Minnesotas builders were bustling in 2019 as they remodeled or built hotels, libraries and a soccer stadium, among many other projects. From among this impressive collection of projects, an independent panel selected 50 honorees for Finance & Commerces annual Top Projects awards.

Projects honored this year include Allianz Field, home of Major League Soccers Minnesota United FC; One Discovery Square, part of Rochesters Destination Medical Center effort; and the new headquarters of construction company McGough in Roseville.

One Discovery Square in Rochester is one of the projects being honored as a Top Project of 2019. (File photo: DMC Corp.)

A panel of judges looked at the degree of difficulty, creativity in design, innovative construction techniques, cooperation among contractors and management, and sustainability efforts.

The projects will be featured in a magazine and in a series of stories and photos in the Finance & Commerce daily newspaper and on the F&C website starting in July. The people and companies behind the projects also will be honored at a July 23 event (with an Oct. 15 alternate date) at the Nicollet Island Pavilion.

The Top Projects of 2019 are:

3701 Wayzata Boulevard Multi-Tenant Repositioned Office

3701 Wayzata Blvd., Minneapolis

Owner: The Opus Group

Contractor: Opus Group

Architect: Perkins and Will

Engineer: Faith Group LLC

Allianz Field

400 Snelling Ave. N, St. Paul

Owner: Minnesota United FC

Contractor: Mortenson

Architect: Populous

Engineer: Walter P Moore, ME Engineers, Loucks Associates Inc.

Amplifon

Fifth Street Towers, 150 S. Fifth St. No. 2300, Minneapolis

Owner: Amplifon

Contractor: Crawford Merz

Architect: ESG Architecture & Design

Engineer: Meyer, Borgman Johnson

The Andrus Building

500 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis

Owner: TriCostal Group, The Davis Companies

Contractor: Mortenson

Architect: RSP Architects

Anoka County Library Centennial Renovation and Expansion

100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines

Contractor: ICS

Architect: Leo A Daly

Engineer: Leo A Daly

Arvonne Fraser Library

1222 Fourth St. SE, Minneapolis

Owner: Hennepin County Facility Services

Contractor: Shaw-Lundquist Construction

Architect: MacDonald & Mack Architects, Quinn Evans Architects

Engineer: Mattson Macdonald Young Inc., Nelson-Rudie & Associates

Bluff View Elementary

1156 W. Lakewood Ave., Lake City

Owner: Lake City Public Schools

Contractor: Kraus-Anderson

Architect: MLA Architects

Engineer: LSEngineers, Larson Engineering of Minnesota

Celeste Hotel of St. Paul

26 E. Exchange St., St. Paul

Owner: Rebound Hospitality

Contractor: Flannery Construction

Architect: LJA Minnesota

Engineer: ERA, Elan Design Lab, Faircon Service Co.

Central Lutheran Church

333 S. 12th St., Minneapolis

Owner: Central Lutheran Church

Contractor: Jorgenson Construction

Architect: Kodet Architectural Group Ltd.

Engineer: Cain Thomas Associates, Mattson MacDonald Young, Hansen Thorp Pellinen Olson Inc.

City Club Apartments,

95 S. 10th St., Minneapolis

Owner: City Club Apartments

Contractor: Frana Cos., USAquatics

Architect: BKV Group

Engineer: BKV Group, Odeh Engineers, Loucks

Commission House

282 E. Sixth St., St. Paul

Owner: Ackerberg, Northland Real Estate Group

Contractor: Weis Builders Inc. Weis Builders, Inc.

Architect: Pope Architects

Engineer: Mattson Macdonald Young, Cain Thomas Associates Inc.

Delta Dental Bemidji Operations Center

2017 Net Way NW Technology Park, Bemiji

Owner: Stratacor

Contractor: Kraus-Anderson

Architect: ESG Architects

Engineer: Meyer Borgman Johnson, Hunt Electric Corp.

Eden Prairie Senior Living

8480 Franlo Road, Eden Prairie

Owner: Southview Senior Communities

Contractor: Eagle Building Co.

Architect: Kaas Wilson Architects

Engineer: Civil Site Group, BKBM Engineers, J-Berd Mechanical Contractors

Elevate at Southwest Station

12900 Technology Drive, Eden Prairie

Owner: Timberland Partners, Carlston Developments

Contractor: Frana Cos.

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Finance & Commerce announces Top Projects of 2019 honorees - Finance and Commerce

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW-TV) Over the past few years, there has been a trend toward 'open-air' office space that puts employees closer together without barriers between them. Those designs are thought, by some, to improve the interaction and communication of employees.

M&T Bank touted the benefits of the open-environment work space in February 2020 when it shared renderings of its new Tech Hub under construction in the Seneca One Tower. The bank felt the modern design with its communal spaces would inspire conversation, innovation, and collaboration.

Will Covid-19 change that?

M&T Bank sent us the following statement:

"Regarding the Tech Hub, we temporarily paused construction back in late March. We have a task force working to determine the best approach to ensure the safety of our employees, suppliers and customers, and construction will resume as soon as it is deemed safe for workers to return to the job site."

7 Eyewitness News asked Jake Schneider, CEO of the Schneider Family of Services in Buffalo, what impact he thought the pandemic would have on office design going forward?

"Nobody really knows, yet, how the Covid pandemic will play out," explained Schneider. He said no drastic long-term design changes are being undertaken by architects because they "could be obsolete" if the crisis continues.

However, companies are asking what they should do to keep employees and customers safe.

There is a big focus on cleaning, explained Schneider. "Some companies are requiring place mats and table cloths on work surfaces." Building designers are looking at things that are easier to clean, such as bathroom fixtures, and ways to minimize 'tough points,' such as doors without knobs," added Schneider.

The prominent Buffalo businessman said he has questions about how effective some of the measures being considered will actually be because there are still too many unanswered questions. "Will people be required to wear masks? Will there be reduced occupancy in the office going forward?," commented Schneider. In particular, he doesn't know how successful it will be to keep people properly spaced apart in lobbies.

Construction continues on Schneider projects and that has been affected by new job site rules. Workers must have their temperature checked when starting a shift, otherwise, they are sent home to avoid infecting co-workers.

Cubicles are one office item that could see a resurgence. Schneider said the now under-construction Evans Bank headquarters in Williamsville (scheduled to open in September) includes cubicle spaces for the employees - which makes it safer from a health perspective. "The cubicle is still a very affordable way of providing a semi-private work space," explained Schneider.

For businesses with open-air office layouts; "You may see more six and seven-foot workstations defined with partitions to help with that social separation."

While it is unknown which office changes will be long-lasting, Schneider thinks the way people do their job will be drastically changed by those who effectively worked from home. "I think that is a paradigm shift that we are going to see. There are a lot more people and companies that are more comfortable having their employees work at home."

The downside, said Schneider, is it could make it harder for landlords to find tenants to rent office space in downtown Buffalo - an area where there is a wealth of office space.

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Rebound Will Covid-19 change the design of your workspace? Ed Reilly 6:15 PM, May - WKBW-TV

According to the American Association of Retired Persons, "memory care is a form of senior living that provides intensive, specialized care for people with memory issues." Memory care faciltiies are often combined with assisted living communities.Here are five recent projects that define some of the best in memory care communities in the U.S.

ATRIA ENGLEWOOD | ENGLEWOOD, COLO.

BRINKMANN CONSTRUCTORS BUILTthis six-story, 150,000-sf structure over a parking garage. The 106 assisted living apartments and 24 memory care units are detailed with crisp colors, modern finishes, and natural wood elements to create a contemporary yet warm environment that has become increasingly popular among the boomer set.

Memory care residents, whose units are on the first floor, have a dedicated community space with a serving kitchen, dining room, activities room, salon, and private garden.

Atria Englewood was designed by OZ Architecture and built by Brinkmann Constructions for CA Ventures (developer) and Atria Senior Living (owner). Photo: Steve Mohlenkamp

Generously sized independent/assisted living units, located on floors two through six, range from 379-sf studios to 1,161-sf one-bed- room apartments.

Denvers OZ Architecture (design architect/AOR) made the bold decision to locate all the amenities from their customary spot at ground level to the top floor so that residents could take in the sweeping vistas of the Rocky Mountains.

The Fourteener Restaurant on the sixth floor. Other amenities: a demo kitchen, caf, theater room, and clubroom, as well as two separate rooftop terraces. Photo: Steve Mohlenkamp

A two-story lobby has a grand fireplace and a bistro where breakfast is served; it becomes a full-service bar in the evening. Theres also an outdoor garden and courtyard.

Fortis Structural (structural engineer), PE Services (mechanical-electrical-plumbing engineer), and Brinkmann Constructors (general contractor) also participated in the enterprise.

The beauty salon in Atria Englewood. Photo: Steve Mohlenkamp

HUNTERS WOODS AT TRAILS EDGE | RESTON, VA.

MORE AND MORE, DEVELOPERS of senior living centers are selecting sites and demanding designs that connect and engage residents with their neighborhoodsa goal that is being fulfilled at Hunters Woods at Trails Edge, which abuts Restons Turquoise Nature Trail.

The 210-unit community is accessible to the Reston Community Center, which offers residents an aquatic center, theater arts, and communal spaces. Walking trails feature age-appropriate workout stations.

Hunters Woods at Trails Edge, Reston, Va., a 210-unit community providing memory care as well asindependent and assisted living. Photo: Kevin Weber Photography

Moseley Architects was charged by developer Atlantic Realty Companies and operator IntegraCare Corporation with preserving views to the forest that surrounds the property. Working with civil engineer Urban Engineering and general contractor Balfour Beatty Construction, the team organized Hunters Woods as two connected buildings over a subterranean parking garage with more than 200 spaces.

A pergola creates a landscape focal point at Hunters Woods at Trails Edge, designed by Moseley Architects for Atlantic Realty Companies. Photo: Kevin Weber Photography

In addition to independent and assisted living and memory care, Hunters Woods offers much-needed short-term/respite care for abbreviated stays. Its high-end amenities include restaurant-style dining, a fully equipped fitness center, a surround-sound movie theater, and an art studio. A state-of-the-art security and call system uses smart keys and automatic apartment door openers for ease of entry.

Moseley Architects (designer) led a project team consisting of Urban Engineering (civil engineer), Direct Supply Aptura (interior design). Lilker EMO Energy Consulting (building commissioning), and Balfour Beatty Construction (general contractor).

Owner IntegraCare Corporation included abarber shop in itsHunters Woods at Trails Edge. Photo: Kevin Weber Photography

ARBOR TERRACE AT FULTON | FULTON, MD.

THE MISSION OF THE DESIGN TEAM for this 72,486-sf assisted living/memory care community in Howard County, Md.,was to emulate a boutique-style hotel. BCT Architects design, created for developer and owner Capitol Seniors Housing, reflects the view that more and more seniors are looking for the kinds of amenities demanded by younger renters.

Arbor Terrace at Fulton memory care/assisted living complex in Fulton, Md., about 20 miles north of the District of Columbia. Photo: Green Sofa Productions

BCT incorporated open common areas, natural light, and warm, modern architecture into the 86-unit complex. A floor-to-ceiling glass wall and grand staircase in the lobby adds dramatic effect. Interior designer Faulkner Design Group used sleek finishes with the look of marble and dark wood, natural materials, and a soft color palette.

A coffee bar/casual dining space at Arbor Terrace at Fulton. Photo: Green Sofa Productions

Residents, guests, and employees can walk to shopping opportunities via the pathways connecting the community to the stores and restaurants next door at the Maple Lawn development.

Carroll Engineering (structural engineer), Gutschick, Little & Weber (civil engineer/landscape architect), SRBR Engineers (mechanical-electrical-plumbing engineer), Faulkner Design Group (interiors), Food Strategy Inc. (kitchens), and Forrester Construction (general contractor) contributed to the enterprise.

The dining room in the Arbor Terrace at Fulton facility, designed by BCT Architects and Faulkner Design Group (interior designer). Photo: Green Sofa Productions

YOURLIFE OF PALM BEACH GARDENS | PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLA.

YOURLIFE PALM BEACH GARDENS FUSES the South Florida resort lifestyle with a physical environment that promotes healthy living for seniors. The 234,000-sf, four-story community consists of two interconnected buildings with 143 assisted living and 91 memory care units. The buildings share a common core of support spaces and amenities.

YourLife offers 91 memory care units and 143 assisted living residences intheluxury setting of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Photo: Island Studio Productions

Taking cues from hospitality design, architecture/engineering firm LEO A DALY blurred the lines between interior and exterior to create a sense of openness and luxury. The designer incorporated the eyebrows from neighboring roof lines to fashion a sculpted massing that frames the front entrance, which enhances a sense of arrival and helps residents and guests with wayfinding.

Resort-style pool at YourLife of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., designed by architecture/engineering firm LEO A DALY for owner YourLife Senior Living. Photo: Island Studio Productions

The designer partnered with MT Fuller Functional Arts to fulfill a municipal requirement for art in public places, leading to the creation of a striking, lighted metal-and-glass pyramid sculpture set on the front lawn.

Interior designer Mosaic Design Studio amped up the resort feel in the lobby with a dramatic, curved wooden ceiling that frames boldly colored light fixtures.

Michael B. Schorah & Associates (structural/civil engineer), TLC Engineering Solutions (mechanical-electrical-plumbing engineer), Mosaic Design Studios (interiors), Cotleur & Hearing (landscape architect), and KAST Construction (general contractor) added their expertise to the enterprise for owner YourLife Senior Living.

REGENCY PALMS | LONG BEACH, CALIF.

MANY SENIORS PREFER TO BE close to shopping, dining, and transportation, but land that fits the bill is expensive, if it is even available. As a result, developers are looking at sites for 55+ communities that they once would have dismissed out of hand.

One such case is Regency Palms, which offers 32 assisted living units (52 beds) and 24 memory care units (30 beds) in the Long Beach Professional Building, a restored 1929 Art Deco office building. The eight-story edifice has a cafe and urgent care clinic on the ground level that create a connection to the highly walkable, transit-oriented neighborhood.

This eight-story professional building from the 1920s was converted into Regency Palms assisted living/memory care, Long Beach, Calif. Photo: Paul Turang

Former office spaces were redesigned into residential units fitted out with kitchenettes. Two office spaces on every floor were converted into great rooms with enhanced natural light. The basement was made into an activity room, fitness center, and salon.

Because the building was on the National Register of Historic Places, changes to the exterior were severely restricted. The original windows were no longer being made, so the design team worked with manufacturers to match the windows and facade as closely as possible to their originals.The building takes up the entire site, leaving no room for an outdoor memory care patio. The team found the perfect spot on the roof, which became an inviting space for residents to enjoy the views from the tallest building in the neighborhood.

Lobby at the Regency Palms memory care/assisted living center, designed by KTGY Architecture + Planning. Photo: Paul Turang

KTGY Architecture + Planning, along with Studio Six5 (interiors) and Urban Community Builders (general contractor), performed the work for client Global Premier Development.

The Regency Palms won Best 55+ Repositioned Project at the 2020 NAHB International Builders Show.

Amenities deck at Regency Palms. The restoration won an award at the 2020 International Builders' Show. Photo: Paul Turang

Read more from the original source:
5 memory care communities with a strong sense of mission - Building Design + Construction

Embattled coworking giant WeWork isin talks todrop out of a West Midtown Atlanta development before its planned opening later this year.

Rendering for SJ Collins Enterprises' The Interlock mixed-use project in West Midtown.

Armada Hoffler Properties is in talks to either shrink or kill WeWork locations at two properties in which it has invested, at The Interlock in Atlantaandits planned location at the Wills Wharf development in Baltimore, CEO Louis Haddad said during the firm's Q1earnings calllast week.

We opened discussions with WeWork early this year to reduce or eliminate their leases in these two locations in order to limit our exposure to this tenant. WeWork is also interested in reducing their exposure to us, Haddad said. We expect to announce the results of these discussions within the current quarter.

Armada Hoffler agreed toinvestup to $65M inThe Interlock, which is being developedby S.J. Collins Enterprises, as part of a mezzanine loan in December 2018. AWeWork spokesperson declined to comment.

S.J. Collins partner Jeff Garrison said WeWork signed a lease in December 2018 to occupy 120K SFof the mainoffice and retail building at the Interlock mixed-use project and is still on track to move in in the late third quarter.

We are not having any conversations with WeWork about changing their lease at all, Garrison toldBisnow. We don't expect any change.

The Interlock is located off Howell Mill Road in West Midtown, near the corner of 14th Street. The $750M project's first phase includes 200K SF of office, 100K SF of retail, 350 apartments, a 160-room hotel and a smattering of single-family houses and vacation rental homes.

Aside from WeWork, which Garrison expectsto account for30% of the project's total revenue, business incubatorGeorgia Tech VentureLab agreed to fill 50K SF in the office building, and Marriott International's boutique hotel chain Tribute Portfolio isslated to operate the hotel.

WeWork's location at Wills Wharf, being developed by Beatty Development Group, was set to become the company's first location in Baltimore. It signed a 60K SF anchor lease for a 330K SF office tower, a piece of a mixed-use project, and originally expected to open in the beginning of the year, the Baltimore Business Journal reported. WeWork's website now lists the locationas due to open in October.

Bisnow

S.J. Collins partner Jeff Garrison

On Dec. 21, 2018, S.J. Collins secured a mezzanine loan with Armada Hoffler for The Interlock with a maximum principal of $67M, charging a 15% annual interest rate, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Including collateral, the loan could fund up to $95M.

The loan matures at the end of this year, but S.J. Collins has the right to extend the maturity date for an additional five years, according to the filing.

Terwilliger Pappas, the developer of the apartment buildingat The Interlock, also received a mezzanine loan from Armada Hoffler for its piece of the project: $25.2M that charges a 13% interest rate and matures at the end of 2021, according to SEC filings.

Haddad said the risks of making these loans are low for Armada Hoffler, given the quality of the project.

We believe in the long-term value of these assets, as we've said every quarter for the last several, we'd be happy to own them, Haddad said. We don't wish ill of our partners, but I mean, I think it's important to note, you don't build real estate for what you think is going to happen over the next few months. That's a fool's errand."

"We underwrite projects for the long haul, long-term value in good locations, which is why we decided to undertake those as well as our development projects," Haddad continued."We've been right for 40 years. We expect to be right this time.

WeWork is in the midst of renegotiating leaseswith landlords across the country. Columbia Property Trustleases three spaces to WeWork,including the entirety of an under-construction Manhattan development where the coworkinggiant is scheduled to open this summer. WeWork occupies250K SF inCXP's buildings, according to the REIT's April 30 earnings call.

They did pay 90% [of its rent] for the month of April. We are in discussions with them about the future and working with them just on various options, CXPCEO Nelson Mills said onthe call. They paid that 90% in good faith as those discussions continue, so we're very optimistic that we'll maintain at least that number.

Piedmont Office Realty Trust also has three WeWork locations in its portfolio, but the company isonly paying rent for one of them. Another location is in its free-rent window and a third in Orlando, Florida, is still under construction, Piedmont Office Trust CEO Brent Smithsaid last weekduring an earnings call.

We have been very pleased with their performance and working with them as a customer and tenant, Smith said. "They continue to pay rent and meet all their obligations."

Office landlords in Metro Atlanta had a strong start to 2020, but few expect thatmomentum to continue in light of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic fallout. While some deals that were close to being done did go through completion, most companies placed talks on ice until shelter-in-place orders are lifted and businesses are allowed to gear up again.

Georgia is among the very first states to do that with Gov. Brian Kemplifting restrictions on many residents and a host of retailers, including restaurants, gyms and nail and hair salons.

But for Atlanta's office market, vast shelter-in-place orders have alreadyimpacted the brokerage business.

The consensus from brokers was everything is on pause. Nothing's died. It's just a re-evaluation of what their world looks like and what the new world looks like, Newmark Knight Frank Executive Vice President Sean Moynihan said. I think we're a good 30 days away from knowing. But I also said that 30 days ago.

Transwestern Vice President of Research Keith Pierce said the firm expects corporate office space searches to fully resume bythe end of the year.

If you're looking at delivering in '21 and '22, you're talking to your lenders and you're staying the course with your fingers crossed, Pierce said.

But Pierce said he expects companies to focus more on renewals instead of moving to new projects.

My hunch is that anybody who has a lease-up in the next six to nine months, maybe longer, is very interested in maybe a straight-up renewal or an extension so they don't have to contemplate the move, he said. They'd rather kind of keep their powder dry and wait until more data is available.

Garrison said S.J. Collinsis in talks with two other companies to lease the remaining 30K SF in the office building. At the same time,the firmhas fielded interest from larger potential tenants and has been referring them to WeWork as possible enterprise customers, Garrison said.

Garrison also said he expects that the low interest rates will play in the firm's favor when it comes time to pay off the Armada Hoffler loan. That will come by either refinancing the loan or selling the project within the next three years, Garrison said.

We are so substantially leased and in a good financial position, and we continue to get leasing interest in the office and the retail, he said. "We see no concern at all going forward."

Read more here:
Lender In Talks With WeWork To Drop Out Of 2 Major Developments - Bisnow

At least three construction workers who are renovating the Smithsonians prized Air and Space Museumin Washington, D.C., have contracted COVID-19, stirring fears among the workforce that they are risking their health for a project that could wait until the pandemic passes.

The general contractor on the job a joint venture between the construction firms Clark, Smoot, and Consigli informed its subcontractors of the COVID-19 cases in recent days and confirmed them to HuffPost. A fourth worker also received a positive result from a so-called rapid test, and has been asked to undergo a more reliable lab test.

The illnesses have prompted the general contractor to temporarily close portions of the site for deep cleaning, and required workers whove been in close contact with the sick to self-quarantine. A spokesperson said all the workers who contracted the virus were asymptomatic while working, and none of have been onsite since April 30.

One worker on the project,who spoke on the condition of anonymity because employees arent allowed to talk to the press,said the anxiety has led some crews to call out sick rather than risk contracting the virus, with some workers out for days at a time. The majority of his colleagues, he said, believe they should not be working at a time when the U.S. death count due to COVID-19 has surpassed 70,000.

The Smithsonian and construction firms have continued with the years-long revitalization project even though the entire Smithsonian system is closed to the public due to the pandemic.

Were talking about a few months here in a very long project, said the worker. There are 400 working people on this job. Are they willing to risk all their lives and their families lives? Thats a really unnecessary risk in my opinion.

He added, They just dont understand why theyre working in a museum thats shut down to the public.

Paul Morigi via Getty ImagesThe Smithsonian is closed, unless you happen to be a construction worker.

A Smithsonian spokesperson said the project was allowed to continue because construction has been deemed essential under the District of Columbias stay-home order, and provided a legal memo from the Smithsonian declaring the project mission critical.

A spokesperson for the three construction firms told HuffPost the companies have done contact tracing to identify any other workers who may have been put at risk. They have also done regular cleanings, installed hand-washing stations, and required the use of masks on site.

The health and safety of our team members, their families, and our communities is [our] highest priority, the spokesperson said. We are working closely with the Smithsonian Institution and our trade partners to share accurate information as it becomes available and remain committed to safely operating in accordance with guidance from government and public health officials.

The COVID-19 cases among the Smithsonian crew highlight the dangers steelworkers, ironworkers, steamfitters and other laborers face across the country as they continue to work through the pandemic. Many work in close proximity to one another and often travel through the same choke points to access construction sites.

In many states and D.C., construction workers have been declared essential even on projects that dont appear time-sensitive or critical for the public, like condominiums and long-term renovations. The stay-home order put in effect by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser includes a blanket carveout for the industry, declaring it part of the essential infrastructure.

WAMU and DCist have tracked the predictable results of that policy, reporting that more than a dozen COVID-19 cases turned up among workers on a residential construction site in the citys booming Navy Yard neighborhood. Clark also helms that project. The possibility of other confirmed cases prompted the temporary closure of a construction project at the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill.

The Air and Space Museum renovations have been underway since late 2018. The facilitys doors remained open to the public during that work until the Smithsonian closed all its properties to guests on March 14 due to the pandemic.

According to the Smithsonian, the Air and Space revitalization project includes refacing the museums outdoor cladding and updating old mechanical systems. Congress is funding the renovations through appropriations.

Big projects involve a number of employees working under different subcontractors, who rely on the general contractor and other firms to let them know about infections among their crews; there are more than a dozen subcontractors working at the Air and Space site. Clark, Smoot, and Consigli have asked their subcontractors to notify them about any workers who are tested for COVID-19.

The worker who spoke to HuffPost said working through the pandemic has fostered a climate of mistrust on the site. Before the coronavirus, it had been one of the best jobs hed experienced in years.

That has completely changed since this all went down, he said. Its turned into one of the more hostile jobs Ive ever been on.

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Construction Workers At The Smithsonian Have Tested Positive For Coronavirus - HuffPost

Clockwise from top left: 180 Ashland Place. 180 East 125th Street, 35 Commercial Street and 2440 Fulton Street (Credit: Google Maps)

The coronavirus pandemic did not stop companies from filing plans for major construction projects last month.

The top 10 largest projects in April totaled more square feet than any other month of the year: about 2.6 million. That compared to 1.9 million square feet in March, 1.7 million square feet in February and 1.3 million square feet in January.

Overall, the list for April was split between five projects in Manhattan, three projects in Brooklyn, one project in The Bronx and one project in Queens. No Staten Island projects made the cut last month.

The full list of Aprils top 10 biggest real estate projects is as follows:

1. 180 Ashland Place, BrooklynThis is the site of Rockrose Developments first large-scale project in Brooklyn, which will span about 418,000 square feet and stand 47 stories tall with 609 apartments and ground floor retail. Rockrose filed its plans just a few days after closing on the Fort Greene site also known as 98 Dekalb Avenue for $81 million from the Kotler family in an all-cash deal.

2. 180 East 125th Street, ManhattanGary Barnetts Extell Development filed plans for a low-rise office building spanning about 354,000 square feet on its East Harlem development site. The project will stand nine stories and 120 feet tall with ground floor retail and about 41,000 square feet of community space. Extell spent $70 million on the block-long assemblage, which is known as the Harlem Pathmark site. Sale of the Pathmark supermarket there sparked controversy, with some local residents saying they felt betrayed by seller Abyssinian Development Corporation for sacrificing their local grocery store.

3. 2440 Fulton Street, BrooklynThe Leser Group filed plans for a roughly 325,000-square-foot commercial building in Ocean Hill. It will stand six stories and 100 feet tall. Abraham Leser acquired the development site in 2015 for $33 million.

4. 35 Commercial Street, BrooklynPark Tower Group is planning this roughly 344,000-square-foot residential building in Greenpoint. It will stand 22 stories and 213 feet tall with 374 residential units, and it will include a small amount of commercial space on the ground floor as well.

5. 53-16 Northern Boulevard, QueensThe New York City School Construction Authority is planning to build a new 308,000-square-foot school in Woodside. It will stand six stories and 86 feet tall.

6. 611 West 169th Street, ManhattanRoyal Charter Properties filed plans for this 193,000-square-foot mixed-use property in Washington Heights. It will be split between about 111,000 square feet of residential space, 74,000 square feet of community space and 9,000 square feet of commercial space, and it will stand 13 stories and 135 feet tall with 132 residential units and 62 parking spots. Retail will be part of the project, and the community facility will be for a nonprofit organization with sleeping accommodations, according to the filing.

7. 40 West 137th Street, ManhattanThe citys Department of Health filed plans for its new public health lab by the Harlem Hospital Center. It will span about 188,000 square feet and stand 10 stories tall. The citys current lab is located at 455 First Avenue in Kips Bay, and the new location aims to give the department more flexibility for its equipment and let employees work more easily during crises.

8. 72 East 120th Street, ManhattanBFC Partners is planning a roughly 185,000-square-foot mixed-use project in Harlem, split between about 181,000 square feet of residential space and 4,000 square feet of commercial space. The project will stand 20 stories and 216 feet tall, and it will include 110 parking spots and 218 residential units, at least some of which will be for low-income residents.

9. 1016 Fox Street, The BronxDeveloper Peter Fine filed plans for a roughly 184,000-square-foot mixed-use project in The Bronxs Longwood neighborhood. The project will be split between about 100,000 square feet of community space, 61,000 square feet of residential space and 23,000 square feet of commercial space. It will stand 15 stories and 148 feet tall with 278 residential units, at least some of which will be for low-income residents.

10. 77 East 118th Street, ManhattanAprils list closes out with another BFC Partners project in Harlem spanning about 172,000 square feet, split between 169,000 square feet of residential space and 3,000 square feet of commercial space. The project will stand 20 stories and 216 feet tall, and it will include 202 residential units and 93 parking spots. At least some housing units in this project will be for low-income tenants as well.

Go here to read the rest:
The top 10 biggest real estate projects coming to NYC - The Real Deal

SOUTH BELOIT, Ill. (WIFR) -- A local roofing company recognizes one of its crews that may have saved a woman's life while on the job in South Beloit.

Around 7 a.m. April 15, XL Contracting workers Emananuel Gamez and Josh Chudoba walked up to a job site when they heard a woman call for help. As they approached her window, she told them she had fallen and needed help.

While one of the men stayed with the injured woman, the other called 9-1-1 and waited until the South Beloit Fire Department and EMS arrived. Crews pulled the woman to safety through the window.

The woman had been on the floor since 4 a.m. was taken to a local hospital. She broke her hip and later had surgery. She will be unable to walk for a limited time.

Tom Pertz is the president of the homeowner's association at Manchester Parcels Condominium. He praised the mens' efforts.

Its a miracle that they came to work right at that time and they were in the building next to hers because they were at her residence the day before. The way it is designed, the unit above her is vacant and the ones next to her have sound barrier walls so no one would have heard her. Its just a miracle that they had heard her.

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Roofing crew rescues injured South Beloit woman - WIFR

May 7, 2020 12:25 AM ET

iCrowd Newswire May 7, 2020

As the snow melts and the weather warms, its common for homeowners to start thinking about renovations and repairs. Unfortunately, the recent COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted many of these plans, thanks in part to the state-wide stay-at-home order.

Even in the midst of this order, its still important to ensure that your home is safe and free from damage at the first line of defense against the elements: your roof.

Right now, its perfectly ok to schedule a roof inspection or repair. Roofing contractors and construction services are exempt from the stay at home order and are essential for ensuring that a home is free from costly leaks that often occur during the spring season when storms can be especially violent.

Heavy winter snowfall and harsh spring storms can cause damage to shingles and shakes. While some damage can be obvious; minor issues can go unnoticed, leading to slow leaks that can result in substantial repair costs. From minor water stains to toxic mold, a silent, unseen leak can be especially destructive. Thats why its so important to inspect your roof to catch potential problems in their infancies.

According to Steve Becker of the Denver roofing company, National Home Improvement, its important for homeowners to regularly inspect their roofs, starting at ground-level.

To keep minor problems from evolving into expensive issues, its important to keep a watchful eye on your roof, said Becker. Watch for cracked calking and rusty spots along metal flashing. Look closely for shingles that are missing, broken, curling, blistering or buckling. You should also keep an eye out for damaged or missing chimney caps, along with cracked or worn rubber boots around roof vent pipes. If you notice lichen or moss, that could be a sign of serious underlying decay.

According to Becker, its also important to carefully inspect your attic, checking for signs of mold, including musty odors and brown or yellow water stains.

With that said, when inspecting their roofs, homeowners should avoid being too aggressive, or they could damage their shingles or suffer a dangerous fall.

Anytime you walk onto your roof, you are taking a risk, said Becker. Not only could you damage the roofing materials; you could have an accident, especially if you have a sloped roof or just arent used to working with ladders.

With this in mind, its generally best to call a professional roofing contractor for seasonal roof inspections. While an average homeowner may be able to identify obvious problems, such as missing or curled shingles; other damage typically requires a trained eye.

Most homeowners are surprised to learn that some of the most expensive repair issues result from minor, unseen leaks in the roof, said Becker. Without a thorough, up-close inspection, its often not possible to know whether there is minor damage that is allowing water to seep into the home. On the other hand, regular inspection can help identify small problems before they have a chance to cause major damage.

For newer roofs that havent experienced especially harsh weather, a visual ground inspection may suffice. In any other instance, however, its best to schedule a comprehensive inspection by a professional roofing contractor who knows what to look for.

Even during these difficult, unpredictable times, its important to ensure that you arent experiencing a slow leak that could compound your stress by leading to significant damage requiring thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Its understandable that people might want to put off a roof inspection right now, said Becker. Unfortunately, the longer you wait, the bigger the risk of serious, expensive damage. Storms and leaks dont wait for anyone or anything. Even in the midst of the outbreak, homeowners should take steps to protect their largest investments.&rdquo

About National Home Improvement

Founded in 1997, National Home Improvement specializes in helping Colorado homeowners with essential home repairs and improvements that protect their largest investments. Whether they need help navigating an insurance claim or with deciding the best approach for a home repair project, our skilled experts can provide unrivaled service and knowledgeable recommendations.

From roofing and windows to siding and doors, National Home Improvement provides a full spectrum of service for homeowners throughout the Denver metro area. Committed to consistency, integrity, and quality, our team works alongside homeowners to secure and improve their properties while bringing their visions to life.

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Steve Becker

Keywords:roof repair, roof inspection, roofing contractor, roofers, roofing companies, hail damage roofing

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Will a Roof Inspection or Repair Violate the COVID-19 Safer-at-home Order? - Reported Times

No. Grafton, MA, April 28, 2020Roofing Contractor Northeast Home & Energy of North Grafton MA celebrates their 40th year in business. Founded in 1980 by Richard Prunier, Northeast Home & Energy continues to be family owned and operated, serving the Central and MetroWest areas of Massachusetts for roofing, vinyl siding, replacement window and insulation installation services. Richard was joined by his son John, who serves as CFO and COO. Richard Prunier started the company with aspirations to help homeowners lower their heating costs. Fast forward to the present Northeast Home & Energy has evolved to become a one-stop shop for all roofing, windows, siding, and insulation needs. Northeast is a top rated, elite installer roofing company for roof repair and replacement for asphalt, rubber and metal roofing- serving residential and commercial customers in the greater Worcester and Central Massachusetts as well as Nantucket.

Northeast Home & Energy has been in business for 40 Years. Thank you to all our great customers we appreciate your loyalty in helping us service your contracting wishes. During the past 40 years there have been many changes. I have seen many other companies come and go and have seen much improvement in the quality of materials and installation that we offer. Roofing warranties used to be 15 years then 25 then 30 and now 50 Years!! It is the same with the quality of our windows they have become so much more energy-efficient. All our customers want the best job possible and that is what we give them. Again, thank you to all our loyal customers for the last 40 Years, states Northeast founder and President Richard Prunier.

Celebrating 40 years in business is a great achievement! I look forward to continuing to grow our company while maintaining the quality work and great service that my father has instilled in the business. We will continue to strive to be the best in the home improvement industry and adapt the business to best serve our customers, states John Prunier, Northeast Home & Energy Chief Operations Officer & Chief Financial Officer.

About Northeast Home & Energy

Northeast Home & Energy is an award winning, top rated home improvement contractor and roofing company in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. They provide roofing contractor services as well as installation of vinyl siding, replacement windows and insulation. The Better Business Bureau awarded them with a 25 year award for their A+ Rating and reviews. They are an MasterElite Installer for GAF Roofing, an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and also a MassSave Partner.

For more information about Northeast Home & Energy and the services they provide, visit: https://northeast-home.com.

Source:https://thenewsfront.com/home-improvement-roofing-contractor-northeast-home-energy-in-north-grafton-ma-celebrates-40-years-in-business/

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Home Improvement & Roofing Contractor Northeast Home & Energy in North Grafton MA Celebrates 40 Years in Business - The News Front

Its National Travel & Tourism Week across the country and--while travel is on hold for the time being--Visit Champaign County is busy building up the community. All week, they're unveiling stories from our local businesses on what it means to be a part of the community during this time. VCC also wants to hear from you! What makes you proud to call Champaign County home? What are you looking forward to doing in the community again. Follow along with us on social media to share your stories.

With the start of May, there are many changes to whats available in the community. Many restaurants have re-opened with new offerings. Our local shops and boutiques are now able to take orders for curbside pickup, so as you sit at home and want to add dcor, do work in the yard, or if you simply want to dress up, check out the online stores many retailers have created.

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Repair or replace your roof with The Roofing Dog - wcia.com