Winter/Spring 2026 Issue
Winter/Spring 2026 Issue of Connecticut Builder Magazine
The Winter/Spring 2026 issue of Connecticut Builder arrives at a pivotal moment for the state’s construction industry, offering a deep dive into the legislative and economic forces shaping our skyline. This edition features comprehensive coverage of our recent Developers Forums, including expert legal analysis of land use under HB 8002 from Attorneys Andrea Gomes and Tim Hollister, as well as high-level policy discussions with House Majority Leader Jason Rojas. Complementing these policy updates, Sean Ryan of National Lumber provides a sobering yet optimistic look at the "return of discipline," exploring how professional builders are successfully navigating a post-cheap-money environment by prioritizing margin and intentional design.
Managing risk and volatility remains a core theme in this issue. Frank Sanford of Sanford & Hawley delivers a critical Lumber Market Update, tracking the recent eight-week rise in SPF and the stabilization of Douglas Fir and OSB to help your team refine its 2026 estimating. Furthermore, Kim Marie DiMatteo breaks down the escalating financial impact of workplace injuries, detailing how high-severity claims—particularly from falls and overexertion—directly influence your company’s EMR and long-term insurance premiums.
Beyond the numbers, we celebrate the vibrant community and craftsmanship that define the HBRA. Inside, you’ll find a retrospective of the 2025 Parade of Homes, showcasing 15 of Connecticut’s finest new residences, and a recap of the HBRA Charitable Foundation’s record-breaking biennial auction, which raised over $115,000 for local scholarships and programs. From technical mastery to community impact, this issue serves as an essential toolkit for every Connecticut building professional.
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