball courts and fitness areas to firepits and grill stations.

Kraus-Anderson completes Ziegler Cat's new store in Dayton
Minneapolis-based Kraus-Anderson recently completed a 17,200-square-foot rental store for Ziegler Cat in Dayton. The new two-story building at 18171 Territorial Road, designed by CNH Architects, replaces the company's former store. 

Sherman buys St. Paul office building it plans to convert to apartments
Minneapolis-based Sherman Associates has paid $8.1 million for the Landmark Towers office building in downtown St. Paul, according to a certificate of real estate value. Sherman previously announced plans to convert the building at 345 St. Peter St. to apartments. The $92 million conversion will turn 211,000-square-feet of largely vacant commercial and office space into 187 market-rate rental units. Sherman said at the time that it hoped to begin construction this fall.

Milwaukee County family court renovation out for bid
Milwaukee County is getting ready to renovate the seventh floor of the county courthouse and improve the family courts for what officials and judges call life and safety issues. Milwaukee County Chief Judge Carl Ashley said the current design of the floor and emotional nature of divorce and custody cases makes a dangerous situation for staff and everyone who needs to use the court system.

VJS Construction raises roof for Milwaukee school expansion
Crews for VJS Construction Services literally raised the roof at Bruce Guadalupe Community School (BGCS) by adding a 12,000-square-foot third floor to the K4-8th grade charter school in Milwaukee. The additional floor will be used to create 12 classrooms for elementary school children and crews also worked downstairs on a cafeteria expansion in the existing school. The project first kicked off in April and is fueled by a $6 million fundraising campaign through United Community Center (UCC). which operates several charter schools.

Stage set for Golden Triangle rentals
Minneapolis-based Greco Properties is beginning site work on the first phase of a project that will bring 425 apartment units to 6901 Flying Cloud Drive in Eden Prairie's Golden Triangle. Two entities related to Greco and its development affiliate, Eagle Ridge Partners, executed a $4.74 million property transfer on August 16, setting the stage for work to begin on the $71 millions first phase. 

Construction Update: The Station at Malcolm Yards nears completion
With the ribbon freshly cut on their affordable housing project in Minneapolis' Prospect Park neighborhood, Lupe Development and Wall Cos are nearing completion of a companion market-rate building --- The Station at Malcolm Yard. The two projects bring a combined 353 new homes, a food hall and more to a former industrial site with roots going back to the 1880s.

Anoka buys manufacturing building that will likely be redeveloped
The city of Anoka is the new owner of a recently shuttered manufacturing building on a transit-oriented site that holds promise for future redevelopment. The city paid $9 million for the 175,650-square-foot building at 2939 Sixth Avenue, according to a certificate of real estate value make public. Lakeland Tool & Engineering of North Branch is the seller. 

Theodore Roosevelt presidential library under construction in North Dakota Badlands
Construction is underway for the Theodore Roosevelt presidential library planned in the Badlands of western North Dakota, where the 26th president hunted and ranched as a young man in the 1880s. The work began June 15 with removing topsoil for the project's cut-fill plan. Buildings are beginning construction on the library's east retaining wall, with an initial concrete pour completed.

Woman-owned contractor brings new life to home of nation's first Black fraternity in New York
US Ceiling Corp. for years has prioritized making a difference both through hiring practices and as a social impact contractor. Now, the Henrietta, New York-based company is embarking on a project in Ithaca that embodies the very essence of those standards.

Navigating the Impact of a Looming Government Shutdown

Congress is once again approaching a critical deadline, one that could lead to a national government shutdown at 12:01 AM on Sunday, October 1, 2023. 

With congressional gridlock preventing the passage of even a continuing resolution, the prospect of a federal government shutdown, the third in five years, is looming large. While this political standoff impacts many sectors, the construction industry, a key player in infrastructure projects and development as well as job creation, is not immune to its effects.

In today's complex project funding landscape, even construction projects with partial federal funding could face disruptions. The consequences of a government shutdown extend beyond the immediately noticed surface, often overshadowing the federal contractors who support day-today government operations.

So, what would a government shutdown mean for the construction industry if it should happen later this week? Now is a key time for contractors to ensure they are taking the right steps to weather this impending storm. In this article, we will delve into both the short-term and long-term effects a shutdown could have on our industry, along with strategies to manage this uncertainty. 

 

Project Delays
One of the most immediate effects of a government shutdown would be immediate project delays, affecting infrastructure projects that rely on federal funding or permits. Key federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), would not be fully operational. This means new federal projects may not begin, awards could be suspended, and ongoing projects could be put on hold. Clear communication with Contracting Officers (CO) is crucial during this period, as guidance on which activities can continue would be essential.

Some vital government functions are exempt, but most federal agencies would be curtailed. Key federal agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), would not be fully operational, meaning new federal projects would not break ground, awards would be suspended, and current projects would be put on hold. Federal agencies would also be unable to issue new guidance as to how funds should be used.

Clear communication with your Contracting Officers (CO) is crucial during a period like this. Ask for clear direction on which activities, if any, should continue during a shutdown. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is responsible for issuing instructions to federal agencies, including as to which employees and/or activities can be continued. Agencies develop internal plans based on those instructions, and COs should in turn instruct contractors based on their agencies’ plans. These instructions should also address whether government personnel will work during the shutdown, as well as which services will continue under individual contracts. 

 

Permitting and Regulatory Delays
Shutdowns disrupt the workflow of construction projects requiring federal permits or approvals. Understaffed agencies may struggle to process applications promptly, leading to uncertainty and project timeline delays.

It's also highly likely agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Interior (DOI) will see furloughed employees, preventing the issuance of necessary project documents, permits, and environmental reviews.  

One the positive side of the coin, the Federal Highway Administration could stay open and construction should be able to continue without interruption for current projects underway since they use highway trust fund money.

But, on the other side of the same coin, rail and transit projects face different obstacles. Federal transit employees would be furloughed, meaning local transit and rail agencies would need to use their own funds to pay contractors or shut down altogether. Airport construction will also sees shutdowns, depending on how the project funding came in.

 

Contract Disruptions
Contractors working on government projects may encounter payment delays, contract modifications, and stop-work orders. It's important to remember that a "shutdown" does not necessarily close everything down: a shutdown may halt performance under some contracts but not others.

Many contracts are "fully funded" --- i.e., funds have already been obligated to cover the price of a fixed-price contract or the estimated cost of a cost-reimbursable contract. Of course, complications can arise if performance depends on government employees who are furloughed, government facilities that are closed, or other government contracts that require additional funding during the lapse. For these reasons, and others, the government may stop work even on contracts that are already funded.

Similarly, a shutdown may affect funded contracts if performance is expected to exceed the estimated cost due to changes, delays, or other events for which a cost adjustment may be needed.

 

Infrastructure Deficiency
Delayed government-funded infrastructure projects can result in long-term deficiencies, impacting economic development and competitiveness. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Disaster Relief Fund, for instance, could face running out of funds, delaying disaster response and recovery efforts.

 

Investor Uncertainty
Prolonged government shutdowns can create market uncertainty, causing investors to pause and rethink committing to long-term projects, hindering industry growth.

State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) might hesitate to authorize new construction projects due to concerns about reimbursement (this is what happened during the 34-day shutdown in 2019). This could particularly affect new programs like those under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Many of these programs are new and agencies don't have a historical precedent to use in guiding how they'll be reimbursed during this type of project pause.

 

Private Sector Impact
The private sector is indirectly affected as well. Private projects that rely on government support, such as financing or loan guarantees, may face delays or increased costs.

 

Labor Force Challenges
As if the construction industry didn't already face enough challenges when it comes to its labor and workforce, a prolonged government shutdown could lead skilled workers to seek employment in other industries, posing challenges for retaining talent. 

Contractors are sometimes asked to renew a contract without funding because their work is considered “excepted,” and that could apply to more and more functions as a shutdown drags on. In any case, companies may want to ask what breathing room they do have and what they should do with their workers affected by a funding gap, whether that’s putting them on paid leave, setting them up with on-the-job training, furloughing them, or redirecting them to non-billable tasks not considered their primary duty.

 

Economic Impact
The construction industry is a significant contributor to the national economy, and a shutdown can lead to economic downturns, including job losses, reduced economic growth, and decreased consumer confidence.

In 2019, the five-week shutdown led to nearly 800,000 furloughed federal workers (or they continued to work but without pay) and an untold number of contractor employees were affected. It is estimated that 10,000 companies with government contracts were affected at the time, per reporting by the Washington Post. 

 

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Is there a way to lessen the impacts of a government shutdown now or in the future? There are several strategies to consider:

1.) Diversify Funding Sources
Contractors can consider diversifying their funding sources, such as seeking private investments or state-level funding, instead of relying completely on federal funding. This can help in making projects less vulnerable to government shutdowns when they occur.

2.) Contractual Protections
Contractors can incorporate clauses in their contracts that address the possibility of government shutdowns, allowing for negotiations and adjustments in case of disruptions.

Despite contract awards being delayed, government officials furloughed, and government facilities closed, the safest approach is to assume all deadlines remain unchanged until officially notified —especially deadlines for submitting proposals, filing bid protests, and appealing CO final decisions. Plan on meeting all solicitation deadlines for bid and proposal submissions and get further instructions from the contracting agency.

3.) Document Everything
In the days leading up to and during a shutdown, document all communications with your CO. This should include instructions or guidance provided by the government about the availability of government personnel, facilities, and other resources that you need to perform your contracts.

Keep detailed records of all work your employees perform under all your contracts as well as the impacts on the schedule for performance. It is also important to document your efforts to minimize any costs incurred due to the shutdown.

 

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National government shutdowns present significant challenges to the construction industry both in the short-term and long-term. By being proactive, contractors can take steps to minimize a shutdown's impact. Stay informed, adaptable, communicate clearly, and be prepared; together, we can navigate these uncertain times and continue contributing to infrastructure development and job creation.

 

Information regarding details of a possible government shutdown within this blog post were sourced from this Federal Times article written by Moly Weisner published on September 19, 2023; this Wiley Law article published on September 25, 2023; and; this Construction Dive article written by Julie Strupp published on September 26, 2023.

Why Physical and Mental Well-Being is Crucial

It's a familiar sight: Men and women clustered at a job site, hard hats and safety vests on and clearly visible. This standard image showcases a commitment to the physical safety of its workforce, a necessary aspect of any construction company.

The construction industry is one of enormous physical labor, including significant physical stress. However, mental stress has just as much of an impact on the safety of construction workers and at all levels. Whether managing projects in an office or working tirelessly on-site, the importance of both mental and physical well-being cannot be overstated. These two pillars of health are not just beneficial but are absolutely crucial for the success and longevity of every construction worker's career.

In this week's blog, we delve deeper into the significant benefits of prioritizing one's mental and physical well-being, not just for professional reasons, but personally, too.

 

Mental Well-Being: A Cornerstone of Success

1.) Stress Management: Construction projects often come with tight deadlines, budget constraints, and client expectations. Nurturing your mental well-being equips you with the tools to manage stress effectively. This, in turn, allows you to maintain a clear head, make rational decisions, and avoid burnout.

2.) Optimal Decision-Making: In construction, the ability to make sound decisions is paramount. When you prioritize your mental health, your cognitive abilities are sharpened, enabling you to make informed choices that can significantly impact the success of a project.

3.) Safety and Focus: Construction sites can be hazardous places. Mental well-being ensures that you remain alert, focused, and attentive to safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

4.) Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: Successful construction projects rely on effective teamwork and communication. Mental well-being enhances your ability to relate to colleagues, clients, and subcontractors, fostering positive working relationships and efficient collaboration.

 

Physical Well-Being: The Key to Longevity

1.) Sustained Energy Levels: Construction work is physically demanding, often requiring long hours and strenuous labor. Maintaining your physical health ensures that you have the energy and endurance to tackle even the toughest tasks, day in and day out.

2.) Injury Prevention: The construction industry is known for its risks. Physical self-care, including warm-up exercises, stretches, and adherence to ergonomic principles, serves as a protective shield against workplace accidents and injuries.

3.) Career Longevity: A construction career can span decades, but only if physical well-being is made a top priority. By taking care of your body, you not only endure the rigors of the job but also ensure that you can enjoy a long and fulfilling career.

4.) Body and Mind Connection: It's important to recognize the relationship between one's mental and physical well-being. Regular exercise and a balanced diet not only promote physical health but also enhance mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall resilience.

 

10 Ways to Improve Your Physical and Mental Well-Being

1.) Practice Mindfulness Meditation. Allocate a few minutes each day for mindfulness meditation to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.
2.) Regular Exercise. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, whether it's a workout, a walk, or stretching exercises. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day.
3.) Take Short Breaks. Incorporate short breaks into your workday to clear your mind and recharge.
4.) Balanced Nutrition. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide your body with the necessary nutrients for energy and recovery.
5.) Talk About Your Feelings. Don't hesitate to discuss your mental health with trusted colleagues or professionals if needed. Sharing your feelings can be therapeutic.
6.) Stay Hydrated. Drink enough water throughout the day to stay properly hydrated, especially in hot weather.
7.) Set Realistic Goals. Establish achievable goals for your projects and tasks to prevent overwhelm and reduce anxiety.
8.) Ergonomic Practices. Follow proper lifting techniques and ergonomic principles to minimize the risk of workplace injuries.
9.) Time Management. Use effective time management techniques to prioritize tasks and reduce work-related stress.
10.) Adequate Rest. Ensure you get enough sleep each night. Quality rest is essential for physical and mental recovery.

 

Self-care is an ongoing process. Everyone's approach to suit their individual needs and circumstances. By incorporating these suggestions into your daily routine, you can better your mental and physical well-being and thrive in the demanding field of construction.

Mental and physical well-being are not luxuries; they are foundational elements of success. By nurturing these aspects of your health, you not only improve your personal quality of life but also enhance your performance, safety, and longevity in the industry. Whether making strategic decisions in an office or laboring on a job site, your commitment to both your professional and personal well-being is an investment in your success.

Make plans to join MBEX and the Women's POWER series for the annual Fall Social and the first-ever Self-Care Health Fair on October 10 at Pinstripes. There will be a variety of mental and physical well-being experts present and ready to share their knowledge and tips from chiropractic CARE to mental health services to nutrition. Bonus: if you visit each Health Fair station, you'll be entered to win a very special self-care-focused giveaway to continue improving your overall well-being following the event. Register now to join us on October 10!

PS - This event is open to both MBEX members and non-members across the construction industry. Tell your friends!

Celebrating Labor Day

Labor Day is just around the corner (it's on Monday, September 4!), and it's not just an excuse for a three-day weekend or the last hurrah of summer. It's a day that pays homage to the backbone of our society: labor. Let's put on our hard hats and take a stroll down the history lane of Labor Day.

 

Why Labor Day Matters
Labor Day is a grand salute to workers, the champions who construct our world – quite literally. From towering skyscrapers to humble homes, bridges that span gaps to tunnels that connect, every brick, beam, and blueprint finds its way to realization through the dedication of construction workers of all trades and specialties. This day celebrates their tenacity, their skills, and their contributions to the progress we enjoy today.

 

The Origins: Back to the 19th Century
Travel back with us to the late 1800s, a time when a 12-hour workday was more common than an iPhone. Labor unions began to form, advocating for better working conditions, reasonable hours, and fair wages. Then, in 1882, New York City hosted the first Labor Day parade – a nonchalant, yet revolutionary, demonstration of workers' rights and unity.

 

How Labor Day Became a National Holiday
Fast-forward to 1894, and picture this: the Pullman Strike halted railroad operations, leading to a nationwide standoff between workers and their corporate leaders. The U.S. government (likely with an eye on avoiding more rail-related drama) quickly passed Labor Day as a national holiday, designated for the first Monday of every September. Clever, right? It was a gesture that said, "We see you, workers, and we respect your contributions."

 

The Parades: Not Just For Candy
Labor Day parades are not just an opportunity to toss candy to kids. These parades originated as demonstrations of solidarity, showing the world that workers were a force to be reckoned with. Today, they're still a nod to the historical struggle, but also a celebration of achievements (and an excuse to show off some snazzy floats). So, put on your construction-themed costumes and join the parade – safety vests optional.

 

The Ultimate Weekend
We can't finish this post without addressing what everyone *really* looks forward to when Labor Day rolls around: the long weekend. Labor Day isn't just about barbecues and pool parties (although, no complaints there). It's a reminder to pause, take a breath, and acknowledge the value and dignity of labor. It's about taking a well-earned break and recognizing the hard work and hard workers that underpin our modern society. Thank a construction worker today!

 

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As the final days of summer slip away, let's raise our glasses to the workers, the unsung heroes who turn architectural dreams into concrete realities. Whether you're in a hard hat or a corner office, we're celebrating the essence of progress and prosperity that's built on the shoulders of dedicated labor. Cheers to you on this Labor Day!

5 Reasons to Dive into MBEX Events

Whether you're new to MBEX or have been a member for decades, Minnesota Builders Exchange events are the gathering spots for those who know every connection can lay the foundation for success. If you haven't dipped your toes into these networking waters yet, here are five rock-solid reasons why you should jump in, hard hat and all.

 

Forge Lucrative Relationships
Who needs traditional networking events when you can bond over blueprints and structural strategies? MBEX events bring together a community of like-minded professionals who are as enthusiastic about trusses as they are about trending construction software. Mingle with architects, generals, subcontractors, and suppliers who could be the missing pieces to your next big project puzzle.

 

Uncover Emerging Trends
In an industry that's always evolving, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. When you attend an MBEX event, you're not just mingling and collecting contact information; you're tapping into a live feed of emerging trends. From the latest in sustainable materials to cutting-edge construction tech, you'll hear firsthand from your peers about new methods and practices they might be utilizing to advance their businesses as well as the commercial building sector in Minnesota (and beyond). 

 

Expand Your Toolbelt of Ideas
The power of networking lies in the many perspectives you encounter. Think of MBEX events as a market place, where you can exchange thoughts on innovative materials, fresh design approaches, and the latest sustainability trends. You never know what will spark the solution to a design challenge or if another event attendee has the answer to your downed fleet hurdle.

 

Share Tales of Triumph and Tribulation
Every project experience is overflowing with stories ranging from hilarious to hair-raising. At our events, you'll find fellow constructors who've triumphed over logistical nightmares and tackled projects that would have left others scratching their heads. Whether swapping stories about navigating frozen ground during a winter build or proudly showing off photos of a recently finished project phase you're currently on the crew for, you'll bond over the shared experiences that only construction can offer.

 

Cultivate Collaborative Magic
There's an electric energy that comes from connecting with those who share your passion. The Minnesota Builders Exchange isn't just about finding and posting commercial construction projects; it's also about igniting partnerships that can transform the construction landscape. Whether brainstorming ways to incorporate more sustainability practices into your firm's day-to-day business or pondering new ways to mix traditional training methods with more technologically advanced ways, the networking opportunities available to our members can lead to beneficial collaborations for years to come.

 

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So there you have it —five unbeatable reasons to dive headfirst into the networking pool found at each and every Minnesota Builders Exchange event.

From creating invaluable connections to boosting your industry know-how, swapping project mishap stories to project collaborations, our events are key to building camaraderie throughout the construction community in Minnesota and past its borders. Fun fact: if you're an employee of a current MBEX member company and that company is in good standing with the Exchange, you are welcome to attend each and every event! Check out our Events Calendar, see what's yet to come in 2023, and save the dates in your calendar.

Whichever event is up next, grab that business card, don your construction swagger, and let's build not just structures but a network that will support your career for years to come.

7 Simple Ways to Enhance your Business Website

A professional and user-friendly website is a crucial element for any business' success, including construction companies.

A business' website is often the first point of contact with potential clients, and it plays a big role in shaping their perception of your brand and can also play a huge part in one's marketing plan. To make the most of your company's online platform, take advantage of seven simple but effective ways to improve your business' website. Take a few minutes to read our blog, and apply them to your website today.

 

(1) Streamline Navigation
A user-friendly website is critical in keeping visitors engaged. Make sure your website is intuitive, clear, and easy to follow. A great rule of thumb is make the customer's experience on your site as easy as possible. Use a logical menu structure that categorizes your services, projects, and other essential information. Avoid overwhelming website visitors with too many menu options or excessive drop-down menus. Again, keep it simple. Think about the possible journey your customer may make on your site, and navigate it like you're visiting your own site for the first time. If it takes too many steps, make changes to simplify it. 

 

(2) Showcase Projects with High-Quality Visuals
Construction is a visually appealing industry. Make them work to your advantage by showcasing your projects (in all phases of construction, not just the final product!) through high-quality images and videos. It's worth the money to invest in professional photography to capture your completed projects, but don't be afraid of taking quick photos or videos on your phone. Many cell phones these days take fantastic quality photos and video. This not only impresses potential clients but also demonstrates the quality of your business' workmanship.

 

(3) Incorporate Testimonials
Ask satisfied clients for testimonials and feature them on your website to build trust and credibility with future clients. Client testimonials not only highlight successful projects, but also your team and the full process. Genuine feedback adds authenticity to your business and helps further potential clients see the benefit of working with you.

 

(4) Mobile-Optimization
Having g a mobile-responsive website is essential. We live in a digital age; it's hard finding an individual who doesn't have a cell phone on their person at all times! Ensure that your website is optimized for different screen sizes, such as desktop/laptop, tablets, and mobile devices, and and that it functions seamlessly from device to device. It should be just as easy to navigate your website on a phone or tablet as it is on a desktop or laptop computer. A mobile-friendly website also positively impacts your search engine rankings.

 

(5) Clear Call-to-Actions (CTA)
Help website visitors to taking their next step by providing clear and prominent calls-to-action, such as 'Register Now,' 'Call Now', or 'Request an Estimate'. Whether it's requesting a quote, scheduling a consultation, or signing up for a newsletter, a strong CTA helps guide visitors towards (what else?) taking action and contacting your company to get down to business.

 

(6) Highlight Safety and Compliance
Construction companies have to prioritize safety and adherence to industry regulations. Use your website as an easy to access showcase of your company's commitment to safety standards, certifications, and compliance. This creates a sense of reliability and professionalism that clients seek when choosing a construction partner.

 

(7) Implement Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
To help ensure your business can be easily found online via Google, Bing, or another search engine, optimize your content with relevant keywords, meta tags, and descriptions. If your website has a blog, regularly update it with informative articles related to your business' specialty, services your business offers that others do not, and the construction industry. SEO practices can significantly improve your website's ranking, driving more organic traffic to your site and helping it be seen by more prospective clients.

 

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Improving your company's website doesn't have to be a complex undertaking nor does it have to cost a lot of money. By implementing these seven simple yet powerful strategies, you can create a digital presence that captures the essence of your brand, impresses potential clients, and drives business growth.

Remember, your website is an ever-evolving platform, so continue to monitor its performance, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments to stay ahead in the ever competitive construction industry.