As 2024 draws to a close, the infrastructure sector has experienced significant developments across various domains. Let’s take a look back at some of the highlights of the year affecting architects, engineers and contractors.
Collapse of the Key Bridge
The year was marked by a tragic event that shook the industry and the nation. On March 26, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after being struck by a container ship. This incident, described as one of the worst maritime disasters in US history, resulted in the deaths of six workers and caused significant disruption to the region’s transportation and economy. In an interview with SmartBrief, Jason Hastings, chief of bridges and structures at the Delaware Department of Transportation and vice chair of the AASHTO Committee on Bridges and Structures, said he agrees with civil engineers who describe the tragedy as “a full infrastructure problem, as opposed to a bridge problem.”
The collapse highlighted the critical importance of infrastructure resilience and emergency response preparedness. Baltimore’s emergency services, led by Fire Chief James Wallace, demonstrated the value of well-coordinated crisis management. The city’s emergency operations plan, which had been tested in previous events, proved crucial in managing the incident effectively.
The aftermath of the collapse also underscored the need for comprehensive support systems for affected communities. Baltimore’s response included wage subsidy programs for port workers, utility and rental assistance for those impacted, and the establishment of a fund to support the families of the victims. This holistic approach to disaster recovery may serve as a model for future incidents.
Update on NIST Investigation of the Surfside Tragedy
Following the tragic partial collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Florida the National Institute of Standards and Technology has been conducting a thorough investigation. In March, NIST gave an update on its progress, noting that while investigators believe there is robust evidence suggesting the collapse initiated in the pool deck, investigators have not yet ruled out a failure initiation in some part of the of the tower that precipitated a collapse in the pool deck. In September, NIST announced that its draft report is projected for public review in 2026, emphasizing the importance of a meticulous approach to ensure credible findings that can inform future building codes and standards.
Big Year for Design-Build
The term “alternative project delivery” has become increasingly outdated as methods like progressive design-build and construction management at-risk gain prominence. These approaches promote early collaboration, leading to more efficient and cost-effective project outcomes. Notably, the water and wastewater sectors have embraced these methods, with major utilities across the US adopting them for significant projects. This shift reflects a broader industry trend towards integrated project delivery to meet complex infrastructure demands.
Beyond the water sector, design-build and progressive design-build procurement enjoyed a banner year. Just last week, the Arkansas Department of Transportation completed its first design-build project, and the New Jersey Department of Transportation isn’t far behind, recently issuing an RFQ for its first design-build. And the replacement to the Key Bridge will be delivered under a progressive design-build model.
Big Strides in Construction Safety
The construction industry made big strides in construction safety this year, with OSHA noting that fewer workers are dying from hazards where the agency has focused its enforcement resources. Preliminary agency data show a decrease in fatalities the agency is mandated to investigate, including significant reductions in fatal injuries from trench collapses and falls, two of the leading causes of death among construction industry workers.
Beyond enforcement, some changes to products and standards have helped improve safety this year. Innovations such as self-retracting lifelines, tool tethering devices like tape measure guards, and power tool boots enhance safety and reduce risks at heights. The updated ANSI 121 standard for dropped object prevention includes new testing requirements for retractable and adjustable lanyards, aiming to enhance product reliability.
And recently, the Associated General Contractors of America announced a partnership with Autodesk to addresses the need for proper-fitting personal protective equipment for women in construction.
Big Strides in Sustainable Building and Codes
Earlier in the year, the International Code Council released the 2024 International Residential Code, encompassing all building requirements for certain residential structures. A significant update involves the design and construction of post-tensioned, slab-on-ground floors, as highlighted by the Post-Tensioning Institute’s “Stronger Standards, Exceptional Structures” campaign.
2024 was also a big year for concrete sustainability, with the American Concrete Institute formally publishing its first code for low-carbon concrete. For its part, the Federal Highway Administration released global warming potential thresholds for nine concrete mix classes as part of the Low Carbon Transportation Materials Grants program. The thresholds, measured in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent per cubic yard, range from 146.13 for 2,500 psi normal weight concrete to 478.12 for 5,000 psi lightweight concrete.
Mass timber also made big strides. In May, crews broke ground on what will be Houston’s first mass timber office building. In New York City, a nine-month accelerator for timber projects, has helped seven initiatives advance in design, procurement and construction by clarifying regulatory issues. Participants, such as Marvel Designs and Algoma, praised the program for expediting their projects through collaboration with the Department of Buildings. The studio facilitated smoother design processes and highlighted mass timber’s potential for sustainable construction, aligning with New York City’s goal to reduce embodied carbon by 50% by 2030.
In the realm of building certifications, the US Green Building Council had a memorable year, facilitating the development of the final definition of a “net zero building.” The organization also touted the multi-decade record of the LEED program in a report in November, noting that the program has certified nearly 200,000 projects spanning 30 billion square feet globally. LEED-certified buildings cut CO2 emissions by 34% compared to conventional structures.
IIJA Turns 3
In November, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act had its three-year anniversary. As it enters its final two years, $695 billion has funded over 74,000 projects, including road and bridge repairs and lead pipe replacements. Insights from industry leaders highlight mixed progress: the Associated General Contractors of America note protected funding mechanisms ensure stability, yet delays, inflation and workforce shortages slow implementation. The National Utility Contractors Association stresses urgent needs for water infrastructure upgrades and quicker broadband deployment, citing permitting and administrative challenges. Meanwhile, Brookings Institution analysts have warned the second Trump administration could politicize grant distribution and prioritize traditional projects, threatening Biden-era climate and equity initiatives. With $294 billion unallocated, the law’s future depends on balancing competing priorities and sustaining long-term benefits.
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