Noticiero Movil

Photo of demolished Union Sundance.Construction, (and demolition) continues in Reno, including here on the corner of 9th and N. Virginia Streets because the jobs in the industry are essential to maintain, said NV Gov. Sisolak. Credit: Claudia Cruz

Construction workers continue to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite possibility of contagion

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Three construction workers at the Resort World Las Vegas project have tested positive for the coronavirus as did a laborer assigned to the construction of Allegiant Stadium, the new home of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Even though COVID-19 cases in Nevada continue to steadily increase, progress on the construction of Allegiant Stadium has not come to a halt and plans are still on to open the stadium this August. And while there may not be an NFL stadium or new hotel being built in Reno, construction has not come to a stop in Washoe County either making some folks wonder why.

At a press conference this Wednesday, Sisolak reiterated that construction, mining, and manufacturing are staying open because he believes it is going to help with this economy, as these essential businesses employ a lot of people.

“Right now I’ve got a quarter of a million people that filed for unemployment,” he said. “I don’t want another 100,000 or more filing for unemployment.” 

Sisolak added that essential businesses will be provided with personal protective equipment (PPE). As of April 8, Nevada had distributed 47,550 gallons [of hand sanitizer], 253,640 gloves, 803 coveralls, 715,701 N95 masks, 314,500 surgical masks, and 46,848 shields.

DH Construction serves residential and commercial projects in need of restoration in Reno and Sacramento, employing over 50 workers. DH Construction is still at work during the pandemic.

“To date, we are considered essential and continuing operations. This could change depending on government mandates,” said Robert King, vice president of DH Construction. Only approved companies are allowed to operate for the next several weeks after Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak ordered the closure all of non-essential businesses.

According to King, DH Construction is taking the proper procedures to ensure the most precaution possible during the pandemic.

“We have concerns for the safety of our employees and customers. We would feel terrible if one of our employees contracted the virus or if one of our customers did also. We are enforcing our employees to keep a 6 foot distance from each other and are not working in homes occupied by homeowners. Safety is our biggest concern. Any employee that does not feel comfortable working in these conditions are encouraged to let us know and do not have to work.” said King. 

Despite some new restrictions and challenges obtaining supplies and restrictions — “every day seems to bring a new challenge,” King said — DH Construction has enough local projects to keep everyone working in this economic downturn. “We feel this is a benefit for everyone.” –CC