ARTBA: Transportation construction continues in most states

By |  April 7, 2020
Photo: iStock.com/Juan-Enrique

Construction of the nation’s transportation infrastructure largely continues, according to ARTBA. Photo: iStock.com/Juan-Enrique

Many of the businesses and public agencies that design, build and maintain the nation’s critical transportation infrastructure continue to work while taking necessary precautions to protect their workforce from the coronavirus, according to a survey of American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) members.

With a few exceptions, ARTBA says transportation design and construction projects continue across the country. But survey respondents say they are feeling the effects of the pandemic.

More than two-thirds are experiencing changes or adjustments to project schedules. Nearly 75 percent are expecting some or major financial impacts on their businesses.

When asked what messages they wanted to deliver to Congress and the Trump administration relating to the next coronavirus relief bill, the most common refrains include: pass a strong multi-year transportation funding bill to help the economic recovery, “keep workers working” and don’t shut down projects.

The ARTBA survey also shows that transportation construction firms have taken additive measures to protect the health and safety of their workers. Nearly 80 percent are rotating office employees between work and home or allowing them to work remotely. Respondents say they are taking additional project site safety and health measures, including more regular cleaning of portable toilets (78 percent), third-party cleaning (70 percent) and improved handwashing stations (61 percent).

The March 23-27 survey, initiated by ARTBA chief economist Alison Premo Black, included respondents representing the association’s eight membership divisions: contractors, planning and design firms, traffic safety and equipment manufacturers, materials and services firms, public officials and university professors/researchers.


For more P&Q coverage related to the coronavirus, visit our dedicated webpage.

Kevin Yanik

About the Author:

Kevin Yanik is editor-in-chief of Pit & Quarry. He can be reached at 216-706-3724 or kyanik@northcoastmedia.net.

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