Construction Begins on New $975M Minnesota Multi-Purpose Stadium

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority   and the Minnesota Vikings, in partnership with Mortenson Construction and project associate Thor Construction, recently broke ground on the new $975-million multi-purpose stadium that will replace the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis. The ceremonial groundbreaking signifies the start of construction on the 65,000-seat, 1.7-million-square-foot facility, scheduled for completion in July 2016. Designed by HKS Sport & Entertainment Group, the stadium’s bold, progressive design combines efficient functionality with stunning architecture. With a soaring prow, the largest transparent roof in the nation, and operable doors that open to a three-acre plaza … Read more

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Architecture Billings Index Slows Down

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following three months of accelerating demand for design services, the Architecture Billings Index reflected a somewhat slower pace of growth in October. The ABI reflects the approximate 9-12 month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending.   The American Institute of Architects reported the October ABI score was 51.6, down from a mark of 54.3 in September.   This score reflects an increase in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings).   The new projects inquiry index was 61.5, up from the reading of 58.6 the previous month. “There continues to be … Read more

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Crete-Lease Eco-Friendly Formulation Cuts Labor Costs of Form Cleaning

Crete-Lease 880-VOC-Xtra Release Agent for concrete is an environmentally friendly proprietary blend comprised of neutralized vegetable oils in mineral oil that contains no waxes, silicones or carcinogens; it’s also solventless and nontoxic. The release agent provides easy and stain-free clean stripping of forms and form liners from concrete. When applied properly, it eliminates concrete build-up − cutting labor costs of form cleaning time up to 70 percent. Regular use keeps forms clean when used on non-porous forms and form liners made of plastic (ABS and PVC), elastomeric (urethane and silicone rubber), steel, high-density plywood and medium-density plywood overlays. It will … Read more

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Clarke Maxxi II Wet/Dry Vacuums Deliver Flexible, Powerful Cleaning Performance

Clarke’s Maxxi II Wet/Dry Vacuums are designed to provide a flexible, reliable cleaning solution for both wet and dry filtration. Available in three models — 9-, 14- and 19-gallon tank options — the series satisfies diverse cleaning challenges. The Maxxi II-75 features a 19-gallon tank and is equipped with a front-mount squeegee with forward and backward operation. For emergency spills and floods, the vacuum delivers superior power and functionality, and is available with a hose, wand, squeegee floor tool, brush floor tool and optional front-mount squeegee. When dirt or dust is the primary issue, the Maxxi II-35 with 9-gallon tank … Read more

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Mobile App Helps Safety Professionals Manage Hearing Conservation on Jobsites

3M has created a new mobile application that provides hearing protection and conservation information for iOS and Android devices. Using the free mobile app, safety professionals can perform a quick preliminary assessment of sound levels in an environment, get answers to frequently asked hearing conservation questions and find out more about how to assess proper fit for hearing protection products. In addition, the 3M Personal Safety Division recently launched a respiratory protection app and a mobile version of its website to provide a broader access to information on personal protective equipment safety solutions on mobile and tablet devices. To receive … Read more

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