Plain English with Derek Thompson Why Is It So Expensive to Build Stuff in America?
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Sep 12, 2023 
Join Brian Potter, author of 'Construction Physics,' as he unpacks the escalating costs of building in America. He reveals how construction times have dramatically increased due to complex regulations, particularly in urban settings like New York City. The conversation dives into the decline of mobile homes and innovations like 'super trees' that could transform lumber quality. Potter also discusses the challenges facing drywall production and the potential of factory-built homes to reshape the housing landscape.
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The Great Slowdown
- The U.S. builds essential infrastructure like transit, highways, and energy systems slower than it used to.
- This slowdown contributes to affordability crises in healthcare, housing, and education.
Rules, Regulations, and the Lack of Innovation
- Construction in the U.S. has become slower due to increasing rules and regulations.
- There haven't been enough technological advancements to offset these added burdens.
Empire State vs. One World Trade
- The Empire State Building, built in about a year, exemplifies fast construction.
- Modern skyscrapers like One World Trade Center take six to eight times longer.