Construction Law
Construction in Colorado Pushes Ahead Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic
Construction in Colorado and Denver, the state capital, has pushed ahead despite the many challenges presented by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Construction companies have had to contend with project delays, cancellations, and disputes, yet, as our Denver mediation attorneys can attest to, many of them have managed to come out on top.
In this editorial, we discuss how construction is faring in Denver and Colorado at large. Although things may be looking up for large-scale projects throughout the Centennial State, Colorado contractors must still be mindful of common issues that could threaten their projects. For a legal ally who can protect your company during this pandemic and long after, partner with a Denver construction lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
Construction in Colorado
There are a number of reasons why the COVID-19 pandemic did not hurt the construction industry in Colorado like it did in other parts of the country. First, construction in Colorado was deemed “essential” during the pandemic, and construction companies throughout the state rose to the challenge by making safety a priority. Second, as reported by the Colorado Sun, Colorado downtowns had strong economies going into the pandemic, which helped numerous companies get through this difficult time. Colorado Springs, in particular, had a number of construction projects, including “two sports stadiums, about a dozen apartment buildings and three hotels,” progress during the pandemic.
Related: Which Contract Documents Can a Colorado Springs Construction Lawyer Review?
In addition to downtown construction, it would seem like road and highway construction projects are also protected — for now. $100 million in planned cuts to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) over the next couple of years will be partially offset by a $111 million premium on a debt issuance of $500 million. Senator Rachel Zenzinger said, “We’re not going to be making any more progress (on transportation) than normal — but we’re not sliding backwards either.” Although the CDOT won’t receive significant funding in next year’s budget, construction companies can at least rely on CDOT projects in the coming years. For assistance procuring CDOT projects in an increasingly competitive market, consult one of our Denver construction attorneys.
Related: With the Future of Highway Construction in Colorado Uncertain, Now Is the Time to Be Cautious
Construction in the Mile High City
As well as Colorado is faring, Denver may be doing even better. Denver developers have high expectations despite the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due, in part, to the belief that there will be high demand for construction following the pandemic as people move from more densely populated areas to Denver’s less densely populated urban environment.
The Block 162 tower and McGregor Square are two projects that are still on track for their openings. Block 162 is a 30-story building that will provide 600,000 square feet of office space. It’s currently on schedule for its December completion and could receive tenants as early as January. The development firm behind Block 162 praised the general contractor on the project for implementing COVID-19 safety measures, such as temperature checks and daily health surveys. (For assistance implementing COVID-19 safety measures on your jobsite, consult a Denver contractor lawyer from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
Related: Colorado’s Multi-Industry Construction Guidance
McGregor Square is a mixed-use project that will feature luxury condominiums as well as 205,000 square feet of office space. Although a few weeks behind schedule, this project is still set to open in mid-January. Both the Block 162 tower and McGregor Square encountered a difficult challenge during the pandemic: overseas material providers shutting down. Both projects had to wait for material providers in hard-hit Italy to reopen following the spread of COVID-19 in that country.
We’re glad to see both projects overcome this obstacle. Materials selected for use on a project are usually outlined in the construction contract, and a material shortage can easily lead to delays or a dispute. For assistance overcoming a construction dispute stemming from material shortages or any other issue, consult a Denver construction dispute lawyer with our law firm.
The Future of Construction in Colorado
The future of the construction in Colorado remains uncertain. Although projects in urban areas remain strong, there are signs of construction slowdown. This slowdown may only grow worse if there is a decline in the need for office space as a result of the pandemic. And although the CDOT budget has avoided massive budget cuts, it’s not the infrastructure support that industry advocates were hoping for.
At Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, we may not be able to solve the issues facing the Colorado construction industry, but we can assist your company. Our Denver contractor attorneys are adept at predicting industry trends and providing invaluable legal assistance. If you’ve encountered any of the issues mentioned above — delays, disputes, safety concerns, material shortages — call our law office for assistance. Our team can ensure that your company is protected from legal threats during the COVID-19 pandemic and long after.
If you would like to speak with one of our Denver construction mediation lawyers, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.