During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing challenges faced in municipal construction projects, particularly the lack of clear communication from contractors regarding timelines and project impacts. Jesse, a key figure in construction management, highlighted the difficulties in coordinating with contractors who often cannot provide specific schedules, complicating the work for engineering teams.
One council member suggested implementing post-project surveys to gather feedback from local businesses affected by construction. This would help assess the impact of projects and identify ways to support businesses facing disruptions. The example of Holland Street was cited, where delays in construction led to significant inconveniences for local retailers just before the holiday season, raising concerns about the timing of construction activities.
Another council member emphasized the need for better communication between construction crews and local businesses. They proposed appointing a liaison within contracting companies to facilitate this communication, ensuring that businesses receive timely updates about construction schedules. The urgency of this issue was underscored by reports from business owners struggling with the effects of ongoing construction, including dust and water supply disruptions.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity for improved communication strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of construction on local businesses, acknowledging the complexity of municipal construction while stressing the importance of supporting the community.