SPONSORED BY TRIMBLE

2018 in Review: Can You Relate to These Industry Challenges?

Between the economic circumstances that may have impacted growth and the continued advancements in technologies, 2018 proved to be a challenging year for those working in construction. In an effort to really dive deep into what this past year brought, Contractor WorkZone sat down with those who felt it most and asked them, “What were your biggest challenges within the industry in 2018?” Take a look at their responses here.

The Indictments

In New York last week, Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance issued indictments of former Bloomberg LP and Turner Construction Company executives on charges of conspiracy, bribery, money laundering, bid-rigging and other offenses. Executives from the two companies, as well as some subcontractors and vendors, tried to steal $15 million from Bloomberg while completing a renovation project for Bloomberg’s New York City offices. Three corporations and 14 individuals were charged.

SPONSORED BY VIEWPOINT

Succession Planning: What, Why, Who, How & When

One of the most important decisions a business owner can make is how to exit his/her business. A new e-book from Viewpoint features best practices for contractors who are ready to plan for a transition away from the daily management of their companies. Through each step, be patient. Remember, change is hard. Developing a holistic strategy with the right tools will allow you to confidently plan for the future of your company. Click here for more tips on succession planning.

The Tech Giants

From Google

Google announced mixed-use plans for its California headquarters—plans that include developing the campus into a “Complete Neighborhood.” Under this plan, Google would convert land it owns in two neighborhoods in Mountain View, California, into 6,600 new homes. A percentage of these living spaces would be allocated to low- to middle-income residents. The rest of the homes would be available for rent or sale.

Google also plans to allocate at least 35 acres to public space that facilitates greener transportation, such as pedestrian and bike paths and a shuttle service. The city will vote early next year to approve the plans and development requests by Google.

 

From Apple

Last week, Apple Inc. announced its decision to build a second campus in Austin, Texas. At completion, the $1 billion project would employ a maximum of 15,000 workers. The 133-acre campus will open with 5,000 employees. The company also announced plans to expand to Seattle, San Diego and Culver City, California, over the next 3 years.

 

From Amazon

Apple isn’t the only one making moves in Texas. Amazon announced its choice of Fort Worth, Texas, Alliance Airport as a new regional hub for Amazon Air. The new location will be built to support multiple daily flights and infrastructure for a heavy shipping volume. The company plans for the hub to be fully operational in 2019.