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HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | APRIL 21, 2025 25 Speed is Strategy. Plan Smarter, Build Faster, Win Early. SPONSORED CONTENT F or businesses operating out of a new physical location, getting the lights on, doors open and the registers ringing or machines humming is a high priority and an essential measure of success. How can business owners ensure their Capex construction projects will run smoothly and efficiently to meet their deadlines? And what can be done when accelerating the construction clock presents a strategic opportunity for the owner not typically recognized on a conventional construction timeline? Accelerate Construction Timelines without Sacrificing Quality: Accelerating the timeline for a construction project requires clear and frequent communication with an accessible owner, an experienced construction team, expert trade partners, and the flexibility and financial agility to move decisively. Owners considering an accelerated construction project should proactively assemble their team early, ensuring alignment among the architect, construction manager, and key consultants to eliminate disconnects and streamline decisions. Financing must be secured, with cash flow structured to support fast procurement, particularly for long lead materials and equipment. Design-build delivery methods can enhance speed and collaboration, while pre-engineered metal buildings, like Butler buildings, can offer efficient, cost-effective solutions for projects like manufacturing, warehouse, industrial, automotive, and storage. Finding the right team: A construction manager who is well-suited for an accelerated project will have experience in both the project type and size. ey will have a proven track record of success in the area, demonstrating familiarity with building codes, local officials, and strong relationships with qualified local trade-partners (subcontractors). ey will provide owners with a single point of contact for the duration of the project and will manage the jobsite with a dedicated superintendent focused solely on the success of that project, overseeing safety, quality, speed and efficiency. Utilizing best in class tools like Procore, they will ensure communication and transparency, giving the owner visibility into daily construction progress. Finally, they will bring a creative and thoughtful approach to challenges, asking "What are our options?", "What if…?", and "Is there a better way?" Real-World Results: A Case Study Snapshot In late January of 2024, Fortunato Construction Group was bidding on its third project for BUDR Cannabis – a conversion of an existing 1,800 sq ft retail space in Tolland, CT. e project was initially bid with a ten-week construction timeline, however, the client learned of an opportunity to save significantly on their conversion fee if the project could be completed and have a DCP license by March 10th – essentially cutting the timeline in half. Initially, many saw impossibility. But for Lindsey Fortunato, President of Fortunato Construction Group, it was never a question of if it could be done, but how it could be done. Success would require effective planning, clear communication, strong leadership, collaboration, and the ability to pivot when necessary. Fortunato Construction Group was up for the challenge. By the following Tuesday, February 6th, construction began. With a schedule condensed from 10 weeks to 4, consistent and clear communication with subcontractors was critical, and all agreed to the new schedule. Additionally, "meeting with the building official at the start of construction was crucial, as it allowed us to present our phased approach and understand his expectations at each stage to ensure approval throughout the process," Fortunato recalls. Variations were made to the original plan to meet the tight schedule, including redesigning the ceiling layout in conjunction with the HVAC distribution and sprinkler system, and securing a much earlier delivery date for the store's vault–a vital component to keeping the project on the expedited track. Fortunato reorganized the project's critical path to accommodate the just-in-time delivery. From demolition to final cleaning, each phase was accelerated yet properly executed. e project was completed and DCP license in hand by March 7th – exceeding expectations in just four short weeks. Lindsey Fortunato recognized the project as "not just a success, but a testament to what trust, teamwork and tenacity can achieve." Construction Speed as Strategic Advantage: Ultimately, speed in construction is a strategic advantage—not just a scheduling goal. It demands intentional planning, the right team, and financial flexibility to seize opportunities and address challenges. When executed well, an accelerated construction timeline doesn't just save time—it positions your business to capitalize on market opportunities, reduce operational downtime, and get ahead of your competition. FortunatoConstruction.com Lindsey Fortunato