Build with Strength, a coalition of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association consisting of fire service professionals, architects, engineers and industry experts committed to enacting safer and more sustainable building standards, is pleased to welcome the New England Concrete Manufacturers Association as the newest member of the coalition. The organization is just one of many advocates calling on cities and municipalities to enact stronger building codes.
“It is time we address safety, sustainability, and efficiency through updated, commonsense building and fire safety codes in the Commonwealth and throughout New England,” says Dave Dimmick, Executive Director of the New England Concrete Manufacturers Association. “In joining Build with Strength, we are hopeful our cities and towns will soon be home to structures that will not only stand the test of time, but will make the well-being of residents a top concern.”
Over the last few months, New England has been the site of a number of large, wood-framed building fires, including in Weymouth, Mass.; Waltham, Mass.; Dorchester, Mass.; Lawrence, Mass.; Lowell, Mass.; and Waterbury, Conn. In response, a number of communities have raised concerns with the use of vulnerable construction methods, namely the Waltham City Council, which voted unanimously to call on the Commonwealth to tighten restrictions on wood-framed buildings.
“The New England Concrete Manufacturers Association’s addition to Build with Strength demonstrates the desire for those living in the Commonwealth to tackle growing concerns with fire safety and the use of combustible building materials,” says Kevin Lawlor, a spokesperson for Build with Strength. “We are willing to do whatever it takes to work with local fire officials and community organizations in order to create a more resilient country.”
As the prevalence of these fires draws increasing attention nationwide, Build with Strength will continue to look for ways to develop stronger building codes and work with local and state lawmakers to implement changes, as needed.
Learn more at www.buildwithstrength.com.
