December 3, 2008

  

AGC of Kansas News

Kansas State wins $450 million lab, 1,500 construction jobs with project
SOURCE
By Tim Carpenter
The Capital-Journal

The Kansas congressional delegation today applauded reports that the federal government made Kansas State University the No. 1 site for a $450 million laboratory that would be the nation's premier site for the study of biological threats.

The National Agro- Bio-Defense Facility would be located on the Kansas State campus in Manhattan. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security would make the final selection.

"I remain optimistic regarding media reporting that DHS has selected the site with the proven merits – Kansas and Kansas State University," said Sen. Pat Roberts, R-Kan. "I have been working to establish Kansas as a leader in agriculture, animal health, and biosecurity since 2001. We are the best location for the NBAF."

Rep. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said " Kansas received an early Christmas gift."

"The facility would have a significant impact on the state’s economy," said Sen. Sam Brownback, R-Kan.

The NBAF facility would replace the Plum Island facility, an outdated complex in New York state that has hosted the federal government’s animal disease research for about 50 years.

Manhattan beat out applicants from Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and Texas.

The recommendation would become formal with publication of an environmental impact statement, which contains a site proposal. Homeland Security would made the final determination after a 30-day waiting period.

Some farm groups have expressed concern about the risks of moving the lab to the U.S. mainland. Homeland Security officials are convinced it can operate safely using the latest containment procedures.

The lab is expected to generate about 1,500 construction jobs and a permanent payroll of $25 million to $30 million for more than 300 employees once the project is completed by 2015.

The Kansas legislature approved $105 million in bonds to buy land, upgrade roads, install a security fence and build a utility plant at the site on the Kansas State University campus. Kansas State University already conducts similar research at its Biosecurity Research Institute, near the proposed site of the new lab.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

AGC needs your feedback!
Immigration survey
As the 2009 legislative session approaches, AGC is growing more confident that there will be another push for immigration reform.  Although this year’s effort might not have as much traction as last year due to the budget shortfall, the business coalition against harmful immigration reform has remained intact to work to prevent harmful legislation from passing.

AGC would like to get a better understanding of how members feel about immigration reform on the STATE level.  Visit the immigration survey website and complete the short survey.

Communications survey
AGC is currently reviewing its communication strategies with membership.  AGC staff would like to get input on how our members prefer to receive news and updates from the association.   To complete the seven question survey, click here.

2009 Annual Convention – Let’s Build Kansas
Join industry leaders at the Capitol Plaza Hotel, Topeka, for the 75 th AGC of Kansas Annual Convention January 22-23.  All convention information can be found on the AGC website.  Visit www.agcks.org/2009-Annual-Convention.asp for registration forms, sponsorship opportunities and the up to date schedule of events as speakers become confirmed.

Have you found your auction item yet?
Help support the future industry representatives by donating an item to the KCEF Action Auction.  Items can be donated for the live and silent auctions and range from KSU Barbie to trips to Vegas.

Proceeds from both auctions go toward scholarships, professorships and general department funds at the Kansas State and Pittsburg State University construction programs.  The KCEF Action Auction will take place on Friday evening of convention following the dinner banquet.  If you would like to donate an item to the silent or live auction, contact Lori at (785) 266-4015.

AGC of America News

OSHA Grants Extension for Public Comments on Crane and Derricks
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has granted a 45-day extension for the Cranes and Derricks in Construction Notice for Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), which was published on October 9, 2008.  The original deadline for public comment was December 8, 2008.  OSHA has extended the deadline for public comments to Thursday, January 22, 2009. more

First National Effluent Limit for Construction Runoff Proposed by U.S. EPA
A proposed rule released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Nov. 19 would establish the first national effluent (discharge) limit for stormwater runoff from construction sites.  Upon early review, it appears that AGC’s advocacy efforts and close work with EPA staff have produced a workable proposal that recognizes the importance of providing contractors with the flexibility to select best management practices (BMPs) to fit the conditions of their sites.  Much work remains, however, to ensure that the final rule does not include a strict numeric limit dictating the amount of sediment that may lawfully be discharged from construction sites across the country. Read More