Frost has settled into the soil at the Green & Main pilot project and layered clothing has become the norm on site. Cold weather slows everything when it arrives, even our perceptions of time. Transitioning from fall, our project processes shift and schedules expand as the conventions of construction industry adjust to the freezing temperatures that turn work trucks into rolling coolers.
Recent Construction: Site Development and Seasonal Preparation
November 21, 2011 By 1 Comment
October is typically a month of extremes, when temperatures and temperaments often span the whole spectrum. Anticipation of the first freeze, the first measurable snowfall and bitter northern rains can easily dampen schedules and moods. We were blessed, however, with incredible weather, and my gratitude extends to the many people who stretched themselves to meet the pilot project deadlines.
Recent Construction: Site Development and Stormwater Management
September 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment
In the heat of August on the construction site, our attention turned to cold temperatures.
With temperatures pushing three digits, keeping the soils dry and dusty, we felt mounting pressure from pending grant deadlines and the looming shifts in weather patterns – yes, I am talking about evening temperatures that drop below 45 degrees at night and constant concern about the early freeze that limits fall planting.
July Construction: Birthing a Vision of the Future, Building a Birth Center
August 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment
A single wall can make a statement – a strong statement!
Yes, a single wall can outline the intent of a whole building. The plane of this wall can define an entire room – its surface and the raw material capturing the emotion of atmosphere and anticipation. This statement is especially true during construction, when architectural form comes to life in anticipation of the future, foreshadowing the beauty of the space and the celebration of its use.
Construction Discoveries and Challenges during June
July 12, 2011 By 1 Comment
It just could not stop raining in June. We’re not talking the standard ½-inch flush that cleans city streets while households sleep, leaving the air smelling fresh in the morning. No, we’re boasting serious downpours that dump upwards of five inches of rain in twenty-four hour cycles and repeatedly interrupt our planned work days, while also putting officials and drivers on the alert for early morning street closings.
Sustainability Surgery Needed to Overcome Hurdles
April 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Even when your construction crew involves earth surgeons who can shave dirt from an existing foundation better than most guys clean their face with a sharp razor, you have to remain ready to deviate from plans to overcome unexpected hurdles. Here is how we overcame one recent hurdle that required an orchestration between our crews and Des Moines City Works Department.
Steel Installation: Anticipating Progress
March 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Nothing is more exhilarating than stepping into the unknown, marching forward with something you have never done before. On January 4th, 2011, we did just that!
A Message from the Developer – Looking Ahead to 2011
January 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment
I prefer looking forward over staring backwards. Driving is generally easier this way and so is piloting a new vision. As a pilot project celebrating high performance Main Street renovations, the Green & Main pilot project is definitely no exception. We have entered our fifth year developing this vision and are now just breaking ground.
