Each Monday, we'll let you know what's coming in the week ahead, including important economic report releases, as well as our feature articles. We'll add links to the stories as we post them throughout the week.
How to survive a government shutdown — Tuesday, Sept. 5
The president has since pulled back his threat of shutting down the government if Congress doesn't fund his border wall. Meanwhile, the political climate is tense and there are a number of issues on the table — healthcare, tax reform and even infrastructure — that could push the legislative and executive branches into a stalemate. Even with Hurricane Harvey recovery suggesting legislators might come together in a move to keep recovery funding flowing, it's worth asking: What does it mean for construction if the government does shut down? In our feature article on Tuesday, Sept. 5, we'll share what contractors should do to prepare themselves and their employees in case federal work stops on Oct. 1. Read more.
Case study: Inside the construction of a showpiece house — Wednesday, Sept. 6
For the expansive Blue Lake Retreat, in Marble Falls, TX, Lake|Flato Architects and Duecker Construction had to contend with a strikingly beautiful lake — and a strikingly steep site. The resulting residence uses ample glazing and outdoor space to take advantage of the views the site's cantilevered perch affords. In our case study on Wednesday, Sept. 6, we'll explore how the use of expanded metal met the team's need for a budget-friendly exterior material that offered protection and transparency. Read more.
Understanding Trump's infrastructure executive order — Thursday, Sept. 7
Last month, President Donald Trump issued an executive order meant to make good on his campaign promises to reduce regulation. But how much of a dent does the new order make in the regulatory boondoggle that usually accompanies the federal permitting process? In our feature article on Thursday, Sept. 7, we'll explore the order's potential to reduce the approvals timeline for transit projects. Read more.