On Friday, March 28, GBCA President and CEO, Ben Connors, addressed industry leaders at Philadelphia’s 2025 Build Conference, held at the Hilton Inn Penn’s Landing. In his presentation, Ben highlighted the significant challenges currently facing the city’s construction industry, including reduced residential permits, high interest rates, rising material costs, economic uncertainty due to tariffs, and cuts to NIH funding. Despite these obstacles, he pointed to reasons for optimism, such as unspent federal infrastructure funds, strong corporate cash reserves, new housing initiatives, and tax reductions.
Connors also emphasized GBCA members’ strong safety record, with significantly fewer injuries and lost workdays, underscoring the industry’s ongoing commitment to excellence. To navigate this downturn, he stressed the importance of supporting public projects, backing policies that promote investment, and making Philadelphia more business-friendly. While the outlook remains challenging, Connors concluded that through collaboration and strategic action, the industry can create opportunities for future growth.
