THE DISPATCH

Liebherr Upgrades LR 1400.1 SX Crawler Crane with Derrick Equipment, New Safety Features

2026 Tech & Spec Survey: A Deep Dive into Contractors’ Equipment Purchase Plans

A majority of contractors (83%) plan to purchase equipment in 2026, with specific focus on technology features, specifications, and brand preferences. The survey reveals what contractors prioritize when making equipment buying decisions.

No More Core Samples? — Trimble Adds Radar to Roadworks for Asphalt Compactors

Trimble's Roadworks system now integrates ground penetrating radar (GPR) sensors to measure asphalt density in real time during compaction, eliminating the need for separate core sampling. This allows crews to verify compaction quality on the fly and adjust work as needed.

Data centers powered March construction planning almost exclusively

Data center construction is carrying the commercial building market, with planning activity down 12.7% since March 2025 without it. The boom in data center projects is masking broader weakness in other commercial construction segments.

Punch List: Firms shake up C-suites, Fluor nabs 2 energy jobs

Several construction contractors have made executive leadership changes, with Fluor securing two new energy sector jobs. The week's industry news also includes an expired OSHA program and Balfour Beatty's relocation of its U.S. headquarters.

4 takeaways from New York Build 2026

New York Build 2026 highlighted critical issues in the booming data center construction sector, particularly around power supply challenges, community opposition, and data quality standards. Industry leaders discussed how better construction data management and planning could address these growing pains as data center development accelerates.

‘We Need to Lower Interest Rates’: Anirban Basu on 2026 Q1 Construction Economy

Construction leaders are focused on three major issues heading into Q1 2026: booming data center construction, geopolitical risks from the Strait of Hormuz, and persistent labor shortages. Industry analyst Anirban Basu argues that lowering interest rates is critical to sustaining economic growth in the sector.

Mortenson acquires energy management controls firm

Mortenson, a Minneapolis-based contractor, acquired Nor-Cal Controls to expand its presence in the energy management market. The acquisition gives Mortenson access to energy control technologies and expertise to pursue new opportunities in the energy sector.

Balancing the Right to Repair With Evidence Preservation in Construction Defect Litigation

Construction defect litigation requires owners and tenants to balance making necessary repairs with preserving evidence for legal claims. The article offers practical guidance on documenting defects and maintaining records to support litigation while addressing building problems.

Dynapac Rolls Out Heaviest Asphalt Roller, the New 16-Ton CC7000 VI

Dynapac introduced the CC7000 VI, a 16-ton tandem-drum vibratory compactor engineered for maximum compaction on highway and large infrastructure projects. The new roller represents the company's heaviest asphalt compaction equipment to date.

Court Dismisses Rototilt Patent Infringement Lawsuit Against Engcon

Hyundai Gives Sneak Peek of New "Tool Carrier" Compact Track Loader, the HT30

Hyundai unveiled the HT30, a 72-horsepower compact track loader designed as a versatile attachment platform beyond standard bucket work. The machine accepts multiple high-power attachments for expanded jobsite applications.

U.S.-Based Werk-Brau Commits to Global Open-S Quick-Coupler Standard

Werk-Brau, a U.S.-based equipment manufacturer, has committed to the Open-S Alliance standard for excavator quick couplers, enabling attachments to work across different brands without compatibility issues. The adoption of this brand-agnostic international standard improves job site efficiency by allowing operators to use multiple coupler systems interchangeably.

Trump calls for 50% tariff on goods from nations arming Iran

President Trump announced a 50% tariff on goods from nations arming Iran, effective immediately, though legal questions remain about his authority to implement broad tariffs following a Supreme Court ruling. Construction professionals should monitor how this policy develops, as it could impact material costs and supply chains depending on affected countries and products.

Why high-rise construction carries higher liability risk

High-rise construction projects face increased legal liability when safety protocols are viewed as hindrances rather than essential priorities by workers and management. During litigation, juries assess whether companies treated safety rules as mandatory requirements or as obstacles to efficiency, making safety culture a critical factor in determining liability outcomes.

JE Dunn launches offsite manufacturing arm

JE Dunn has created a new offsite manufacturing division to produce building components away from job sites, enabling faster installation and improved safety. The approach is designed to reduce construction costs and accelerate project delivery through streamlined manufacturing processes.

New Survey Reveals Overwhelmingly Optimistic Results on the Use of AI in Construction

A new CMiC X Dodge survey shows construction professionals are increasingly optimistic about AI adoption in the industry. While AI technology is already advanced enough for construction use, the real challenge is getting construction companies and workers prepared to implement it effectively.