The Design-Build Institute of America invites project team members to submit successful design-build project(s) for the 2013 National Design-Build Project Awards competition. Completed entries and entry fee payments must arrive at the DBIA National office in Washington, D.C., no later than May 21. As the only organization that defines, teaches and promotes best practices in design-build project delivery, DBIA is committed to highlighting the best projects achieved through this integrated delivery method. The acceptance of single-entity risk is the defining feature of design-build project delivery and winning submissions must be carried out under a DBIA or other single responsibility contract. … Read more

FARMINGTON, Conn. — Green construction is moving from a niche to the mainstream. Interest in joining the green construction market is growing. Regulatory instruments, governmental initiatives and financial support mechanisms, together with growing consumer awareness and expectations, all put pressure on construction market participants to adopt more green practices. Through 2017, a rebound in construction activity, combined with continuing consumer interest in environmentally friendly products, will propel U.S. growth in green building materials demand 11 percent annually to $86.6 billion. U.S. construction activity declined sharply during much of the 2007-2012 period, but demand for green building materials held its own, … Read more

Construction charity organization AGC Charities, Inc. began work this week on renovations to the main facility of a Palm Springs area group that supports children and adults with disabilities as part of its annual Operation Opening Doors event. Dozens of contractors are donating time, expertise and money to make a series of improvements to the headquarters of Angel View. “We are using our skills to make life a little easier and a lot more accessible for people with disabilities,” said Jim Clemens, chairman of Ocean City, N.J.-based Clemens Construction Co. and the chairman of AGC Charities. “Our members are committed … Read more