5 must reads for the AEC industry today: April 21, 2020

1. IoT system helps contractors keep their distance on the jobsite (BD+C)
"Many contractors are asking themselves how social distancing can be executed practically on jobsites so their workers can operate safely. As expected, products are starting to emerge that address these concerns."

2. Multifamily market flattens as construction proposal activity sinks (The Jagg Group)
"Multifamily has consistently been one of the strongest performers among 58 submarkets measured in PSMJ Resources’ quarterly survey."

3. Is there a way to test for Covid-19 without PPE? (Shepley Bulfinch) 
"We reimagined a premanufactured inflatable structure, shaped like a bubble and intended for pool covering, as a testing booth. The “Bubble” consists of fiber-reinforced vinyl, which acts as a protective layer, fully separating healthcare workers who are inside the structure administering the tests, from those being tested, who stand outside," writes Luke Voiland, AIA.

4. U.S. strip mall owners paid less than half of April rent (Financial Times via National Real Estate Investor)
“Commercial property researchers at Green Street Advisors told clients this weekend that strip mall landlords have been paid only between 30 percent and 50 percent of April rent, highlighting the scale of the disruption to real estate caused by the coronavirus shutdown."

5. Federal Reserve Announces New Lending Programs (AGC)
"On April 9, the Federal Reserve announced additional actions that include a new mid-sized lending program coming out of the Economic Stabilization Fund, as provided for in the CARES Act. The Fed created two new lending programs for businesses – the Main Street New Loan Facility and the Main Street Expanded Loan Facility."