Inside the Biggest P3 Project in US

MIAMI—If you've ever traveled through Orlando on Interstate 4, you understand the frustration—especially during rush hour. A public private partnership between the State of Florida and Skanska is working to alleviate that frustration.

GlobeSt.com caught up with Fred Hames, general manager and executive vice president of Florida at Skanska, to get his insights on the project, as well as the construction industry in Florida, in part two of this exclusive interview. You can still read part one: What Makes a Successful P3.

GlobeSt.com: Interstate 4 Ultimate in Orlando is one of the most complex infrastructure projects in the country. What makes this project so intricate and important to Central Florida? 

Hames: The I-4 Ultimate project is a massive undertaking—the biggest P3 underway in the US right now. The reconfiguration of I-4 is an effort to improve the quality of life and the safety of residents, while giving Central Florida a competitive edge when it comes to attracting new businesses and economic growth to the region.

Florida is unique because it has several different geographic hubs, including South Florida, Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville and Jacksonville. The state understands the importance of connecting these populations and business centers, and that's ultimately why the I-4 project won approval.

GlobeSt.com: The construction industry is on fire across Florida, as a builder what benefits and challenges does it pose? 

Hames: While much has been reported about the surging residential market in cities across the State, we focus on infrastructure projects and are largely insulated from the ups and downs of housing cycles. Fortunately for our business, population growth creates heightened demand for roads, schools, hospitals and airports—sectors where Skanska has expertise.

We feel the effects of an active market on the hiring side. The sheer number of construction projects underway can lead to a “war on talent,” as our competitors take on new residential assignments. We place an emphasis on finding talented people who are looking for a great place to work and get excited about the idea of building innovative projects that enhance the state's quality of life. 

GlobeSt.com: What Florida markets is Skanska targeting for expansion over the next two to three years?

Hames: We see tremendous potential for further growing our business and presence in markets like Southwest Florida, Gainesville and Tallahassee. We're already working on an increasing number of sophisticated projects in these areas, and that spells opportunity for Skanska.

Because we have had a presence in these communities for years, we feel that we're in a strong position to win additional new projects. In terms of specific industries, we'll continue to grow our healthcare and higher education business lines across the State.