For nearly a century, planners, politicians, and developers have dreamed of a bridge (or tunnel) connecting Connecticut and Long Island. The latest plan, led by Easton developer Stephen Shapiro, envisions a 14-mile bridge from Bridgeport, CT to Suffolk County, NY. Supporters say it could revolutionize regional transportation and generate billions in revenue, while critics warn of severe ecological disruption.

Continue reading “Visionary Shortcut or Environmental Gamble?”

The United States construction industry is anchored in an intricate supply chain encompassing locally sourced raw materials, international trade, and global market dynamics. While many essential building components—such as aggregates, cement, and steel—are produced domestically, the supply chain also heavily relies on strategic imports. This article presents an academic yet accessible overview of which construction materials originate in the U.S., which are exported, and which are imported—and why these trade patterns matter for industry resilience and policymaking.

Continue reading “Construction Materials: Domestic Production, Imports, and Exports”

The architectural design of a wind turbine is a careful balance of engineering and efficiency. Most commercial-scale turbines use a three-bladed rotor mounted on a tall tubular steel tower. The tower’s height is crucial, as wind speeds increase significantly with altitude. The blades themselves are designed as airfoils, similar to an airplane wing, using lift and drag to create rotational force.

Continue reading “Understanding the Architecture and Construction of Wind Turbines”

John Caravella of The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. was invited to contribute to the September issue of the Nassau County Bar Association’s newsletter on his thoughts and comments surrounding unethical practices in Solar Energy Warranties. To read the full article, please visit the Nassau County Bar Association here.

Continue reading “Legal Loopholes Foster Unethical Practices in Solar Energy Warranties”

For centuries, humanity has strived to build structures that offer shelter, security, and beauty. Yet, the history of construction is also a narrative of evolving understanding, where materials once considered innovative or benign later revealed themselves to be deeply hazardous. From the Industrial Revolution to the present day, our homes and workplaces have been constructed using a fascinating, and sometimes frightening, array of substances. Today, a growing awareness of these historical pitfalls is driving the demand for “clean construction” – a commitment to healthier, more sustainable building practices.

Continue reading “Building Hazards through the Ages”