News Summary
Burlington, Vermont is experiencing a construction surge as projects like Cambrian Rise promise to deliver over 1,000 housing units. However, the industry grapples with a significant labor shortage and rising costs, exacerbated by inflation and a competitive housing market. Local contractors are struggling to find skilled workers, which has led to delays and scaled-back projects. While federal funding and infrastructure initiatives contribute to ongoing development, the future of the construction industry relies on effective recruitment and training strategies to address these pressing challenges.
Burlington, Vermont has witnessed tremendous growth in its construction industry this year, but the surge in development is also revealing significant challenges. The state is facing a labor shortage and rising costs amid ongoing housing projects and important flood recovery initiatives.
One of the standout projects is Cambrian Rise, located in Burlington, which is spearheaded by DEW Construction. This project is slated to deliver 1,050 housing units and is expected to reach completion this fall. In Williston, the expansion of Finney Crossing includes new hotels and commercial spaces that aim to stimulate the local economy further.
Funding has played a crucial role in driving this construction momentum. Both federal and state support, particularly from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) focused on flood recovery, has been integral. The Associated General Contractors of Vermont (AGC/VT) reported that construction volume has surged by about 12% over the past year, largely due to one-time funding sources.
Infrastructure projects are also underway, such as improvements at the Swanton wastewater treatment plant and a new sewer project in Colchester by Kingsbury Companies. These initiatives highlight the commitment to enhancing Vermont’s infrastructure against a backdrop of rapid development.
However, despite this growth, Vermont’s construction workforce, currently around 15,000 workers, is insufficient to meet the rising demand. Contractors have expressed their frustrations, noting that while their workloads are heavy, they are not operating at full capacity due to a skilled labor shortage. Many are left questioning the whereabouts of potential workers who may have left the industry.
In response to the labor shortage, companies like HELM Construction Solutions are actively seeking to hire various positions, especially in carpentry, project management, and administrative roles. This emphasis on recruitment reflects the competitive nature of the job market as businesses strive to fill essential roles necessary for completing ongoing projects.
Alongside workforce shortages, the housing market is also facing trials. The median home price in Vermont has soared to approximately $422,000, creating further difficulty for construction workers trying to live near job sites. Workers are finding it increasingly challenging to secure housing that is both affordable and convenient to their places of employment.
Cost challenges do not end with housing prices. Inflation and increased material costs are placing significant pressure on budgets. Reports indicate that many construction bids are exceeding project budgets, causing some projects to be scaled back or even shelved entirely. The situation is further complicated by proposed federal tariffs that threaten to raise the cost of materials, imposing a 25% increase on goods sourced from Canada and Mexico.
Despite these obstacles, there remain opportunities in Vermont’s construction sector. Project owners continue to advance new initiatives, showcasing a persistent demand for construction services. Furthermore, workforce development initiatives such as Vermont Works for Women and the establishment of a new simulator training center by AGC/VT are actively working to bridge the labor gap by offering scholarships and hands-on training programs designed to nurture the local workforce.
Personal success stories, exemplified by the journey of individuals like Lily Lukaszevicz, reflect the potential for growth in construction careers, drawing new individuals into the field despite the challenges. Local builders, however, remain concerned over the number of projects turned down as a direct result of labor shortages, emphasizing the urgent need for effective recruitment strategies.
Overall, AGC/VT leaders have advocated for smart investments and robust training programs as fundamental strategies necessary for nurturing the future of Vermont’s construction industry. As the state continues to navigate these challenges, it must also capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead.
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Additional Resources
- Vermont’s Construction Year: Growth, Grit, and Workforce Challenges
- Construction Jobs with the Fastest Wage Growth in Vermont
- Construction Activity Still Strong, Headwinds Prevail
- Google Search: Vermont construction industry
- Preserving History: Vermont’s 1831 Plank House Restoration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction
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MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
