news – Building Pennsylvania

KCA Commercial Construction Intelligence Report, July 31, 2026, Edition

This was a quieter news week for project announcements, but the week’s report highlights several significant funding announcements and continued momentum in Pennsylvania’s commercial construction market. While there were relatively few major private-sector project announcements over the past seven days, state capital investments and AI-related industrial development continue to drive opportunities.

Executive Summary

Top Story: The Commonwealth’s nearly $445 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) awards continues to shape the project pipeline, with funding supporting 356 projects statewide. These awards will move numerous public, institutional, and community construction projects toward procurement over the coming months. READ MORE.

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Major Project Announcements & Groundbreakings

1. Statewide RACP Awards Continue to Feed the Construction Pipeline

The Shapiro Administration’s recent RACP announcements remain the most consequential construction news affecting Pennsylvania contractors.

Highlights include:

$122.5 million for 129 projects in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
$109.3 million for 68 projects across South Central Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley.
$134.4 million for 100 projects in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
$26.1 million for 17 projects in North Central and Northwestern Pennsylvania.

Why it matters: RACP funding supports design and construction of economic development, workforce, healthcare, public safety, cultural, and infrastructure projects. Contractors should begin monitoring engineering and bidding opportunities as recipients move projects into procurement.

2. York County Receives Multiple Construction Investments

Among the newly highlighted RACP projects:

Central Market York expansion
Keystone Kidspace construction
New Spring Garden Township emergency services facility
Redevelopment of the former Zion Lutheran Church into an event venue

Combined funding totals approximately $6.7 million.

Why it matters: These are the types of medium-sized public projects that frequently generate opportunities for regional general contractors and specialty trades.

Data Centers & Industrial Development

AI Infrastructure Continues to Dominate Long-Term Outlook

Although there were no major new Pennsylvania data center announcements this week, activity remains strong around previously announced developments, including:

Carlisle (Pennsylvania Digital I)
Lancaster County (CoreWeave)
Salem Township (AWS)
Archbald
Lawrence County

Developers continue advancing permitting, planning, and site development activities.

Why it matters:

Heavy civil work
Electrical contractors
Concrete contractors
Structural steel
Mechanical systems
Utility infrastructure

This remains Pennsylvania’s strongest private commercial construction sector.

Healthcare, Higher Education & Institutional Construction

No major healthcare or university building announcements emerged during the past seven days.

However, many recently funded RACP projects include:

Higher education improvements
Community facilities
Public safety buildings
Workforce development facilities

These projects are expected to move toward design and bidding during the second half of 2026.

Contractor & Developer News

No major Pennsylvania contractor mergers, acquisitions, or executive leadership announcements surfaced during the reporting period.

Public Funding & Legislative Developments

RACP Funding Round Officially Updated

The Commonwealth updated its 2025 RACP funding round information and award listings.

The current application window has closed, and additional awards may still be issued before the funding round officially concludes.

What contractors should do:

Monitor local project recipients.
Engage owners early.
Watch for RFQs, design contracts, and bid advertisements.

Bid Opportunities

No significant statewide commercial bid packages were announced during the past week.

Contractors should continue monitoring:

Department of General Services procurement opportunities
PennDOT lettings
Local school district capital projects
Municipal facility improvements
RACP-funded projects entering procurement

Workforce, Labor & Apprenticeship

The dominant workforce issue remains availability of skilled craft professionals.

Demand continues to be strongest for:

Electricians
Carpenters
Heavy equipment operators
Concrete workers
HVAC technicians
Project managers

Large industrial and data center projects are expected to keep labor demand elevated through 2027.

Safety

No major statewide commercial construction safety incidents or regulatory developments were identified during the past week.

Contractors continue preparing for late-summer heat exposure and maintaining emphasis on fall protection, excavation safety, and workforce wellness.

Market Outlook

Current Trends

Strong

Data centers
Industrial construction
Public capital investment
Infrastructure-related work

Moderating

Office construction
Private commercial financing-sensitive developments

Growing

Energy infrastructure
Mission-critical facilities
Public building modernization

KCA Watch List (Next 30–90 Days)

This information was sent to KCA members. For information please contact the KCA – Jon@KeystoneContractors.com.

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KCA Statement on the 2026-27 Pennsylvania State Budget

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) appreciates the completion of Pennsylvania’s 2026-27 State Budget and is encouraged by its overall fiscal restraint.

From the perspective of Pennsylvania’s construction industry, we are pleased that the Commonwealth maintained its commitment to fiscal stability by preserving the Rainy Day Fund. Maintaining healthy reserves strengthens Pennsylvania’s financial position and helps provide confidence for taxpayers, employers, and the businesses that build and maintain the Commonwealth’s infrastructure.

We are also encouraged that the budget contained relatively few major policy changes. While there are many important issues facing Pennsylvania, significant policy decisions deserve careful analysis rather than being rushed through the budget process.

In particular, KCA believes it was prudent not to advance major initiatives like the legalization of recreational marijuana as part of this year’s budget negotiations. KCA does not support the legalization of marijuana, but we do understand that complex issues like this carry long-term economic, regulatory, and workforce implications and should receive thoughtful public debate, stakeholder feedback and legislative committee reviews before becoming law.

Pennsylvania has experienced the consequences of rushing major policy initiatives before. When casino gaming was legalized during the Rendell administration, the process moved quickly, and several casino licenses were awarded to investors whose financial capacity had not been fully vetted. One project ultimately experienced significant financial problems, leaving construction contractors and suppliers with substantial unpaid work. The financial losses were severe enough that two Pennsylvania construction companies ultimately went out of business.

That experience serves as an important reminder that economic development initiatives must be paired with strong financial due diligence and responsible oversight. As an advocate for construction employers, we cannot stress enough how important it is for careful planning to protect both taxpayers and the businesses that invest their people and resources into these projects.

KCA looks forward to working with the Shapiro Administration and the General Assembly on policies that strengthen Pennsylvania’s construction industry, promote responsible economic growth, and ensure the Commonwealth remains financially sound for years to come.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) is a leading Pennsylvania commercial construction association representing contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, and industry partners. KCA is dedicated to advancing the construction industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, safety, and member services while helping build a stronger Pennsylvania.

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-884-2801
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

Keystone Contractors Association Surpasses $100,000 in College Scholarships to Build Pennsylvania’s Future Workforce

Scholarship program continues investing in Pennsylvania students committed to building careers—and communities—across the Commonwealth

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that it has awarded more than $100,000 in college scholarships since launching its scholarship program in 2022, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to developing Pennsylvania’s next generation of construction industry leaders.

Designed with a singular mission, the KCA Scholarship Program is unlike any other in the Commonwealth. KCA proudly refers to it as “Pennsylvania’s Scholarship” because every dollar invested stays in Pennsylvania.

To qualify, scholarship recipients must:

Be a Pennsylvania resident.
Attend a Pennsylvania college, university, or trade-related institution.
Demonstrate a commitment to building their career—and Pennsylvania’s future—after graduation.

“Our goal has never been simply to provide financial assistance,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the KCA. “Our mission is to invest in students who are committed to building Pennsylvania. Every scholarship recipient represents another future leader who will strengthen our workforce, improve our communities, and contribute to the economic future of our Commonwealth.”

Since its inception, the scholarship program has supported students pursuing careers in construction management, engineering, architecture, skilled trades, business, safety, and other disciplines that support Pennsylvania’s construction industry.

Unlike many scholarship programs that allow recipients to attend schools anywhere in the country, KCA intentionally designed its program to keep both the educational investment and future workforce within Pennsylvania.

“The construction industry needs talented young professionals who want to make a difference here at home,” O’Brien said. “By requiring recipients to live, learn, and ultimately help build Pennsylvania, we’re creating a direct pipeline from our classrooms to our jobsites.”

The scholarship initiative reflects KCA’s broader commitment to workforce development, which includes career awareness programs, industry partnerships, apprenticeship promotion, safety education, and leadership development throughout Pennsylvania.

Applications are evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, career aspirations, and each student’s desire to contribute to Pennsylvania’s construction industry.

As the program continues to grow, KCA remains committed to expanding scholarship opportunities and encouraging more young Pennsylvanians to pursue rewarding careers that will shape the Commonwealth’s future.

“Reaching the $100,000 milestone is something our members should be proud of,” O’Brien said. “Every scholarship represents an investment in Pennsylvania’s future workforce, infrastructure, and economy. We’re not just awarding scholarships—we’re helping build the next generation of builders.”

About the Keystone Contractors Association

The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) is Pennsylvania’s leading commercial construction association representing contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, and industry partners. KCA is dedicated to advancing the construction industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, safety, and member services while helping build a stronger Pennsylvania.

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-884-2801
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

KCA Launches “Build the Future” Video Challenge to Inspire Pennsylvania’s Next Generation of Construction Professionals

HARRISBURG, Pa. – At the 2026 Construction Celebration, the Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) announced the launch of the KCA Build the Future Video Challenge, a statewide social media campaign designed to showcase the exciting opportunities available in Pennsylvania’s construction industry and inspire the next generation of builders.

The challenge invites construction companies, union members, apprentices, engineers, project managers, estimators, superintendents, and other industry professionals to create and share short videos—30 seconds or less—highlighting why a career in construction is rewarding, exciting, and impactful.

“The construction industry has an incredible story to tell,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the KCA. “Every day, our members build the schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, and facilities that keep Pennsylvania moving forward. Through this challenge, we’re encouraging construction professionals to share their stories and help young people see the opportunities available in our industry.”

Participants are encouraged to create positive, authentic videos showcasing:
• Pride in the projects they build
• The variety and excitement of construction careers
• Great wages and benefits
• Opportunities to earn while learning
• Teamwork and problem-solving
• Advanced technology and innovation
• Why they would recommend construction careers to students and young adults

Videos can be posted on TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and other social media platforms between June 9 and November 1, 2026.

To enter, participants should post their videos, using one of the following hashtags:
#BuildTheFuture
#KCABuildsPA
#ConstructionCareers

Winning videos will be selected through a combination of public engagement and judging by a panel of emerging construction professionals. KCA plans to recognize winners at a year-end industry event.

Prizes include:
• Grand Prize: $1,000
• Finalists: $250 each
• Special Recognition Awards for creativity, energy, and industry ambassadorship

The Build the Future Video Challenge is part of KCA’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and promoting careers in Pennsylvania’s construction industry.

“Construction offers outstanding opportunities for people from all backgrounds,” O’Brien said. “Whether someone is interested in the skilled trades, engineering, project management, or technology, our industry provides meaningful careers, strong wages, and the chance to build something that lasts. We look forward to seeing construction professionals across Pennsylvania help us tell that story.”

Additional contest information, rules, and updates will be available through KCA’s social media channels and member communications.

About the KCA: The Keystone Contractors Association is a leading Pennsylvania commercial construction association, representing contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, and industry consultants committed to building a stronger construction industry throughout the Commonwealth.

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – Top Stories for the Week Ending January 16, 2026

Stay Safe, Stay & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

This week’s top stories in Pennsylvania

Massive Southern Berks Industrial Park Breaks Ground: One of the biggest industrial projects in the state has officially started construction in Berks County. The 5.5 million-square-foot Southern Berks Industrial Park will sit on a former Bethlehem Steel site and include multiple Class A industrial buildings. Phase 1 alone is expected to create about 450 jobs by late 2026, with the full build-out projected to generate roughly 2,750 jobs and ~$2 billion in economic activity. READ MORE.

State Grant Programs for Construction & Transportation Now Open: Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation Multimodal Transportation Funding (MTF) and other state grant programs are now open for applications, offering public infrastructure and commercial project funding opportunities that can support future construction and mobility-related developments. READ MORE.

Time to Nominate Construction’s Safest Construction Companies, Emerging Leaders & Community Difference-Makers: The KCA awards program is an excellent way to recognize the talented and community-first professionals on your team. Winners and Finalists are honored at the annual Construction Celebration held in June, which is the construction industry’s biggest awards event in Harrisburg. We hope you enjoyed last years’ event: 2025 Construction Celebration Highlight Video.

KCA Safety Awards: To be considered for the KCA Safety Awards please submit your OSHA 300A log from 2025 by March 1, 2026. Please respond to this email with your form or email the KCA.
KCA Top Young Leader: This award shines the spotlight on the up and coming leaders from the construction industry. The deadline to nominate a professional is March 1, 2026. For more information on the award, list of past winners and to locate the Nomination Form visit: KCA Top Young Leader.
The Thomas George Memorial Community Service Award: Created to honor the field personnel who make a difference on the jobsite and in the community, the deadline to nominate a professional for this award is March 1, 2026. Nomination Form.
The KCA Scholarship Program: Entering its 5th year, the KCA Scholarship Program has awarded $80,000 in scholarships to AEC students. For more information please visit KCA Scholarship Program.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – Top Stories for Week Ending December 5, 2025

This week’s top stories in Pennsylvania:

Esplanade Breaks Ground in Pittsburgh: Officials this week — including Josh Shapiro — joined developers to break ground on the $740 million Esplanade project in Pittsburgh’s North Side / North Shore. The plan calls for 15 acres of former industrial / brownfield land to be transformed into a mixed-use waterfront development: up to 750 apartments (20% affordable), 126 condos, retail, entertainment venues, green space, and a signature ~200-foot Ferris wheel. First-phase work — including site demolition, infrastructure, and apartment/retail preparation — is underway now, with the Ferris wheel, housing, and retail expected to open around 2028; full completion could run into 2029. The project is being pitched as a “game changer” for revitalizing underused riverfront space, creating thousands of jobs (jobs-creation estimates include both construction and long-term roles), and boosting local economy and livability. READ MORE.

Pennsylvania Comprehensive Housing Bill In Spotlight as Legislators Try to Address Housing Shortage: This week, a bipartisan group of state legislators introduced a new housing bill intended to ease the state’s deep housing shortage — currently estimated at a shortfall of at least 100,000 units statewide. The package aims to encourage new building development, streamline permitting, and incentivize conversion or redevelopment of underutilized properties — partly to overcome delays tied to local government structure and red tape. The effort aligns with the recently drafted Pennsylvania Housing Action Plan (PHAP), which seeks to increase housing affordability and supply across the Commonwealth. READ MORE.

PennDOT & Infrastructure Work Update: The state completed its 2025 construction season on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, investing over $737 million in maintenance, road resurfacing (24.3 miles), and modernization — including demolition of old toll plazas and construction of new Open Road Tolling (ORT) structures across the state. Why it matters: These infrastructure updates have real consequences for traffic, commuting, and long-term mobility across the state. For residents, they affect travel times and may influence where people choose to live or commute — but they also reflect ongoing investment in making Pennsylvania’s transportation network safer, more modern, and more efficient. READ MORE.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

Keystone Contractors Association Names Steven Fitzpatrick as 2025 Labor Champion

Fitzpatrick honored as this year’s Thomas George Memorial Community Service Awardee for his exceptional dedication to workforce development & community impact

[Harrisburg, PA] — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) is proud to announce that Steven Fitzpatrick has been named the recipient of the 2025 Thomas George Memorial Community Service Award, an annual honor recognizing outstanding service and leadership in Pennsylvania’s construction industry.

Fitzpatrick, a respected labor advocate and industry leader working as a Superintendent for Rocky Bleier Construction Group as a member of Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 431, was named this year’s Construction Labor Champion for his relentless efforts to improve working conditions, strengthen labor-management partnerships, and champion community engagement across the region.

“Steven Fitzpatrick embodies the spirit of this award—service, leadership, and integrity,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “His commitment to advancing the construction workforce while giving back to the community makes him a true labor champion and a worthy recipient of this year’s honor.”

About the Thomas George Memorial Community Service Award

Established in memory of longtime KCA Executive Director Thomas George, the award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional service to their community and the construction industry. Winners reflect George’s lifelong values: collaboration, respect, and a passion for elevating both labor and management in construction.

Fitzpatrick was selected through a nomination process involving peers and industry stakeholders, who cited his leadership in labor advocacy, safety initiatives, and community-building efforts as among the best in the industry.

When accepting this award, Fitzpatrick was quick to highlight many of the great organizations he supports like the Harrisburg PTSD Run for Veterans, Fort Indiantown Gap Wreaths Across America and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Fitzpatrick was formally honored at the 2025 Construction Celebration, where industry leaders will celebrate his achievements and ongoing commitment to excellence. Click here to view video highlights: 2025 Construction Celebration Recap.