Restore Chester County
Economic Action Steps — Construction
Construction mainly consists of construction of residential and commercial buildings as well as repair, but can also include public infrastructure construction and landscaping. Construction businesses face compounding challenges arising from diminished demand for commercial and office development, high material prices, and a longstanding shortage of skilled labor.
Current Construction Business Practices
The following practices are being implemented by various construction businesses around the county and nation to address COVID-19-related disruptions. These practices may be helpful for construction businesses not currently using them.
- Utilize videoconferencing for client and staff meetings.
- Research ways to automate and digitize portions of the construction process, e.g. through modular prefabrication technology.
- Increase skills and services related to sustainable materials, energy efficiency and low-waste building methods.
- Take advantage of existing clean energy upgrade programs for commercial properties.
- Diversify into new market segments.
Actions to Support the Construction Industry
The following actions by governments, economic development organizations, trade organizations, and others would provide support to the construction industry during the current COVID-19 crisis.
- Provide technical assistance with social media/marketing and safety guideline compliance.
- Provide regulatory assistance with expediting permits for building improvements and relaxing building permit deadlines.
- Work with municipalities to educate local officials and citizens about economic benefits of affordable housing development, multifamily housing development, and potential migration into the region.
- Work with local K-12 school system to promote construction profession and trade schools among youth.
- Advocate for and incentivize energy efficient upgrades to existing buildings.
- Provide additional hiring and training assistance.
To see recommendations for other industries, click on the industry link below:
