IBTS

Request for Proposal (RFP) Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:37:54 GMT

Request for Proposal (RFP)

Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations

ADDENDUM # 1

Request for Proposal (RFP)

Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations

RFP Number: TS-RFP-001-2026

Issued: March 11, 2026 April 3, 2026

Questions Due: March 20, 2026

Responses Due: April 10, 2026 April 24, 2024

PREVIOUS ITERATION:
Request for Proposal (RFP)

Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations

RFP Number: TS-RFP-001-2026

Issued: March 11, 2026

Questions Due: March 20, 2026

Responses Due: April 10, 202

IBTS Highlights Community-Centered Disaster Recovery, Resilience Strategies at SAME San Juan Industry Day 2026

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:00:19 GMT

San Juan, Puerto Rico - March 6, 2026 ---The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) shared insights from its extensive work supporting disaster recovery and infrastructure resilience in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during the 2026 Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) San Juan Field Chapter Industry Day 2026, held March 3–5.

Hosted by SAME at El Conquistador Hotel in Fajardo, the multi-day conference convened federal agencies, government leaders, engineering and construction professionals, and private sector partners to discuss regional infrastructure priorities and collaboration opportunities across Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the broader Caribbean.

During the panel “Resiliency for the Future,” Agnes Crespo Quintana, Esq., IBTS’s Director of the Puerto Rico Region, shared field-based perspectives on the long road to recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017. Drawing from nearly a decade of on-the-ground implementation experience, Crespo Quintana emphasized the importance of community-driven recovery strategies that prioritize local engagement, transparency, and long-term resilience. “Recovery and resilience cannot be designed from afar”, said Crespo Quintana, adding that “they must be built alongside the communities who lived through the disaster and understand its realities. At IBTS, we believe that the most effective solutions begin with listening — ensuring community voices guide strategy while technical expertise translates those needs into practical, scalable solutions that strengthen resilience for generations”.

IBTS is a nonprofit organization with more than 50 years of technical, engineering, and professional services experience supporting federal, state, and local governments, as well as private-sector partners. Its expertise includes program and project management; quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC); engineering review and technical oversight; inspection and monitoring; regulatory support; community engagement and stakeholder coordination. Across the Caribbean, IBTS has supported efforts to strengthen infrastructure, reduce risk, and advance energy independence and grid reliability, including initiatives related to distributed energy systems, microgrids, and other strategies that enhance long-term power security and dependable service.

A hallmark of IBTS’ work in the region has been its community-centric, “bottom-up” approach , which integrates risk assessment, stakeholder mapping, and local engagement to ensure recovery strategies reflect the priorities of the communities they serve. This approach strengthens transparency, accountability, and compliance across federally funded recovery programs while fostering trust between institutions and residents.

That approach is reflected in IBTS’s work supporting resilience, recovery, and mitigation planning through HUD and FEMA-funded programs, along with related workforce development and program implementation efforts carried out in partnership with public-sector entities.

“Preparation must become part of our culture,” she noted. “In the Caribbean, where natural disasters are an ongoing reality, resilience cannot be optional. It must be embedded into our systems, our infrastructure, and our people. By equipping local communities with knowledge, tools, and opportunity, we ensure recovery efforts lead not just to rebuilding, but to lasting stability and prosperity”. During the panel, Crespo Quintana also underscored that investments in workforce training and local capacity-building are essential to sustaining these long-term resilience strategies.

The SAME Industry Day conference featured exhibits, technical training sessions, networking events, and panels focused on doing business in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, including sessions on small business engagement, mentor-protégé partnerships, and infrastructure development across the region, with key panelists from the Government of Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, among others.

About IBTS:

With a mission to strengthen communities, IBTS serves as a trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments in advancing economic development. Its services ensure the effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of renewable energy projects and federally funded energy and sustainability programs—optimizing performance, reducing risk, and promoting the efficient use of public funds.

Beyond its expertise in solar quality assurance, IBTS’s Puerto Rico office provides services in federal fund management; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery; municipal planning; and resilience strategies. As a nonprofit organization, IBTS is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National Association of Counties (NACo), National Governors Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities (NLC). For more information, visit www.ibts.org .

IBTS destaca estrategias de recuperación ante desastres y resiliencia centradas en las comunidades durante el “SAME San Juan Industry Day 2026”

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:56:22 GMT

San Juan, Puerto Rico – 6 de marzo de 2026 — El Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) compartió perspectivas derivadas de su amplia experiencia apoyando la recuperación tras desastres y el fortalecimiento de la resiliencia de la infraestructura en Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes de Estados Unidos durante el SAME San Juan Field Chapter Industry Day 2026 , celebrado del 3 al 5 de marzo.

Organizada por la Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) en el Hotel El Conquistador en Fajardo , la conferencia de varios días reunió a agencias federales, líderes gubernamentales, profesionales de ingeniería y construcción, y socios del sector privado para dialogar sobre las prioridades de infraestructura regional y las oportunidades de colaboración en Puerto Rico, las Islas Vírgenes de Estados Unidos y el Caribe en general.

Durante el panel titulado “Resiliency for the Future” , la licenciada Agnes Crespo Quintana , directora de IBTS para la Región de Puerto Rico, compartió perspectivas basadas en el trabajo de campo sobre el largo proceso de recuperación tras la devastación causada por el huracán María en 2017. Basándose en casi una década de experiencia directa en la implementación de programas, Crespo Quintana destacó la importancia de adoptar estrategias de recuperación impulsadas por las propias comunidades, que prioricen la participación local, la transparencia y la resiliencia a largo plazo.

“La recuperación y la resiliencia no pueden diseñarse desde la distancia”, señaló Crespo Quintana, al añadir que “deben construirse junto a las comunidades que vivieron el desastre y comprenden sus realidades. En IBTS creemos que las soluciones más efectivas comienzan escuchando: asegurando que las voces de las comunidades orienten la estrategia, mientras la experiencia técnica traduce esas necesidades en soluciones prácticas y escalables que fortalezcan la resiliencia para las próximas generaciones”.

IBTS es una organización sin fines de lucro con más de 50 años de experiencia en servicios técnicos, de ingeniería y profesionales, apoyando a gobiernos federales, estatales y municipales, así como a socios del sector privado. Su experiencia incluye gestión de programas y proyectos; aseguramiento y control de calidad (QA/QC); revisión de ingeniería y supervisión técnica; inspección y monitoreo; apoyo regulatorio; participación comunitaria y coordinación de partes interesadas.

En el Caribe, IBTS ha apoyado iniciativas para fortalecer la infraestructura, reducir riesgos y promover la independencia energética y la confiabilidad de la red eléctrica, incluyendo proyectos relacionados con sistemas de energía distribuida, microredes y otras estrategias destinadas a reforzar la seguridad energética y la continuidad del servicio a largo plazo.

Un sello distintivo del trabajo de IBTS en la región ha sido su enfoque centrado en la comunidad y de “abajo hacia arriba” o “Bottom Up” , que integra evaluaciones de riesgo, mapeo de partes interesadas y participación local para asegurar que las estrategias de recuperación reflejen las prioridades de las comunidades a las que sirven. Este enfoque fortalece la transparencia, la rendición de cuentas y el cumplimiento dentro de los programas de recuperación financiados con fondos federales, al tiempo que fomenta la confianza entre las instituciones y los residentes.

Este enfoque se refleja en la labor de IBTS apoyando la planificación de resiliencia, recuperación y mitigación mediante programas financiados por HUD y FEMA , así como en iniciativas de desarrollo de la fuerza laboral y en la implementación de programas realizados en colaboración con entidades del sector público.

“La preparación debe convertirse en parte de nuestra cultura”, destacó. “En el Caribe, donde los desastres naturales son una realidad constante, la resiliencia no puede ser opcional. Debe integrarse en nuestros sistemas, en nuestra infraestructura y en nuestra gente. Al dotar a las comunidades locales con conocimiento, herramientas y oportunidades, aseguramos que los esfuerzos de recuperación conduzcan no solo a reconstruir, sino también a una estabilidad y prosperidad duraderas”. Durante el panel, Crespo Quintana también subrayó que la inversión en capacitación laboral y en el fortalecimiento de capacidades locales es fundamental para sostener estas estrategias de resiliencia a largo plazo.

La conferencia SAME Industry Day incluyó exhibiciones, sesiones de capacitación técnica, eventos de networking y paneles enfocados en oportunidades de negocios en Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes de Estados Unidos, incluyendo sesiones sobre participación de pequeñas empresas, alianzas mentor-protegé y desarrollo de infraestructura en la región. Entre los panelistas participaron representantes del Gobierno de Puerto Rico y del Gobierno de las Islas Vírgenes norteamericanas , entre otros.

Sobre IBTS:

Con la misión de fortalecer comunidades, IBTS es un asesor y aliado confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales para fomentar desarrollo económico. Los servicios de IBTS garantizan la planificación, implementación y evaluación adecuada de proyectos de energía renovable y programas subvencionados con fondos federales de energía y de sostenibilidad, optimizando el rendimiento, reduciendo su riesgo, para el uso eficiente y efectivo de los fondos públicos. Además de su pericia en la verificación de la calidad solar, la oficina de IBTS en Puerto Rico proporciona servicios de: administración de fondos federales; planificación, mitigación y recuperación después de desastres; planificación municipal, y de resiliencia.

Como organización sin fines de lucro, el trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores (NGA), y la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC). Para más información sobre IBTS, puede visitar: www.ibts.org

“Sembrando Oportunidades” Strengthens Economic Development in Puerto Rico’s Eastern Region

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:16:01 GMT

Fajardo, Puerto Rico – January 27, 2026 ---With the goal of strengthening the local economic development ecosystem in Puerto Rico’s eastern region, the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) hosted “Sembrando Oportunidades: Regional Economic Development Forum,” an initiative designed to identify strategic assets, promote cross-sector collaboration, and expand access to support tools for entrepreneurs, microbusinesses, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The event, held at the Fajardo Multi-Purpose Center, was open to community organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, cooperatives, private-sector businesses, and the general public. Participants engaged in dialogue, networking, and collaborative action aimed at advancing a more inclusive and sustainable economic development model for eastern Puerto Rico.

This initiative is part of a grant awarded to IBTS through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Program , which supports regional planning efforts, the strengthening of intersectoral support networks, and local economic development in rural communities.

As part of its mission, IBTS works closely with communities and grassroots organizations to build skills that foster local entrepreneurship. The organization helps participants better understand the requirements of business projects and SMEs, including key tools such as strategic planning, business plan development, and networking. IBTS also supports municipalities in promoting ordinances and public policies that facilitate entrepreneurship and respond to local economic realities. In particular, IBTS has focused its efforts on the eastern region, impacting municipalities such as Ceiba, Naguabo, and Fajardo.

“At IBTS, we believe sustainable economic development begins when people are connected to useful information, practical tools, and real support networks”, said Agnes Crespo, Esq., Executive Director of IBTS Puerto Rico . “Sembrando Oportunidades aims to be a turning point so more entrepreneurs and SMEs can grow with direction, structure, and access to concrete opportunities. This forum is an invitation to align capacities, join efforts, and build community-driven solutions that directly impact quality of life and economic resilience in our eastern region”, she added.

Event agenda highlights included:

· Presentation of key socioeconomic and business ecosystem data relevant to the region.

· A participatory data validation exercise integrating collected data with local knowledge and lived experience.

· A roundtable discussion with eastern-region businesses and entrepreneurs, highlighting challenges, lessons learned, opportunities, and best practices.

· An open forum focused on collaborative strategies and actions for regional economic development.

The event, is a collaborative effort with the Municipality of Fajardo to further strengthen regional economic development efforts to generate entrepreneurship-driven ideas, share findings from the survey conducted with local entrepreneurs, and propose practical solutions for business owners.

In anticipation of a newly announced hotel development in the Fajardo area, the program also aims to train and strengthen a network of local suppliers by connecting eastern-region entrepreneurs and SMEs with opportunities to provide goods and services. This approach seeks to amplify the regional economic impact of growth and ensure broader participation in new economic opportunities.

In addition to its experience managing federal disaster recovery funds and implementing renewable energy initiatives, IBTS has incorporated a renewed focus in its 2026 agenda on supporting communities and municipal governments to foster microenterprise and SME development as key drivers of regional economic growth.

Participating organizations that provided guidance, resources, and presentations included:

· Consorcio del Noreste

· SBDTC Eastern Region

· PECES

· Vieques Air Link

· Cooperativa Roosevelt Roads

· Pathstone

About IBTS:

Beyond its expertise in solar quality assurance, IBTS’s Puerto Rico office provides services in federal fund management; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery; municipal planning; and resilience strategies. As a nonprofit organization, IBTS is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG) , International City/County Management Association (ICMA) , National Association of Counties (NACo) , National Governors Association (NGA) , and the National League of Cities (NLC) . For more information, visit www.ibts.org .

“Sembrando Oportunidades” impulsa el fortalecimiento del desarrollo económico de la región este del país

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:13:01 GMT

Fajardo, Puerto Rico – 27 de enero de 2026 — Con el objetivo de fortalecer el ecosistema de desarrollo económico local en la región este de Puerto Rico, el Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS por sus siglas en inglés) celebró el evento “Sembrando Oportunidades: Encuentro de Desarrollo Económico Regional” , una iniciativa diseñada para identificar activos estratégicos, impulsar la colaboración intersectorial y ampliar el acceso a herramientas de apoyo para emprendedores, microempresas y pequeñas y medianas empresas (PyMEs) .

El encuentro llevado a cabo en el Centro de Usos Múltiples de Fajardo , estuvo abierta a organizaciones comunitarias, entidades sin fines de lucro, agencias gubernamentales, cooperativas, empresas privadas y ciudadanía en general , quienes compartieron un espacio de diálogo, conexión y acción para promover un desarrollo económico más inclusivo y sostenible en el este de la Isla. Esta iniciativa forma parte de una subvención otorgada a IBTS por el programa de Desarrollo Rural del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA) , dirigida a apoyar procesos de planificación regional, fortalecimiento de redes de apoyo intersectoriales y desarrollo económico local en comunidades rurales.

Como parte de su misión, IBTS trabaja junto a comunidades y organizaciones de base comunitaria para fortalecer destrezas que fomenten el emprendimiento local, ayudando a los participantes a comprender mejor las necesidades y requisitos que conllevan los proyectos empresariales y las PyMEs, incluyendo herramientas clave como planificación estratégica, desarrollo de planes de negocio y networking . Además, IBTS apoya a los municipios en la promoción de ordenanzas y política pública que faciliten el emprendimiento y respondan a las realidades del ecosistema económico local. En particular, la entidad ha concentrado esfuerzos en la región este, impactando municipios como Ceiba, Naguabo y Fajardo .

“En IBTS creemos que el desarrollo económico sostenible comienza cuando conectamos a la gente con información útil, herramientas prácticas y redes de apoyo reales. Sembrando Oportunidades busca ser ese punto de inflexión para que más emprendedores y PyMEs puedan crecer con dirección, estructura y acceso a oportunidades concretas”, expresó la Lcda. Agnes Crespo , directora ejecutiva de IBTS en Puerto Rico . “Este encuentro es una invitación a unir capacidades, alinear esfuerzos y construir soluciones desde la comunidad, con impacto directo en la calidad de vida y la resiliencia económica de nuestra región este” añadió.

La agenda del evento incluyó:

· Presentación de datos socioeconómicos y del ecosistema empresarial , relevantes para analizar la realidad regional.

· Dinámica participativa de validación de datos , integrando información recopilada, conocimiento local y experiencia de los participantes.

· Mesa redonda con empresas y emprendedores de la región este, destacando retos, lecciones aprendidas, oportunidades y mejores prácticas.

· Conversatorio abierto , enfocado en estrategias y acciones colaborativas para el desarrollo económico regional.

El evento es parte de unos esfuerzos de colaboración entre el Municipio de Fajardo e IBTS , para fortalecer el desarrollo económico regional para generar ideas que impulsen el emprendimiento , compartir hallazgos del estudio realizado con emprendedores y proponer soluciones prácticas para empresarios locales.

De igual manera, y anticipando el desarrollo de un nuevo hotel anunciado para la zona de Fajardo, este programa aspira a capacitar y fortalecer una red de suplidores locales , conectando emprendedores y PyMEs del este con oportunidades de proveer productos y servicios, de forma que se robustezca la economía regional y se amplíe el impacto del crecimiento en la zona.

Además de su trayectoria en proyectos relacionados al manejo de fondos federales de reconstrucción por desastres y la implementación de iniciativas de energía renovable, IBTS ha incorporado en su agenda 2026 un enfoque renovado de apoyo a comunidades y gobiernos municipales para fomentar la creación de microempresas y PyMEs como motor de desarrollo económico regional.

Entre las organizaciones participantes que estuvieron ofreciendo orientación, recursos y conferencias durante este evento se destacan:

· Consorcio del Noreste

· SBDTC Región Este

· PECES

· Vieques Air Link

· Cooperativa Roosevelt Roads

· Pathstone

Sobre IBTS:

Community at the Center: IBTS Showcases New Model for Municipal Governance at Planning Week

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:19:29 GMT

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Planning Week 2025  — How do you turn a recovery “plan on paper” into a living tool for change? For the Puerto Rico team of the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), the answer is clear: you start with the community.

At the Planning Week 2025 Summit Conference in San Juan, IBTS brought the conversation on recovery and governance to life with a dynamic panel, “The Role of the Community in Strengthening Governance and Municipal Planning.” Led by Lisa Escobales Jiménez, Ph.D., IBTS Program Manager, the discussion united Licensed Professional Planners César García García-Conde, Brian Rodríguez Acevedo, and Rosa Lozano-Torres, along with Community Engagement Specialist Heriberto G. Urbano—all IBTS employees and members of the IBTS Puerto Rico planning team.

Drawing from their experience leading the Municipal Recovery Planning (MRP) Program and the Whole Community Resilience Planning (WCRP) Program across eight municipalities and ten communities throughout Puerto Rico, they illustrated how planning can become a shared project between local governments and residents. 

These efforts were supported by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds, provided to Puerto Rico to help communities plan and implement long-term recovery, resilience, and mitigation following the devastation of recent hurricanes Maria and Irma, and administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH).

From Public Hearings to Shared Governance

Kicking off the conversation, moderator Lisa Escobales Jiménez, Ph.D., an IBTS program manager with a doctorate in Business and Management and extensive experience in grants, education, and nonprofit management, framed the panel in the context of post–Hurricane María Puerto Rico, where communities organized relief centers, brigades, and solidarity networks long before formal systems could respond.

“Participation is key to measuring the democratic health of a country,” noted César García García-Conde, an IBTS planner and geographer with a master’s in Urban and Regional Planning, who traced how citizen participation in Puerto Rico has evolved—from early public hearing requirements under the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, to the Citizen Participation Program and Division of Community Affairs established by Law 81 of 1991, and the Community Advisory Councils included in the 2020 Municipal Code.

“These instruments—community boards, advisory councils, public hearings—were designed to be the bridge between municipal administrations and their neighborhoods,” García explained. “If we strengthen them, they can become the main vehicle for participatory local governance, not just consultation.”

Decentralizing Power, Building Trust

For Brian Rodríguez Acevedo, an IBTS GIS data specialist and professional planner with expertise in coastal erosion modeling and geospatial analysis, decentralization is less about dividing power and more about bringing decisions closer to the people who live with their consequences .

“In many countries, participatory budgets and open platforms have proven that when people participate, decisions are fairer and more efficient,” Rodríguez said. “In Puerto Rico, municipalities can’t always reach every corner—but communities can. Decentralization means trusting their knowledge of the territory and their ability to act quickly during crises.”

Rosa Lozano-Torres, an environmental and community planner with decades of experience working alongside Puerto Rico communities, highlighted that true participation must be continuous, not episodic. “It’s not just inviting people to a public hearing; it’s giving them a formal and permanent seat at the decision-making table,” she said. “After María, it was communities that opened paths, organized food distribution, and cared for their neighbors. When we institutionalize that energy, we strengthen municipal resilience from within.”

Participation Grounded in Data and Dialogue

Turning to practical tools, Heriberto G. Urbano, IBTS Community Engagement Specialist, described the methodologies used in the MRP and WCRP efforts across Puerto Rico.

“The most powerful tool is active listening based on data,” Urbano explained. “Through surveys, interviews, and focus groups, we capture reality from the residents’ perspective. In each community, the same participatory methods were used; however, the approach to community engagement, the way questions were framed, and the manner in which meetings were conducted were adapted to the profile and dynamics of each audience.. This kind of evidence-based participation gives us policies that have both technical rigor and social legitimacy.”

Rodríguez emphasized the role of community forums in sustaining those processes over time. “Forums are not just for sharing information—they help build community,” he said. “When people gather to discuss their future, new leaders emerge, alliances form, and the relationship between municipalities and residents is strengthened. In resilience projects, forums helped communities feel that the plans were not ‘government plans’ but our plans .”

On the technology front, García pointed to open data platforms and community dashboards as key tools for transparent collaboration. “When municipalities, communities, and agencies access the same information, accountability becomes part of the culture,” he said. “Training community leaders to read and use data creates participatory digital literacy. Information stops being exclusive to government and becomes a public good.”

Co-Responsibility: Planning With , Not For

In the final segment, the panel turned to co-responsibility and long-term sustainability.

“Mediation is at the heart of our profession,” Rodríguez said. “A planner should be in the territory, listening and translating community aspirations into public policy language. We’re facilitators, not technical dictators. At IBTS, we always say: we don’t plan from behind a desk—we plan by walking the community.”

Lozano-Torres shared how that approach has reshaped projects on the ground. Residents’ ideas, such as reusing abandoned facilities as resilient community centers, have directly changed proposed actions. “By listening, we modified the projects,” she recalled. “The community felt heard, which generated trust and ownership. For a planner, there’s no better validation than seeing people recognize that the results are theirs.”

Urbano pointed to the Caño Martín Peña Special Planning District as a powerful example of institutionalized co-responsibility. Through Law 489 of 2004, participation was formalized via the G-8, the ENLACE Corporation, and the Community Land Trust—a model that has combined environmental restoration, affordable housing, and community management while preventing displacement. “It shows how participatory planning can become permanent public policy,” he noted.

García and Lozano-Torres summed up the benefits of formally integrating communities into municipal governance: better alignment with real needs, more efficient use of resources, greater transparency, and continuity beyond electoral cycles. “Planning with the people, not for the people, is the only way to guarantee lasting results,” Lozano-Torres said.

From Paper Plans to Living Plans

As the conversation drew to a close, Escobales Jiménez reflected on the central insight that emerged across the eight municipalities and ten communities supported by MRP and WCRP: strengthening municipal governance requires more than laws and regulations. It demands trust, data, and presence in the community.

The IBTS panelists each shared a phrase to capture their vision for the future of planning in Puerto Rico:

Brian Rodríguez Acevedo:  “The future lies in the alliance between municipalities and communities.”
Rosa Lozano-Torres:  “Strengthening local capacities means building resilience from within.”
César García García-Conde:  “Democratic governance begins when every voice counts.”
Heriberto G. Urbano:  “Data, decisions, and dreams must be built together.”

IBTS’ work through the Municipal Recovery Planning Program and the Whole Community Resilience Planning Program demonstrates that when residents have a permanent seat at the table—and when data is collected with empathy and used transparently—resilience plans become living instruments of collaboration and trust. As Lisa Escobales Jiménez, Ph.D., concluded, “Let’s continue planning with empathy, evidence, and collaboration so we can build the resilient Puerto Rico that we all dream about.”

Hear firsthand accounts from residents about the obstacles their communities faced and how IBTS supported their efforts to build stronger, more resilient community in this playlist .

To learn more, visit www.ibts.org/puerto-rico .

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments. Our nonprofit mission to serve and strengthen communities is advanced through our services. These include building code services and regulatory expertise; compliance and monitoring; community planning; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; energy solutions; municipal services; grants management; market research; program management and oversight; resilience services; solar quality management; and workforce development and training. IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Copy of IBTS’ Winning Formula for Multi-Use Stadium Construction and Renovation

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 18:18:10 GMT

Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA. IBTS supported the stadium's 5-phase, $450 million renovation with on-demand engineering and code review services all while accommodating continual use of the stadium.

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Multi-use stadiums are more than architectural feats; they are vital community landmarks where unforgettable moments occur. The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) has vast experience in overseeing plan reviews for constructing, renovating, and safeguarding these buildings, enabling fans and attendees to enjoy their visit safely.

Behind every packed seat and roaring crowd is a story of meticulous planning, rigorous inspections, and innovative problem-solving. Learn how IBTS brings its winning formula to stadium projects across the country.

IBTS’ Comprehensive Approach Saves Time & Money

With an experienced review team managing all aspects of plan reviews, building inspections, and code compliance, IBTS works closely with developers and jurisdictions to keep projects on schedule, within budget, and fully compliant with evolving regulatory standards.

IBTS’ team of professional engineers and architects holds an extensive combination of International Code Council (ICC) certifications, including Certified Building Official, Combination Commercial and Residential Plans Examiner and Inspector, and Master Code Professional. In practical terms, this means IBTS can manage such complexities as accessibility, fire and life safety, and special egress requirements alongside designs intended to maximize viewing.

While many jurisdictions have the capacity to manage construction, some lack internal expertise in stadium building codes and engineering, necessitating an external partner who can provide complete solutions. IBTS brings precision and efficiency to the task. IBTS’ licensed and certified personnel have experience ensuring code-compliant, safe construction for facilities designed to comfortably accommodate tens of thousands of people of all ages and physical abilities.

Receiving coordinated expertise from a single source saves developers time and money by preventing delays and ensuring compliance throughout every stage of the project. This comprehensive approach sets new benchmarks for safety and innovation, a competitive edge that few can match.

Stadium Success Stories

IBTS’ expertise has contributed to some of the nation’s most celebrated stadium projects. For the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, IBTS’ reviews spanned architectural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire safety systems during critical modernization efforts, even while the building remained in active use. IBTS worked between National Football League (NFL) games, ensuring there was no downtime for teams or fans.

In Maryland, IBTS’ decade-long portfolio includes both construction and reconstruction projects. Under a construction management Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, the Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) awarded IBTS comprehensive code compliance oversight for stadium modernization. Current projects include the full renovation of the historic Pimlico Race Course, and upgrades at both the Arthur W. Perdue and Prince George’s stadiums, and the Baltimore Convention Center.

IBTS has also supported the timely delivery completion of safe, code-compliant athletic facilities for schools, including Louisiana State University’s baseball stadium, Hampton University’s track and field complex, and stadiums and sports facilities for several high schools.

Meeting Client Needs Every Step of the Way

Many of IBTS’ clients face tight timelines and budget constraints. IBTS’ commitment to precision, cost-efficiency, and innovative problem-solving has earned the company accolades, including official commendations and ongoing trust from industry leaders and public agencies.

Whether you're modernizing a stadium, renovating historic structures, or overseeing complex infrastructure projects, contact us to learn how IBTS can help ensure efficiency, safety, and long-term success every step of the way.

IBTS’ Winning Formula for Multi-Use Stadium Construction and Renovation

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 23:47:07 GMT

Multi-use stadiums are more than architectural feats; they are vital community landmarks where unforgettable moments occur. The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) has vast experience in overseeing plan reviews for constructing, renovating, and safeguarding these buildings, enabling fans and attendees to enjoy their visit safely.

IBTS’ Comprehensive Approach Saves Time & Money

Stadium Success Stories

Meeting Client Needs Every Step of the Way

How to Reduce Flood Risk and Cut Flood Insurance Costs: Top 5 Recommendations for Municipalities

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 23:57:40 GMT

Flood risk and insurance costs are growing concerns for many municipalities — but with the right strategies, local governments can make measurable progress in protecting lives, property, and budgets.

The City of Central, Louisiana, offers a strong example of how targeted actions can reduce flood risk and deliver financial benefits to residents. Through a sustained partnership with the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), Central achieved a Class 5 rating in FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS), resulting in a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums for all Central residents and businesses. Only two other communities in Louisiana have achieved this rating.

In this blog post, Brandon Whitehead, IBTS Floodplain Manager, outlines key actions that contributed to Central’s success, including his top five recommendations for how municipalities can strengthen their own floodplain management programs and improve their CRS ratings.

Background: IBTS and City of Central Partnership

For more than a decade, IBTS has supported Central’s municipal operations through a nonprofit private partnership (NP3) model, using an integrated and cost-effective team to deliver complete municipal services (excluding police and fire). This long-standing relationship has provided Central with specialized expertise in planning, permitting, ordinance development, and floodplain management , while maintaining consistency across compliance and emergency preparedness efforts.

Following significant damage during historic 2016 flooding, Central and IBTS have taken numerous steps to reduce vulnerability, strengthen local policy, and build long-term resilience to flood risks — all of which led to an improved CRS score. The CRS is a voluntary incentive program administered by FEMA that rewards communities for implementing floodplain management practices that exceed minimum National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements. The program offers progressively greater flood insurance discounts as communities achieve better classifications, ranging from Class 9 to Class 1.

As Brandon explains, “Our most recent improvement from a Class 7 to a Class 5 rating means we’re not only helping property owners save money on premiums, but also actively reducing flood risk across our community. While every community’s path will look different, there are several practical, proven steps that most municipalities can take to strengthen their CRS ratings.”

Here are Brandon’s top five strategies municipalities can use to follow Central’s lead and reduce flood risk:

1. Appoint a Qualified Floodplain Manager

CRS success starts with strong leadership. Central designated a floodplain coordinator with technical expertise and deep knowledge of FEMA regulations, ordinances, and compliance. Rather than tasking administrative staff with this complex role, cities like Central have brought in specialists — in this case, through IBTS — to guide CRS strategy and implementation.

2. Strengthen Local Ordinances for New Development

Central updated its development codes to protect existing properties from increased runoff and flood risk. These updates include:

Enhanced drainage requirements for new construction
Mandatory assessments to ensure no off-site impact (upstream or downstream)
Stricter elevation rules for buildings in flood-prone areas
Reduced substantial damage threshold from 50% to 45% of pre-disaster market value, triggering elevation requirements for more structures

These changes not only supported CRS goals but also reflected Central Mayor Wade Evans’ push for smarter development and public safety.

3. Use GIS and Modeling Tools to Map Risk

With support from engineering partner CSRS, Central developed a hydraulic model to monitor drainage systems and identify high-risk areas. With these tools integrated into the City’s GIS, development applications could be evaluated for impact — enabling more informed planning decisions and protecting legacy neighborhoods.

Real-time flood gauges are now being piloted to provide early warnings and improve emergency response.

4. Establish Long-Term Hazard Mitigation Plans

Central worked with East Baton Rouge Parish to develop a multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan , laying the foundation for infrastructure upgrades, grant funding, and coordinated response. The CRS program awards points for these collaborative efforts, which also contribute to resilience.

5. Limit Use of Enclosures Below Elevated Structures

To reduce post-disaster damage and future NFIP claims, Central implemented new limits on enclosed areas under elevated homes (typically used for parking or storage). Homeowners are required to:

Keep these enclosures non-residential
Sign compliance agreements
Undergo annual inspections

This practical policy earned CRS credit and helped preserve the intent of elevation requirements.

Where to Start

Communities don’t need to go at it alone. IBTS partners with municipalities to provide floodplain management services, ordinance development, planning support, and CRS strategy. Whether you’re starting with a Class 9 rating or aiming for Class 1, a structured approach can produce real, measurable benefits for your community.

Interested in improving your CRS rating?

Contact IBTS to learn how we can support your community’s flood resilience goals.

Libro blanco: Participación comunitaria: la clave para el desarrollo de infraestructura sostenible

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:20:51 GMT

Reunión facilitada por IBTS en la comunidad de Tiburones durante el proceso del Plan de Resiliencia Comunitaria Integral (WCRP, por sus siglas en inglés).

Introducción

La infraestructura pública implica más que la construcción de estructuras físicas; implica generar confianza y empoderar a las comunidades para que participen en el proceso de planificación.

IBTS cuenta con años de experiencia ofreciendo apoyo personalizado para desarrollar y fortalecer la participación comunitaria. Nuestro enfoque fomenta un sentido de pertenencia y un mayor apoyo a proyectos que consideran las preocupaciones, los recursos y los objetivos de la comunidad.

Este informe técnico analiza el proceso para ejecutar un plan estratégico de participación comunitaria. Implementarlo con intención puede conducir al diseño y desarrollo exitoso de espacios físicos que promuevan el crecimiento económico, mejoren el bienestar social y fomenten la resiliencia y la sostenibilidad.

Retos en el Desarrollo de la Infraestructura de Puerto Rico

La infraestructura de Puerto Rico se ha visto afectada por años de falta de inversión, junto con desastres como el huracán María (2017), que afectó a toda la isla. Los daños a carreteras, puentes, redes eléctricas y sistemas de transporte público han obstaculizado el progreso del desarrollo. Los desafíos incluyen:

Falta de entendimiento y respeto mutuo entre residentes, promotores y agencias relevantes
Retrasos burocráticos entre los anuncios públicos de apoyo de las agencias y las acciones locales
Impactos poco claros y sin abordar en los grupos afectados
Desconfianza entre los residentes debido a la lentitud de los esfuerzos de recuperación
Falta de estrategias de participación coordinadas para restaurar la confianza pública

Estrategias de participación comunitaria para facilitar el desarrollo

La participación comunitaria busca involucrar a los miembros de la comunidad en los procesos y la toma de decisiones para lograr resultados sostenibles a largo plazo. Para tener éxito, la participación comunitaria debe abarcar estrategias que tengan en cuenta la historia, las necesidades y las preocupaciones de la comunidad.

IBTS Puerto Rico cuenta con una amplia experiencia en el desarrollo de redes inclusivas, la escucha y comprensión de las partes interesadas, la creación de planes de comunicación personalizados y la demostración de éxito en toda la isla. Para ello, hemos establecido el siguiente enfoque de tres fases:

Preevaluación: Durante la fase de preevaluación, desarrollamos un plan de participación personalizado que incluye perfiles detallados de la comunidad y actividades de divulgación comunitaria, e iniciamos conversaciones con las partes interesadas locales. Identificamos canales de comunicación, desafíos y oportunidades para obtener resultados positivos.
Participación Comunitaria: Reconociendo la importancia de la participación y la confianza de la comunidad, involucramos a residentes, empresas y otras partes interesadas en debates orientados a la búsqueda de soluciones, creando promotores locales del éxito.
Satisfacción Comunitaria: A través de comunicaciones y puntos de contacto continuos, continuamos la conversación, escuchamos los comentarios y nos adaptamos según sea necesario.

Con este enfoque, IBTS Puerto Rico emplea múltiples estrategias para impulsar la participación comunitaria en beneficio del desarrollo. Estas estrategias incluyen:

Núcleos de Coordinación Comunitaria: Establecemos grupos asesores comunitarios compuestos por actores clave, organizaciones sin fines de lucro y representantes municipales para que sirvan como puntos de contacto constantes entre agencias. Estos centros pueden facilitar la comunicación continua y ayudar a gestionar los procesos burocráticos de forma más eficiente.

Participación y Transparencia de las Partes Interesadas: Organizamos foros comunitarios, asambleas públicas y reuniones con las partes interesadas periódicamente para mantener a las personas informadas sobre el progreso del proyecto, los desafíos y los plazos de financiación. Una mayor transparencia puede ayudar a generar confianza y reducir los retrasos causados por desinformación o falta de coordinación.

Retención del Conocimiento Institucional: Desarrollamos una base de datos centralizada o un grupo de trabajo para dar seguimiento al progreso del proyecto, los contactos y la documentación de procedimientos. Esto garantiza la continuidad ante cambios de liderazgo político o administrativo y evita reevaluaciones innecesarias del proyecto.

Roles de Enlace Interinstitucional y de Representantes Locales: Designamos enlaces locales para facilitar la comunicación entre los promotores y los gobiernos municipales. Estos enlaces pueden ayudar a garantizar que las prioridades regionales sigan siendo fundamentales en la toma de decisiones y que el impulso del proyecto se mantenga a pesar de los cambios de liderazgo.

Estrategias de Financiamiento Colaborativo: Involucramos a empresas locales, universidades y organizaciones sin fines de lucro en la planificación de resiliencia y recuperación para complementar los esfuerzos. Las alianzas público-privadas pueden ayudar a mantener la financiación y la ejecución del proyecto, reduciendo la dependencia de las cambiantes prioridades federales.

Implementación de un Enfoque Estratégico para el Desarrollo Comunitario

El desarrollo e implementación de un plan estratégico de participación comunitaria puede ayudar a mejorar la confianza pública y a crear conciencia sobre los numerosos beneficios del desarrollo para los residentes, empresas y otras partes interesadas locales. También puede ayudar a mantener la continuidad del proyecto ante cambios políticos o administrativos. Un forma estratégica para abordar la participación comunitaria debe centrarse principalmente en las siguientes áreas:

1. Establecer un conocimiento profundo de las partes interesadas clave:

Conocer los puntos débiles, las necesidades, las experiencias y las motivaciones de las partes interesadas clave es fundamental para una participación y una aceptación efectivas. Estas pueden incluir líderes comunitarios locales, organizaciones comunitarias y no gubernamentales (OBC y ONG), residentes, empresas y partes interesadas no residentes de la Isla (como inversionistas), así como el gobierno de Puerto Rico y los municipios locales.

Recomendación: Trabajar con un aliado de divulgación con experiencia que pueda comunicarse eficazmente, cultivar relaciones y servir de enlace entre las partes interesadas. Es importante establecer una conexión entre la comunidad y otras partes interesadas, tanto dentro como fuera de la Isla, garantizando una comunicación clara y consistente entre todos los involucrados. Esto ayuda a agilizar la implementación del proyecto, minimizar las interrupciones y mejorar la participación local.

2. Mantener una comunicación desde las etapas iniciales, con transparencia y coherencia:

Involucrar a los líderes comunitarios y representantes locales desde el principio, y mantener la transparencia y una comunicación regular y confiable a lo largo del tiempo, puede agilizar la implementación del proyecto, minimizar las interrupciones y mejorar la participación de la fuerza laboral local. La participación proactiva reduce la frustración pública y fomenta la cooperación.

Recomendación: Organizar reuniones con la comunidad y las partes interesadas locales para informar a los residentes y negocios sobre los cronogramas de construcción, las interrupciones previstas y las rutas alternativas, y buscar la aceptación de las soluciones propuestas. Por ejemplo, colaborar con empresas y asociaciones comunitarias para desarrollar planes de mitigación que minimicen el impacto en las operaciones diarias e involucrar a los líderes comunitarios y residentes para identificar rutas de acceso alternativas, obtener acuerdos para el derecho de paso y brindar información sobre los patrones climáticos estacionales que puedan afectar los plazos de construcción. Comunicar periódicamente los beneficios a la comunidad, como el compromiso con la capacitación laboral, la participación de los negocios locales, los programas juveniles y las campañas de salud y bienestar.

3. Involucrar a la fuerza laboral local, las comunidades de capacitación y las empresas:

Involucrar a las escuelas y negocios locales reduce la dependencia de mano de obra externa, reduce los costos y crea oportunidades de empleo que benefician tanto al proyecto como a las comunidades locales. Asimismo, una forma eficaz de mitigar los retrasos burocráticos y los desafíos de financiación es fortalecer las relaciones locales. Al aprovechar las redes de base, las alianzas con organizaciones locales y la incidencia política coordinada, los promotores pueden maximizar los recursos disponibles y acelerar la finalización del proyecto.

Recomendación: Colaborar con escuelas vocacionales locales, organizaciones comunitarias y sindicatos para ofrecer programas de capacitación a los residentes y establecer programas y comités de planificación y desarrollo de capacidades dirigidos localmente. Trabajar con empresas constructoras de la zona y otros proveedores para aprovechar la infraestructura y los recursos existentes.

Ejemplos prácticos: Transparencia, mapeo participativo y una visión comunitaria

El Departamento de Vivienda de Puerto Rico proporciona fondos a través de los programas de Planificación de Recuperación Municipal (MRP, por sus siglas en inglés) y Planificación de Resiliencia Comunitaria Integral (WCRP, en inglés) para alentar a los municipios y comunidades a abordar las condiciones creadas o exacerbadas por los huracanes Irma y María. El departamento de planificación de IBTS Puerto Rico ha estado trabajando con comunidades de toda la isla desde 2023 en estos planes de resiliencia.

A continuación, se muestra cómo implementamos nuestras estrategias de participación comunitaria:

1. Transparencia

Trabajando en el municipio de Utuado, bajo el programa MRP, IBTS Puerto Rico realizó una serie de reuniones abiertas con los residentes sobre el alcance reducido del proyecto para revisar y comparar las vulnerabilidades de varias comunidades.

Tras conversaciones detalladas, los residentes emitieron su voto anónimo, que se recogió en una urna comunitaria. Un miembro designado de la comunidad contó los votos y los resultados se anunciaron de inmediato, junto con los próximos pasos. Este proceso no solo validó la voz de la comunidad en la toma de decisiones, sino que también reforzó la transparencia y promovió un sentido de pertenencia compartida sobre el plan de resiliencia final.

2. Mapeo Participativo

En Paso Palma, una comunidad en el municipio de Utuado, IBTS Puerto Rico facilitó ejercicios de mapeo participativo para un proyecto del WCRP, durante los cuales los residentes identificaron los riesgos, las vulnerabilidades y los recursos de la zona. Mapearon peligros críticos, como los deslizamientos de tierra recurrentes a lo largo de la carretera estatal principal, que se intensificaron tras el huracán María y continúan bloqueando el acceso durante días o incluso semanas, aislando a los residentes de los servicios de emergencia, los suministros de alimentos y la atención médica.

También identificaron el puente que cruza el estiaje que conecta Parcelas Pons, una estructura que se inunda regularmente durante las lluvias y cuyos bordes a menudo colapsan, cortando la única ruta de acceso. Incluso, después de que baja el agua, los residentes--en su mayoría ancianos--permanecen aislados durante días hasta que se realizan reparaciones provisionales. El ejercicio no solo proporcionó datos esenciales, sino que también abrió un espacio para el diálogo que basó la planificación en experiencias reales.

Los residentes también identificaron las fortalezas de la comunidad, como los extraordinarios recursos naturales como el Cañón Blanco, ubicado en Parcelas Pons. El sitio, hogar de petroglifos taínos y reconocido por su valor paisajístico y recreativo, tiene importancia histórica y presenta una oportunidad única para el desarrollo económico a través de iniciativas de ecoturismo lideradas por la comunidad.

3. Visión liderada por la comunidad

En Tiburones, Ponce, IBTS Puerto Rico aprovechó la conexión histórica de la comunidad con la cercana línea del tren de la caña de azúcar para diseñar un taller culturalmente relevante, el "Tren de la Resiliencia". Mediante preguntas guiadas como "¿Quiénes somos?" y "¿Dónde nos vemos en 5 a 10 años?", los residentes compartieron ideas en un cartel grande. El ejercicio dio lugar a una visión unificadora: “Tiburones: una comunidad autosuficiente y segura con servicios esenciales confiables, infraestructura resistente a inundaciones y vibrantes espacios recreativos y comunitarios”.

La visión se forjó directamente a partir de las voces de los residentes, muchos de los cuales son adultos mayores, y reflejó la resiliencia y las aspiraciones de toda la comunidad.

Estos ejemplos ilustran la importancia de la participación comunitaria para el éxito del desarrollo de infraestructura. Al integrar las perspectivas locales, los proyectos no solo serán técnicamente sólidos, sino que también responderán a las necesidades de las comunidades a las que sirven y, en última instancia, serán más resilientes.

Para más información, contáctenos .

Community Engagement: The Key to Sustainable Infrastructure Development

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:30:42 GMT

IBTS-facilitated meeting in the community of Tiburones during the Whole Community Resilience Plan (WCRP) process.

Introduction

Public infrastructure involves more than building physical structures; it involves building trust and empowering communities to participate in the planning process.

IBTS has years of experience offering customized support to develop and strengthen community engagement. Our approach fosters a sense of ownership in and increased support for projects that take into account community concerns, assets and goals.

This white paper discusses the process for executing a strategic community engagement plan. Doing so with intention can lead to the successful design and development of physical spaces that promote economic growth, enhance social well-being, and encourage resilience and sustainability.

Challenges in Puerto Rico’s Infrastructure Development

Puerto Rico’s infrastructure has suffered from years of underinvestment along with disasters, such as hurricane María (2017), that affected the entire Island. Damage to roads, bridges, power grids, and public transportation systems has hindered development progress. Challenges include:

Lack of mutual understanding and respect among residents, developers, and relevant agencies
Bureaucratic delays between agencies’ public announcements of support and local action
Unclear and unaddressed impacts on affected groups
Mistrust among residents due to slow recovery efforts
Lack of coordinated engagement strategies to restore public trust

Community Engagement Strategies for Facilitating Development

Community engagement seeks to involve community members in processes and decision-making to achieve long-term and sustainable outcomes. To be successful, community engagement must encompass strategies that are sensitive to the history, needs, and concerns of the community.

IBTS Puerto Rico has a wealth of experience in developing inclusive networks, listening to and understanding stakeholders, providing customized communications plans, and demonstrating success across the Island. In doing so, we have established the following three-phased approach:

Pre-Assessment: During the pre-assessment phase, we develop a customized engagement plan that includes detailed community profiles and community outreach efforts, and we begin conversations with local stakeholders. We identify communication channels, challenges, and opportunities for positive outcomes.
Community Engagement: Recognizing the importance of community participation and trust, we engage residents, businesses, and other stakeholders in solution-oriented discussions, creating local champions for success.
Community Satisfaction: Through ongoing communications and touchpoints, we continue the conversation, listen to feedback, and adjust as needed.

Using this approach, IBTS Puerto Rico employs multiple strategies for leveraging community engagement to benefit development. These strategies include:

Community-Based Coordination Hubs : We establish community advisory groups composed of key stakeholders, nonprofit organizations, and municipal representatives to serve as consistent points of contact between agencies. These hubs can facilitate ongoing communication and help navigate bureaucratic processes more efficiently.
Stakeholder Engagement & Transparency: We organize regular community forums, town halls, and stakeholder meetings to keep individuals informed about project progress, challenges, and funding timelines. Increased transparency can help build trust and reduce delays caused by misinformation or misalignment.

Institutional Knowledge Retention: We develop a centralized database or task force to track project progress, contacts, and procedural documentation. This ensures continuity through political or administrative leadership changes and prevents unnecessary project reevaluations.
Interagency & Local Representatives Liaison Roles: We designate local liaisons to facilitate communication between developers and municipal governments. These liaisons can help ensure that regional priorities remain central to decision-making, and project momentum is maintained despite shifts in leadership.
Collaborative Funding Strategies: We engage local businesses, universities, and nonprofit organizations in resilience and recovery planning to supplement efforts. Public-private partnerships can help sustain project funding and execution, reducing dependency on shifting federal priorities.

Implementing a Strategic Approach to Community Development

Developing and implementing a strategic community engagement plan can help improve public trust and build awareness of the many benefits of development for local residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. It can also help maintain project continuity amidst political or administrative changes. A strategic approach to community engagement should focus on the following priority areas:

1. Establish a Deep Understanding of Key Stakeholders:

Knowing the pain points, needs, experiences, and motivations of key stakeholders is critical to effective engagement and buy-in. These can include local community leaders, community-based and non-governmental organizations (CBOs and NGOs), residents, businesses, and non-Island stakeholders (such as investors), as well as the Puerto Rico government and local municipalities.

Recommendation: Work with an experienced outreach partner who can effectively communicate, nurture relationships, and liaise among stakeholders. It’s important to establish a liaison between the community and other stakeholders both on and off the Island, ensuring clear and consistent communication among all parties involved. Doing so helps to streamline project implementation, minimize disruptions, and improve local participation.

2. Conduct Early, Transparent, and Consistent Communication:

Engaging community leaders and local representatives early, and maintaining transparency and regular and reliable communications over time, can streamline project implementation, minimize disruptions, and improve local workforce participation. Proactive engagement reduces public frustration and fosters cooperation.

Recommendation: Host community and local stakeholder meetings to inform residents and businesses about construction schedules, expected disruptions, and alternative routes, and seek buy-in for proposed solutions. For example, work with businesses and community associations to develop mitigation plans that minimize the impact on daily operations, and engage community leaders and residents to identify alternative access routes, secure agreements for right-of-way access, and provide insights into seasonal weather patterns that may affect construction timelines. Regularly communicate benefits to the community, such as commitments to job training, utilization of local businesses, youth programs, and health and wellness campaigns.

3. Engage the Local Workforce, Training, and Business Communities:

Engaging local schools and businesses reduces reliance on outside labor, lowers costs, and creates employment opportunities that benefit both the project and local communities. Likewise, an effective way to mitigate bureaucratic delays and funding challenges is through strengthening local relationships. By leveraging grassroots networks, partnerships with local organizations, and coordinated advocacy, developers can maximize available resources and accelerate project completion.

Recommendation: Collaborate with local vocational schools, CBOs, and trade unions to provide training programs for residents, and establish locally led planning and capacity-building programs and committees. Work with area construction companies and other vendors to utilize existing infrastructure and resources.

On-the-Ground Examples: Transparency, Participatory Mapping, and a Community-Led Vision

The Puerto Rico Department of Housing provides funds through the Municipal Recovery Planning (MRP) and Whole Community Resilience Planning (WCRP) programs to encourage municipalities and communities to address conditions created or exacerbated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. IBTS Puerto Rico’s planning department has been working with communities across the island since 2023 on these resilience plans.

Here’s a look at how we put our community engagement strategies into action:

Transparency

Working In the municipality of Utuado under the MRP program, IBTS Puerto Rico held a series of open meetings with residents on the narrowed scope of the project to review and compare the vulnerabilities of several communities.

After detailed discussions, residents cast anonymous ballots, which were collected in a community-managed drop box. A designated community member counted the votes, and the results were announced immediately, along with next steps. This process not only validated the community’s voice in decision-making but also reinforced transparency and promoted a sense of shared ownership over the final resilience plan.

Participatory Mapping

In Paso Palma, a barrio in Utuado, IBTS Puerto Rico facilitated participatory mapping exercises for a WCRP project during which residents identified area risks, vulnerabilities, and assets. They mapped critical hazards such as recurring landslides along the main state road that intensified after Hurricane Maria and continue to block access for days or even weeks at a time, isolating residents from emergency services, food supplies, and medical care.

They also identified the low-water crossing bridge that connects Parcelas Pons, a structure that regularly floods during rain events and whose edges often collapse, cutting off the only access route. Even after the water subsides, the mostly elderly residents remain isolated for days until provisional repairs are made. The exercise not only provided essential data but also opened space for dialogue that grounded planning in real, lived experiences.

Residents also identified community strengths, such as extraordinary natural assets like Cañón Blanco, located in Parcelas Pons. The site, home to Taíno petroglyphs and recognized for its scenic and recreational value, holds historical significance and presents a unique opportunity for economic development through community-led ecotourism initiatives.

Community-Led Vision

In Tiburones, Ponce, IBTS Puerto Rico used the community’s historic connection to the nearby sugarcane train line to design a culturally relevant “Resilience Train” workshop. Using guided questions like “Who are we?” and “Where do we see ourselves in 5 to 10 years?” residents shared ideas on a large poster.

The exercise led to a unifying vision: “Tiburones — a self-sufficient, safe community with reliable essential services, flood-ready infrastructure, and vibrant recreational and communal spaces.”

The vision was shaped directly by the voices of the residents, many of whom are older adults, and reflected the resilience and aspirations of the entire community.

These examples illustrate the importance of community engagement as part of successful infrastructure development. By integrating local perspectives, projects will not only be technically sound but also responsive to the communities they serve, and ultimately more resilient.

For more information, contact us .

IBTS Contributes to Development of Newly Approved ANSI Standards for Solar O&M and Consumer Protection

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 13:53:57 GMT

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through technical expertise and professional services, is proud to announce its contribution to two newly published American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards developed by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). The standards include SEIA 301, Solar and Energy Storage Operations and Maintenance Standard: Technician Training, and SEIA 401, Solar and Energy Storage Consumer Protection Standard. Both mark a major milestone in advancing safety, performance, and consumer confidence in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems nationwide.

Developed in partnership with SEIA, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and other industry stakeholders, these standards aim to ensure consistent operational practices and protect end users as the solar industry continues to scale. IBTS played a key role as a subcontractor to NREL, providing field-based insight drawn from its national leadership in solar quality assurance. IBTS has completed over 80,000 solar PV plan reviews and inspections across the country, offering unmatched technical knowledge and real-world data in solar quality management.

“We’re proud to have contributed to these standards by sharing our deep technical expertise and field experience with solar installations,” said Rudy Saporite, IBTS Energy Services Program Director. “These standards reflect what we’ve learned from years of work across the U.S., with various PV project sizes and installation conditions. We look forward to seeing how these will help build a more resilient and trustworthy solar marketplace.”

To support industrywide adoption, SEIA is launching a new online platform at standards.seia.org for companies, consumers, and other stakeholders to access the full suite of SEIA standards and upcoming implementation resources. These are the first two standards out of a total of eleven that solar standards that SEIA has/will/intends to develop to create standardized quality among PV inspections in the United States.

IBTS’s contributions to SEIA 301 and SEIA 401 reflect its ongoing commitment to ensuring quality, safety, and public benefit in the energy industry. For more information about IBTS’ energy services and its role in supporting industry standards, please visit www.ibts.org/energy .

Media Contact:

Karen Johnson

kjohnson@ibts.org

City of Central in Louisiana Achieves a Class 5 Rating from National Flood Insurance Program, Enhancing Community Safety and Reducing Insurance Premiums for Property Owners by 25%

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:54:54 GMT

Central, Louisiana, January 27, 2025 —The City of Central has achieved a Class 5 rating from the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System, enabling homeowners and businesses to receive a 25% reduction in their flood insurance premiums while enhancing community safety and strengthening property protections.

The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) minimum requirements. More than 1,500 U.S. communities participate in the CRS program by implementing local mitigation, floodplain management, and educational outreach activities.

The City of Central is part of the Baton Rouge metropolitan area and has a population of around 30,000. Since 2011, the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) has provided municipal services for the City, including leading efforts to improve its CRS rating.

“This recognition reflects our ongoing efforts to prioritize public safety and strengthen flood resilience in our community,” said Central Mayor Wade Evans. “We are committed to preserving lives, safeguarding property, and ensuring a secure future for Central’s residents.”

Situated between the Comite and Amite rivers, about 60 percent of Central’s incorporated area is within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA); these areas require special NFIP floodplain management regulations and mandatory flood insurance due to their high risk of flooding. In 2016, a catastrophic storm, the fourth most costly flood event in U.S. history at the time, sent multiple rivers to record levels in the state; the Amite exceeded its previous record by more than six feet.

Following the flood, the City accelerated its disaster planning and floodplain management efforts, which led to achieving a Class 7 rating in 2020; property owners then received a 15% insurance premium discount due to improved zoning requirements and increased educational programs.

Mayor Evans’ commitment to public safety and IBTS’ floodplain expertise continue to drive City planning. Central has undertaken numerous infrastructure projects to counter escalating flood risks, which affect much of Louisiana’s low-lying geography.

The City has collaborated with East Baton Rouge Parish on a multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan, implemented an effective hydraulic model to monitor flood and stormwater, and strengthened City ordinances pertaining to building elevation and new development drainage requirements. Future plans include using real-time forecasting models to better prepare for weather events and developing a multi-jurisdictional assessment of floodplain species and plants.

Achieving a Class 5 rating “is the result of collaborative efforts to implement effective flood mitigation strategies,” said Brandon Whitehead, Central’s CRS Coordinator. “We appreciate the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the NFIP for their partnership as we continue working toward a safer and more resilient Central.”

The new CRS rating, effective October 1, 2025, will automatically renew annually as long as the City complies with NFIP guidelines and continues its certified floodplain management activities.

For more information on the City of Central’s floodplain management activities or the NFIP CRS program, contact Karen Johnson, IBTS Market Engagement Program Director, at kjohnson@ibts.org .

###

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments.

Our nonprofit mission to serve and strengthen communities is advanced through our services. These include building code services and regulatory expertise; compliance and monitoring; community planning; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; energy solutions; municipal services; grants management; program management and oversight; resilience services; solar quality management; and workforce development and training.

IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governors Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Inspeccionando para el éxito: Deficiencias comunes en sistemas fotovoltaicos

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 20:55:10 GMT

Los sistemas fotovoltaicos (PV) solares pueden proporcionar beneficios significativos a los propietarios de viviendas, dueños de propiedades comerciales, y a jurisdicciones porque reducen los costos de energía, contribuyen a la seguridad y fiabilidad energética, reducen la contaminación y promueven la energía limpia. Sin embargo, la instalación incorrecta de sistemas PV solares puede resultar en un mal rendimiento o en peligros graves para la seguridad que opacan estos beneficios.

Para las empresas de energía solar y las jurisdicciones responsables de garantizar la calidad de las instalaciones PV solares, comprender las deficiencias comunes es fundamental para asegurar un rendimiento energético óptimo y para reducir riesgos.

Como el principal proveedor de garantía de calidad solar en los Estados Unidos, IBTS ha recopilado datos extensivamente de miles de instalaciones solares en todo el país a través de nuestro software de Gestión de Calidad de Inspección de Campo (FIT-QM) . Sigue leyendo para conocer las deficiencias de instalación más comunes, su impacto en el rendimiento y la seguridad de los sistemas PV solares, y cómo abordarlas y prevenirlas en tus instalaciones.

Problema #1: Etiquetado incorrecto del sistema
El etiquetado adecuado de los sistemas PV es requerido por el código por una buena razón. Un etiquetado incorrecto puede carecer de advertencias adecuadas sobre peligros y crear complicaciones para los técnicos de mantenimiento, así como para los primeros respondedores. Nuestros expertos en calidad solar a menudo encuentran problemas como etiquetas ilegibles o descoloridas, valores incorrectos o advertencias de peligro que faltan. Para evitar estos problemas, proporciona a tus instaladores etiquetas que resistan el entorno y asegúrate de que etiqueten correctamente todos los componentes, evitando unas escritas a mano.

Problema #2: Gestión de cables
Una gestión adecuada de los cables es esencial para garantizar un sistema solar PV seguro, fiable y de alto rendimiento. Sin embargo, nuestros datos muestran que fallos en la gestión de cables ocurren en el 38% de los proyectos PV instalados a nivel nacional. Nuestros expertos frecuentemente encuentran cables colgantes o mal gestionados, soldaduras y terminaciones incorrectas, radios de curvatura excesivos y conectores mal instalados durante las inspecciones, todo lo cual puede comprometer la seguridad y el rendimiento del sistema.

Problema #3: Componentes del sistema y de equilibrio
Componentes como recintos, penetraciones, anclajes de seguridad y conexiones de conductos ayudan a garantizar la fiabilidad y la vida útil de los sistemas PV al apoyar a que sus circuitos estén protegidos del ambiente externo y que los riesgos potenciales de seguridad se reduzcan. Nuestros expertos en calidad citan recintos degradados y conexiones comprometidas como hallazgos comunes, señalando que estos pueden llevar a vulnerabilidades y disminuir el rendimiento, la seguridad y la longevidad del sistema.

Problema #4: Conexión a tierra del sistema y equipos
Una conexión a tierra adecuada es esencial para la seguridad, estabilidad y fiabilidad de los sistemas PV, sin embargo, es común encontrar sistemas que no cumplen con los estándares de conexión a tierra, como aquellos con identificación incorrecta de los conductores, cables desconectados y conexión a tierra de módulos o bastidores. Estos problemas afectan el rendimiento del sistema y pueden poner en riesgo de descarga eléctrica a instaladores, inspectores, contratistas y ocupantes.

Prevención de deficiencias comunes mediante la gestión de la calidad

Además de identificar y abordar estas deficiencias comunes en instalaciones individuales, es crucial comprender y abordar las causas fundamentales que contribuyen a problemas recurrentes. Estas pueden variar, pero pueden incluir una formación, orientación y supervisión insuficiente para los nuevos instaladores; políticas y procesos empresariales inconsistentes; y la falta de evaluaciones de terceros.

Implementar un enfoque estructurado y sistemático de gestión de la puede ayudar a mejorar los procesos en cada etapa, asegurando instalaciones consistentes y correctas que prevengan costosas llamadas de retorno y posibles problemas de responsabilidad. Contáctanos para hablar sobre cómo IBTS puede ayudarte a desarrollar un proceso personalizado para tu empresa.

Inspecting for Success: Common Deficiencies in Solar PV Installations

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 20:48:46 GMT

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems can provide significant benefits to homeowners, commercial property owners, and jurisdictions alike by reducing energy costs, contributing to energy security and reliability, reducing pollution, and promoting clean energy. However, improper installation of solar PV systems can result in poor performance or serious safety hazards that undermine these benefits.

For solar companies and jurisdictions responsible for ensuring the quality of solar PV installations, understanding common deficiencies is critical to ensuring optimal energy performance and reducing risks.

As the leading provider of solar quality assurance in the United States, IBTS has collected extensive data from thousands of solar installations nationwide through our Field Inspection Technology Quality Management (FIT-QM) software . Continue reading to learn about the most common installation deficiencies, their impact on solar PV performance and safety, and how to address and prevent these from occurring in your installations.

Issue #1: Improper System Labeling

Proper labeling for PV systems is required by code for good reason. Improper labeling can lack adequate warnings for hazards and create complications for maintenance technicians as well as first responders. Our solar quality experts often encounter issues like illegible or faded labels and those with incorrect values or missing hazard warnings. To avoid these issues, provide your installers with labels that will withstand the environment and ensure they label all components correctly, avoiding handwritten labels.

Issue #2: Wire Management

Proper wire management is essential for ensuring a reliable, safe, and high-performing solar PV system. Yet our data shows that wire management failures occur on 38% of PV projects installed nationwide. Our experts frequently come across low-hanging or poorly managed wires, improper splicing and terminations, extended bend radii, and incorrectly installed connectors during inspections, all of which can compromise safety and performance.

Issue #3: Balance of System Components

Components such as enclosures, penetrations, safety anchors, and conduit connections all help ensure the reliability and lifespan of PV systems by supporting their circuitry, protecting them from environmental exposure, and reducing potential safety risks. Our quality experts cite degraded enclosures and compromised connections as common findings, noting these can lead to vulnerabilities and decreased system performance, safety, and longevity.

Issue #4: System and Equipment Grounding

Proper grounding is essential for PV safety, stability, and reliability, yet it’s common to find systems that do not adhere to grounding standards, such as those with improper conductor identification, disconnected wiring, and module or racking grounding. These issues impact system performance and can put installers, inspectors, contractors, and occupants at risk of electric shock.

Preventing Common Deficiencies through Quality Management

Beyond identifying and addressing these common deficiencies in individual installations, it’s crucial to understand and address root causes that contribute to recurring issues. These vary, but may include insufficient training, guidance, and oversight for new installers; inconsistent company policies and processes; and lack of third-party assessments.

Implementing a structured and systematic quality management (QM) approach can help improve processes at each stage, ensuring consistent and correct installations that prevent costly callbacks and potential liability issues. Contact us to discuss how IBTS can assist with developing a customized QM process for your company.

Los nuevos diseños innovadores de HUD combinan los beneficios de las viviendas prefabricadas y multifamiliares para abordar las necesidades de vivienda asequible

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 20:50:02 GMT

Según nuestro contrato, IBTS ayudó a HUD a garantizar que dos nuevos diseños de viviendas cumplan con sus estándares de calidad y seguridad.

Las viviendas prefabricadas desempeñan un papel fundamental en la propiedad de viviendas asequibles en los Estados Unidos, proporcionando la mayor cantidad de viviendas asequibles no subsidiadas a nivel nacional. Reconociendo este papel significativo, el Departamento de Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano de los Estados Unidos (HUD) ha estado explorando cómo las viviendas prefabricadas pueden contribuir aún más a enfrentar la crisis de vivienda asequible. Continúe leyendo para conocer sobre los nuevos diseños de viviendas prefabricadas de HUD y el papel de IBTS en apoyar el desarrollo de estas importantes opciones de vivienda.

Las viviendas prefabricadas desempeñan un papel crucial en la vivienda asequible en los EE. UU., ofreciendo costos de construcción significativamente más bajos que las viviendas tradicionales las cuales son construidas en sus terrenos. Sin embargo, actualmente las viviendas prefabricadas unifamiliares puede que no esten satisfaciendo las necesidades de vivienda asequible, ya que a menudo no cumplen con los requisitos de zonificación y uso de suelo.

Para abordar estas necesidades, el Programa de Vivienda Prefabricada de HUD ha desarrollado nuevos diseños, incluyendo unidades multifamiliares y modelos unifamiliares que ofrecen mayor flexibilidad que las viviendas prefabricadas tradicionales, manteniendo la asequibilidad y la sostenibilidad. HUD presentó estas opciones como viviendas demostrativas a principios de este año durante la Exposición de Vivienda Innovadora 2024.

Al planificar las viviendas demostrativas, HUD le confió a IBTS la compleja tarea de realizar revisiones prioritarias para asegurarse de que estuvieran listas a tiempo para la Exposición de Vivienda.

IBTS ha servido como agente de supervisión de HUD para su Programa de Vivienda Prefabricada por más de 40 años, proporcionando evaluaciones de diseño e inspecciones expertas de viviendas prefabricadas para garantizar que cumplan con los estándares de calidad y seguridad de la agencia. Estos estándares, denominados Normas de Construcción y Seguridad de Viviendas Prefabricadas (o el Código HUD), se implementaron en 1976 para asegurar la seguridad, calidad, durabilidad y asequibilidad de todas las viviendas prefabricadas. Para los nuevos diseños de viviendas, nuestro equipo de expertos en viviendas prefabricadas realizó revisiones técnicas y programáticas detalladas para garantizar que cumplieran con todos los requisitos actuales del Código HUD. Como resultado, HUD puede confiar en que estos diseños, los primeros de su tipo, son igual de seguros y cómodos que las viviendas prefabricadas unifamiliares tradicionales, marcando un nuevo capítulo en soluciones de vivienda asequible.

Los nuevos diseños de viviendas prefabricadas incluyen una vivienda de estilo dúplex multifamiliar que acomoda a familias que prefieren vivir más cerca, como en disposiciones de vivienda multigeneracional. Para el uso de suelo en áreas densamente pobladas, estas ofrecen opciones de vivienda costo-eficiente con enfoque sostenible. El estilo adosado es una unidad de vivienda individual similar a una casa adosada tradicional, pero en este caso es una estructura autoportante que se puede colocar sl lado o como adición a una estructura existente. Esta vivienda proporciona una solución para escenarios donde el límite del terreno es cero (sin ningún retroceso entre la casa y el límite del lote en un lado) o cuando hay otras limitaciones de linderos, particularmente en áreas urbanas.

Estos nuevos diseños de viviendas prefabricadas ofrecen varias ventajas:

Beneficios Económicos: La producción y gestión de viviendas prefabricadas multifamiliares pueden reducir los costos por unidad en construcción, mantenimiento y servicios.
Desarrollo Comunitario: Las viviendas prefabricadas con unidades habitacionales pueden fomentar un sentido de comunidad entre los residentes gracias a los espacios compartidos que promueven la interacción.
Mejor Uso del Suelo: Estas viviendas prefabricadas pueden optimizar el uso del suelo disponible, especialmente en áreas urbanas. Esto ayuda a enfrentar la escasez de vivienda sin expandir la extensión urbana.
Apoyo a la Fuerza Laboral y la Economía Local: El aumento de la densidad poblacional puede respaldar las necesidades laborales y generar apoyo para los negocios y servicios locales, promoviendo el equilibrio y el crecimiento económico en la comunidad en general.

La introducción de estas viviendas llega en un momento crítico, ya que EE. UU. enfrenta una escasez de 7.3 millones de viviendas asequibles para familias de bajos ingresos, según la Coalición Nacional de Vivienda para Personas de Bajos Ingresos. Más allá de cubrir las necesidades de vivienda asequible, estas viviendas también pueden allanar el camino hacia un crecimiento urbano más sostenible e inclusivo. Por ejemplo, al optimizar el uso del suelo y reducir la necesidad de infraestructuras expansivas, las viviendas prefabricadas multifamiliares pueden contribuir a la creación de vecindarios más transitables y orientados a la comunidad. Además, estas viviendas ofrecen flexibilidad para que los residentes se reubiquen si es necesario, reflejando el compromiso de HUD de garantizar que más estadounidenses tengan acceso a viviendas de calidad y asequibles.

Estos dos nuevos diseños de viviendas prefabricadas están disponibles para su compra en ubicaciones limitadas a nivel nacional.

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con James Turner, Director de Servicios Federales de IBTS, en jturner@ibts.org

HUD’s Innovative New Designs Combine the Benefits of Manufactured and Multi-dwelling Family Housing to Address Affordable Housing Needs

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 20:37:52 GMT

Under our contract, IBTS assisted HUD in ensuring two new home designs meet their quality and safety standards

Manufactured homes play a vital role in affordable homeownership in the U.S., providing the largest share of unsubsidized affordable housing nationwide. Recognizing this significant role, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has been exploring how manufactured homes can help further address the affordable housing crisis. Continue reading to learn about HUD’s newest manufactured home designs and IBTS’ role in supporting the development of these important housing options.

Manufactured housing plays a crucial role in affordable housing across the U.S., offering significantly lower construction costs than traditional site-built homes. However, current single-family manufactured homes may fall short of broader affordable housing needs, as they often do not align with zoning and land-use requirements.

To address these needs, HUD’s Manufactured Housing Program has developed new designs, including multi-dwelling units and single-dwelling models that offer more flexibility than traditional manufactured homes while maintaining affordability and sustainability. HUD unveiled these options as demonstration homes earlier this year during their 2024 Innovative Housing Showcase.

When planning the demonstration homes, HUD entrusted IBTS with the complex task of conducting priority reviews to ensure they were ready in time for the Housing Showcase.

IBTS has served as HUD’s monitoring agent for its Manufactured Housing Program for more than 40 years, providing expert design evaluations and inspections of manufactured homes to ensure they meet the agency’s quality and safety standards. These standards, called the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (or HUD Code), were implemented in 1976 to ensure the safety, quality, durability, and affordability of all manufactured homes. For the new home designs, our team of manufactured housing experts provided detailed technical and programmatic reviews to ensure they met all the current HUD Code requirements. As a result, HUD can be confident that these first-of-their-kind designs are just as safe and comfortable as traditional single-dwelling manufactured homes while signaling a new chapter in affordable housing solutions.

The new manufactured home designs include a multi-dwelling, duplex-style home that accommodates families who prefer to live closer together, such as with multigenerational living arrangements. These provide cost-effective housing options and a sustainable approach to land use in densely populated areas. The attached style is a single-dwelling unit which is similar to a traditional townhome, but in this case it's a self-supporting structure that can be placed adjacent or as an addition to an existing structure. This home provides a housing solution for zero-lot-line scenarios or other boundary limitations, particularly in urban areas.

These new manufactured home designs offer several advantages:

Economic Gains: Producing and managing multi-dwelling manufactured homes can reduce per-unit costs for construction, maintenance, and utilities.
Community Development: Manufactured homes with dwelling units can foster a sense of community among the residents due to shared spaces that encourage interaction.
Improved Land Use: These manufactured homes can better use available land, especially in urban areas. This helps address housing shortages without expanding urban sprawl.
Local Business Workforce and Economic Support: Increased population density can support workforce needs and generate support for local businesses and services, fostering economic balance and growth within the broader community.

The introduction of these homes comes at a critical time, as the U.S. faces an affordable housing rental shortage of 7.3 million homes for low-income families, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition . Beyond addressing affordable housing needs, the homes can also help pave the way for more sustainable, inclusive urban growth. For example, by optimizing land use and reducing the need for expansive infrastructure, multi-dwelling manufactured homes can contribute to the creation of more walkable, community-oriented neighborhoods. Additionally, these homes provide flexibility for residents to relocate if necessary, reflecting HUD's commitment to ensuring that affordable, quality housing is accessible to more Americans.

These two newly designed manufactured homes are available for purchase at limited locations nationwide.

To learn more, contact James Turner, IBTS' Federal Services Director at jturner@ibts.org

La Organización Sin Fines de Lucro Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) Anuncia Resultados del Programa de Capacitación Laboral En Puerto Rico

mgeraci@ibts.org (Gabby Geraci) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:48:29 GMT

PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA

[San Juan, PR, 13 de septiembre de 2024] – La Organización Sin Fines de Lucro Institute For Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) se enorgullece en presentar los hallazgos de un estudio económico que destaca el impacto significativo del Programa de Capacitación de la Fuerza Laboral (WFT, por sus siglas en ingles), en Puerto Rico. Realizado en asociación con Huertas College y producido por Advantage Business Consulting, el estudio revela que el programa WFT no solo está abordando la escasez crítica de mano de obra, sino que también está generando beneficios económicos sustanciales para la región.

Tras el paso del Huracán María, Puerto Rico enfrentó desafíos sin precedentes, incluyendo una severa escasez de trabajadores calificados en la construcción, esenciales para la recuperación y reconstrucción de la Isla. Para abordar este problema, el Departamento de la Vivienda de Puerto Rico (PRDOH, en inglés) desarrolló el programa WFT utilizando fondos de Subvención en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario (CDBG-DR, en inglés) proporcionados por el Departamento de Vivienda de los Estados Unidos. Como beneficiario del programa, IBTS se asoció con Huertas College para desarrollar ocho cursos en construcción dirigidos a capacitar a los residentes con las habilidades necesarias para ocupar estos roles importantes. Los cursos incluyeron oficios críticos como paneles de yeso, carpintería, fabricación de gabinetes y albañilería; gestión y supervisión de proyectos; e instalación de sistemas fotovoltaicos solares. Todos los cursos se centraron en cumplir o superar los códigos de construcción vigentes.

El estudio resalta el éxito de esta iniciativa, con 1,165 participantes graduados antes de junio 2024. Estos nuevos trabajadores calificados están listos para satisfacer la demanda que solo crece en la industria de la construcción en Puerto Rico.

“Primero y ante todo, vemos el impacto del programa en los participantes individuales, quienes ahora están comenzando carreras gratificantes en la industria de la construcción,” dijo Judelly Hernández, Gerente del Programa de IBTS, quien supervisó el programa WFT. “Sin embargo, el impacto económico de este programa va mucho más allá de estos individuos,” agregó. “Los nuevos empleos creados a través de esta iniciativa están estimulando la economía local, generando empleo adicional en sectores relacionados. Con el enfoque en los códigos de construcción actuales, los profesionales capacitados a través de este programa no solo contribuirán a la reconstrucción de Puerto Rico, sino que también asegurarán que las nuevas estructuras sean resilientes a futuras tormentas. Y aquellos capacitados en instalaciones de energía renovable también contribuirán a alcanzar el objetivo de Puerto Rico de 100% de energía renovable para 2050.”

Los hallazgos claves del estudio económico señalan que los esfuerzos del programa WFT de IBTS:

Resultaron en la creación de 1,165 empleos directos, así como 261 empleos indirectos y 348 empleos inducidos que apoyan a las empresas.
Inyectaron más de $55 millones en la economía local a través de salarios.
Generarán un ingreso tributario estimado de $5 millones anuales.

El PRDOH estructuró el programa WFT para beneficiar a los residentes de ingresos bajos y moderados (LMI, en inglés); el objetivo nacional era que el 51% de los participantes sean parte de la demográfica LMI. Entre los participantes del programa de IBTS, el 66% provenía de hogares de ingresos bajos a moderados, superando el umbral requerido por 15 puntos porcentuales.

Este éxito se atribuye en gran medida a la alianza con Huertas College, que ofrece un currículo certificado por el Centro Nacional para la Educación e Investigación de la Construcción (NCCER, en inglés), asegurando que los graduados estén bien preparados para satisfacer las necesidades de la industria.

A medida que Puerto Rico continúa sus esfuerzos de recuperación, la necesidad de una fuerza laboral calificada sigue siendo crítica. Aunque el programa WFT de IBTS ha logrado avances significativos en abordar esta demanda, se necesitarán nuevas soluciones para cubrir los empleos restantes necesarios para los esfuerzos de reconstrucción. IBTS sigue comprometido a continuar proporcionando soluciones para un crecimiento económico sostenido y resiliencia en Puerto Rico.

Para leer el informe, siga este enlace .

Acerca de IBTS

IBTS es una organización nacional sin fines de lucro y un asesor y aliado de confianza para gobiernos locales, estatales y federales.

Nuestra misión como un sin fines de lucro es servir y fortalecer a las comunidades a través de nuestros servicios, los cuales incluyen: servicios de códigos de construcción y experiencia regulatoria; cumplimiento y monitoreo; planificación comunitaria; planificación, mitigación y recuperación ante desastres; soluciones energéticas; servicios municipales; gestión de subvenciones; investigación de mercado; gestión y supervisión de programas; servicios de la resiliencia; gestión de calidad solar; y desarrollo y capacitación de la fuerza laboral.

El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una junta directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG, en inglés), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades y Condados (ICMA, en inglés), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores, y la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC).

Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) Announces Results of Puerto Rico Workforce Training Program

mgeraci@ibts.org (Gabby Geraci) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:42:14 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[San Juan, PR, September 13, 2024] – The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is proud to unveil the findings of a comprehensive economic study that underscores the significant impact of its Workforce Training Program (WFT) in Puerto Rico. Conducted in partnership with Huertas College and analyzed by Advantage Business Consulting, the study reveals that the WFT program is not only addressing critical labor shortages but also driving substantial economic benefits for the region.

In the wake of Hurricane María, Puerto Rico faced unprecedented challenges, including a severe shortage of skilled construction workers essential for the Island’s recovery and reconstruction. To tackle this issue, the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH) developed the WFT program using Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing. As an awardee of the program IBTS partnered with Huertas College to develop eight courses in construction aimed at equipping residents with the skills necessary to fill these crucial roles. Courses included key trades such as drywall, carpentry, cabinet making, and masonry; project management and supervision; and solar photovoltaic installation. All courses focused on meeting or exceeding current building codes.

The study highlights the success of this initiative, with 1,165 participants graduating as of June 2024. These newly skilled workers are poised to meet the growing demand in Puerto Rico's construction industry.

“We first and foremost see the impact of the program on the individual participants, who are now beginning rewarding careers in the construction industry,” said Judelly Hernández, IBTS Program Manager, who oversaw the WFT program. “However, the economic impact of this program extends far beyond these individuals,” she said. “The new jobs created through this initiative are stimulating the local economy, generating additional employment in related sectors. With the focus on current building codes, the professionals trained through this program will not only contribute to helping Puerto Rico rebuild, but also ensure that new structures are resilient to future storms. And those trained in renewable energy installations will also contribute to meeting Puerto Rico’s goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050.”

Key findings from the economic study note that IBTS’ WFT program efforts:

Included the creation of 1,165 direct jobs as well as 261 indirect and 348 induced jobs supporting businesses.
Injected over $55 million into the local economy through wages.
Will generate an estimated tax revenue of $5 million annually.

PRDOH structured the WFT program to benefit low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents, with a national objective that 51% of participants qualify as LMI. Among participants in IBTS’ program, 66% were from low- to moderate-income households, surpassing the required threshold by 15 percentage points.

This success is largely attributed to the partnership with Huertas College, which provides a curriculum certified by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the industry's needs.

As Puerto Rico continues its recovery efforts, the need for a skilled workforce remains critical. Although the IBTS WFT program has made significant strides in addressing this demand, new solutions will need to address the remaining jobs needed for reconstruction efforts. IBTS remains committed to continuing to provide solutions for sustained economic growth and resilience in Puerto Rico.

To read the report, click here.

About IBTS
IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments. 

Our nonprofit mission to serve and strengthen communities is advanced through our services. These include building code services and regulatory expertise; compliance and monitoring; community planning; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; energy solutions; municipal services; grants management; market research; program management and oversight; resilience services; solar quality management; and workforce development and training. 

IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Desbloqueando las mejores prácticas en la toma de decisiones

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 19:37:28 GMT

El 27 de agosto de 2024, la directora ejecutiva de IBTS, Anjuma Goswami Karkera, impartió una sesión especial en Experiencia Puerto Rico 2024, donde compartió ideas invaluables para cómo garantizar la transparencia y el cumplimiento en los procesos de toma de decisiones. La sesión fue moderada por Víctor D' Aza – Presidente de la Liga Municipal de la República Dominicana y Comisionado del Sindicato de Gobiernos Locales de FLACMA.

Introducción

Hola a todos, es un honor estar aquí en la hermosa isla de Puerto Rico, rodeada de líderes que están marcando diferencias reales en sus comunidades.

Mi nombre es Anjuma Goswami Karkera y soy la directora ejecutiva del Institute for Building Technology and Safety, IBTS. No quiero convertir esto en un comercial, pero para contextualizar, en IBTS nos referimos a nosotros mismos como "la firma de ingeniería y servicios comunitarios sin fines de lucro de Estados Unidos.” Nuestro enfoque es servir a clientes locales, estatales y federales que comparten nuestra pasión por crear comunidades más fuertes y resilientes.

Esta mañana, quiero abordar un tema que es demasiado familiar para todos nosotros: la innovación. Quiero hablar de algunas de las barreras que vemos cuando las comunidades intentan innovar, o lo que les impide hacerlo. También quiero aportar algunas ideas sobre cómo atravesamos esas barreras.

Quiero comenzar esta mañana con una imagen simple: cuando eras niño, es posible que hayas jugado el juego con dos equipos tirando de una cuerda—quizás lo llamabas tira y afloja, el juego de la soga o de la cuerda. Por un lado, están las personas que creen en apegarse a lo que está probado y es verdadero: los métodos tradicionales que han mantenido nuestros sistemas funcionando sin problemas durante años. Son fuertes, firmes y se basan en lo que es familiar.

Al otro lado de la cuerda están los innovadores, llenos de energía, tirando hacia el progreso, las nuevas ideas y el cambio. La tensión entre ellos es palpable, y a veces parece que todo lo que estamos haciendo es tirarnos el uno contra el otro, sin un ganador claro, solo un montón de idas y venidas.

Ahora bien, es importante reconocer que las barreras a la innovación existen en una variedad de formas:

Cultura organizacional: Muchas organizaciones simplemente se sienten cómodas con el statu quo y desconfían de los nuevos métodos o tecnologías.
Recursos limitados: Las limitaciones financieras y la falta de inversión pueden sofocar los proyectos innovadores.
Trámites burocráticos "cinta roja": Los complejos procesos de aprobación y las regulaciones pueden desacelerar o bloquear nuevas iniciativas. Hemos visto casos en los que la burocracia se "convierte en un arma" específicamente para acabar con la innovación.
Aversión al riesgo: El miedo al fracaso o a lo desconocido puede disuadir tanto a los líderes como a los equipos de perseguir ideas innovadoras.
Falta de habilidades o conocimientos: A veces, falta la experiencia o la capacitación necesarias para implementar nuevas soluciones. Nuestra fuerza laboral simplemente carece de las habilidades para "mantenerse al día", por lo que nos quedamos donde estamos.

Volviendo a nuestra analogía, este tira y afloja es algo que vemos a menudo en nuestro trabajo en IBTS, especialmente cuando se trata de servicios de edificios e instalaciones municipales. La tradición y la innovación pueden parecer contradictorias, cada una tirando en direcciones opuestas. Pero, ¿qué pasaría si cambiáramos nuestra perspectiva?

De tira y afloja a equipo de tripulación

Ahora, imagina que, en lugar de un juego de la cuerda, estamos todos en un bote, remando juntos. Un equipo de tripulación. Cada uno de nosotros tiene un rol, y si remamos en sincronía, nos movemos más rápido y de manera más eficiente. No se trata de que una parte le gane a la otra, se trata de avanzar juntos.

Este es el enfoque que debemos adoptar, especialmente aquí en el Caribe, donde los desafíos son únicos y apremiantes. La amenaza de huracanes, el aumento del nivel del mar y la necesidad de una infraestructura resiliente no son solo hipotéticos, sino realidades a las que se enfrentan las comunidades de toda la región cada año. Entonces, ¿cómo honramos las fortalezas de nuestras prácticas tradicionales y, al mismo tiempo, adoptamos las innovaciones que nos ayudarán a enfrentar estos desafíos de frente?

Perspectiva personal: Equilibrando la innovación con las libertades personales

Antes de unirme a IBTS, pasé años en la comunidad de inteligencia, donde también lidiamos con la tensión entre la innovación y la tradición. Culminé mi carrera como miembro del Servicio Ejecutivo Superior. Mi agencia fue responsable de recopilar, analizar y explotar la inteligencia geoespacial, o GEOINT, para garantizar que los combatientes estadounidenses y aliados, y sus tomadores de decisiones, puedan comprender dónde están los adversarios y qué están haciendo en tiempo real.

Apoyamos campañas militares, esto incluyó tener papel fundamental en la redada de 2011 en el complejo de Osama bin Laden en Abbottabad, Pakistán (después de todo, alguien tenía que localizar la casa). También apoyamos los esfuerzos humanitarios y de socorro en casos de desastre nacionales e internacionales, trabajando en conjunto con FEMA y otros. Estas asociaciones han ayudado a llevar estabilidad a las comunidades más afectadas que se enfrentan a todo tipo de desastres naturales, como huracanes, terremotos y tornados, así como a crisis humanitarias como la epidemia de ébola de 2014.

Fue un capítulo increíblemente gratificante de mi carrera.

Ahora bien, en lo que respecta a la innovación, uno de los mayores retos a los que nos enfrentamos fue la tecnología de vigilancia por satélite, especialmente cuando se combina con el campo en evolución de la inteligencia artificial. Esto nos dio literalmente la capacidad de monitorear las amenazas globales en tiempo real, un gran salto adelante. Pero con ese poder vino una preocupación importante: ¿cómo equilibramos esta increíble herramienta con la necesidad de proteger las libertades personales y la privacidad?

Es un acto de equilibrio muy difícil. Por un lado, necesitábamos los datos para mantener a las personas seguras. Por otro lado, teníamos que asegurarnos de que no se hiciera un mal uso de esta tecnología, de que no infringiéramos las mismas libertades que intentábamos proteger. La solución no consistía en elegir un bando, sino en unir ambas perspectivas.

Si bien los detalles de esta instancia no son públicos, el marco de asociación es el mismo. Me enorgullece decir que los líderes de nuestra nación han establecido leyes, pautas y métodos de supervisión claros para garantizar que usemos esta poderosa herramienta de manera responsable y de una manera que salvaguarde las libertades individuales, especialmente en el hogar.

Tendiendo puentes entre la tradición y la innovación en los servicios de la construcción

Las lecciones que aprendí sobre la innovación en el mundo de la inteligencia se aplican igual de bien aquí, en los servicios de edificios e instalaciones. No estamos hablando de descartar lo que ha funcionado en el pasado; estamos hablando de mejorarlo con nuevas herramientas e ideas.

Tecnologías de construcción inteligente

Tomemos la forma en que mantenemos nuestros edificios públicos. Tradicionalmente, hemos dependido de revisiones y reparaciones programadas, un método que nos ha servido bien durante décadas. Pero ahora, con las tecnologías de edificios inteligentes, tenemos la oportunidad de monitorear los sistemas de los edificios en tiempo real. Imaginen un edificio público en el que las luces, los sistemas de calefacción y refrigeración se ajustan automáticamente en función de cómo se utiliza el espacio. Se trata de dar a nuestros equipos de instalaciones mejores herramientas, no reemplazando su experiencia, sino haciendo que su trabajo sea más fácil y efectivo.

Desarrollo y cumplimiento de los códigos de construcción modernos

Otra área en la que la innovación es crítica es en el desarrollo y cumplimiento de los códigos de construcción modernos. Aquí en Puerto Rico y en todo el Caribe, sabemos la importancia de construir estructuras que puedan resistir los climas extremos. Los métodos de construcción tradicionales se han perfeccionado a lo largo de siglos para que sean más resistentes a los huracanes, pero los códigos de la construcción deben evolucionar con ellos. Deben incluir medidas de resiliencia, eficiencia energética y sostenibilidad, que son cruciales a la hora de hacer frente al cambio climático. No deben requerir el uso de materiales, medios y métodos anticuados. Esta es solo otra forma de matar la innovación.

Modernizaciones energéticas sostenibles

Hablando de estándares modernos, una de las mayores oportunidades para la innovación está en la energía sostenible. Modernizar los edificios municipales más antiguos con paneles solares u otros sistemas resistentes no se trata solo de cumplir con los códigos, sino de predicar con el ejemplo. La región del Caribe ha sido bendecida con abundante luz solar y el aprovechamiento de esa energía puede reducir drásticamente los costos y el impacto ambiental.

Mientras hablamos, el Departamento de Energía de los Estados Unidos está instalando paneles solares en las "casas de última milla" aquí mismo en Puerto Rico, ciudadanos estadounidenses que están más lejos de la red eléctrica y en lugares donde su suministro de energía es más vulnerable. Los desafíos son inmensos. ¿El resultado? Facturas de energía más bajas, una menor huella de carbono y un modelo a seguir para otros edificios. La clave fue la colaboración: el Departamento de Energía, el gobierno puertorriqueño y los líderes locales, ingenieros, equipos de control de calidad y personas encargadas de educar a los propietarios de viviendas con habilidades básicas para operar y solucionar problemas de sus nuevos sistemas solares. Todos tuvieron que trabajar juntos para encontrar soluciones para innovar.

Lecciones aprendidas: Abordar las barreras a la innovación

A medida que nos esforzamos por innovar, revisemos las barreras que obstaculizan el progreso. Estos son algunos puntos clave para superar estos obstáculos:

1. Superar la resistencia al cambio: La resistencia al cambio es un desafío común, ya que las personas a menudo prefieren la familiaridad de los métodos tradicionales. Para abordar esto, es crucial involucrar a las partes interesadas en las primeras etapas del proceso y comunicar claramente los beneficios de la innovación. Construir una visión compartida y demostrar cómo los nuevos métodos se alinean con los objetivos a largo plazo puede ayudar a aliviar las preocupaciones y fomentar la aceptación.

2. Navegar por los recursos limitados: Las limitaciones financieras pueden limitar la capacidad de llevar a cabo proyectos innovadores. Para gestionar esto, prioriza las iniciativas en función de su impacto potencial y busca diversas fuentes de financiación, incluidas subvenciones y asociaciones público-privadas. El uso eficiente de los recursos disponibles y la exploración de la implementación por etapas también pueden ayudar a estirar los presupuestos limitados.

3. Racionalización de los procesos burocráticos: El “teipe rojo” o la “cinta roja” burocrática puede desacelerar o bloquear los esfuerzos innovadores. Trabajar para simplificar los procesos de aprobación colaborando con los organismos reguladores y abogando por políticas más flexibles. La reducción de la complejidad de los procedimientos puede acelerar la implementación de nuevas ideas y facilitar la materialización de las innovaciones.

4. Mitigar la aversión al riesgo: El miedo al fracaso puede disuadir tanto a las personas como a las organizaciones de perseguir nuevas ideas. Fomentar una cultura que abrace la experimentación y el aprendizaje de los contratiempos. Al enmarcar los riesgos como oportunidades de crecimiento y celebrar los éxitos incrementales, puede ayudar a cambiar las actitudes hacia un enfoque más proactivo de la innovación.

5. Cerrar las brechas de conocimiento: La falta de habilidades o conocimientos puede obstaculizar la adopción de nuevas tecnologías. Invierta en capacitación y desarrollo profesional para garantizar que su equipo esté equipado con la experiencia necesaria. Asociarse con instituciones educativas o incorporar expertos externos también puede ayudar a cerrar estas brechas y respaldar la implementación exitosa de nuevas soluciones.

Si podemos abordar estas barreras juntos, estaremos remando en sincronía, hacia un futuro en el que se adopte la innovación y juntos podamos construir comunidades mejores, más fuertes y más resilientes en el Caribe y en todo el mundo.

Gracias.

Unlocking Best Practices in Decision-Making

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 19:28:35 GMT

On Aug. 27, 2024 IBTS CEO Anjuma Goswami Karkera delivered a special session at Experiencia Puerto Rico 2024, where she shared invaluable insights on ensuring transparency and compliance in decision-making processes.

The session was moderated by Víctor D' Aza – President of the Municipal League of the Dominican Republic and Commissioner of the Local Government Union (CGLU) of FLACMA.

Introduction

Hello everyone, it’s an honor to be here in beautiful Puerto Rico, surrounded by leaders who are making real differences in their communities.

My name is Anjuma Goswami Karkera, and I am the CEO of the Institute of Building Technology and Safety, IBTS. I don’t mean to turn this into a commercial, but for context, at IBTS we refer to ourselves as “American’s Nonprofit Engineering and Community Services firm. Our focus is on serving local, state and federal clients who share our passion for creating stronger, more resilient communities.

This morning, I want to address a topic that is all-too familiar to us all: innovation. I want to discuss some of the barriers we see when communities try to innovate, or what keeps them from doing so. I also want to provide some thoughts on how we work around those barriers.

I want to start this morning with a simple image: when you were a child, you may have played the game with two teams tugging at a rope or tug of war. On one side, you have the folks who believe in sticking with what’s tried and true—the traditional methods that have kept our systems running smoothly for years. They’re strong, steady, and grounded in what’s familiar.

On the other side of the rope are the innovators, full of energy, pulling towards progress, new ideas, and change. The tension between them is palpable, and sometimes it feels like all we’re doing is pulling against each other, with no clear winner — just a lot of back and forth.

Now it’s important to recognize that barriers to innovation exist in variety of forms:

Organizational Culture: Many organizations are simply comfortable with the status quo and wary of new methods or technologies.
Limited Resources: Financial constraints and lack of investment can stifle innovative projects.
Bureaucratic Red Tape: Complex approval processes and regulations can slow down or block new initiatives. We’ve seen instances where Red Tape is “weaponized” specifically to kill off innovation!
Risk Aversion: The fear of failure or the unknown can deter both leaders and teams from pursuing innovative ideas.
Lack of Skills or Knowledge: Sometimes, the necessary expertise or training to implement new solutions is missing. Our workforce simply lacks the skills to “keep up,” so we stay where we are.

Going back to our analogy -- this tug of war is something we often see in our work at IBTS, especially when it comes to municipal building and facilities services. Tradition and innovation can feel like they’re at odds, each pulling in opposite directions. But what if we shifted our perspective?

From Tug of War to Crew Team

Now, imagine instead of a tug of war, we’re all in a boat, rowing together. A crew team. Each of us has a role, and if we row in sync, we move faster and more efficiently. It’s not about one side winning over the other—it’s about moving forward together.

This is the approach we need to take, especially here in the Caribbean, where the challenges are unique and pressing. The threat of hurricanes, rising sea levels, and the need for resilient infrastructure aren’t just hypothetical—they’re realities that communities across the region face every year. So, how do we honor the strengths of our traditional practices while also embracing the innovations that will help us meet these challenges head-on?

Personal Perspective: Balancing Innovation with Personal Freedoms

Before joining the Institute for Building Technology and Safety, I spent years in the intelligence community, where we also grappled with the tension between innovation and tradition. I culminated my career as a member of the Senior Executive Service. My agency was responsible for gathering, analyzing, and exploiting Geospatial intelligence, or GEOINT to ensure that U.S. and allied warfighters, and their decision makers, can understand where adversaries are and what they are doing … in real time..

We supported military campaigns, including playing a pivotal role in the 2011 raid on the Osama bin Laden compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan (someone had to locate the house, after all). We also support domestic and international humanitarian and disaster relief efforts, working in conjunction with FEMA and others. These partnerships have helped bring stability to hard-hit communities facing every kind of natural disaster, spanning the likes of hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes, as well as humanitarian crises like the 2014 Ebola epidemic.

It was an incredibly gratifying chapter of my career.

Now when it came to innovation, one of the biggest challenges we faced was with satellite surveillance technology, especially when coupled with the evolving field of artificial intelligence. This literally gave us the ability to monitor global threats in real-time—a huge leap forward. But with that power came a significant concern: how do we balance this incredible tool with the need to protect personal freedoms and privacy?

It is a very tough balancing act. On one hand, we needed the data to keep people safe. On the other, we had to ensure that this technology wasn’t misused, that we weren’t infringing on the very freedoms we were trying to protect. The solution wasn’t about choosing one side—it was about bringing both perspectives together.

While the details of this instance is not public, the framework of partnership is the same. I am proud to say that our nation’s leaders have established clear laws, guidelines, and oversight, to ensure that we use this powerful tool responsibly and in a way that safeguard individual freedoms, especially at home.

Bridging Tradition and Innovation in Building Services

The lessons I learned about innovating in the intelligence world apply just as much here, in building and facilities services. We’re not talking about throwing out what’s worked in the past; we’re talking about enhancing it with new tools and ideas.

Smart Building Technologies

Let’s take the way we maintain our public buildings. Traditionally, we’ve relied on scheduled checkups and repairs—a method that’s served us well for decades. But now, with smart building technologies, we have the opportunity to monitor building systems in real-time. Imagine a public building where the lights, heating, and cooling systems automatically adjust based on how the space is being used. It’s about giving our facilities teams better tools—not replacing their expertise but making their jobs easier and more effective.

Developing and Meeting Modern Building Codes

Another area innovation is critical is in developing and complying with modern building codes. Here in Puerto Rico and across the Caribbean, we know the importance of building structures that can withstand extreme weather. Traditional building methods have been honed over centuries to be more survivable in hurricanes, but building codes need to evolve with them. They need to include resilience, energy efficiency and sustainability measures, which are crucial as we deal with climate change. They ought not require the use of antiquated materials, means and methods. This is just another way of killing innovation.

Sustainable Energy Retrofits

Speaking of modern standards, one of the biggest opportunities for innovation is in sustainable energy. Retrofitting older municipal buildings with solar panels or other resilient systems isn’t just about meeting codes—it’s about leading by example. The Caribbean region is blessed with abundant sunlight and harnessing that energy can drastically reduce costs and environmental impact.

As we speak, the US Department of Energy is installing solar panels on the “last mile homes” right here in Puerto Rico – US citizens who are farthest grom the electrical grid and in locations where their energy supply is most vulnerable. The challenges are immense. The result? Lower energy bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and a model for other buildings to follow. The key was collaboration— the Department of Energy, Puerto Rican government and local leaders, engineers, quality assurance crews, and individuals charged with educating homeowners with basic skills to operate and troubleshoot their new solar systems. Everyone had to work together to find solutions to innovate.

Lessons Learned: Addressing Barriers to Innovation

As we strive to innovate, let’s revisit those barriers that hinder progress. Here are some key takeaways for overcoming these obstacles:

1. Overcoming Resistance to Change: Resistance to change is a common challenge, as people often prefer the familiarity of traditional methods. To address this, it's crucial to involve stakeholders early in the process and clearly communicate the benefits of innovation. Building a shared vision and demonstrating how new methods align with long-term goals can help ease concerns and foster acceptance.

2. Navigating Limited Resources: Financial constraints can limit the ability to pursue innovative projects. To manage this, prioritize initiatives based on their potential impact and seek out diverse funding sources, including grants and public-private partnerships. Efficient use of available resources and exploring phased implementation can also help stretch limited budgets.

3. Streamlining Bureaucratic Processes: Bureaucratic red tape can slow down or block innovative efforts. Work towards simplifying approval processes by collaborating with regulatory bodies and advocating for more flexible policies. Reducing complexity in procedures can accelerate the implementation of new ideas and make it easier to bring innovations to life.

4. Mitigating Risk Aversion: Fear of failure can deter both individuals and organizations from pursuing new ideas. Encourage a culture that embraces experimentation and learning from setbacks. By framing risks as opportunities for growth and celebrating incremental successes, you can help shift attitudes towards a more proactive approach to innovation.

5. Bridging Knowledge Gaps: A lack of skills or knowledge can hinder the adoption of new technologies. Invest in training and professional development to ensure that your team is equipped with the necessary expertise. Partnering with educational institutions or bringing in external experts can also help bridge these gaps and support the successful implementation of new solutions.

If we can address these barriers together, we will be rowing in sync, towards a future where innovation is embraced and together we can build better, stronger, and more resilient communities in the Caribbean and around the world.

Thank you.

PODCAST: Climate Action--What communities should be doing now for a more resilient tomorrow

mgeraci@ibts.org (Gabby Geraci) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:09:12 GMT

Climate Action: What communities should be doing now for a more resilient tomorrow

Dive into the latest episode of "On Further Inspection with IBTS." Join Patrick Howell, IBTS' Program Manager for Community Resilience, as he explores the profound impacts of climate disasters on communities and the crucial strategies needed to combat them. This episode highlights the significance of both mitigation and adaptation efforts, showcasing the power of comprehensive planning and multi-stakeholder collaboration in enhancing community resilience. Don't miss this insightful discussion aimed at creating stronger, more resilient communities!

Hablemos Sobre la IA con Relación a la Planificación y Acción del Gobierno Local

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 20:35:09 GMT

Hay mucho que discutir sobre el impacto seguro y el potencial transformador de la inteligencia artificial (IA) para el gobierno local. Pero es importante empezar a tomar medidas para establecer la visión, políticas y planes de IA de su gobierno. Aquí le mostramos cómo empezar.

Durante la reciente conferencia Local Government Reimagined de ICMA en Palm Desert, California, la inteligencia artificial (IA) fue el tema central, con presentaciones sobre innovaciones en IA en todo, desde finanzas del gobierno local hasta servicios ambientales, contratación y retención de personal, y resiliencia climática y ante desastres, así como innumerables conversaciones entre paneles. Sin embargo, ya sea que los asistentes estuvieran hablando sobre los posibles beneficios de la IA o sus riesgos, la mayoría aún se encuentra en las primeras etapas de discusión y no ha adoptado un enfoque estructurado para examinar la IA internamente en su gobierno. Con la rápida aceleración de la IA, ahora es el momento de comenzar a tener estas importantes conversaciones, para que su comunidad pueda construir consenso y crear acciones claras sobre cómo aprovechar y gestionar esta tecnología transformadora.

¿Necesita ayuda para empezar? El Libro de Estrategias de IA para el Gobierno Local de ICMA es una guía paso a paso desarrollada como un punto de partida para que los gobiernos locales creen su estrategia de IA. A través de una serie de preguntas y ejercicios, el libro proporciona un marco sencillo para entender y desarrollar acciones en torno a las circunstancias, necesidades y objetivos únicos de su comunidad. También proporciona orientación y ejemplos sobre cómo usar la IA de manera responsable y efectiva, así como los riesgos y factores éticos a considerar. Por ejemplo, estos recursos pueden ayudar a su gobierno a establecer procedimientos operativos estándar para proporcionar una guía clara al personal, funcionarios electos y residentes sobre dónde es apropiada la IA y dónde no lo es.

De cara al futuro, IBTS sigue explorando cómo estamos utilizando la IA para servir mejor a los gobiernos. Estamos llevando a cabo actividades de planificación de IA en las comunidades en las que ofrecemos apoyo municipal ; del mismo modo, vemos un potencial significativo en la forma en que la IA puede beneficiar nuestra participación pública , las evaluaciones de resiliencia climática y los esfuerzos de planificación comunitaria a través de un análisis de datos mejorado y acelerado, la participación de la comunidad y los enfoques de modelado predictivo y evaluación de riesgos.

Haga clic aquí para ver nuestra presentación diapositivas de la conferencia, y estén atentos a medida que compartimos más sobre las innovaciones de IBTS en las próximas semanas.

Moving Beyond AI Talk to Local Government Planning and Action

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 20:22:53 GMT

There is plenty to discuss on AI’s certain impact and transformative potential for local government. But it’s important to start taking action to get your government’s AI vision, policies, and plans in place. Here’s how to get started.

During ICMA’s recent Local Government Reimagined conference in Palm Desert, California, artificial intelligence (AI) was the central focus, with presentations on AI innovations in everything from local government finance to environmental services, hiring and retention to climate and disaster resilience, as well as countless conversations between panels.

Yet whether attendees were talking about AI’s potential benefits or its risks, most are still in the early stages of discussion and have not yet taken a structured approach to examining AI internally in their government. With AI’s rapid acceleration, now is the time to start having these important conversations, so your community can build consensus and create clear actions around how to leverage and manage this transformative technology .

Need help getting started? ICMA’s Local Government AI Strategy Workbook is a step-by-step guide developed as a starting point for local governments to create their AI strategy. Through a series of questions and exercises, the workbook provides a straightforward framework for understanding and developing actions around your community’s unique circumstances, needs, and goals. It also provides guidance and examples on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, as well as risks and ethical factors to consider. For example, these resources can help your government establish standard operating procedures to provide clear guidance to staff, elected officials, and residents on where AI is appropriate and where it is not.

Moving forward, IBTS is continuing to explore how we are using AI to better serve governments. We are conducting AI planning activities in communities where we provide municipal support ; likewise, we see significant potential in how AI can benefit our public engagement , climate resilience assessments, and community planning efforts through enhanced and expedited data analysis, community engagement, and predictive modeling and risk assessment approaches.

Click here to view our presentation slides from the conference -- and stay tuned as we share more about IBTS innovations in the weeks ahead.

IBTS presenta nuevo sitio web

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 14:57:30 GMT

El nuevo sitio se alinea con la evolución de la organización sin fines de lucro, ofrece una mejor experiencia de usuario y accesibilidad

Ashburn, Va., 13 de junio de 2024 - El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad en la Construcción (IBTS, por sus siglas en inglés), una organización sin fines de lucro de servicios profesionales dedicada a fortalecer comunidades, se complace en anunciar el lanzamiento de su nuevo sitio web en www.ibts.org.

www.ibts.or

"IBTS ha experimentado una evolución notable desde el lanzamiento de nuestro sitio web anterior en 2017, expandiendo nuestros servicios en nuevas regiones y mercados, acelerando nuestras innovaciones, fortaleciendo nuestras capacidades centrales y confirmando nuestro compromiso con las comunidades a las que servimos", dijo Anjuma Goswami Karkera, Directora Ejecutiva de IBTS. "Es importante que nuestro sitio web refleje estos cambios para que podamos compartir mejor quiénes somos con nuestros clientes, socios y personal", añadió Karkera.

Los visitantes del nuevo sitio de IBTS disfrutarán de contenido renovado, un diseño actualizado y una experiencia de usuario mejorada y optimizada. Dada la riqueza de servicios técnicos y profesionales que IBTS ofrece, incluyendo servicios de códigos de construcción y regulaciones, soluciones de energía limpia, cumplimiento y monitoreo, planificación de resiliencia, servicios municipales, investigación de mercado y divulgación, el nuevo sitio prioriza la organización y una estructura elegante para asegurar que los usuarios puedan conectarse fácilmente con el trabajo de la organización y encontrar la información que necesitan.

"Nuestro nuevo sitio describe claramente nuestros servicios y capacidades, al mismo tiempo que da vida a nuestro trabajo con ejemplos reales de nuestro impacto y visuales de nuestro personal haciendo el trabajo que aman", dijo Karen Johnson, Directora del Programa de Compromiso de Mercado de IBTS, quien gestionó el rediseño del sitio. Karkera añade que esta combinación refleja la visión de IBTS. "Nos enorgullecemos de nuestras décadas de servicio comprobado y experiencia técnica, y también reconocemos que es el corazón y la pasión de IBTS por nuestro trabajo lo que atrae a tantos de nuestros clientes, socios y talento hacia nosotros", señaló.

El diseño del sitio cumple con los estándares de accesibilidad WCAG 2.2, ADA y la Sección 508. También utiliza AccessiBe, una solución de sitio web accesible que permite a los usuarios ajustar su experiencia a través de perfiles personalizados para ser seguros para las personas con epilepsia y apoyar a aquellos con necesidades visuales, TDAH, cognitivas y motoras. "La accesibilidad es una prioridad tanto para IBTS, nuestros clientes y, lo más importante, para los visitantes que llegan a nuestro sitio", dijo Johnson. "Estamos encantados de saber que nuestro nuevo sitio ofrece la mejor experiencia para todos los usuarios".

El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores y la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC).

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IBTS Unveils New Website

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 22:37:14 GMT

New site aligns with the nonprofit organization’s evolution, offers enhanced user experience and accessibility

Ashburn, Va., June 13, 2024 - The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), a nonprofit, professional services organization dedicated to strengthening communities, is pleased to announce the launch of its new website at www.ibts.org .

“IBTS has experienced a remarkable evolution since the launch of our previous website in 2017, expanding our services in new regions and markets, accelerating our innovations, strengthening our core capacities, and confirming our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Anjuma Goswami Karkera, IBTS’ Chief Executive Officer. “It’s important that our website reflect these changes so we can better share who we are with our clients, partners, and staff,” Karkera added.

Visitors to the new IBTS site will enjoy refreshed content, an updated design, and a streamlined and enhanced user experience. Given the wealth of technical and professional services that IBTS provides—including building code and regulatory services, clean energy solutions, compliance and monitoring, resilience planning, municipal services, market research, and outreach—the new site prioritizes organization and an elegant structure to ensure users can readily connect with the organization’s work and find the information they need.

“Our new site both clearly describes our services and capabilities, while also bringing our work to life with real-world examples of our impact and visuals of our staff doing the work they love,” said Karen Johnson, IBTS Market Engagement Program Director, who managed the site redesign. Karkera adds that this combination reflects IBTS’ vision. “We take pride in our decades of proven service and technical expertise, while also recognizing that it is IBTS' heart and passion for our work that draws so many of our clients, partners, and talent to us,” she noted.

The site’s design meets WCAG 2.2, ADA, and Section 508 accessibility standards. It also uses AccessiBe, an accessible website solution that allows users to adjust their experience through profiles customized to be seizure safe and support those with visual, ADHD, cognitive, and motor needs. “Accessibility is a priority for both IBTS, our clients and, most importantly, for the visitors who come to our site,” Johnson said. “We’re thrilled to know our new site offers the best experience for all users.”

IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

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On Further Inspection: los esfuerzos de resiliencia y recuperación de Puerto Rico

Tue, 07 May 2024 17:12:40 GMT

Una exploración de los esfuerzos de planificación de IBTS

En este episodio de On Further Inspection, la Directora Regional de IBTS Puerto Rico, Agnes Crespo, y la Gerente de Programa, Dra. Lisa Mariel Escobales, se unen a la anfitriona Gabby Geraci para brindar una mirada más cercana a la divulgación y el compromiso con las comunidades en riesgo, y las lecciones aprendidas de su trabajo desarrollando comunidades detalladas. planes de resiliencia y recuperación municipal en Puerto Rico luego de los huracanes María e Irma. (Episodio en inglés)

On Further Inspection: Puerto Rican Resilience & Recovery Efforts

Tue, 07 May 2024 16:02:11 GMT

An exploration of IBTS’ on-the-ground planning efforts

In this episode of On Further Inspection , IBTS Puerto Rico Region Director Agnes Crespo and Program Manager Dr. Lisa Mariel Escobales join host Gabby Geraci to provide a closer look outreach and engagement with at-risk communities, and lessons learned from their work developing detailed community resilience and municipal recovery plans in Puerto Rico following Hurricanes Maria and Irma.

On Further Inspection: estándares solares

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 17:18:26 GMT

Una breve historia y el papel de IBTS en su evolución

Los estándares solares son fundamentales para garantizar el rendimiento, la resiliencia y la seguridad de las instalaciones solares fotovoltaicas y, en consecuencia, para proteger a los propietarios de edificios, instaladores, fabricantes y jurisdicciones. En este episodio de On Further Inspection, conozca la historia de los estándares solares y el papel de IBTS en su evolución gracias a nuestro invitado, Rudy Saporite, director de programa de servicios energéticos de IBTS. (Episodio en inglés)

On Further Inspection: Solar Standards

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 15:55:33 GMT

A Brief History and IBTS' Role in Their Evolution

Solar standards are critical to ensuring the performance, resilience, and safety of solar photovoltaic installations and, accordingly, to protecting building owners, installers, manufacturers, and jurisdictions. In this episode of On Further Inspection, learn about the history of solar standards and IBTS' role in their evolution from our guest, Rudy Saporite, Program Director for IBTS' Energy Services.

On Further Inspection: Se acabaron los retrasos

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 17:30:34 GMT

Cómo las inspecciones por terceros benefician a las jurisdicciones

En el primer episodio del nuevo podcast de IBTS, On Further Inspection, la presentadora Gabby Geraci da la bienvenida a los invitados Chris Miller, Director de Servicios de Gobierno Local de IBTS, y al inspector de IBTS Jesse Harris, quienes comparten su visión sobre cómo las jurisdicciones pueden beneficiarse de las inspecciones de terceros y otras Servicios del departamento de construcción.

On Further Inspection Podcast: Backlogs Be Gone

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:49:12 GMT

How third-party inspections benefit jurisdictions

In the first episode of IBTS' new podcast, On Further Inspection, host Gabby Geraci welcomes guests Chris Miller, IBTS Director of Local Government Services, and IBTS Inspector Jesse Harris, who share insight into how jurisdictions can benefit from third-party inspections and other building department services.

IBTS Announces 2024 and 2025 Focus Areas

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:44:34 GMT

The Institute

The first part of our name and indelible to our mission, “The Institute” confirms our commitment to developing and strengthening our core competencies, improving our processes, and enabling resources for government, organizations, and communities through workforce development, training, certification, consulting, and academic partnerships.

Building Services

With decades of experience as a trusted provider of building services, IBTS will leverage our expertise in building code enforcement, plan review, planning and zoning, inspection, sustainability, resiliency, and energy services in accordance with codes, regulations, and standards.

Governance for Government

Our ongoing dedication to the public sector inspires us to enhance how federal, state, and local governments operate and interact with others and serve their citizens through quality management, systems, technology, assessments, audits, and reporting.

IBTS anuncia áreas de enfoque para 2024 y 2025

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:26:45 GMT

El Instituto

La primera parte de nuestro nombre e indeleble a nuestra misión, “El Instituto” confirma nuestro compromiso de desarrollar y fortalecer nuestras competencias básicas, mejorar nuestros procesos y habilitar recursos para el gobierno, las organizaciones y las comunidades a través del desarrollo de la fuerza laboral, la capacitación, la certificación y la consultoría. y asociaciones académicas.

Servicios de construcción

Con décadas de experiencia como proveedor confiable de servicios de construcción, IBTS aprovechará nuestra experiencia en la aplicación de códigos de construcción, revisión de planos, planificación y zonificación, inspección, sostenibilidad, resiliencia y servicios energéticos de acuerdo con códigos, regulaciones y estándares.

Gobernanza para el gobierno

Nuestra dedicación continua al sector público nos inspira a mejorar la forma en que los gobiernos federal, estatal y local operan e interactúan con otros y sirven a sus ciudadanos a través de gestión de calidad, sistemas, tecnología, evaluaciones, auditorías e informes.

Guía de inspecciones remotas de edificios para gobiernos locales

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 19:35:32 GMT

El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS) es una organización nacional de servicios profesionales sin fines de lucro que brinda apoyo de guardia a departamentos de construcción de terceros para los gobiernos locales. En este documento técnico, IBTS comparte sus experiencias con inspecciones remotas de edificios para ayudar a las jurisdicciones a evaluar la utilidad de este enfoque emergente para sus propios departamentos de construcción. IBTS también busca establecer un comité directivo para ayudar a definir las mejores prácticas para los gobiernos locales. Para obtener más información, visite ibts.org/remote

Las inspecciones de edificios son una parte fundamental de los servicios de un gobierno local, ya que garantizan la seguridad de las estructuras para los ocupantes y hacen que el desarrollo avance. Sin embargo, para muchas jurisdicciones, satisfacer la demanda de inspección sin crear retrasos y atrasos indebidos es más fácil de decir que de hacer. Esto es especialmente cierto en las jurisdicciones rurales que pueden tener sólo uno o dos inspectores responsables de cubrir grandes áreas. El tiempo de viaje por sí solo crea una carga adicional para los inspectores, así como tiempos de espera frustrantemente largos para los contratistas y propietarios. Las inspecciones remotas de edificios pueden ofrecer una alternativa atractiva para muchas de estas comunidades.

¿Qué es una inspección remota de edificios?

Una inspección remota de edificios (también llamada inspección remota por video) utiliza tecnología de videoconferencia para permitir que un inspector realice la inspección fuera del sitio, brindando instrucciones y recibiendo video en vivo de una contraparte en el sitio que está usando un teléfono o tableta. La contraparte puede ser el contratista, el personal de la jurisdicción u otro técnico en el sitio. A diferencia de una inspección in situ tradicional, el inspector no necesita viajar al lugar de trabajo.

Beneficios de la inspección remota de edificios

Eficiencia y Ahorro de Costos. El principal beneficio de las inspecciones remotas es que mejoran la programación y reducen los retrasos. Al eliminar el tiempo de viaje, los inspectores pueden realizar más inspecciones en menos tiempo. Al hacerlo, también mejoran la productividad al aumentar la cantidad de edificios que se pueden inspeccionar en un día sin el correspondiente aumento en mano de obra u otros costos.

“La mejora de la eficiencia es un gran beneficio para todos los involucrados”, dijo Charlie DeCassios II, inspector de IBTS que ha realizado inspecciones remotas e in situ en jurisdicciones de Oklahoma. DeCassios señala que la eficiencia y el ahorro de costos también benefician a los contratistas y propietarios. “Para una reinspección, es posible que solo me lleve unos minutos verificar una corrección en el sitio, pero si tengo que contar con una hora o más de tiempo de viaje, el contratista o el propietario del sitio pueden estar esperando un poco antes de que pueda regresar. por ahí”, explica. Esto puede obstaculizar el cronograma de construcción, alterar los cronogramas de los subcontratistas y costarle tiempo y dinero al contratista y al propietario. "Pero si podemos hacer la reinspección de forma remota, es mucho más rápido, a veces el mismo día", añade DeCassios.

En algunos casos, el contratista o propietario puede tomar un video geoverificado del trabajo corregido y enviárselo al inspector para su revisión posterior. "Esto realmente puede ayudar a un propietario que tal vez esté fuera de su casa durante el horario comercial", dice DeCassios. "Si pueden grabar un vídeo y enviarlo, les ahorrarán tener que ausentarse del trabajo".

Resolver problemas comunes de personal. Con una mayor eficiencia, las inspecciones remotas pueden ser particularmente útiles para ayudar a las jurisdicciones a gestionar las brechas de personal y los aumentos repentinos de la construcción. También pueden ayudar a la jurisdicción a acomodar a los inspectores que se recuperan de lesiones o con otros problemas de accesibilidad. Dado que se reconoce que los inspectores de edificios son una fuerza laboral que envejece, las inspecciones remotas pueden brindar una oportunidad para que los inspectores de mayor edad continúen utilizando su experiencia con menos tiempo en el lugar de trabajo.

Documentación. Los archivos de vídeo de una inspección remota pueden servir como documentación útil durante la resolución de conflictos o para proporcionar más información a futuros contratistas, propietarios o compradores. "El informe de un inspector in situ tradicional suele ser muy breve y puede no contener los detalles críticos que se desean al evaluar una falla", dice Chris Miller, AICP, Director de Servicios Municipales de IBTS, quien explica que tener una grabación de video puede proteger a la jurisdicción de responsabilidad. “También es posible que un propietario o un contratista desee obtener más detalles sobre un espacio antes de comenzar a remodelarlo. Los archivos de vídeo de inspección remota pueden proporcionar información útil antes de abrir un muro”.

Ángulos adicionales. Un técnico en el sitio puede usar su teléfono o tableta para obtener ángulos adicionales por encima de su cabeza o debajo de un objeto que de otro modo sería difícil de ver, lo que en algunos casos ofrece al inspector la oportunidad de obtener una visión más detallada de la estructura. Si bien nuestros inspectores han notado que este es un beneficio útil para las inspecciones remotas, cabe señalar que un inspector en sitio también puede usar su dispositivo portátil para este propósito.

Capacitación. La jurisdicción puede utilizar inspecciones remotas como herramienta de capacitación, donde un inspector certificado externo instruye en el sitio

Remote Building Inspections Guidance for Local Governments

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 19:28:57 GMT

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a national, nonprofit professional services organization providing on-call, third-party building department support for local governments. In this white paper, IBTS shares its experiences with remote building inspections to help jurisdictions evaluate the utility of this emerging approach for their own building departments. IBTS is also seeking to establish a steering committee to help define best practices for local governments. For more information, visit ibts.org/remote

Building inspections are a critical part of a local government’s services, as they ensure the safety of structures for occupants and keep development moving forward. Yet for many jurisdictions, meeting inspection demand without creating undue backlogs and delays is easier said than done. This is especially true for rural jurisdictions that may have only one or two inspectors responsible for covering large areas. The travel time alone creates an additional burden on inspectors as well as frustratingly long wait times for contractors and property owners. Remote building inspections may offer an attractive alternative for many such communities.

What is a Remote Building Inspection?

A remote building inspection (also called remote video inspection) uses video conferencing technology to allow an inspector to conduct the inspection offsite, providing direction to and receiving live video from an onsite counterpart who is using a phone or tablet. The counterpart can be the contractor, jurisdiction staff, or another technician onsite. Unlike a traditional onsite inspection, the inspector does not need to travel to the jobsite location.

Remote Building Inspection Benefits

Efficiency and Cost Savings. The primary benefit of remote inspections is that they improve scheduling and reduce delays. By eliminating travel time, inspectors can conduct more inspections in a shorter amount of time. In doing so, they also improve productivity by increasing the number of buildings that can be inspected in a day without a corresponding increase in labor or other costs.

“The improved efficiency is a huge benefit for everyone involved,” said Charlie DeCassios II, an IBTS inspector who has conducted remote and onsite inspections for jurisdictions in Oklahoma. DeCassios notes that efficiency and cost savings also benefit contractors and property owners. “For a reinspection, it may only take me a few minutes to verify a correction onsite, but if you have to account for an hour or more of travel time, the contractor or site owner may be waiting a while before I can make it back out there,” he explains. This can hinder the construction timeline, disrupting subcontractor schedules and costing the contractor and property owner time and money. “But if we can do the reinspection remotely, it’s much faster, sometimes the same day,” adds DeCassios.

In some cases, the contractor or owner can take a geo-verified video of the corrected work and send it to the inspector for review later. “This can really help a homeowner who is maybe out of their house during business hours,” says DeCassios. “If they can just take video and send it in, it saves them from taking time off work.”

Solving Common Staffing Issues. With improved efficiency, remote inspections can be particularly useful for helping jurisdictions manage staffing gaps and construction surges. They can also help the jurisdiction accommodate inspectors recovering from injuries or with other accessibility issues. With building inspectors recognized as aging workforce, remote inspections may provide an opportunity for older inspectors to continue using their expertise with less time on the jobsite.

Documentation. The video files from a remote inspection can serve as useful documentation during conflict resolution or to provide future contractors, owners, or buyers with more information. “A traditional onsite inspector’s report is usually very brief and may not contain critical details that you want when evaluating a failure,” says Chris Miller, AICP, IBTS’ Director of Municipal Services, who explains that having a video record can protect the jurisdiction from liability. “You may also have a homeowner or contractor who would like more detail on a space before they start remodeling. Remote inspection video files can provide useful information before they open a wall.”

Additional Angles. An onsite technician can use their phone or tablet to get additional angles above their head or below an object that may be otherwise challenging to see, in some cases offering the inspector an opportunity to get a more thorough look at the structure. While our inspectors have noted this is a useful benefit to remote inspections, it should be noted that an onsite inspector can also use their handheld device for this purpose.

Training. The jurisdiction can use remote inspections as a training tool, where an offsite certified inspector instructs onsite inspectors-in-training in each aspect of the inspection. This was the case for IBTS inspector Jesse L. Harris, CRI, who trained onsite in Nebraska with Steve Quaid, CBO, CFM, an offsite senior IBTS inspector and plan reviewer located in Louisiana. Harris joined IBTS with construction experience gained as a state-certified journeyman electrician. “Having Steve on the other end of the line with me was like having him right next to me,” says Harris. “He could see things that I thought were perfect and he’d tell me to pull out my tape measure.”

Considerations

While remote inspections offer a number of benefits, jurisdictions should also consider the potential limitations of implementing a remote inspections program.

Connectivity. Remote inspections require a cellular or Wi-Fi signal as the offsite inspector and onsite counterpart work together using live video conferencing. For some projects, especially those in rural communities, reception may be limited. For others, the type of construction may limit connectivity. “It’s pretty rare not to get a connection, even in rural communities,” says Harris. “But I had one project for a school, and due to the amount of concrete in the structure, it weakened my cellular signal so much that I had to attach a mobile hotspot on the exterior of the building.” Harris explains that as he worked his way through the building, he would move the hotspot as needed to maintain enough signal to complete the inspection. “While remote inspections should use live video, if bandwidth fails, I can talk on the phone with the inspector and get direction about which pictures to take.”

Resistance to change. Our inspectors also noted pushback to new technology and processes can be a very real barrier to remote inspections. Some contractors may not have or feel comfortable with the software or device needed to do a remote inspection. Others may balk at changing how their inspections are performed. “Contractors know their inspectors and have built a rapport with them,” explains DeCassios. “They know what the inspector is going to look for and what they need to do to pass an inspection. They may be concerned remote inspections are too impersonal or that they will be more likely to fail.” Yet most contractors will quickly recognize that remote inspections reduce delays, which can significantly benefit their schedules. Plus, they are unlikely to see a difference in their results – and they may find more opportunities for communication. “When the contractor is operating the camera, they are in communication with the inspector the whole time,” says DeCassios. “During a remote inspection, both the contractor and the inspector have a chance to ask questions to help their understanding of the situation.”

Inspectors may also be reluctant to conduct remote inspections. While they may fully recognize the value of remote inspections, inspectors might feel somewhat limited viewing through a camera compared with seeing something with their own eyes. “For inspectors with years or even decades of experience conducting onsite inspections, it understandably takes some time becoming familiar with the remote process,” says Miller.

Best Practices

If your jurisdiction is interested in getting started with or expanding its remote inspections, allowing sufficient time and effort to plan will help reduce hassles and make the process smoother for everyone involved. Our inspectors recommend considering the following best practices before getting started.

Technology and Equipment. Jurisdictions must ensure their inspectors will have sufficient system and internet resources to easily receive and view live video. This includes remote conferencing software, such as Teams or Zoom, for viewing video and interfacing with their onsite counterpart. “We recommend the inspector use a dual-monitor setup, with one monitor for viewing video and one for inputting findings,” explains DeCassios. A smartphone with adequate processing speed is also an important consideration.

Likewise, the onsite counterpart operating the camera will need the same video conferencing software installed on their device, and sufficient Wi-Fi or cellular signal and video capabilities. Noting his experience with the school, Harris reiterates the importance of having a mobile hotspot. “Also, the person onsite needs many of the same things an inspector would, including a tape measure, ladder, GFCI plug tester, screwdriver, flashlight, etc.,” he adds. Jurisdictions can assist the onsite technician by providing a list of the specific software, hardware, and equipment needs well in advance of the inspection, and encouraging them to test the software functionality and their connectivity beforehand.

Communications. Communicating is an important factor in the success of a remote inspections program. Effective communication includes discussions with internal building department staff and ample outreach to contractors and other stakeholders well before the first remote inspection takes place.

“It is important that building department staff understand the reasons for conducting remote inspections and how they will be affected,” says Miller. “Most inspectors will recognize the benefits on reducing backlogs, but they will likely ask about the quality of a remote inspections, what their training and onboarding will entail, or even about liability concerns.” It is useful to establish a dialog with building department staff to ensure that their feedback is taken into consideration when establishing new processes.

Likewise, communicating with contractors in advance can help avoid resistance and make the transition process much easier on everyone. When starting remote inspections in Nebraska, our inspection team held an open house with contractors and crews well before rollout. “This gave us the chance to explain the process in detail and answer a lot of questions and concerns in advance,” explains DeCassios. “It saved a lot of time and made everyone feel much more at ease with the process.”

Because the offsite inspector is directing their onsite counterpart operating the camera, good communication skills during the inspection are also a must. “Looking through the camera lens, the remote inspector doesn’t have the benefit of peripheral vision,” explains Quaid. “It’s important that inspectors must always provide clear communication to the camera operator to make sure they see everything they need to complete a thorough inspection.”

Training and Learning Curves. It is important to allow for some additional time during the initial few months as both inspectors and contractors get used to new processes. Technical difficulties are more than likely to occur during a contractor’s first attempts to conduct the inspection, but after a few times they will feel more comfortable with the technology and the process overall. We recommend allowing an additional 15 to 20 minutes for each initial remote inspection to give everyone time to work out any technical or other challenges.

Relative to the actual software, we recommend local jurisdictions coordinate the implementation of a remote inspection program with their IT department. Most IT departments have staff with experience rolling out new technologies and may even have “train the trainer” programs to create additional subject matter experts within the building department.

Continue the Conversation. Our experience with remote inspections indicates that they may represent a rare opportunity to benefit jurisdictions, inspectors, contractors, and property owners, at no additional cost and with only limited drawbacks. However, we recognize that remote inspections are an emerging alternative to established onsite processes. A number of situations exist where remote inspections have not been fully studied or vetted, and supporting guidance is still largely anecdotal.

To better understand the value of remote inspections and identify opportunities for investigation and improvement, IBTS is establishing a Remote Inspections Steering Committee.

We invite those with experience with and interest in remote inspections to join the Committee to help us explore these topics in more detail over the next few months. Please contact Chris Miller at cmiller@ibts.org to learn more or to join.

Resiliencia climática equitativa para gobiernos locales: uso de datos para impulsar la toma de decisiones

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 18:45:18 GMT

El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS) completó recientemente un estudio de dos años, financiado por la Fundación Kresge, centrado en ayudar a los gobiernos locales a comprender y abordar la equidad social en sus esfuerzos de planificación de la resiliencia climática. La primera fase del estudio, realizada en asociación con la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC) y el Foro Nacional de Administradores Públicos Negros (NFBPA), incluyó una investigación sólida de los desafíos, éxitos y necesidades insatisfechas de las ciudades al abordar la equidad en la resiliencia climática. La segunda fase utilizó los resultados de esta investigación para desarrollar y poner a prueba una herramienta de evaluación para ayudar a los gobiernos locales a evaluar, medir y rastrear sus esfuerzos de resiliencia climática equitativa (ECR). Esta es la primera de una serie de publicaciones de blog que presentan los resultados de los estudios y las principales recomendaciones para las ciudades interesadas en promover la equidad en sus esfuerzos de resiliencia climática. Para obtener más información, visite www.IBTS.org/ecr.

Muchos gobiernos locales reconocen la necesidad de mejorar los resultados equitativos en sus esfuerzos de resiliencia climática. Numerosos estudios han demostrado la conexión entre la vulnerabilidad social y los impactos negativos del clima extremo y los desastres naturales, incluidas tasas mucho más altas de mortalidad, lesiones, enfermedades, pérdida de empleo y desplazamiento, así como conexiones comunitarias y bienestar social debilitados entre las poblaciones desatendidas.

Sin embargo, abordar estas desigualdades es un desafío complicado y a menudo confuso para los gobiernos locales. Además de las prioridades en competencia y los presupuestos y recursos limitados, nuestro estudio de 200 ciudades encuestadas encontró que muchas no están seguras de por dónde empezar. Los obstáculos para emprender actividades equitativas de resiliencia climática (REC) incluyen la financiación, la falta de comprensión y la falta de aceptación por parte de los líderes.

Nuestro estudio determinó cinco componentes de la ECR a nivel de gobierno local que son cruciales para promover la equidad en los esfuerzos de resiliencia climática:

Utilización de datos
Comunicación
Participación de los interesados
Capacidad organizativa
Financiamiento y finanzas

Entre ellos, la utilización de datos suele servir como un punto de partida útil. "Por lo general, iniciamos una conversación de ECR con una comunidad preguntándoles sobre sus datos: qué datos tienen y cómo los utilizan", dice Patrick Howell, gerente de proyectos de IBTS, quien supervisa el trabajo de ECR de la organización. "Es importante descubrir cuánto saben realmente sobre las poblaciones vulnerables, los peligros y riesgos climáticos y la intersección entre ambos".

Idealmente, un gobierno local tendrá acceso a varias fuentes de datos, incluidos datos del censo, demografía, datos económicos, salud pública, disponibilidad de viviendas, tendencias, precios y desalojos, peligros naturales, datos de riesgo climático, así como qué áreas se encuentran en la llanura aluvial. o en riesgo de sufrir incendios forestales. “Además de estas fuentes externas, no descarte los datos internos”, dice Howell, quien explica que las jurisdicciones pueden utilizar información como tendencias presupuestarias, análisis de costos y beneficios de programas y políticas, y resultados de auditorías de equidad para reforzar la planificación de ECR. La granularidad también es importante. "Tener una comprensión detallada de cómo las vulnerabilidades y los riesgos específicos cambian, a veces de manera significativa, de un vecindario a otro será de gran ayuda en su capacidad para priorizar y planificar", dice Howell.

De manera realista, muchas jurisdicciones locales no tienen los recursos para obtener este nivel de datos, o pueden no llegar a un acuerdo sobre qué estudios adicionales se necesitan (si es que se necesitan alguno). “No es necesario tenerlo todo para comenzar o avanzar en sus esfuerzos de ECR”, dice Howell, quien recomienda que los gobiernos locales aprovechen los datos proporcionados sin costo por las agencias y organizaciones nacionales. “Estos recursos están disponibles para que cualquiera los utilice y pueden brindarle una comprensión mucho mejor de las vulnerabilidades climáticas y sociales, los desastres y la demografía de su jurisdicción”, agrega. Éstas incluyen:

El Mapeo Climático para la Resiliencia y la Adaptación ofrece una herramienta de mapeo con riesgo de amenazas y vulnerabilidad social a nivel de condado (https://resilience.climate.gov/);
El Índice de Vulnerabilidad Social, proporcionado por la Agencia de Sustancias Tóxicas y Registro de Enfermedades (CDC/ATSDR) del Centro para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades incluye datos mapeados a nivel de condado (https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/placeandhealth/svi/ mapa_interactivo.html);
Las clasificaciones de salud del condado de Robert Wood Johnson incluyen todos los condados de los Estados Unidos. (https://www.countyhealthrankings.org)
Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo): herramienta County Explorer (https://ce.naco.org/). La herramienta recopila varias fuentes de datos en una única plataforma que incluye:
Demografía
Energía y Medio Ambiente
Justicia y Seguridad Pública
Vivienda y desarrollo comunitario
salud y Servicios Humanos
National Equity Atlas es un sitio web integral que proporciona informes detallados sobre la equidad racial y económica entre ciudades y pueblos (https://nationalequityatlas.org/).

Equitable Climate Resilience (ECR) for Local Governments: Using Data to Drive Decision Making

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 16:23:00 GMT

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) recently completed a two-year study, funded by The Kresge Foundation, focused on helping local governments understand and address social equity in their climate resilience planning efforts. The first phase of the study, conducted in partnership with the National League of Cities (NLC) and National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA), included robust research of city challenges, successes, and unmet needs when addressing equity in climate resilience. The second phase used results from this research to develop and pilot an assessment tool to assist local governments with evaluating, measuring, and tracking their equitable climate resilience (ECR) efforts. This is the first in a series of blog posts that present study findings and top recommendations for cities interested in advancing equity in their climate resilience efforts. For more information, read the whitepaper.

Many local governments recognize the need for improving equitable outcomes in their climate resilience efforts. Numerous studies have demonstrated the connection between social vulnerability and negative impacts from extreme weather and natural disasters including much higher rates of mortality, injury, illness, job loss, and displacement, as well as weakened community connections and social well-being among underserved populations.

Yet addressing these inequities is a complicated and often a confounding challenge for local governments. In addition to competing priorities and limited budgets and resources, our study of 200 city respondents found that many are unsure where to begin. Barriers to undertaking equitable climate resilience (ECR) activities include funding, lack of understanding, and lack of buy-in from leadership.

Our study determined five components of ECR at the local government level that are crucial for advancing equity in climate resilience efforts:

Data utilization
Communication
Stakeholder engagement
Organizational capacity
Funding and finance

Among these, data utilization often serves as a useful starting point. “We usually start an ECR conversation with a community by asking about their data – both what data they have and how they are using it” says Patrick Howell, IBTS project manager, who oversees the organization’s ECR work. “It’s important to find out how much they actually know about vulnerable populations, climate hazards and risks, and the intersection between the two.”

Ideally, a local government will have access to several data sources including census data, demographics, economic data, public health, housing availability, trends, pricing, and evictions, natural hazards, climate risk data, as well as what areas are in the floodplain or at risk for wildfires. “In addition to these external sources, don’t discount internal data,” says Howell, who explains that jurisdictions can use information such as budget trends, cost benefit analyses of programs and policies, and results from equity audits to bolster ECR planning. Granularity is important as well. “Having a detailed understanding of how specific vulnerabilities and risks shift, sometimes significantly, from one neighborhood to the next will be a big help in your ability to prioritize and plan,” says Howell.

Realistically, many local jurisdictions do not have the resources to obtain this level of data, or they may lack agreement about what—if any—additional studies are needed. “You don’t need to have everything to get started or make progress in your ECR efforts,” says Howell, who recommends that local governments take advantage of data provided at no cost by national agencies and organizations. “These resources are available for anyone to use and can give you a much better understanding of your jurisdiction’s climate and social vulnerabilities, disasters, and demographics,” he adds. These include:

Climate Mapping for Resilience and Adaptation offers a mapping tool with hazard risk and social vulnerability at the county level (https://resilience.climate.gov/);

The Social Vulnerability Index, provided by The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (CDC/ATSDR) includes mapped data at the county level (https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/placeandhealth/svi/interactive_map.html);

Robert Wood Johnson County Health Rankings includes all counties in the United States. (https://www.countyhealthrankings.org)

National Association of Counties (NACo)–County Explorer tool (https://ce.naco.org/). The tool compiles several data sources into one single platform including:
Demographics
Energy and Environment
Justice and Public Safety
Housing and Community Development
Health and Human Services

National Equity Atlas is a comprehensive website that provides detailed reports on racial and economic equity among cities and towns (https://nationalequityatlas.org/).

The Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool was developed as a result of the Federal Government’s Justice40 Initiative . It contains an interactive map with data and indicators of burdens across eight categories: climate change, energy, health, housing, pollution, transportation, water, and workforce development, transportation, water, and workforce development. (https://screeningtool.geoplatform.gov/en/#3/33.47/-97.5)

Additionally, local nonprofits, faith-based, and community organizations may have additional data and insights about the communities they serve that they can share. Establishing rapport with these organizations can also benefit numerous other ECR activities. “For example, you may want to conduct a community meeting with residents to better understand their awareness about what to do in a disaster or potential barriers to evacuation,” says Karen Johnson, IBTS’ Market Engagement Program Director, who led the research team for the study. “Local organizations can help connect you with the residents you want to reach and encourage them to participate. You’ll save yourself a lot of time and energy and get better input.” There is also the Community Economic Development Studies (CEDS), which is required by local governments; this study contains a wealth of information.

Once you have the data, it is just as important to identify how you will analyze, understand, use, and share it. “It’s not uncommon for an organization to have raw data that no one is really using, or is really even sure how to use,” says Johnson. “Or you may have silos, where one department is using data but has not shared it with other departments that could also benefit from it. It is easy to miss opportunities to leverage the data you already have, especially in local governments that are understaffed or under-resourced” A solution would be to have a principal place where all data is stored or uploaded, like a file server or SharePoint.

In many cases, the most difficult part for a jurisdiction is getting buy-in from stakeholders and residents. It is necessary to be transparent about why you are collecting the data, what the goals are, and how it can impact residents. Residents need to learn about climate risks and how to plan for disasters. Providing maps and data visualizations to them can help mitigate potential issues should a disaster happen. Consider a portal for residents to utilize to find information quickly about their residential areas, what impacts them, and some resources available for immediate needs.

Another important consideration is budgeting. Use data to drive decision making and make sure that ECR is a part of the budgeting process. The economic cost from disasters should be weighed against the cost of inaction. The cost of inaction is data that tells you what the outcome will be if you chose to not act prior to a disaster. If a disaster were to happen in one of the most vulnerable neighborhoods right now, the lives lost, buildings damaged, and livelihoods affected would be just some of the potential costs. An ECR assessment can help identify specific areas of vulnerability, and then maps those areas to opportunities for funding and assists with incorporating ECR into the jurisdiction’s budgeting processes.

Data utilization is a common thread to other ECR categories we have identified. For example, in your stakeholder engagement efforts, data can be used not only to identify ECR vulnerabilities, but it can be used to tell the story of the impacts of certain hazards or burdens on the community. It can also be a powerful tool when making difficult budget decisions about which program areas and/or neighborhoods may need to be prioritized. IBTS will have future blog posts to take a closer look at these remaining ECR categories.

It is necessary to have a baseline understanding of the drivers and the conditions of vulnerability in our communities in order to effectively mitigate risks and build resilience. This begins with assessing the data, which is already available to you, what data you may still need, and how that data is being utilized and shared across community stakeholders.

Guides

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 21:08:51 GMT

Residential Solar Projects: Installation Best Practices

This guide provides best practices for high-quality, consistent residential solar projects. Updated September 2018! Download this guide.

Smart Solutions: Technology Serving Communities

ICMA and IBTS have developed the Smart Solutions: Technology Serving Communities e-book. This publication offers many resources for local government officials such as how-to-guidance, case studies, and relevant information on emerging technologies. Download to read the full publication.

Solar labeling requirements guide

This guide is in accordance to the 2011 National Electric Code (NEC), National Fire Protection Association. Download to use during Solar PV installations and inspections.

Solar PV inspections checklist

Are you a Solar PV inspector? Download this comprehensive guide to use in the field during your inspections.

Guide to implementing solar pv for local governments

Everything a Local Government needs to know to implement Solar PV is included in this guide, published by ICMA and funded by the Department of Energy’s Sunshot Program. Download this guide.

SAPC BEST PRACTICES IN PV SYSTEM OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

Solar industry stakeholders from various fields of practice joined NREL’s Solar Access to Public Capital (SAPC) O&M working group to develop best practices for operations and maintenance of Solar PV systems. Download this guide.

IBTS proporcionará revisión de planes e inspecciones para la planta de baterías para vehículos eléctricos Panasonic de $ 4 mil millones en De Soto, Kansas

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 19:50:42 GMT

ASHBURN, VA. – El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS) proporcionará servicios de revisión e inspección de planos en nombre de la ciudad de De Soto, Kansas, durante la construcción de la fábrica de baterías para vehículos eléctricos (EV) de Panasonic, valorada en 4.000 millones de dólares.

A través de un proceso de adquisición competitivo, la ciudad eligió a la organización nacional sin fines de lucro para realizar revisiones de planos e inspecciones en el sitio para las instalaciones de 5,5 millones de pies cuadrados.

La primera piedra se llevó a cabo en noviembre y se prevé que la producción de baterías comience en marzo de 2025. La construcción de este proyecto de ritmo rápido será supervisada por el equipo de soluciones del gobierno local de IBTS, que estará en el sitio a tiempo completo para garantizar que la estructura cumpla con los requisitos del código.

Una vez construida, la planta fabricará baterías de iones de litio para fabricantes de automóviles para ayudar a satisfacer la creciente demanda nacional de baterías para vehículos eléctricos. Se espera que la planta cree miles de nuevos puestos de trabajo y represente una importante ayuda para el desarrollo económico tanto para el estado de Kansas como para el mercado de vehículos eléctricos.

De Soto es una pequeña ciudad en la región metropolitana de Kansas City con una población de aproximadamente 6.000 personas. Si bien las instalaciones de Panasonic representan una enorme oportunidad para el área, el proyecto también presentó un desafío para la ciudad a la hora de cumplir con el correspondiente aumento en los requisitos de cumplimiento del código de construcción.

Para satisfacer esta necesidad, la Ciudad seleccionó a IBTS para brindar servicios de departamentos de construcción de terceros a través de su personal profesional experimentado, certificado por el Consejo de Código Internacional (ICC). La sucursal de IBTS en Kansas City ha brindado estos y otros servicios a los gobiernos locales de la región durante más de 10 años.

"Durante el proceso de selección, quedó claro que IBTS tiene los conocimientos, la experiencia y la capacidad para garantizar que las instalaciones de Panasonic cumplan con los requisitos de la ciudad para la seguridad de los empleados y la comunidad", dijo el administrador de la ciudad de De Soto, Mike Brungardt, P.E. "Apreciamos la capacidad de IBTS no solo para ayudar a la Ciudad con este importante y complejo proyecto, sino también su compromiso con nuestra comunidad y su futuro".

"IBTS se enorgullece de apoyar a la ciudad de De Soto brindándole servicios puntuales para garantizar la seguridad de las instalaciones", dijo el líder de desarrollo de servicios gubernamentales locales de IBTS, Curt Skoog. "Estamos entusiasmados por la oportunidad de participar en el regreso histórico de las plantas de fabricación avanzada a los Estados Unidos y la amplitud de oportunidades que brinda a nuestras comunidades".

Contacto con los medios:

KAREN M. JOHNSON, Directora del Programa de Participación en el Mercado

El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción

1-571-357-4820

IBTS to Provide Plan Review, Inspections for $4B Panasonic EV Battery Plant in De Soto, Kansas

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:52:51 GMT

ASHBURN, VA . – The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) will provide plan review and inspection services on behalf of the City of De Soto, Kan., during the construction of Panasonic’s $4 billion electric vehicle battery (EV) factory there.

Through a competitive procurement process, the national nonprofit was chosen by the City to provide plan reviews and onsite inspections for the 5.5 million sq. ft. facility.

Groundbreaking took place in November, with battery production projected to begin March 2025. Construction of this fast-paced project will be monitored by IBTS’ local government solutions team, which will be onsite full-time ensuring that the structure meets code requirements.

Once constructed, the plant will manufacture lithium-ion batteries for auto manufacturers to help meet increasing domestic EV battery demand. The plant is expected to create thousands of new jobs and represents a significant economic development boon for both the State of Kansas and the EV market.

De Soto is a small city in the Kansas City metro region with a population of approximately 6,000 people. While the Panasonic facility represents an enormous opportunity for the area, the project also presented a challenge for the City in meeting the corresponding surge in building code enforcement requirements.

To meet this need, the City selected IBTS to provide third-party building department services through its experienced professional staff, certified by the International Code Council (ICC). IBTS’ Kansas City branch has provided these and other services to local governments in the region for more than 10 years.

“During the selection process, it became clear that IBTS has the expertise, experience, and capacity to ensure the Panasonic facility meets the City’s requirements for employee and community safety,” said De Soto City Administrator Mike Brungardt, P.E. “We appreciate IBTS’ ability to not only help the City with this important and complex project, but their commitment to our community and its future.”

“IBTS is proud to support the City of De Soto by providing on-time services to ensure the safety of the facility,” said IBTS’ Local Government Services Development Lead Curt Skoog. “We are excited for the opportunity to take part in the historic return of advanced manufacturing plants to the United States and the breadth of opportunities it provides our communities.”

IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Media Contact:

KAREN M. JOHNSON, Market Engagement Program Director

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety
1-571-357-4820

IBTS publica informe sobre resiliencia climática equitativa para gobiernos locales

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:57:56 GMT

El informe proporciona los resultados de un estudio de dos años financiado por la Fundación Kresge sobre cómo las ciudades pueden abordar mejor las desigualdades sociales en su planificación de la resiliencia climática.

Ashburn, Va. – El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS), una organización sin fines de lucro centrada en el fortalecimiento de las comunidades, publicó “Resiliencia climática equitativa para los gobiernos locales”, un documento técnico que describe los resultados de un estudio de dos años sobre la intersección. de las desigualdades sociales y la resiliencia climática en las ciudades estadounidenses.

El estudio, financiado por la Fundación Kresge y realizado en asociación con la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC) y el Foro Nacional de Administradores Públicos Negros (NFBPA), buscó comprender mejor y ayudar a los gobiernos locales de EE. UU. con necesidades insatisfechas y barreras para abordar las necesidades sociales. equidad en sus esfuerzos de resiliencia climática. El estudio se basa en investigaciones existentes que muestran que las poblaciones vulnerables (aquellas con menos o ningún acceso a diversos derechos, oportunidades y recursos en comparación con otros grupos) tienen muchas más probabilidades de tener resultados económicos y de salud deficientes debido a los desastres relacionados con el clima, en el entendido de que que los gobiernos locales están en una posición única para ayudar a mejorar estos resultados durante eventos futuros.

La primera fase del estudio incluyó una encuesta a nivel nacional de 200 funcionarios y personal de la ciudad que investigó sus percepciones, acciones, desafíos, necesidades insatisfechas y éxitos al abordar la resiliencia climática equitativa (ECR) en sus ciudades. En la segunda fase, el equipo de investigación utilizó los resultados de la encuesta para desarrollar un recurso para ayudar a los gobiernos locales a comprender, evaluar y priorizar los esfuerzos de ECR. La tercera fase se centró en poner a prueba el recurso en tres ciudades de EE. UU. para probar y perfeccionar su enfoque. Un panel asesor de 22 miembros formado por expertos en temas sociales, climáticos y de gobiernos locales proporcionó comentarios durante cada fase del estudio.

El documento técnico, que está disponible para descargar sin costo en www.ibts.org/ecr , presenta los hallazgos del estudio, así como recomendaciones que los gobiernos locales pueden utilizar para mejorar los esfuerzos de ECR en sus comunidades. Los aspectos más destacados incluyen:

El 81% de los encuestados estuvo de acuerdo en que abordar la ECR debería ser una prioridad para sus ciudades, pero sólo el 48% afirmó que actualmente es una prioridad. Del mismo modo, sólo el 25% informó haber tenido cierto éxito al abordar la ECR, y ninguno informó un éxito significativo.
Las barreras más comunes para abordar la ECR incluyen la falta de financiación; falta de recursos técnicos, herramientas y datos; y falta de experiencia y orientación en la materia.
El 75% de los encuestados estuvo de acuerdo en que una herramienta de evaluación y planificación que se centre en la resiliencia climática equitativa sería útil para sus ciudades.

Con estos hallazgos, el equipo de investigación desarrolló un recurso de evaluación para ayudar a satisfacer esta necesidad. El recurso, denominado Marco de Evaluación de la Resiliencia Comunitaria y Herramientas para la Resiliencia Climática Equitativa (CRAFT-ECR), identificó la utilización de datos, la financiación, las comunicaciones, la participación de las partes interesadas y la capacidad organizacional como categorías de evaluación críticas para ayudar a los gobiernos locales a comprender, desarrollar y priorizar acciones para mejorar la ECR.

Las recomendaciones para los gobiernos locales detalladas en el documento técnico incluyen cómo obtener y aprovechar datos para determinar las necesidades de ECR, crear una infraestructura organizacional para abordar la ECR, abordar las barreras a la participación comunitaria, garantizar la inclusión de las partes interesadas, combinar los esfuerzos climáticos y de equidad existentes, y más.

"El estudio demuestra que las ciudades reconocen la gravedad de los impactos climáticos en las poblaciones vulnerables y la importancia de mejorar los resultados equitativos, pero luchan por romper barreras, priorizar los recursos existentes y lograr avances significativos", dijo Karen Johnson, Market Engagement de IBTS. Director del programa, quien dirigió el equipo de investigación del estudio Equitable Climate Resilience. "Lo que hace que este estudio sea único es que pudimos aprovechar lo que aprendimos sobre ECR en las ciudades para desarrollar un enfoque que puedan utilizar para ayudar a abordarlo", añadió.

"Estamos muy emocionados de compartir los resultados de este importante estudio de dos años", dijo Patrick Howell, líder de resiliencia comunitaria de IBTS y director del proyecto del estudio. “Creemos que los gobiernos locales de todo el país encontrarán útiles los conocimientos proporcionados en el libro blanco y esperamos que ayude a generar nuevas conversaciones y actividades sobre cómo mejorar la resiliencia climática equitativa en sus comunidades. Agradecemos a la Fundación Kresge, NLC, NFBPA, nuestro Panel Asesor y a todas las ciudades participantes por hacer posible este estudio”.

Para obtener más información, visite www.ibts.org/ecr .

***

IBTS es una organización nacional sin fines de lucro y asesor y socio confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales. Nuestra misión sin fines de lucro de servir y fortalecer a las comunidades avanza a través de nuestros servicios. Estos incluyen servicios de códigos de construcción y experiencia regulatoria; cumplimiento y seguimiento; planificación comunitaria; experiencia en planificación, mitigación y recuperación de desastres; soluciones energéticas; servicios municipales; gestión de subvenciones; investigación de mercado; gestión y supervisión de programas; servicios de resiliencia; gestión de la calidad solar; y desarrollo y capacitación de la fuerza laboral. El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores y la Asamblea Nacional. Liga de Ciudades (NLC).

Contacto con los medios:

Karen Johnson

Director del Programa de Participación en el Mercado

Teléfono: 571.357.4820| Teléfono: 530.318.5428

kjohnson@ibts.org

IBTS Releases Report on Equitable Climate Resilience for Local Governments

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 15:52:51 GMT

Report provides findings from two-year study funded by the Kresge Foundation on how cities can better address social inequities in their climate resilience planning.

Ashburn, Va. – The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening communities, has released “Equitable Climate Resilience for Local Governments,” a white paper outlining the results of a two-year study on the intersection of social inequities and climate resilience in U.S. cities.

The study, funded by The Kresge Foundation and conducted in partnership with the National League of Cities (NLC) and the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA), sought to better understand and assist U.S. local governments with unmet needs and barriers to addressing social equity in their climate resilience efforts. The study builds on existing research showing that vulnerable populations (those with less or no access to various rights, opportunities, and resources compared with other groups) are much more likely to have poor health and economic outcomes from climate-related disasters, with the understanding that local governments are uniquely positioned to help improve these outcomes during future events.

The first phase of the study included a nationwide survey of 200 city officials and staff that investigated their perceptions, actions, challenges, unmet needs, and successes with addressing equitable climate resilience (ECR) in their cities. In the second phase, the research team used results from the survey to develop a resource to assist local governments with understanding, assessing, and prioritizing ECR efforts. The third phase focused on piloting the resource in three U.S. cities to test and refine its approach. A 22-member advisory panel of social, climate, and local government subject matter experts provided feedback during each phase of the study.

The white paper, which is available to download at no cost here , features findings from the study as well as recommendations that local governments can use help improve ECR efforts in their communities. Highlights include:

81% of survey respondents agreed that addressing ECR should be a priority for their cities, yet only 48% stated that it currently is a priority. Likewise, only 25% reported having some success with addressing ECR, and none reported significant success.
The most common barriers to addressing ECR include lack of funding; lack of technical resources, tools, and data; and lack of subject matter expertise and guidance.
75% of respondents agreed that an assessment and planning tool that focuses on equitable climate resilience would be useful for their cities.
With these findings, the research team developed an assessment resource to help meet this need. The resource, named the Community Resilience Assessment Framework and Tools for Equitable Climate Resilience (CRAFT-ECR), identified data utilization, funding and finance, communications, stakeholder engagement, and organizational capacity as critical assessment categories to help local governments understand, develop, and prioritize actions for improving ECR.
Recommendations for local governments detailed in the white paper include how to obtain and leverage data to determine ECR needs, create an organizational infrastructure to address ECR, address barriers to community participation, ensure stakeholder inclusion, combine existing equity and climate efforts, and more.

“The study demonstrates that cities recognize the severity of climate impacts on vulnerable populations and the importance of improving equitable outcomes, but struggle with how to break through barriers, prioritize existing resources, and make meaningful progress,” said Karen Johnson, IBTS’ Market Engagement Program Director, who led the Equitable Climate Resilience study’s research team. “What makes this study unique is that we were able to leverage what we learned about ECR in cities to develop an approach they can use to help address it,” she added.

“We are very excited to share the results of this important two-year study,” said Patrick Howell, IBTS’ Community Resilience Lead and the study’s project manager. “We believe local governments across the country will find the insights provided in the white paper useful and hope that it will help spark new conversations and activity around how to improve equitable climate resilience in their communities. We are grateful to the Kresge Foundation, NLC, NFBPA, our Advisory Panel, and all participating cities for making this study possible.”

To learn more, visit www.ibts.org/ecr .

***

Media Contact:
Karen M. Johnson
Market Engagement Program Director
O: 571.357.4820 | C: 530.318.5428
kjohnson@ibts.org

IBTS nombra a Anjuma Goswami Karkera como nueva CEO

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 21:27:51 GMT

Karkera sucede a Ashok Goswami, director ejecutivo y cofundador de la empresa a largo plazo

ASHBURN, Va.— El experimentado líder y abogado Anjuma Goswami Karkera aceptó un nombramiento como director ejecutivo (CEO) del Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS), una organización sin fines de lucro basada en servicios. Sucede al cofundador de IBTS, Ashok Goswami, quien se ha desempeñado como director ejecutivo desde 2002. Durante ese tiempo, Goswami supervisó el crecimiento de IBTS desde una sola oficina a ocho ubicaciones en todo el país, ampliando significativamente las ofertas de la empresa para departamentos de construcción; programas de energía solar y renovable; y soluciones gubernamentales locales, estatales y federales.

"Es con una mezcla de gratitud y entusiasmo que la Junta Directiva anuncia la sucesión de nuestro director ejecutivo, Ashok Goswami", anunció la comisionada del condado de Ramsey (MN) y presidenta de la junta de IBTS, Victoria Reinhardt. "Como cofundador de IBTS, el liderazgo visionario de Ashok ha contribuido a numerosos hitos organizacionales, lo que ha dado como resultado una gestión sólida, solidez financiera y el posicionamiento de la organización sin fines de lucro para el crecimiento futuro".

Goswami continuará en calidad de asesor como presidente de IBTS para garantizar una transición efectiva a Karkera, quien busca continuar haciendo crecer el trabajo de la organización fortaleciendo a las comunidades haciéndolas más seguras, resilientes y prósperas.

Como líder influyente, la carrera de Karkera ha estado marcada por su capacidad para generar y evaluar rápidamente soluciones alternativas y alcanzables; su trayectoria comprobada fomentando la colaboración entre agencias; y su pasión por promover la diversidad y la inclusión en el lugar de trabajo. Tiene un doctorado en Derecho de la Facultad de Derecho de Washington de la American University y recientemente se desempeñó como Subjefa de Gabinete de la Agencia Nacional de Inteligencia Geoespacial.

"Es un honor para mí unirme al brillante y dedicado personal de esta organización sin fines de lucro única", dijo Karkera. “Creo fervientemente en el modelo de negocio IBTS, que combina la credibilidad del sector público con la innovación del sector privado. Espero continuar con el legado de IBTS de brindar experiencia y soluciones receptivas que ayuden a nuestros clientes a superar desafíos complejos y brindar mejores resultados para las comunidades de todo el mundo”.

"La Junta confía en que Anjuma preservará el impulso actual de IBTS alineando sus capacidades con la organización existente hacia una visión a largo plazo para IBTS", añadió Reinhardt.

Acerca de IBTS

IBTS es una organización nacional sin fines de lucro y asesor y socio confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales. IBTS proporciona experiencia en códigos de construcción; gestión de subvenciones federales; experiencia en planificación, mitigación y recuperación de desastres; soluciones de gobiernos locales; garantía de calidad solar; y servicios de resiliencia. El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Gestión de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores (NGA), y la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC).

Contacto con los medios:

Karen Johnson

Director del Programa de Participación en el Mercado

Teléfono: 571.357.4820| Teléfono: 530.318.5428

kjohnson@ibts.org

IBTS Appoints Anjuma Goswami Karkera as New CEO

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 15:52:51 GMT

Karkera succeeds long-term CEO and company co-founder Ashok Goswami

ASHBURN, Va. — Experienced leader and attorney Anjuma Goswami Karkera accepted an appointment as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), a nonprofit services-based organization. She succeeds IBTS cofounder Ashok Goswami, who has served as CEO since 2002. During that time, Goswami oversaw IBTS’ growth from a single office to eight locations nationwide, significantly expanding the company’s offerings for building departments; solar and renewable energy programs; and local, state, and federal government solutions.

“It is with a mix of gratitude and excitement that the Board of Directors announces the succession of our CEO, Ashok Goswami,” announced Ramsey County (MN) Commissioner and IBTS Board Chair Victoria Reinhardt. “As cofounder of IBTS, Ashok’s visionary leadership has contributed to numerous organizational milestones, resulting in sound management, financial strength, and positioning the nonprofit for future growth.”

Goswami will continue in an advisory capacity as IBTS President to ensure an effective transition to Karkera, who seeks to continue growing the organization’s work strengthening communities by making them safer, more resilient, and prosperous.

An influential leader, Karkera’s career has been marked by her ability to rapidly generate and evaluate alternative, achievable solutions; her proven track record fostering interagency collaboration; and her passion for promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. She holds a juris doctorate from the Washington College of Law at American University, most recently serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

“I am honored to join the brilliant and dedicated staff of this unique nonprofit,” Karkera said. “I am an ardent believer in the IBTS business model, which combines public sector credibility with private sector innovation. I look forward to continuing IBTS’ legacy of providing responsive expertise and solutions that help our clients navigate complex challenges, providing better outcomes for communities everywhere.”

“The Board is confident Anjuma will preserve IBTS’ current momentum by aligning her abilities with the existing organization toward a long-term vision for IBTS,” Reinhardt added.

About IBTS

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments. IBTS provides building code expertise; federal grants management; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; local government solutions; solar quality assurance; and resilience services. IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Media Contact:

Karen M. Johnson
Market Engagement Program Director
O: 571.357.4820 | C: 530.318.5428
kjohnson@ibts.org

Reporte: Resiliencia climática equitativa para los gobiernos locales de los EE. UU.

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 20:33:11 GMT

Evaluar y mejorar resultados equitativos ante los impactos climáticos

El concepto detrás de la resiliencia climática equitativa (REC) es sencillo. Las poblaciones vulnerables experimentan mayores riesgos sanitarios, económicos y sociales debido a los impactos climáticos en comparación con otras poblaciones; ECR busca comprender las causas de estos mayores riesgos y mitigarlos antes, durante y después de un desastre.

Descargue aquí Resiliencia climática equitativa para los gobiernos locales durante y después de un desastre .

White Paper: Equitable Climate Resilience for U.S. Local Governments

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 13:55:36 GMT

Assessing and improving equitable outcomes to climate impacts

The concept behind equitable climate resilience (ECR) is straight forward. Vulnerable populations experience greater health, economic, and social risks from climate impacts compared with other populations; ECR seeks to understand the causes of these increased risks and mitigate them before, during, and following a disaster.

Download the Equitable Climate Resilience for U.S. Local Government here .

IBTS e IREC ofrecen capacitación solar gratuita a profesionales de la Isla

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 20:35:46 GMT

La clase de dos días brindó instrucción presencial y práctica en la azotea a electricistas e ingenieros profesionales con licencia en la isla sobre prácticas de garantía de calidad solar.

(2 de junio de 2022 – Caguas, PR) Cumpliendo con su misión de promover el desarrollo económico y el bienestar de las comunidades, y como pilar de la energía renovable en Puerto Rico, el Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Edificación (IBTS) recientemente unió fuerzas con el Consejo Interestatal de Energía Renovable (IREC) para brindar un curso de educación continua sobre medidas de calidad de la energía solar fotovoltaica (PV) alineadas con los programas de la Autoridad de Investigación y Desarrollo de Energía del Estado de Nueva York (NYSERDA).

IBTS brindó el curso a electricistas e ingenieros profesionales con licencia en Puerto Rico, de forma gratuita. Esta capacitación es parte del componente de desarrollo laboral del Puerto Rico Solar Business Accelerator, un programa codirigido por IREC y PathStone Corporation y patrocinado por la Administración de Desarrollo Económico de los Estados Unidos.

“Estamos orgullosos de poder promover, a través de la alianza con el IREC, esta sesión de capacitación gratuita para profesionales del sector de energía y sustentabilidad”, dijo Agnes Crespo Quintana, directora de la oficina Regional de Puerto Rico del IBTS. “Como organización sin fines de lucro comprometida con la calidad, el cumplimiento y la seguridad de la energía solar, nos complace que este esfuerzo resulte en mejorar la calidad de las instalaciones solares y tenga un impacto positivo en la comunidad de profesionales de ingeniería y electricidad de Puerto Rico”.

El curso Solar Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) se llevó a cabo los días 1 y 2 de junio en el Municipio Autónomo de Caguas. Los estudiantes que completaron el curso recibieron unidades de educación continua (CEU) aprobadas por el Colegio de Ingenieros y Agrimensores de Puerto Rico (CIAPR) y el Colegio de Electricistas Profesionales de Puerto Rico (CPE).

El primer día los asistentes participaron de una sesión de seis horas en el Huertas College. El director del programa de servicios energéticos de IBTS, Rudy Saporite, analizó los fundamentos de la revisión e inspección de la instalación fotovoltaica, así como las deficiencias comunes, las formas de identificarlas y recomendar correcciones. El segundo día se centró en los protocolos de instalación fotovoltaica donde los estudiantes pusieron en práctica los fundamentos teóricos aprendidos en el aula en una sesión práctica en el techo de la Panadería la Boriqueña, ubicada en Avenida Turabo, Esquina Calle Degetau, Caguas.

Carlos A. Velázquez, director del IREC en Puerto Rico explicó cómo se identificó la necesidad del curso.

“Hemos estado escuchando las necesidades de la industria solar en Puerto Rico para colaborar en su mejora continua; ha sido la industria la que nos ha dicho que este tipo de formación es de suma importancia para asegurar la calidad en las instalaciones fotovoltaicas”, afirmó Velázquez.

Acerca de IBTS

Con la misión de fortalecer las comunidades, IBTS es un asesor y aliado confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales. IBTS brinda asistencia técnica solar, capacitación y servicios de desarrollo laboral, y es el proveedor de garantía de calidad solar más grande del país, habiendo completado más de 70,000 inspecciones y revisiones de planes en todo el país, incluidas más de 7,500 en Puerto Rico.

Los servicios solares de IBTS garantizan la adecuada planificación, implementación y evaluación de proyectos y programas energéticos y de sostenibilidad, optimizando el rendimiento de las instalaciones solares y reduciendo su riesgo, así como confirmando el uso eficiente y eficaz de los fondos públicos.

Además de su experiencia en verificación de la calidad solar, la oficina de IBTS en Puerto Rico brinda servicios tales como: administración de fondos federales; planificación, mitigación y recuperación de desastres; planificación municipal y resiliencia. Como organización sin fines de lucro, el trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores (NGA) y Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC).

Para obtener más información sobre IBTS, puede visitar: www.ibts.org o seguir a IBTS en Facebook, LinkedIn o Twitter.

Acerca del IREC

El Consejo Interestatal de Energías Renovables (IREC) sienta las bases para la rápida adopción de energía limpia y eficiencia energética en beneficio de las personas, la economía y nuestro planeta. Su visión es un futuro con energía 100% limpia que sea confiable, resiliente y equitativo. IREC desarrolla y promueve las reformas regulatorias, estándares técnicos y soluciones de fuerza laboral necesarias para permitir la integración optimizada de recursos energéticos limpios y distribuidos. IREC ha sido una organización confiable por su experiencia como entidad independiente en el campo de la energía limpia durante casi 40 años, desde su fundación en 1982. Para obtener más información, visite www.irecusa.org o siga a IREC en Twitter, LinkedIn o Facebook. .

IBTS, IREC Offer Free Solar Training to Professionals on the Island

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:52:51 GMT

The two-day class provided classroom and hands-on rooftop instruction to licensed electricians and professional engineers on the Island on solar quality assurance practices

(June 2, 2022 – Caguas, PR) Fulfilling its mission of promoting the economic development and well-being of communities, and as a pillar of renewable energy in Puerto Rico, the Institute of Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) recently joined forces with the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) to provide a continuing education course on solar photovoltaic (PV) quality measures aligned with the programs of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

IBTS provided the course to licensed electricians and professional engineers in Puerto Rico, free of charge. This training is part of the workforce development component of the Puerto Rico Solar Business Accelerator, a program co-led by IREC and PathStone Corporation and sponsored by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.

“We are proud to be able to promote—through the alliance with IREC—this free training session for professionals in the energy and sustainability sector,” said Agnes Crespo Quintana, director of IBTS’ Puerto Rico Region office. “As a nonprofit organization committed solar quality, compliance, and safety, we are pleased this effort will result in improving the quality of solar installations and positively impact Puerto Rico’s community of engineering and electrical professionals.”

The Solar Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) course was held on June 1 and 2 in the Autonomous Municipality of Caguas. Students who completed the course received continuing education units (CEUs) approved by the College of Engineers and Surveyors of Puerto Rico (CIAPR, in Spanish) and the College of Professional Electrician of Puerto Rico (CPE, in Spanish).

On the first day, attendees participated in a six-hour session at Huertas College. IBTS Energy Services Program Manager Rudy Saporite discussed the fundamentals photovoltaic installation review and inspection, as well as common deficiencies, ways to identify them, and recommend corrections. The second day focused on photovoltaic installation protocols where students put into practice the theoretical foundations learned in the classroom in a hands-on session on the roof of Panadería la Boriqueña, located on Avenida Turabo, Esquina Calle Degetau, Caguas.

Carlos A. Velázquez, director of IREC in Puerto Rico explained how the need for the course was identified.

“We have been listening to the needs of the solar industry in Puerto Rico to collaborate in its continuous improvement; it was the industry that has told us that this type of training is of utmost importance to ensure quality in photovoltaic installations,” Velázquez said.

About IBTS

With a mission to strengthen communities, IBTS is a trusted advisor and ally to local, state and federal governments. IBTS provides solar technical assistance, training and workforce development services, and is the nation’s largest solar quality assurance provider, having completed more than 70,000 inspections and plan reviews nationwide, including more than 7,500 in Puerto Rico.

IBTS solar services guarantee the proper planning, implementation and evaluation of energy and sustainability projects and programs, optimizing the performance of solar installations and reducing their risk, as well as confirming the efficient and effective use of public funds.

In addition to its expertise in solar quality verification, IBTS’s Puerto Rico office provides services such as: administration of federal funds; disaster planning, mitigation and recovery; municipal planning, and resilience. As a non-profit organization, IBTS’s work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International Association of City/County Administration (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governors Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities (NLC).

For more information about IBTS, you can visit: www.ibts.org or follow IBTS on Facebook , LinkedIn , or Twitter .

About IREC

The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) lays the foundation for the rapid adoption of clean energy and energy efficiency for the benefit of people, the economy and our planet. Their vision is a 100% clean energy future that is reliable, resilient and equitable. IREC develops and promotes the regulatory reforms, technical standards, and workforce solutions needed to enable the optimized integration of clean and distributed energy resources. IREC has been a trusted organization for its expertise as an independent entity in the field of clean energy for almost 40 years, since its foundation in 1982. For more information, visit www.irecusa.org or follow IREC on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook.

Alianza entre IBTS y el Municipio de Coamo para desarrollar un Plan de Recuperación Municipal

Fri, 27 May 2022 20:53:31 GMT

IBTS –organización sin fines de lucro– trabajará para lograr la recuperación integral del Municipio junto con las comunidades

San Juan, PR., El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Edificación (IBTS) anunció que firmó un convenio con el Municipio Autónomo de Coamo, Puerto Rico, para desarrollar su Plan de Recuperación Municipal (PRM).

El Programa MRP, financiado por las Subvenciones en Bloque para el Desarrollo Comunitario para la Recuperación de Desastres (CDBG-DR) del Departamento de Vivienda de los Estados Unidos (HUD) y administrado por el Departamento de Vivienda de Puerto Rico (PRDOH), asigna fondos a los municipios de Puerto Rico para llevar a cabo actividades de planificación que aborden las condiciones creadas o exacerbadas por los devastadores huracanes de 2017. Los Planes de Recuperación Municipal resultantes guiarán el desarrollo de comunidades más fuertes, seguras y resilientes.

Junto con sus socios Estudios Técnicos Inc. y ATCS, IBTS brindará un enfoque multidisciplinario para desarrollar el MRP de Coamo, asegurando que los miembros de la comunidad y las partes interesadas tengan amplias oportunidades de participar en el proceso.

"Con el Programa MRP, Coamo se beneficiará de una hoja de ruta que guiará sus esfuerzos mientras continúan fortaleciendo la economía y la sostenibilidad de su municipio. La participación de la comunidad es un componente crítico de un MRP exitoso. Es de los residentes de Coamo que aprenderemos primero cómo fue antes, durante y después de los huracanes y qué acciones y proyectos se necesitan para recuperar y construir resiliencia”, dijo Agnes Crespo Quintana, directora de la oficina del IBTS en Puerto Rico. . “Con IBTS, ATCS y ETI, Coamo contará con un equipo de expertos en planificación municipal, recuperación comunitaria a largo plazo y programas de subvenciones federales, como CDBG-DR. El equipo de IBTS trabajará de la mano con Coamo, sus residentes, empresas, organizaciones comunitarias, municipios vecinos y el gobierno central de Puerto Rico para garantizar una recuperación resiliente para Coamo y toda su gente”, dijo Crespo.

Los trabajos del MRP de Coamo comenzaron en mayo de 2022 y continuarán durante seis meses. Para obtener más información sobre IBTS y el programa MRP, visite https://www.ibts.org/mrp/

Sobre el Municipio de Coamo

Fundado en 1579, Coamo es uno de los municipios más antiguos de Puerto Rico. El huracán María causó daños importantes al Municipio, incluidos numerosos deslizamientos de tierra y la destrucción de más de 2.000 viviendas y muchos edificios que son parte integral de su economía. El programa MRP ayudará a Coamo a continuar su trabajo fortaleciendo su desarrollo económico y su resiliencia ante futuros desastres.

Acerca de IBTS

IBTS es una organización nacional sin fines de lucro y asesor y socio confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales. IBTS proporciona experiencia en códigos de construcción; gestión de subvenciones federales; experiencia en planificación, mitigación y recuperación de desastres; soluciones de gobiernos locales; garantía de calidad solar; y servicios de resiliencia. Con una larga trayectoria en la prestación de servicios de energía solar en Puerto Rico, IBTS estableció su Oficina permanente en Puerto Rico luego de los huracanes de 2017 para ayudar con la recuperación de la Isla. El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores y la Asamblea Nacional. Liga de Ciudades (NLC).

Acerca de ATCS

ATCS ofrece servicios multidisciplinarios de consultoría de ingeniería, especializándose en soluciones de servicio completo en los campos de transporte, ingeniería y planificación del tráfico, medio ambiente, geoespacial, sitios civiles, ferrocarriles y tránsito, edificios e instalaciones, aire y ruido, y servicios de gestión de emergencias. ATCS tiene nueve oficinas en Virginia, Pensilvania, Maryland y Carolina del Norte.

Acerca de Estudios Técnicos, Inc., (ETI)

Estudios Técnicos, Inc., (ETI) es la firma líder en consultoría de planificación, investigación, estrategia de mercado, análisis social y asesoría económica en Puerto Rico. Con más de 35 años de operación en la Isla, las disciplinas del personal de ETI incluyen economía, planificación, derecho, estadística, gestión, finanzas, marketing, comunicaciones, análisis de datos, programación y geografía, entre otras.

Pie de imagen: El alcalde de Coamo, Juan Carlos García Padilla, firma un contrato con Agnes Crespo Quintana, Esq., Directora Regional de Puerto Rico del Instituto de Tecnología de la Edificación (IBTS), para el Plan de Recuperación Municipal.

Cinco comunidades de Puerto Rico reconocidas por logros en energía solar

Fri, 27 May 2022 20:48:34 GMT

Washington, D.C. y Orocovis, Puerto Rico — Cinco municipios rurales de la cordillera central de Puerto Rico han logrado el reconocimiento federal por fomentar la adopción local de energía solar.

Estas comunidades (Barranquitas, Ciales, Morovis, Orocovis y Villalba) recibieron la designación Bronce a través de SolSmart, un programa nacional que ayuda a los gobiernos locales a reducir las barreras al crecimiento de la energía solar.

Los cinco municipios son los primeros en Puerto Rico en lograr una designación SolSmart, uniéndose a más de 450 comunidades en 42 estados, el Distrito de Columbia y las Islas Vírgenes de los Estados Unidos. Las comunidades celebraron estos logros en un evento en Orocovis el 10 de mayo.

“Estoy orgulloso de que Orocovis y tantos municipios vecinos de la Cordillera Central de Puerto Rico estén apoyando activamente la expansión de la energía solar en nuestras comunidades. Este es un paso más para ayudar a nuestra Isla a lograr un uso 100% de energía limpia para el año 2050”, dijo el alcalde de Orocovis, Jesús Edgardo Colón Berlingeri, quien será el anfitrión de la ceremonia en honor a los municipios.

SolSmart está dirigido por el Consejo Interestatal de Energía Renovable (IREC) y la Asociación Internacional de Gestión de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), y financiado por la oficina de Tecnologías de Energía Solar del Departamento de Energía de EE. UU. El programa ofrece asistencia técnica gratuita para ayudar a las comunidades a satisfacer sus necesidades energéticas utilizando energía solar y tecnologías relacionadas, como el almacenamiento en baterías.

"Estamos muy emocionados de reconocer a las primeras comunidades de Puerto Rico por sus logros en energía solar", dijo Theresa Perry, directora de programas del IREC. "Estos gobiernos locales están sentando las bases para un futuro energético sostenible que ayudará a reducir las facturas de energía de los residentes y las empresas, al tiempo que mejorará la resiliencia de la comunidad".

El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de la Construcción (IBTS) brindó un amplio apoyo de asistencia técnica para ayudar a estas comunidades a cumplir con los criterios para la designación SolSmart. IBTS brindó orientación personalizada a los municipios; dirigió una sesión de capacitación sobre planificación, permisos e inspección de sistemas solares a gran escala; organizó un taller informativo para la comunidad empresarial y el público en general; y ayudó a las comunidades a promover el programa en las redes sociales.

"La extensión comunitaria es una parte muy importante del programa SolSmart, pero educar a los residentes y las empresas sobre los beneficios de la energía solar en estas cinco comunidades rurales exigió un enfoque único", dijo Karen Jonson, directora de participación en el mercado de IBTS. "Estamos orgullosos de haber colaborado con estos municipios para desarrollar estrategias de extensión personalizadas y efectivas adaptadas a sus necesidades específicas".

“Como organización sin fines de lucro dedicada a fortalecer nuestras comunidades, nos llena de aliento verlos dar pasos tan grandes hacia la construcción de su resiliencia”, dijo Agnes Crespo, directora de la Región IBTS Puerto Rico. "Estamos orgullosos de los logros que han logrado estos municipios", agregó, "y esperamos que sirvan de inspiración para todas las comunidades de la Isla para garantizar que la energía solar sea accesible para todos los residentes".

Las cinco comunidades son miembros del Consorcio Municipal de Energía de la Región Montaña, que está en proceso de desarrollar un sistema de microrred para crear una mayor resiliencia energética. Cada municipio también lanzó una página de Facebook para informar al público sobre las oportunidades locales de energía solar.

El programa SolSmart está abierto a todos los municipios de Puerto Rico. Las comunidades interesadas en unirse al programa y recibir asistencia técnica sin costo pueden contactar a solsmart@irecusa.org.

IBTS & Coamo Partner on Recovery Plan

Fri, 27 May 2022 14:52:51 GMT

IBTS–a non-profit organization–will work to achieve the comprehensive recovery of the Municipality together with the communities

San Juan, PR., The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) announced it has signed an agreement with the Autonomous Municipality of Coamo, Puerto Rico, to develop its Municipal Recovery Plan (MRP).

The MRP Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing (HUD) Community Development Block Grants for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) and administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH), allocates funds to the municipalities of Puerto Rico to carry out planning activities that address conditions created or exacerbated by the devastating hurricanes of 2017. The resulting Municipal Recovery Plans will guide the development of stronger, safer and more resilient communities.

Together with its partners Estudios Técnicos Inc., and ATCS, IBTS will provide a multidisciplinary approach to developing Coamo’s MRP, ensuring that community members and stakeholders have ample opportunity to participate in the process.

“With the MRP Program, Coamo will benefit from a roadmap that will guide their efforts as they continue to strengthen the economy and sustainability of its municipality. Community involvement is a critical component of a successful MRP. It is from the residents of Coamo that we will first learn what it was like before, during and after the hurricanes and what actions and projects are needed to recover and build resilience,” said Agnes Crespo Quintana, director of the IBTS office in Puerto Rico. “With IBTS, ATCS, and ETI, Coamo will have a team of experts in municipal planning, long-term community recovery, and federal grant programs, such as CDBG-DR. The IBTS team will work hand in hand with Coamo, its residents, businesses, community organizations, neighboring municipalities, and the central government of Puerto Rico to ensure a resilient recovery for Coamo and all of its people,” Crespo said.

Work on Coamo’s MRP began in May 2022 and will continue for six months. For more information about IBTS and the MRP program, visit https://www.ibts.org/mrp/

About the Municipality of Coamo

Founded in 1579, Coamo is one of the oldest municipalities in Puerto Rico. Hurricane Maria caused significant damage to the Municipality, including numerous landslides and the destruction of more than 2,000 homes and many buildings that are integral to its economy. The MRP program will help Coamo continue its work strengthening its economic development and resilience in the face of future disasters.

About IBTS

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments. IBTS provides building code expertise; federal grants management; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; local government solutions; solar quality assurance; and resilience services. With a long history of providing solar energy services in Puerto Rico, IBTS established its permanent Puerto Rico Office following the 2017 hurricanes to assist with the Island’s recovery. IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

About ATCS

ATCS provides multidisciplinary engineering consulting services, specializing in full-service solutions in the fields of transportation, traffic engineering and planning, environmental, geospatial, site civil, rail and transit, buildings and facilities, air and noise, and emergency management services. ATCS has nine offices across Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and North Carolina.

About Estudios Técnicos, Inc., (ETI)

Estudios Técnicos, Inc., (ETI) is the leading planning, research, market strategy, social analysis, and economic advisory consulting firm in Puerto Rico. With more than 35 years of operation on the Island, ETI staff disciplines include economics, planning, law, statistics, management, finance, marketing, communications, data analysis, programming, and geography, among others.

Image caption : Coamo Mayor Juan Carlos García Padilla signing a contract with Agnes Crespo Quintana, Esq., Puerto Rico Region Director with the Institute for Building Technology (IBTS), for the Municipal Recovery Plan.

Five Puerto Rico Communities Recognized for Solar Energy Achievements

Fri, 27 May 2022 14:52:51 GMT

Washington, D.C. and Orocovis, Puerto Rico — Five rural municipalities in Puerto Rico’s central mountain range have achieved federal recognition for encouraging local adoption of solar energy.

These communities— Barranquitas, Ciales, Morovis, Orocovis, and Villalba— received Bronze designation through SolSmart , a national program that helps local governments reduce barriers to solar energy growth.

The five municipalities are the first in Puerto Rico to achieve a SolSmart designation, joining more than 450 communities in 42 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The communities celebrated these achievements at an event in Orocovis on May 10.

“I am proud that Orocovis and so many neighboring municipalities in Puerto Rico’s Central Mountain Range are actively supporting the expansion of solar energy in our communities. This is one step closer to helping our Island achieve 100% clean energy use by the year 2050,” said Orocovis Mayor Jesús Edgardo Colón Berlingeri, who is hosting the ceremony honoring the municipalities.

SolSmart is led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies office. The program offers free technical assistance to help communities meet their energy needs using solar power and related technologies like battery storage.

“We are so thrilled to recognize the first communities in Puerto Rico for their solar energy accomplishments,” said Theresa Perry, Program Director at IREC. “These local governments are laying the groundwork for a sustainable energy future that will help reduce energy bills for residents and businesses, while also enhancing community resilience.”

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) provided extensive technical assistance support to help these communities meet the criteria for SolSmart designation. IBTS provided one-on-one guidance to municipalities; led a training session on planning, permitting, and inspection for large-scale solar systems; hosted an informational workshop for the business community and the general public; and assisted the communities with promoting the program and providing education about solar.

"Community outreach is such an important part of the SolSmart program, yet educating residents and businesses about the benefits of solar energy in these five rural communities demanded a unique approach," said Karen Jonson, IBTS' Market Engagement Director. "We are proud to have collaborated with these municipalities to develop customized, effective outreach strategies tailored to their specific needs."

“As a non-profit organization devoted to strengthening our communities, it fills us with encouragement when we see them make such great strides towards building their resilience,” said Agnes Crespo, director of the IBTS Puerto Rico Region. “We are proud of the accomplishments these municipalities have made,” she added, “and hope they serve as inspiration to all communities on the Island to make sure solar energy is accessible to all residents.”

All five communities are members of the Municipal Energy Consortium of the Mountain Region, which is in the process of developing a microgrid system to create greater energy resilience. Each municipality also launched a Facebook page to inform the public about local solar energy opportunities. 

The SolSmart program is open to all municipalities in Puerto Rico. Communities interested in joining the program and receiving no-cost technical assistance can contact solsmart@irecusa.org .

IBTS acepta invitación para participar en el grupo asesor PR100

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 21:59:17 GMT

El Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) se complace en anunciar que ha aceptado una invitación del Laboratorio Nacional de Energía Renovable (NREL) para participar en el Grupo Asesor de Recuperación y Resiliencia del Sistema Energético de Puerto Rico, parte del Puerto Rico Grid Resilience. y Estudio de Transición a Energía 100% Renovable, o PR100.

El Estudio PR100 es un nuevo esfuerzo en el trabajo continuo para proporcionar electricidad confiable, asequible y resiliente a todas las ciudades y comunidades de Puerto Rico. Los investigadores aprovecharán las capacidades de los Laboratorios Nacionales del Departamento de Energía de EE. UU. (DOE) y el conocimiento de la comunidad para establecer múltiples caminos para que Puerto Rico cumpla su objetivo de electricidad 100% renovable para 2050. El análisis riguroso y el modelado avanzado demostrarán la combinación. de energía solar fotovoltaica, almacenamiento de energía en baterías, energía eólica y otras infraestructuras que sean más realizables, rentables y resilientes.

Los sólidos aportes de las partes interesadas desempeñarán un papel fundamental en el esfuerzo PR100. El Grupo Asesor se reunirá periódicamente para brindar perspectivas externas rigurosas y relevantes a los Laboratorios Nacionales y ayudarlos a llenar los vacíos técnicos; proporcionar información sobre los métodos, resultados y productos del proyecto; difundir herramientas y recursos a sus redes; y derribar barreras a la implementación.

IBTS se complace en contribuir al estudio PR100, que se alinea con sus esfuerzos para ayudar a la Isla a construir un futuro más fuerte, seguro y resiliente. La organización sin fines de lucro, que brinda servicios de control de calidad solar en Puerto Rico desde 2013, estableció su Oficina Regional de Puerto Rico luego de los huracanes de 2017. Desde entonces, IBTS ha realizado más de 7500 inspecciones solares y revisiones de planes, realizó evaluaciones de resiliencia municipal en los 78 municipios, gestionó programas de subvenciones de FEMA y CDBG-DR y brindó asistencia técnica y capacitación sobre energía renovable, cumplimiento de códigos y resiliencia.

"El Estudio PR100 es extraordinario en su alcance y esfuerzos para convocar a las personas, entidades, ideas y experiencia que Puerto Rico necesita para marcar el comienzo de su futuro energético resiliente", dice Chris Fennell, Director de Desarrollo de IBTS, quien representará a IBTS en el Grupo Asesor. "Al habernos asociado con municipios, agencias gubernamentales, organizaciones comunitarias y entidades del sector público y privado en toda la Isla durante los últimos años, sabemos que la colaboración es un componente crítico del éxito", continuó. "Nos sentimos honrados de participar y aportar nuestro conocimiento y experiencia a este importante esfuerzo".

Se compartirá más información sobre el estudio durante un seminario web informativo el 16 de febrero de 2022 a las 12 p.m. Hora del Atlántico, 11:00 a. m., hora del este: https://bit.ly/PR100Study. Se proporcionará interpretación en español.

ACERCA DE IBTS

IBTS es una organización nacional sin fines de lucro y asesor y socio confiable de los gobiernos locales, estatales y federales. La organización proporciona experiencia en códigos de construcción; gestión de subvenciones federales; experiencia en planificación, mitigación y recuperación de desastres; soluciones de gobiernos locales; garantía de calidad solar; y servicios de resiliencia. El trabajo de IBTS está guiado por una Junta Directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades/Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores y la Asamblea Nacional. Liga de Ciudades (NLC).

Contacto con los medios:

Karen Johnson

Director del Programa de Participación en el Mercado

571.357.4820 | kjohnson@ibts.org

IBTS Accepts Invitation to Participate in PR100 Advisory Group

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 15:52:51 GMT

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is pleased to announce that it has accepted an invitation from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to participate in the Puerto Rico Energy System Recovery and Resilience Advisory Group, part of the Puerto Rico Grid Resilience and Transition to 100% Renewable Energy Study, or PR100.

The PR100 Study is a new effort in the ongoing work to provide reliable, affordable, and resilient electricity to every city and community in Puerto Rico. Researchers will leverage the capabilities of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Labs and insight from the community to set multiple pathways for Puerto Rico to meet its target of 100% renewable electricity by 2050. The rigorous analysis and advanced modeling will demonstrate the mix of solar photovoltaic, battery energy storage, wind energy, and other infrastructure that is most achievable, cost-effective, and resilient.

Robust stakeholder input will play a critical role in the PR100 effort. The Advisory Group will meet regularly to provide rigorous, relevant, external perspectives to the National Laboratories, and assist them with filling in technical gaps; providing input on project methods, results, and products; disseminating tools and resources to their networks; and breaking down barriers to implementation.

IBTS is excited to contribute to the PR100 study, which aligns with its efforts to help the Island build a stronger, safer, more resilient future. The nonprofit organization, which has been providing solar quality assurance services in Puerto Rico since 2013, established its Puerto Rico Region Office following the 2017 hurricanes. Since then, IBTS has performed over 7,500 solar inspections and plan reviews, conducted municipal resilience assessments in all 78 municipalities, managed FEMA and CDBG-DR grant programs, and provided technical assistance and training on renewable energy, code compliance, and resilience.

“The PR100 Study is extraordinary in its scope and efforts to convene the people, entities, ideas, and expertise that Puerto Rico needs to usher in its resilient energy future,” says Chris Fennell, IBTS’ Chief Development Officer, who will represent IBTS on the Advisory Group. “Having partnered with municipalities, government agencies, community organizations, and public and private sector entities across the Island over the past several years, we know that collaboration is a critical component of success,” he continued. “We are honored to participate and lend our knowledge and experience to this important effort.”

More information about the study will be shared during an informational webinar on February 16, 2022, at 12 p.m. Atlantic Time, 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time:  https://bit.ly/PR100Study .  Spanish interpretation will be provided. 

ABOUT IBTS

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization and trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments. The organization provides building code expertise; federal grants management; disaster planning, mitigation, and recovery expertise; local government solutions; solar quality assurance; and resilience services. IBTS’ work is guided by a Board of Directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC).

Media Contact:

Karen Johnson

Market Engagement Program Director

571.357.4820 | kjohnson@ibts.org

IBTS congratulates Local Government Solutions Development Lead Curt Skoog for Mayoral Win

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:52:51 GMT

ASHBURN, VA .—The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS)—a national, nonprofit organization that serves as a trusted partner to local, state, and federal governments—extends its congratulations to Curt Skoog, IBTS’ Local Government Services Development Lead, for his recent electoral win as Mayor of the City of Overland Park, Kansas.

Prior to his election, Mayor Skoog served as an Overland Park City Council Member since 2005, as Council President in 2021, Mid-American Regional Council Board Chair, and has also acted as Co-Chair of the Creating Sustainable Places Consortium Coordinating Committee. His work for the City has personified IBTS’ mission of strengthening communities by implementing policies and supporting projects that build resilience and enhance culture, such as the resurgence of the City’s downtown areas.

“We are very pleased about Curt’s election as Mayor of Overland Park,” said Ashok Goswami, IBTS’ Chief Executive Officer. “His passion for strengthening local governments is clear from his years of service as a Council Member and exemplifies the public service mission embedded in our culture at IBTS,” he added. “I’m excited to see the City benefit from his leadership.”

Mayor Skoog has been with IBTS since 2015; during that time, he has used his public sector leadership expertise to find solutions for dozens of local governments nationally, with a focus on Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. He currently oversees IBTS’s partnership with the HGACBuy purchasing cooperative. To become an HGACBuy vendor, IBTS completed a highly competitive procurement process, which enables cities and counties to engage IBTS immediately to provide emergency and disaster management services, including managing American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.

As Mayor, Skoog plans to improve the City’s existing track record of success. “Overland Park has consistently been rated as one of the best places to live, to start your career, to raise your family. It would be easy to settle in and feel comfortable with where we are now,” he says. “But my focus as Mayor will be keeping the City moving forward by becoming more transparent and improving our communications with the public,” he added.

One of Mayor Skoog’s first efforts will be updating the City’s comprehensive plan, which will serve as the blueprint for the City’s future. As IBTS has assisted several municipalities with creating and updating their comprehensive plans, Mayor Skoog brings extensive knowledge about successful comprehensive planning to the process.

“I am honored to have been elected and am ready to work for each of our residents to build on our longstanding tradition of excellence,” says Mayor Skoog.

In addition to his local government service, Mayor Skoog has also been active within the community serving the Shawnee Mission School District South area and the Kenilworth Homes Association. He is a graduate of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce Leadership Kansas Program, The Greater Kansas City Area Chamber of Commerce Centurions Leadership Program and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Kansas School of Business.

About IBTS

Enterprise Community Partners and IBTS Partner on Affordable Housing Climate Resilience

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:52:51 GMT

Ashburn, VA– The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) recently hosted representatives from Enterprise Community Partners (Enterprise) during its December 2021 Board of Directors meeting to share details of two of Enterprise’s programs, Keep Safe Miami and Resilience Academy. The programs have developed critical strategies and resources to help affordable housing owners improve the resilience of their properties to climate change and natural disaster risks. IBTS has been providing Enterprise with technical assistance on both programs over the past year.

The programs were presented by Enterprise’s Sara Haas, Southeast Market Director, and Laurie Schoeman, National Director for Climate Risk Reduction and Resilience.

“Climate change poses a significant risk to affordable housing, threatening our most vulnerable populations,” explained Haas. “We are working hard to give affordable housing owners the resources they need to understand, prioritize, and finance implementation strategies, thereby protecting their occupants and preserving their investments.”

Enterprise’s work to increase housing supply, advance racial equity, and build resilience and upward mobility is well aligned with IBTS’ focus on strengthening communities through its role as a trusted advisor to governments at all levels. The two nonprofit organizations share a common goal in making climate risks—such as flooding, extreme wind, extreme heat—better understood and more readily mitigated.

During the presentation, Haas and Schoeman provided an overview of how the programs provide technical assistance to affordable housing stakeholders, from conducting assessments, to developing mitigation strategies, to identifying funding and financing.

“We know how critical it is for owners to address resilience in their affordable housing portfolios, and yet understanding what to do and how to do it can be incredibly challenging,” said Schoeman. “Both Keep Safe Miami and Resilience Academy equip owners with the knowledge and tools they need, giving them a roadmap for resilience.”

In 2022, Enterprise will use results from the Keep Safe Miami and Resilience Academy programs to benefit other communities across the country. The Keep Safe program will extend to Orlando, Tampa, and the broader Miami MSA. Resilience Academy will build on last year’s pilot in the Southeast to focus on the Gulf Coast.

Schoeman and Haas emphasized how the success of the programs would not have been possible without the remarkable mix of partners and participants that share their commitment to preserving affordable housing. In addition to IBTS, Enterprise’s collaborating partners include the JPMorgan Chase Foundation, Fannie Mae, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Urban Land Institute, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the City of Miami, Miami Dade County, the Florida Housing Coalition, Miami Beach Rising Above, Habitat for Humanity, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Regions Bank, City National Bank, and Communities United.

Both programs are of considerable interest to IBTS leadership. IBTS’ Board of Directors includes representatives from five national associations representing state and local governments, including the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities. Reducing climate risks and ensuring equitable housing are both of critical importance to the members of these organizations, as well as for the Board’s efforts to guide IBTS’ work in assisting governments with equitable climate resilience, federal funding management, and disaster and resilience planning.

“Addressing climate resilience and protecting vulnerable populations through safe and secure housing are both critical issues for state and local governments,” said Chris Fennell, IBTS’ Chief Development Officer. “IBTS is proud to be assisting Enterprise in developing solutions that strengthen governments’ ability to navigate these issues, while engaging stakeholders from the private and nonprofit sectors to ensure their success. We’re excited to see both the Keep Safe and Resilience Academy programs grow over the coming months and years.”

About IBTS

IBTS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities as a trusted partner to local, state, and federal governments. IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia, with branch offices across the country. IBTS’s work is guided by a Board of Directors comprised of government officials appointed by five of the most highly respected, grassroots, state and local governmental associations, including the Council of State Governments (CSG), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National Association of Counties (NACo), National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center), and National League of Cities (NLC).

IBTS’ Rudy Saporite Announced as Judge for the Solar Games Competition

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 15:52:51 GMT

Rudy Saporite, IBTS’ Energy Services Program Manager, will serve as judge for the Solar Games starting on Thursday, January 13. This is his second time judging the event.

ASHBURN, VA. — The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is pleased to announce that Rudy Saporite, IBTS’ Energy Services Program Manager, will serve as the judge for the Solar Games starting on Thursday, January 13 in Long Beach, Ca., as part of the 2022 Intersolar North America and Energy Storage North America conference and expo.

Rudy Saporite, IBTS’ Energy Services Program Manager, will serve as judge for the Solar Games starting on Thursday, January 13. This is his second time judging the event.

Saporite oversees IBTS’ work as the largest solar quality provider in the U.S., which makes him an excellent fit to judge the competition, which tasks teams from across the country with building residential solar and storage systems, battling each other and the clock on the expo hall floor in front of an audience.

This is the second time Saporite has served as a judge for the Games, which are held to connect and promote learning among solar industry installers, developers, policy makers, utilities and technology providers, and other key stakeholders. As the judge for the competition, Saporite joins a prestigious advisory of clean energy industry leaders.

During the competition, Saporite will be looking for quality, safety, and speed as he evaluates each team’s installations. “What I love about the Solar Games,” Saporite said, “is the opportunity to see so much of the work we practice come together in a very fast and exciting way. During the competitions, you really see the value of how performing rigorous quality practices on a daily basis benefits the teams in creating winning designs.”

“Knowing that the Solar Games also promote the growth of industry certifications and workforce development efforts that foster quality in real world solar installations makes it especially rewarding for myself and IBTS,” Saporite said.

There will be six 75- to 90-minute matchups in the tournament starting at 10:30 a.m. on January 13. The first task is to complete a grid-tied installation; the winners will then move on to an off-grid installation competition on January 14. Finalists from those rounds will compete that afternoon in the championship round, another grid-tied installation.

About the Institute for Building Technology and Safety

Solar Games competitors on the job during the competition last held live in February of 2020.

IBTS provides third-party solar and sustainable energy expertise, quality management, inspections, technology solutions, software, training, and program support services to clients across the country in local, state and federal governments as well as the private sector. IBTS’ Energy Services Program Manager Rudy Saporite is an expert in solar energy and building science and an experienced inspector and auditor with more than 23 years of construction experience.

Additional information about IBTS’ solar quality services is available on our energy page .

IBTS is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to building resilient communities. IBTS specializes in solar and renewable energy; building safety and code compliance; federal funding compliance and management; disaster recovery; local government solutions; and resilience planning. IBTS’ work is guided by a board of directors that includes The Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities (NLC).

To learn more about the Solar Games, visit Intersolar North America 2022 .

For information on our Solar Energy Services, visit IBTS.org/solar .

IBTS Partners with Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Cooperative Purchasing Program

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:52:51 GMT

December 1, 2021 — ASHBURN, VA . — The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is excited to announce its selection as a Houston-Galveston Area Council (HGACBuy) service provider.

IBTS services are now available through HGACBuy, which offers local governments options for thousands of vendors that have already undergone a competitive procurement process. That means jurisdictions can avoid the cost of a lengthy bidding period and immediately select IBTS directly through the cooperative instead.

HGACBuy has approved IBTS to provide local governments with disaster preparedness and recovery-related professional planning, consulting, and interim recovery services. The company provides these services for local governments of all sizes, drawing on its decades of experience working after disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, Sandy, Harvey, and Maria.

“IBTS understands that preparing for, and recovering from, natural disasters is often overwhelming for jurisdictions,” said IBTS Director of Municipal Services Chris Miller, AICP. “Procurement processes add additional costs and delays to an already onerous process. IBTS is proud to offer our services through HGACBuy that we can provide jurisdictions with the customized assistance they need in a manner that reduces costs, while still ensuring a transparent and fair procurement process,” said Miller.

While HGACBuy serves local governments within the State of Texas as the largest of 24 Councils of Government (COGs) there, its cooperative procurement service is available nationally and can be accessed by any unit of local government, including nonprofits providing governmental services.

As a nonprofit organization, IBTS’ work is guided by a board of directors with representatives from the Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association, and the National League of Cities (NLC). IBTS’ unparalleled team of certified code professionals, inspectors, planners, grant managers, and energy and resiliency experts make IBTS uniquely positioned to understand and meet the needs of government.

For more information email cmiller@ibts.org .

En Espanol

1 De Diciembre de 2021 – Ashburn, VA . — El Instituto de Tecnología y Seguridad de Edificios (IBTS, por sus siglas en inglés), está emocionado en anunciar su selección como el como proveedor de servicios del Consejo del Área de Houston-Galveston (HGACBuy).

Los servicios de IBTS están ahora disponibles a través de HCACBuy, el cual ofrece opciones locales gubernamentales para miles de proveedores que han ido por un proceso de adquisición competitivo. Esto significa que las jurisdicciones pueden evitar el costo de un periodo de licitación prolongado y seleccionar IBTS de manera directa a través de las cooperativas.

HGACBuy, ha aprobado IBTS, para que provea a los gobiernos locales servicios de planificación, consultoría y recuperación provisional relacionados con la preparación y la recuperación ante desastres. La compañía ofrece estos servicios para gobiernos locales de todos los tamaños, aprovechando sus décadas de experiencia trabajando después de desastres como los huracanes Katrina, Ike, Sandy, Harvey y María.

IBTS entiende que prepararse y recuperarse de desastres naturales puede ser a menudo abrumador para las jurisdicciones”, dijo el director de servicios municipales de IBTS, Chris Miller, AICP. “Los procesos de adquisición agregan costos y demoras adicionales a un proceso que ya es oneroso. IBTS se enorgullece de ofrecer nuestros servicios, a través de HGACBuy, ya que podemos brindar a las jurisdicciones la asistencia personalizada que necesitan de una manera que reduzca los costos, al tiempo que garantiza un proceso de adquisición transparente y justo”, dijo Miller.

Si bien HGACBuy sirve a los gobiernos locales dentro del estado de Texas como el más grande de los 24 Consejos de Gobierno (COG, por sus siglas en inglés), allí, su servicio de adquisiciones cooperativas está disponible a nivel nacional y cualquier unidad del gobierno local puede acceder a él, incluidas las organizaciones sin fines de lucro que brindan servicios gubernamentales.

Como organización sin fines de lucro, el trabajo de IBTS es guiado por una junta directiva con representantes del Consejo de Gobiernos Estatales (CSG), la Asociación Internacional de Administración de Ciudades / Condados (ICMA), la Asociación Nacional de Condados (NACo), la Asociación Nacional de Gobernadores y la Liga Nacional de Ciudades (NLC).

El equipo incomparable de profesionales IBTS incluye personal certificados en códigos, inspectores, planificadores, gerentes de subvenciones y expertos en energía y resiliencia hacen que IBTS esté en únicamente posicionados para comprender y satisfacer las necesidades del gobierno.

Para más información visite página web de IBTS en el website de HCACBuy: www.hgacbuy.org/ o envíe un correo electrónico a: cmiller@ibts.org

IBTS Welcomes Agnes Crespo-Quintana as Puerto Rico Division Director

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 15:52:51 GMT

Agnes Crespo-Quintana, ESQ, IBTS’ new Puerto Rico Division Director

December 1, 2021 – (San Juan, Puerto Rico) – The Institute for Technology and Safety (IBTS) is pleased to welcome Agnes Crespo-Quintana as the new Director for its Puerto Rico Division, based in San Juan. Ms. Crespo-Quintana’s rich experience in developing public policy, furthering the Island’s economic development and disaster recovery efforts, and engaging stakeholders across sectors are a perfect fit for the nonprofit organization, which serves as a trusted advisor and partner to local, state, and federal governments nationally.

Ms. Crespo-Quintana’s robust work history includes engagements with both the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (PRDOH) and the Department of Economic Development and Commerce of Puerto Rico (DDEC) and as the leader of the Economic Development Unit for the Puerto Rico Community Foundation. She is also an experienced attorney and entrepreneurial coach who has focused on guiding the Island’s public and private sectors with resilience, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development approaches, as well as legal support, grant writing, and business development services.

IBTS’ Puerto Rico Division, established following the devastating impacts of Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017, focuses on building a more resilient Puerto Rico through services such as federal grants management, community planning, building code and safety expertise, resilience assessments, and workforce development. As Director, Ms. Crespo-Quintana will leverage her expertise as a liaison to government agencies and community organizations focused on the Island’s reconstruction and recovery; with federal funding programs such as Community Development Block Grants (CDBG-DR); and with creating public policies directed toward social economic development to expand and build on this important work.

“We are delighted to welcome Ms. Crespo-Quintana to the IBTS team,” says IBTS President and CEO Ashok Goswami. “She brings not only an understanding of Puerto Rico’s economy and its recovery, but a rich history of engaging and working with the stakeholders that are so important to ensuring a resilient and thriving future for the Island,” he continued.

“I am committed to supporting the strengthening of government structures in order to achieve a socially and economically sustainable future for Puerto Rico,” says Crespo-Quintana. “IBTS’ mission and commitment to not only support the Island on its road to recovery, but also to see it prosper, certainly matches mine. We have a challenge and a lot of work to do.”

—————–

IBTS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building resilient communities. We are experts in CDBG-DR compliance and fund management; energy efficiency; solar and renewable energy; disaster recovery; strategic intervention in community-based organizations; resilience planning and strategic communication. IBTS’ Puerto Rico office, located in San Juan, has been instrumental in helping the island recover from the aftermath of the 2017 hurricanes. IBTS is guided by a board of directors from five leading governance organizations representing: The Council of State Governments (CSG), the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National Governor’s Association (NGA), and the National League of Cities (NLC).

IBTS Announces Completion of First Keep Safe Puerto Rico Training Course

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:52:51 GMT

ASHBURN, VA —The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is happy to announce the completion of its first Keep Safe Puerto Rico training course, held January 25-26, 2021.

Through a contract with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), IBTS is providing technical assistance to contractors performing building design and construction work on the island through the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (Vivienda) and the Home Repair, Reconstruction, and Relocation (R3) program.

This effort is part of the island’s recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Vivienda is responsible for administering U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds, including those allocated to the R3 program, which assists with the repair or reconstruction of single-family homes damaged by the 2017 hurricanes.

The eight-hour Keep Safe Puerto Rico course, developed by IBTS and significantly based on Enterprise Community Partners’ Keep Safe Puerto Rico guide, aims at increasing the island’s housing resilience by educating Vivienda and R3 contractors on the importance of repairing or rebuilding homes in compliance with the building code, increasing resilience to hurricanes and other disasters and major weather impacts, and incorporating renewable and energy efficient technologies and building practices.

IBTS is uniquely qualified to develop and deliver this curriculum given the organization’s decades of experience in the built environment, providing building code, resilience, disaster recovery and mitigation, as well as solar and renewable energy quality management services.

Fifty participants, including construction managers, engineers, and architects, attended the course. Thirty of the trainees received continuing education credits from the Colegio de Ingenieros y Agrimensores de Puerto Rico (CIAPR).

“The course provided an opportunity for these essential recovery professionals to learn about designing and building homes that are resilient to future disasters,” said IBTS Project and Community Engagement Manager Chearamy Miranda Lopez, who led the team of IBTS trainers. As a civil engineer born and raised in Puerto Rico and who lived through the 2017 hurricanes, the work is particularly important to Miranda. “We are incredibly proud to be able to be part of this effort,” she said.

“This program was a great opportunity for IBTS to apply our resilience, building code, building science, and renewable energy expertise to the post-disaster recovery of housing across Puerto Rico,” added Chris Fennell, IBTS’ Chief Development Officer. “We look forward to ongoing collaboration with U.S. Department of Energy, NREL, Vivienda, and Enterprise to serve the citizens of Puerto Rico through this important work.”

About The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS)

About the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

NREL, the nation’s primary laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development (R&D), develops renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices, advances related science and engineering, and transfers knowledge and innovations to address the nation’s energy and environmental goals.

NREL has forged a focused strategic direction to increase its impact on the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) and our nation’s energy goals by accelerating the research path from scientific innovations to market-viable alternative energy solutions.

About Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise is a nonprofit organization that addresses America’s affordable housing crisis by developing and deploying programs; supporting community organizations on the ground; advocating for nonpartisan policy; and investing capital to build and preserve affordable rental homes.

Media Contact:

Karen M. Johnson  

Market Engagement Program Director

kjohnson@ibts.org

C: 530.318.5428

www.ibts.org

Case Study: IBTS, Avolve, and CAL FIRE Team Up to Integrate Electronic Plan Review Platforms

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 13:25:00 GMT

Electronic Plan Review is the latest effort in the CAL FIRE Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM)’s commitment to improving customer service through technology and process enhancements.

CAL FIRE is now benefiting from the seamless integration of Avolve Software’s sophisticated ProjectDox® electronic plan review with IBTS’s GOVmotus®//FIRE permitting, licensing, and inspection system, with a single sign-on (SSO) capability.

In this case study, learn how the three organizations worked together to develop the platform that has revolutionized CAL FIRE’s project workflows.

IBTS Provides Disaster Response Support to Local, State, Federal Governments

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 14:52:51 GMT

COVID-19 has placed an enormous burden on local, state, and federal governments. As a non-profit organization with decades of experience helping governments at all levels, the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is available to help communities, departments, and agencies navigate the current crisis.

IBTS’ nonprofit mission is to help strengthen communities through a variety of rapid response and flexible solutions, including disaster services. With 40 years of service, IBTS has served as trusted partner for federal agencies, state governments, and local communities following Hurricanes Katrina, Sandy, Harvey, and Maria. Many governments are facing similar disaster-related challenges with the COVID-19 crisis, including disruptions to routine services and wrestling with the complex processes for funding and reimbursement.

IBTS can help during the COVID-19 crisis through a variety of services, many of which are reimbursable through federal funding or can be customized to fit a jurisdiction’s specific needs and budget.

Services include:

Disaster response and recovery: IBTS can help jurisdictions navigate federal reimbursement for COVID-19 related expenses, the procurement process and compliance requirements.

Expedited remote plan review: IBTS is also available to perform expedited remote plan reviews for schools and other buildings that may need to be repurposed as healthcare and quarantine facilities.

Emergency services contracts: Even if a local government is not currently significantly impacted by the crisis, now is the time to get contracts in place to save time when the need arises. These include project management as well as individual services such as remote plan review, inspections, and procurement.

Funding support: IBTS’ grants services and disaster recovery professionals can help identify and manage funding sources that will help communities respond to and recover from the crisis.

Back office support: IBTS can provide temporary support for finance and administration, information technology, as well as human capital personnel and services.

Inspections: IBTS provides remote inspection services and can deploy ICC-certified inspectors on an emergency basis. Remote inspections are also available.

For more information on how IBTS can help your jurisdiction, contact Chris Fennell, Chief Development Officer, at CFennell@ibts.org or Chris Miller, Municipal Services Director, at CMiller@ibts.org .

White Paper: COVID-19 Life Safety and Economic Stability Support Services

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 14:52:51 GMT

Purpose

This white paper describes the need for life safety evaluation plan reviews and building inspections during rapid repurposing of structures during the COVID-19 pandemic and presents an approach to providing these services immediately and remotely.

Introduction

The COVID-19 crisis has created an immediate need for existing public and private facilities such as schools, convention centers, stadiums as well as membrane and other temporary structures to support healthcare capacity and quarantine needs. However, in the rush to implement these needs, they may be repurposed or constructed without meeting necessary building code requirements that ensure life safety of workers, patients, and other occupants.

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is strongly encouraging agencies and professionals involved in these processes to find solutions that do not create additional life safety risks. We have included our recommendations in this white paper to assist with this effort.

About IBTS

IBTS, a national, nonprofit organization, is one of the nation’s most experienced third-party plan review and inspection providers. Especially relevant to the current crisis response is our unique and extensive experience with specialized healthcare requirements in the built environment, ICC-certified personnel, software and data management capabilities, unique partnerships, and turnkey resources available at scale across the U.S.

IBTS has worked for FEMA as a disaster recovery technical and grant management support contractor for years across the country and in Puerto Rico, provides building code compliance for public-, private- and military-construction projects, and has a unique 30+ year track record of hiring and working with state personnel to conduct affordable housing quality audits and inspections for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Summary of the Issue

As the COVID-19 epidemic sweeps across the U.S., communities are responding to the overwhelming, urgent need for additional healthcare facilities to properly care for and quarantine affected patients by erecting temporary structures or repurposing existing buildings.

These efforts allow for rapid ramp up of healthcare operations that would otherwise take months or years to complete. However, it is imperative that these structures meet critical building code and life safety requirements before being put into use.

As noted in an article in Engineering News Record [ENR] dated April 1, 2020:

“Practitioners also are warning officials that haste in providing temporary facilities can create unintended negative consequences. Traci A. Hanegan, chair of [the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers] ASHRAE’s health care facilities technical committee (TC 9.6) and a principal mechanical engineer with Coffman Engineers Inc., cautions that some methods to segregate COVID-19 patients may be beneficial to the patients, but not to health care providers.”

Without conducting proper plan review and inspections, these structures could inadvertently put the lives of healthcare workers, patients, and other occupants at risk, undermining their intended purpose to save lives and placing building owners and communities at risk of litigation.

Examples of high-risk factors include:

Improper ventilation and mechanical systems can lead to increased circulation of contaminants
Inadequate emergency lighting during a power outage can result in reduced evacuation capabilities and interrupted health care service delivery
Restricted or eliminated egress paths can lead to reduced access by emergency personnel
Inadequate fire and smoke handling measures can result in increased fire safety risk

As imperative as these safety measures are, it is likewise of utmost importance that they do not contribute to delays nor create additional exposure risk among the involved construction professionals. Local building departments on their own may struggle to do this; a recent survey conducted by the International Code Council (ICC) found that 60% of jurisdictions do not have the capabilities to conduct critical aspects of their work remotely, and an additional 26% have received requests for COVID-19 temporary or repurposed structures[1], a number that is likely to increase.

IBTS is presenting the following approach as a solution that ensures facility safety without compromising expediency or contractor safety.

Expedited Remote Plan Review and Inspection

Technology and software solutions over the past several years have made it possible for building code professionals to conduct plan reviews and inspections remotely using electronic plans, drones, and mobile devices. In the current crisis, using these remote technologies allows professionals to conduct thorough safety evaluations without increasing exposure risk of those on the jobsite.

IBTS has conducted thousands of plan reviews and inspections using these technologies on behalf of communities across the country. Whether addressing a short-term surge in demand for building department services, a shortage of building code inspectors, or critical damage assessments following a natural disaster, the economic stability and resilience of the impacted community requires speed without a reduction in quality – in this regard, the same approach is applicable to the current crisis.

IBTS subject matter experts are immediately available to assist agencies with remote inspection and plan review expertise, guidance, and implementation.

Network of Building Department Professionals

With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting communities across the country, the crisis calls for a readily available extensive network of professionals who are willing and able to join in this effort. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to building technology and safety, we have an extensive network of governance organizations, building inspectors, and plan reviewers across the country ready to participate.

Included in this are hundreds of building department officials who are currently working remotely or not working due to the current crises. When needed, we are able to quickly mobilize these professionals to implement rapid remote plan review and inspection services, thereby solving an immediate need and helping retain economic stability in communities where these professionals work.

Likewise, IBTS’ network of certified professionals is available to utilize our suite of remote inspection and data management tools either directly with the contractor erecting the structure or by providing boots-on-the-ground resources as needed.

IBTS Past Performance and Remote Work

Mercedes-Benz Superdome

IBTS is providing all plan review for the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans including the stadium’s architectural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical and fire safety infrastructures. The renovations will help modernize the facility and extend its lifespan, bringing economic benefits to the area.

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Health System

IBTS is providing full plan review services to VCU Health System in several locations. The Adult Outpatient facility includes a 1 million sq. ft., 16-story hospital with a 1-level underground and 8-level above-ground parking garage. The VCU Community Memorial Hospital includes a 3-story hospital of approximately 165,000 sq. ft.

Winchester Medical Center (WMC) Campus

IBTS performed all third-party plan reviews for the $161 million Winchester Medical Center campus expansion. The 400,000 sq. ft. project included renovation and new construction of an existing clinical laboratory; a new Heart & Vascular Center; a five-story critical care unit, an expanded emergency department and a 20-bed observation unit.

Washington, D.C. School Building System

IBTS and the Department of General Services (DGS) have worked together for over a decade, resulting in the project coordination and inspection of dozens of school renovations, modernizations and new construction projects.

Baltimore School System

IBTS has completed construction inspection and plan review services for more than 20 new and existing Baltimore schools under the auspices of the Maryland Stadium Authority, including building/architectural, structural, accessibility, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

————————————————————————————————————————————————-

[1] https://www.enr.com/articles/49099-code-group-seeks-funds-for-remote-plan-approval-of-covid-19-pop-up-hospitals

IBTS Receives Major DOE Award to Expand and Enhance Solar PV Inspection Platform

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 14:52:51 GMT

November 1, 2019 – Ashburn, VA

Thanks to a major award from the U.S. Department of Energy, IBTS will expand its photovoltaic (PV) quality management field inspection platform, benefitting the solar industry by making the platform — and the data it collects — publically available.

The Institute for Building Technology & Safety (IBTS) received a major award from the Solar Energy Technology Office of the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technology Office to expand IBTS’ photovoltaic (PV) inspection platform.

IBTS, a national leader in third-party PV installation quality management , uses the current version of the inspection platform internally to track solar PV installation quality data and other information for clients.

With the funding, IBTS will expand the software through stakeholder engagement, allowing participation in developing expanded software design requirements, and then ultimately providing public access to the system and the data it collects. The result will benefit stakeholders across the solar industry, including jurisdictions, inspectors, installation companies and installers, code makers, financiers, and component manufacturers.

The expansion will allow other companies and jurisdictions to use the software themselves, or partner with IBTS to oversee their fleet of installation crews, permit inspections, or program compliance obligations. The platform also includes a remote tool that allows IBTS and other licensed users to increase efficiency by conducting remote fleet management or permit inspections via mobile intake.

The expanded platform will also collect significant amounts of data on solar PV installation violations, which will be provided to the public via a web-based open data portal. The portal will also incorporate additional datasets such as weather, system performance monitoring, operations and maintenance, installer certification levels, and others. By identifying possible scientific commonality between the datasets, this effort will provide the solar industry with valuable data for identifying installation deficiencies and developing process improvements, in turn helping ensure the safety and quality of solar PV technologies.

“IBTS is excited to offer our PV quality management tools to the industry through this software, allowing stakeholders across the industry to increase the safety, efficiency, and quality of solar PV inspections,” says Rudy Saporite, IBTS Energy & Sustainability Program Manager. “Making the inspection data collected through these efforts publically available will be invaluable to identify and improve on solar PV installation quality.”

IBTS was selected as a part of the Energy Department’s FY2018 SETO funding program , an effort to invest in new projects that will lower solar electricity costs and support a growing solar workforce. IBTS is one of several photovoltaics research projects that will focus on improving the performance and reliability of PV cells, modules, and systems and reducing materials and processing costs.

IBTS’ Energy & Sustainability division provides solar PV and energy program quality management, including field verification, quality desktop review, program oversight, strategic planning, training and other services to various state, local, and private clients throughout the nation.

Press Contact:

Karen Johnson
Market Engagement Program Director
kjohnson@ibts.org

About IBTS:

IBTS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping communities through quality services that reduce risk, enhance public safety, and improve quality of life. IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia with branch offices across the country. IBTS’s work is guided by a Board of Directors made up of government officials appointed by five of the most highly respected, grassroots, state and local governmental associations, including the Council of State Governments (CSG), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National Association of Counties (NACo), National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center), and National League of Cities (NLC).

From Incorporation to Community Success: A Case Study

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 14:52:51 GMT

The City of Central, LA, a suburb of Baton Rouge, is the newest city in the state, having incorporated in 2005. Since then, Central has become a remarkable example of local government achievements based on its experience incorporating (in a state where only two other municipalities have incorporated in the past 40 years) and its nonprofit-public partnership (NP3) for service delivery with the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS).

This case study explores both, sharing Central’s story over the past fourteen years – from the City’s early success winning the vote for incorporation and the lessons it learned by taking a unique approach to government services, to its experiences during the catastrophic flood of 2016 – as it has flourished into a vibrant and successful community.

Read the full case study here (PDF).

IBTS Providing Plan Review & Inspection Services for Largest Construction Projects in Washington, DC

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 22:51:00 GMT

With a reputation for quick, quality plan reviews and inspections, IBTS provides these services for some of the largest development projects in Washington, DC, and the surrounding areas. Read on to learn how our unique service approach provides developers and government agencies with licensed, vetted professionals that save them time and money, and help prevent compliance issues.

IBTS has been providing plan review and building inspection services in the Washington, DC, region for nearly two decades. Our team provides third-party plan review and inspections for the District’s Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ (DCRA’s) third-party plan review and inspection programs. Through the program, developers contract with IBTS to ensure their plans and construction are compliant with DCRA’s building codes and regulations. IBTS also has a similar partnership to provide third-party plan review and inspection services for Fairfax County and for smaller building departments across the region, supporting building departments who need additional expertise or staffing to meet construction demands.

Our services help these building departments of varying sizes complete plan reviews and inspections at faster rates and prevent backlogs by freeing up staff to focus on the myriad of other services the departments provide.

With a plan review team comprised of licensed engineers and architects, IBTS brings the real-world technical expertise needed to ensure even the largest development projects are on track to achieve full compliance. IBTS’ plan review experts identify major code compliance issues before submitting plans to DCRA, allowing the design team to make adjustments and avoid making significant changes to meet compliance after submittal that can cause construction delays.

“Developers rely on us to ensure they have a substantially designed building without cost or construction delays,” explains IBTS Plan Review Manager David Wei Lu.

This is especially important for large construction projects, such as the mixed-use complex that IBTS is providing plan review services for in Northeast DC. The four-building complex, called Eckington Yards , will include approximately 80,000 square-feet of retail space and 670 residential units across four buildings. A few blocks from Eckington Yards, IBTS is also providing plan review for a revamp of the National Capital Press House building, which will include 446,000 square-feet of mixed-use retail and residential space.

IBTS also has a full team of building inspectors certified by the International Code Council (ICC) and approved within DCRA, giving developers easy access to a vetted, trusted inspection source. Our inspections ensure that construction meets all DCRA code requirements, ensuring the life safety of building occupants.

“The biggest advantage to using IBTS’ third-party inspection services is speed,” explains IBTS Inspections Manager Cindy Verbeek. “Our goal is to help our clients get their projects done in timely manner, which we’re able to do by responding next-day and working closely with the design and construction teams to gain familiarity with the project and building interior.”

IBTS’ inspections team is currently providing inspections for a new 442,000 square-foot residential building located across from Nationals Park. The team also recently finished inspections on a 750,000 square-foot “mega office” located near downtown DC.

Have questions about IBTS’ third-party plan review or inspection services? Contact IBTS Director of Building Services Paul Hancher at phancher@ibts.org .

Housing Resilience Roundtable hosted by NGA and IBTS Used as Basis for NGA White Paper on Resilient Planning & Recovery Best Practices for States

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 14:52:51 GMT

September 30, 2019 –Ashburn, VA

NGA publishes white paper issuing recommendations to help states enhance resilience to natural disasters based on housing resilience roundtable hosted in conjunction with IBTS.

The National Governors Association (NGA) issued a white paper outlining state actions to enhance preparedness for disaster, informed by perspectives from a roundtable on enhancing housing resilience that NGA hosted in January 2019 in conjunction with the Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS).

The white paper recommends state policies and actions to improve the resilience of the nation’s housing stock, including measures to build resilience into planning processes before a disaster strikes. This information is timely given the substantial increases in damages from natural disasters in recent years.

Citing specific examples from Connecticut and North Carolina, the NGA white paper outlines which measures states can take during periods of calm, in the immediate aftermath of a disaster, and once the state has recovered. The recommendations include:

During blue skies, state and local agencies should convene interagency response and recovery planning meetings to build relationships among emergency managers, grant administrators, state insurance commissioners, state and local recovery planners, community and urban planners, as well as nonprofit organizations that respond to disasters.

Before a disaster hits, building codes should be examined, updated, and enforced to ensure the most modern and protective enhancements are applied to the state’s housing stock. States should evaluate whether vulnerable populations face higher risks during disaster response and recovery.

In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, states should consider supplementing recovery programs – which are often temporary – with nonprofit organizations and local governments with experience administering federal mitigation projects and grant programs.

After the recovery program has concluded, working groups established before a disaster and during the recovery process should continue meeting to exercise muscle memory for when next disaster hits.

IBTS works with NGA, which is one of IBTS’ Board Appointing Associations, to support states with natural disaster management and resilience services . Our disaster recovery team members have over 400 years of combined CDBG-DR experience and have administered or managed over $30 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding.

Contact Texas Region Director Steve Traina at straina@ibts.org to learn more about IBTS’ natural disaster management services, and Resilience Program Manager Patrick Howell at phowell@ibts.org to learn more about IBTS’ resilience services.

Press Contact:

Karen Johnson
Market Engagement Program Director
kjohnson@ibts.org

About IBTS:

IBTS Provides Added Benefit to Communities across Louisiana with Floodplain Management

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 13:53:00 GMT

Communities enrolled in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are required to designate a floodplain manager, however finding one with experience is difficult and can be a strain on local budgets. IBTS recognized this as a problem through our work providing regional building department services to jurisdictions across Louisiana, and addressed it by adding floodplain management to our scope of services at no additional cost. In this blog post, learn what your community and IBTS can do to help improve floodplain management.

IBTS’ Louisiana Regional Office has provided statewide guidance on building codes and operated numerous building departments throughout Louisiana for over a decade, and floodplain management for almost as long.

“The reason we started providing floodplain management was to help communities that we were already contracted with as a building official that were struggling with floodplain management,” says IBTS Louisiana Branch Manager Larry Walters. “We took the stress off the community by providing them with an experienced floodplain manager to ensure properties are compliant with the ordinance.”

Floodplain managers are responsible for adopting and enforcing FEMA’s floodplain ordinance and the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for map for the community. Because most communities don’t have a staff member experienced with floodplain management but are required to have one, they often fill the position with a secretary or clerk that has little to no floodplain management experience. Although it meets the requirement, it can be detrimental to the community.

“When you don’t have experienced floodplain managers, you end up with properties not built to the regulatory ordinance or assigned to the wrong flood zone,” Walters says. “This means the homeowner and the jurisdiction are out of compliance. Not only are you putting your citizens at risk, but you and your jurisdiction are liable for covering flood losses.”

Although not all communities can have access to third-party contractors like IBTS that can provide floodplain management support, Walters offers a few simple tips to get your community’s floodplain manager on track.

Join your state floodplain managers association, and become a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) .
Know your ordinance, know how to read your maps, and know your community.
“You can’t base it all on the maps,” says Walters. “There might be properties located in a flood zone area on high land where you can claim it to be comfortably not in a flood zone area.”
Follow through with your substantial damage assessments after a flood event. Property owners who experienced over 50% damage will not want to raise their home or move, but it is an NFIP compliance requirement and also in the best interest of preventing future property damage.

Larry Walters is IBTS’ Louisiana Branch Manager. He is a Certified Floodplain Manager, a member of the Louisiana State Floodplain Manager’s Board, and was named the 2014 Floodplain Manager of the Year by the Louisiana State Floodplain Manager’s Office.

Lista de verificación de inspecciones de energía solar fotovoltaica

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 18:23:48 GMT

Descargue la lista de verificación de inspecciones solares a continuación.

Solar PV Inspections Checklist

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 17:34:51 GMT

Download the solar inpsections checklist below.

Rebuilding a More Resilient Louisiana: A Hurricane Katrina Case Study

Tue, 08 May 2018 14:52:51 GMT

When Hurricane Katrina ravaged the U.S. Gulf Coast in 2005, it caused unfathomable damage. However, much of the wind damage throughout Louisiana could have been reduced if stronger building codes were in place. This case study summarizes the lessons learned following Hurricane Katrina and the steps taken by IBTS staff to develop and maintain new building codes in order to lessen the burden of the eleven parishes most acutely affected by the hurricane.

Homes built to the new code were 65% less likely to sustain damage during hurricanes, according to a study by the Louisiana University Hurricane Center. The State no longer appears on USA Today’s Top Ten list of storm damage between 2011 and 2015. Louisiana has gained another point on the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s Rate the States and now stands at 83 for 2018 – 79 points higher than pre-Katrina.

RECONSTRUIR UNA LOUISIANA MÁS RESILIENTE: Lea sobre el Caso del Huracán Katrina

Tue, 08 May 2018 14:15:27 GMT

¿Cómo Gestionó Louisiana una Mejora tan Significativa en tan Corto Período de Tiempo?

La mayoría de Louisiana es rural y enfrentaba dificultades económicas incluso antes de los huracanes. La colaboración entre gobiernos locales fue crucial para la recuperación, adoptando un enfoque regional para cumplir con nuevas reglas. Antes de Katrina, algunos condados del sur y centro ya tenían alianzas para servicios compartidos. Después del desastre, el equipo de IBTS trabajó con estos grupos para implementar servicios compartidos de construcción en el proceso de recuperación.

Dulles Corridor Metrorail Expansion

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 14:52:51 GMT

This case study summarizes the role IBTS played in the expansion of the Washington, D.C., Metrorail into the economic hub of Northern Virginia. IBTS served as the eyes and ears for the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of General Services (DGS) to ensure quality and safety during this 10-year-long project.

Despite having never worked on a program of this magnitude before, we leveraged our prior experience and took full advantage of the extensive knowledge and flexibility of our plan review and inspection teams to make the Metrorail expansion a success. The techniques and lessons learned outlined in this case study could serve as an example for other transportation and infrastructure programs across the country.

Read the full case study here (PDF).

City of Central, Louisiana 2016 Flood

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 14:52:51 GMT

This case study summarizes the lessons learned and experiences gained by the City of Central officials and municipal services staff, and IBTS staff during the Louisiana floods in August 2016. The IBTS Central team, who are members of the Central community themselves, have performed municipal services for the city since 2011 under a nonprofit-public partnership contract. This case study also demonstrates the role this partnership played in the city’s recovery from the storm.

Flood events are presented as they unfolded, highlighting the steps that the city and IBTS took to respond to the flood and how the city is navigating the recovery process. Intermingled are commentary and observations from those who were there, offering lessons learned before, during and after the disaster.

Read the full case study here (PDF).

Solar Labeling Requirements

Tue, 16 May 2017 21:08:51 GMT

IBTS has developed a Solar Labeling Requirements guide to help during Solar PV installations and inspections. This tool is available for download by simply completing the form below.

IBTS

Request for Proposal (RFP) Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations

Request for Proposal (RFP)

Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations ﻿

Responses Due: April 10, 2026 April 24, 2024

IBTS Highlights Community-Centered Disaster Recovery, Resilience Strategies at SAME San Juan Industry Day 2026

IBTS destaca estrategias de recuperación ante desastres y resiliencia centradas en las comunidades durante el “SAME San Juan Industry Day 2026”

“Sembrando Oportunidades” Strengthens Economic Development in Puerto Rico’s Eastern Region

“Sembrando Oportunidades” impulsa el fortalecimiento del desarrollo económico de la región este del país

Community at the Center: IBTS Showcases New Model for Municipal Governance at Planning Week

Copy of IBTS’ Winning Formula for Multi-Use Stadium Construction and Renovation

IBTS’ Winning Formula for Multi-Use Stadium Construction and Renovation

How to Reduce Flood Risk and Cut Flood Insurance Costs: Top 5 Recommendations for Municipalities

Background: IBTS and City of Central Partnership

1. Appoint a Qualified Floodplain Manager

2. Strengthen Local Ordinances for New Development

3. Use GIS and Modeling Tools to Map Risk

4. Establish Long-Term Hazard Mitigation Plans

5. Limit Use of Enclosures Below Elevated Structures

Where to Start

Interested in improving your CRS rating?

Libro blanco: Participación comunitaria: la clave para el desarrollo de infraestructura sostenible

Introducción

Retos en el Desarrollo de la Infraestructura de Puerto Rico

Estrategias de participación comunitaria para facilitar el desarrollo

Implementación de un Enfoque Estratégico para el Desarrollo Comunitario

Ejemplos prácticos: Transparencia, mapeo participativo y una visión comunitaria

Community Engagement: The Key to Sustainable Infrastructure Development

Introduction

Challenges in Puerto Rico’s Infrastructure Development

Community Engagement Strategies for Facilitating Development

Implementing a Strategic Approach to Community Development

1. Establish a Deep Understanding of Key Stakeholders:

2. Conduct Early, Transparent, and Consistent Communication:

3. Engage the Local Workforce, Training, and Business Communities:

On-the-Ground Examples: Transparency, Participatory Mapping, and a Community-Led Vision

Transparency

Participatory Mapping

Community-Led Vision

IBTS Contributes to Development of Newly Approved ANSI Standards for Solar O&M and Consumer Protection

City of Central in Louisiana Achieves a Class 5 Rating from National Flood Insurance Program, Enhancing Community Safety and Reducing Insurance Premiums for Property Owners by 25%

Inspeccionando para el éxito: Deficiencias comunes en sistemas fotovoltaicos

Inspecting for Success: Common Deficiencies in Solar PV Installations

Los nuevos diseños innovadores de HUD combinan los beneficios de las viviendas prefabricadas y multifamiliares para abordar las necesidades de vivienda asequible

Según nuestro contrato, IBTS ayudó a HUD a garantizar que dos nuevos diseños de viviendas cumplan con sus estándares de calidad y seguridad.

HUD’s Innovative New Designs Combine the Benefits of Manufactured and Multi-dwelling Family Housing to Address Affordable Housing Needs

Under our contract, IBTS assisted HUD in ensuring two new home designs meet their quality and safety standards

La Organización Sin Fines de Lucro Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) Anuncia Resultados del Programa de Capacitación Laboral En Puerto Rico

Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) Announces Results of Puerto Rico Workforce Training Program

Desbloqueando las mejores prácticas en la toma de decisiones

Unlocking Best Practices in Decision-Making

PODCAST: Climate Action--What communities should be doing now for a more resilient tomorrow

Climate Action: What communities should be doing now for a more resilient tomorrow

Hablemos Sobre la IA con Relación a la Planificación y Acción del Gobierno Local

Hay mucho que discutir sobre el impacto seguro y el potencial transformador de la inteligencia artificial (IA) para el gobierno local. Pero es importante empezar a tomar medidas para establecer la visión, políticas y planes de IA de su gobierno. Aquí le mostramos cómo empezar.

Moving Beyond AI Talk to Local Government Planning and Action

There is plenty to discuss on AI’s certain impact and transformative potential for local government. But it’s important to start taking action to get your government’s AI vision, policies, and plans in place. Here’s how to get started.

IBTS presenta nuevo sitio web

El nuevo sitio se alinea con la evolución de la organización sin fines de lucro, ofrece una mejor experiencia de usuario y accesibilidad

IBTS Unveils New Website

New site aligns with the nonprofit organization’s evolution, offers enhanced user experience and accessibility

On Further Inspection: los esfuerzos de resiliencia y recuperación de Puerto Rico

Una exploración de los esfuerzos de planificación de IBTS

On Further Inspection: Puerto Rican Resilience & Recovery Efforts

An exploration of IBTS’ on-the-ground planning efforts

On Further Inspection: estándares solares

Una breve historia y el papel de IBTS en su evolución

On Further Inspection: Solar Standards

A Brief History and IBTS' Role in Their Evolution

On Further Inspection: Se acabaron los retrasos

Cómo las inspecciones por terceros benefician a las jurisdicciones

On Further Inspection Podcast: Backlogs Be Gone

How third-party inspections benefit jurisdictions

IBTS Announces 2024 and 2025 Focus Areas

The Institute

Building Services

Governance for Government

IBTS anuncia áreas de enfoque para 2024 y 2025

El Instituto

Servicios de construcción

Cloud Migration and Ongoing Cloud Operations