Impact of COVID-19 on Construction Project Performance in the US

Abstract

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which was declared as a global health emergency by World Health Organization (WHO) had a profound impact on the construction industry. The disruptions created due to the shutdown of construction projects, manufacturing facilities, and major international transportation hubs because of the pandemic impacted the construction industry which is still unfolding. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of COVID-19 on construction project performance using metrics previously established by the Construction Industry Institute (CII). Data was collected through surveys from construction professionals in the US across various sectors of the industry provided valuable insights about the immediate impact of COVID-19 on project performance. Project performance was measured in terms of the CII’s five metrics: cost, schedule, rework, changes, and safety. Out of them, cost, schedule, and changes were significantly impacted due to the pandemic. The survey responses also revealed the measures adopted by companies to abate the effects of COVID-19 on project performance and the steps taken to enhance project performance during this period.