Millions of visitors stop by ForConstructionPros.com every year. Many come for product launch information, some come for industry breaking news, and others for the industry analyses. Here's a look at our top stories of 2023:
10. Opioids & Overdose Deaths In The Construction Industry: A Call to Action
Addressing the opioid and overdose crisis requires straight talk to acknowledge that there is a problem. Stigma associated with substance misuse creates barriers to care-seeking for addiction treatment and recovery. Let's talk about it.
9. Caterpillar Announces CONEXPO Plans
Caterpillar has announced its plans for CONEXPO in March, including plans for large demonstration area, operator challenge and new equipment.
The company will highlight its latest products, services and technologies at the world's largest construction tradeshow, which takes place in March in Las Vegas. The company’s 70,000 ft2 (6,500 m2) outdoor demonstration arena will anchor the massive display known as Operator Stadium located in the expo’s Festival Lot.
8. What The Rapid Repair of I-95 in Philadelphia Says About America's Infrastructure
When the section of highway collapsed on June 12, the news didn't look good, but in just two weeks time the repairs have been made and it's reopening. One perspective is that the much maligned state of U.S. infrastructure is a policy choice.
7. Bobcat Expands CTL, Skid Steer Manufacturing Footprint With New Factory
This new location was selected after extensive review and consideration of expansions at existing Bobcat locations, along with the potential for new developments at locations across the globe.
6. Florida Legislators Pass Law to Allow Radioactive Waste in Road Pavement
Conservation groups are sounding the alarm over a newly passed piece of legislation that could mean the inclusion of radioactive waste materials in Florida road paving mixes. The substance at the center of the controversy is called "phosphogypsum" and is created in large quantities by the fertilizer industry, as a byproduct of the creation of important phosphorus.
5. What Is Road Base?
One critical component of road construction is the road base, which provides the necessary support and stability for the road to withstand heavy traffic and diverse weather conditions. Road base is a layer of material placed on the subgrade. It typically consists of crushed rock or gravel. This layer serves as a foundation for the pavement, helping to distribute the weight of vehicles evenly and prevent cracking or deformation.
4. Work Starts On New Design For Florida Bridge
The family-owned infrastructure contractor, Superior Construction, along with WSP, an engineering, environment and professional services firm, have been hired by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to replace the John T. Brooks Bridge.
3. Daimler Truck's CFO Dies in Tragic Accident
Daimler Truck announced in August that its chief financial officer Jochen Goetz died in a tragic accident. He was 52. Goetz had spent 36 years with Daimler Truck.
2. Tax Alert: Bonus Depreciation is Being Phased Out In 2023
The 2023 Bonus Depreciation phaseout will affect construction companies relying on it for a tax deduction. But there are practical approaches companies can use to mitigate the smaller percentages. Whether it's acting sooner on future purchases to take advantage of 2023's 80% rate, or turning to Section 179 instead, companies should be aware of Bonus Depreciation's phaseout and utilize all tax deductions available to them.
1. Construction Industry Report Predicts 2023 Materials Pricing
The report cautions that inflation, a possible economic downturn and China’s stance on COVID protocols will keep prices high throughout the year. In 2023, the construction industry is expected to shrink by 7 percent.