JUNE 2025CONSTRUCTIONBUSINESSREVIEW.COM9The regulatory environment is constantly evolving. For example, I dealt with a gas service moratorium in Westchester County, NY, affecting five retail centers for the past five years. It was finally lifted earlier this year, which was a considerable relief; however, many professionals in the area remain skeptical that the local utility company won't reverse course and refuse new or expanded gas services again soon as attitudes shift around fossil fuels.In a world of uncertainty, having the right players on your team is crucial to weather any storm.Adapting to Unforeseen Circumstances in Project ManagementUnforeseen circumstances are an inherent part of the construction landscape. Maintaining a healthy skepticism about what can go wrong helps prepare you as a project manager.A recent example comes to mind. We had just completed a 7,000-square-foot ground-up retail building with two tenants when the electric utility company informed us that we needed to install a 7-foot-tall concrete "blast wall" around the electric transformer. The biggest challenge was that this blast wall would obstruct the visibility and curbside appeal of the bank tenant's storefront.Ultimately, we had to comply with the utility company's requirement to ensure the activation of electric service. However, we collaborated with our tenant to design the wall's exterior to align with the building's design features, incorporating red brick and additional aesthetic elements. We also added landscaping, including bushes, to enhance its visual appeal.Had we contested the power company's demand, it would have delayed the activation of permanent power for the building, pushing back the opening for both eager tenants. This experience taught us how to make the most of an unexpected situation.The Impact of Digital Twins on Future Infrastructure ProjectsAs we advance into a future shaped by the Internet of Things (IoT), green technologies, and other innovative solutions, digital twins will play a crucial role in infrastructure projects. They allow developers and urban planners to visualize the potential impacts of their designs before construction begins and costs are incurred.Having the flexibility to gather comprehensive information about an intended project in advance can significantly help us mitigate the unforeseen circumstances that often arise during construction. Unfortunately, we can never eliminate them. When dealing with the logistical challenges of infrastructure projects in densely populated or high-traffic areas, digital twins become invaluable. They assist us in understanding coordination issues, establishing temporary thoroughfares during construction, and identifying potential blind spots or gaps in our designs.Advice for Young Professionals in ConstructionGet out in the field! The best teacher is experienced; the quickest way to learn how things are built is to see it in person. As you progress in your career, you'll encounter fewer opportunities to work on-site and interact with real estate professionals who truly understand the technical aspects of construction. Use this to your advantage while you can.Another valuable advice I can offer is: "Action breeds confidence." You're always better off deciding and following through rather than hesitating due to uncertainty. The quicker you take action, the faster you learn, and the more confident--and competent--you become. In construction, unforeseen circumstances are inevitable, but maintaining a proactive mindset and collaborating with trusted partners can significantly mitigate risks and ensure timely project completion
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