Client / Owner: State University Construction Fund (SUCF)
Architect: Holt Architects
Location: Cortland, NY
Completion Date: June 2010
Construction of a single/three-floor addition to the existing SUNY Cortland New School of Education to include Integrated Child Care; renovations to two floors of the existing building; and sitework utilities and improvements. Work includes concrete foundations, structural steel, brick, cast stone, metal studs, drywall, doors, frames, hardware, aluminum windows and curtainwall, metal panels, elevators, casework, flooring, ceramic tile, painting, plumbing, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, electrical, fire protection, asbestos abatement, and playground equipment.
Client / Owner: SUNY Oneonta
Architect: Thaler Reilly Wilson Architecture & Preservation
Location: Oneonta, NY
Completion Date: August 2023
This project is located on the SUNY Oneonta Campus and transformed the building into a state-of-the-art center for learning, meeting, and innovation. The renovation is SUNY Oneonta’s first major investment in reducing its carbon footprint using 39 geothermal wells housed beneath the parking lot. The extensive project which began in 2021 renovated the original building constructed in 1958. The 41,000 square foot project included classrooms, offices and meeting spaces for students, staff, and alumni. Highlights include a stock trading simulation room, a student entrepreneurial space, small group rooms, lounge study areas and a large conference room.
Work included asbestos abatement and demolition, new electrical and mechanical systems, drywall, metal studs, doors, frames and hardware, acoustical ceilings, painting, new flooring, and a new elevator. Exterior improvements included new sight lighting, sidewalks, parking lot, and vehicle charging stations.
As of February 28, 2025 SUNY Oneonta’s Alumni Hall earned LEED Platinum certification – the highest level of recognition award by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
As a commercial property owner, facility manager, or developer, you’re responsible for ensuring that every construction decision maximizes long-term value. Whether you’re building from the ground up, renovating an existing space, or maintaining commercial properties, the temptation to accept the lowest bid is strong. But is that initial cost savings worth the risk?
It’s an all-too-common scenario: A project is awarded to the contractor with the cheapest price tag, but soon enough, unexpected expenses start piling up—shoddy workmanship, material failures, and change orders that blow the budget. What seemed like a smart financial decision turned into a costly mistake.
At Fahs Construction, we’ve witnessed the real cost of cutting corners. Choosing a contractor solely based on price can lead to hidden risks that jeopardize project timelines, quality, and your reputation. Let’s break down why prioritizing quality over the lowest bid is not just a good decision—it’s essential.
The Real Costs of the Lowest Bid
1. The High Price of Rework
Construction defects and rework account for up to 30% of project costs, according to industry studies. That’s thousands—sometimes millions—of dollars spent fixing mistakes that could have been avoided with better craftsmanship and planning. (Source)
2. Delays That Kill Your ROI
A low-bid contractor may cut corners on labor, scheduling, or materials, leading to project delays that extend completion timelines by an average of 9.8%. Every day lost in construction means lost revenue, frustrated tenants, and increased carrying costs. (Source)
3. Poor Quality = Higher Maintenance Costs
Buildings constructed with inferior materials or rushed labor can result in maintenance costs that are 50% higher over the first ten years of occupancy. Saving money upfront can cost exponentially more in repairs, legal disputes, and dissatisfied tenants down the line.
4. Reputation Risk and Liability
No property owner or facility manager wants to be known for faulty buildings or unsafe conditions. Poor construction quality leads to safety hazards, lawsuits, and compliance failures—damaging your credibility and making future projects harder to sell or lease.
Breaking the Low-Bid Cycle: What to Look For
If the lowest bid isn’t always the best bid, what should owners, managers, and developers prioritize?
- Experience & Track Record – Choose contractors with proven success in your project type.
- Material Quality – Verify that the bid includes durable, long-lasting materials, not just the cheapest option.
- Scope Clarity – Ensure the contract outlines clear deliverables to avoid costly change orders.
- Reliable Subcontractors – A contractor is only as good as their team. Are they using trusted, skilled professionals?
Fahs Construction: Building Value That Lasts
At Fahs Construction, we don’t just build structures—we build long-term partnerships based on trust, quality, and reliability. We work with developers, owners, and facility managers who understand that investing in quality upfront leads to fewer headaches, faster completions, and higher ROI.
The lowest bid might look good today, but the true cost of poor construction can haunt your project for years. Are you ready to invest in quality? Let’s talk about how we can help bring your vision to life—with durability, precision, and cost-efficiency that pays off in the long run.
Owner: NYS Office of Mental Health
Architect: Architecture+
Location: Syracuse, NY
Completion Date: August 2018
Delivering Excellence in Mental Healthcare Facility Construction
Fahs Construction Group successfully completed a comprehensive renovation and expansion of Building 1 for the New York State Office of Mental Health, reinforcing our expertise in delivering secure, high-quality, and patient-centered healthcare environments.
The project included:
Structural Enhancements & Expansions
- Two new additions seamlessly integrated into the existing facility, along with tie-in work to Buildings 15, 17, and 8.
- Durable, high-security construction featuring a structural concrete foundation, steel framing, and a resilient exterior of block, brick, storefronts, and curtain wall systems.
- Roofing upgrades with a complete EPDM roof replacement and a new standing seam metal roof, ensuring long-term durability.
Specialized Interior Renovations for Patient Care
- Asbestos abatement and full window replacements to enhance environmental safety and energy efficiency.
- Secure and therapeutic interior upgrades, including:
- Metal stud and drywall construction for enhanced durability.
- New security doors, frames, and high-grade security hardware to support patient and staff safety.
- Acoustical ceilings, epoxy flooring, resilient and carpet flooring, ceramic tile, and millwork, creating a comfortable and functional space for patient care.
- Security toilet accessories designed to meet the stringent safety requirements of mental health facilities.
Site & Exterior Upgrades for Safety & Accessibility
- New sidewalks, railings, and storm drainage systems to improve accessibility and site functionality.
- Perimeter security enhancements, including security fencing for patient and staff protection.
- Aesthetically and structurally resilient exterior improvements featuring Trespa and metal wall panels.
Owner: City of Binghamton
Architect: Keystone Associates
Location: Binghamton, NY
Completion Date: 2022
Fahs Construction served as the general contractor for this multi-prime project and state-of-the-art facility, which houses fire and EMS services with a modern drive-through design.
Scope of Work:
Fahs Self-performed work included:
Sitework: Grading, stormwater retention system, and paving.
Concrete: Foundations, stamped concrete, radiant-heated garage slabs with epoxy finish and trench drains.
Installations: Doors, hardware, fiberglass windows, entrance mats, and flagpole.
Finishes: Concrete sealer for durability.
Challenges & Solutions:
Built during the COVID-19 pandemic, Fahs overcame supply chain delays, labor shortages, and safety concerns by securing alternative suppliers, maintaining a safe work environment, and adapting timelines to stay on track.
Key Features:
Drive-through design for efficient operations. Sustainable stormwater system and durable finishes. Functional training center to conduct comprehensive training programs.
Results:
The project was delivered successfully, meeting the city’s needs for a cutting-edge emergency services facility.
Client / Owner: Hartwick College
Architect: The Collaborative
Location: Oneonta, NY
Completion Date: May 2017
Fahs Construction Group was proud to contribute to the transformative Hartwick College Campus Site Improvement Project, designed by The Collaborative, to enhance safety, accessibility, and aesthetics for students and faculty. This project addressed a critical need for a safe and visually appealing central walking path, connecting West Street to the heart of campus.
Our sitework played a pivotal role in solving longstanding issues with accessibility and infrastructure. By relocating the existing water service and installing over 8,000 linear feet of conduit and 900 linear feet of waterline, Fahs ensured the new walkway could be implemented seamlessly while improving utility systems to meet campus needs.
Highlights of the work completed by Fahs Construction Group include:
- Retaining Walls and Stairs: Installed 15 retaining walls and six concrete multiple-landing stairways with stainless steel handrails, creating safe and durable elevation transitions.
- Walkways and Pavers: Constructed 1,500 linear feet of concrete and brick paver walkways, providing smooth, safe paths for pedestrian travel.
- Landscaping and Lighting: Added new lighted entrance signs, pole lights, accent rope lighting, and 28 tree lights, improving campus safety and visibility at all hours.
- Materials and Craftsmanship: Used 910 linear feet of granite curb, 800 cubic yards of concrete for walkways, 790 cubic yards of concrete for footers and walls, 8,000 square feet of pavers, 7,000 square feet of brick veneer for retaining walls, and 200 linear feet of blue stone for a seating wall.
This project transformed the campus environment, providing a safer and more welcoming space for students, faculty, and visitors while maintaining the college’s beautiful aesthetic. The Hartwick College Campus Site Improvement Project stands as a testament to Fahs Construction Group’s ability to deliver complex sitework solutions that address real-world challenges and enhance community spaces.
Client / Owner: Binghamton University
Location: Vestal, NY
Completion Date: June 2015
Fahs Construction Group was contracted to perform the site work for the Binghamton University Energy R&D Building, a 105,000-square-foot facility completed in August 2017 (site work completed in 2025).
The project encompassed several critical components:
- Site Excavation: Comprehensive excavation to prepare the foundation for the new structure.
- Storm and Sanitary Structures: Installation of essential stormwater and sanitary systems to manage wastewater and runoff effectively.
- Drainage System: Development of a robust drainage infrastructure to prevent water accumulation and ensure site stability.
The site work was meticulously phased to minimize disruption to university operations, with scheduling and coordination given the highest priority to deliver a quality product. This foundational work was crucial in supporting the building’s unique structural elements, including curved, round, hollow structural steel members designed to resemble tree branches.
Client / Owner: SUNY Oneonta
Architect: Beardsley Architects + Engineers
Location: Oneonta, NY
Completion Date: September 2024
Fahs Construction Group completed the demolition and reconstruction of a 60-year-old retaining wall and adjacent stairs at Lee Hall, ensuring the structural integrity of the site and meeting the client’s long-term goals for safety and accessibility. The project was critical to modernizing the area while addressing significant wear and tear over decades.
Challenges: During demolition, the team encountered unexpected obstacles, including an unforeseen duct bank running through the retaining wall, which required careful handling to avoid impacting utility services. Additionally, the project took place during a particularly wet summer, presenting difficulties with maintaining timelines and ensuring the worksite remained safe and functional.
Results: Despite these challenges, Fahs Construction Group adapted swiftly, minimizing delays and successfully delivering a high-quality reconstruction that met all structural and aesthetic goals. The new retaining wall and stairs provide improved safety, accessibility, and durability, contributing to the long-term value of the property. This project exemplifies the firm’s ability to manage unforeseen complications while maintaining quality and adherence to project timelines.
General Contractor: Purcell Construction
Location: Ithaca, NY
Completion Date: May 2019
Located at the east end of The Commons in Ithaca, NY, the Ithaca City Centre project required extensive and precise sitework to lay the groundwork for this innovative, energy-efficient mixed-use facility. As a subcontractor, Fahs
Construction Group delivered comprehensive site services critical to the project’s success, including:
- Mass Excavation & Foundations: Executed large-scale earthmoving for mat slabs, foundations, and elevator pits, ensuring structural integrity.
- Shoring Installation: Deployed soldier piles and lagging shoring for secure foundation construction in challenging conditions.
- Utility Integration: Relocated utilities and installed sewer piping to meet advanced infrastructure needs.
- Stormwater Management: Designed and implemented drainage systems to ensure efficient water control and compliance with environmental standards.
- Concrete Work: Delivered sidewalks, curbing, stairs, and robust concrete foundations with precision and quality.
By leveraging top-of-line equipment and experienced crews, Fahs successfully navigated the site’s complexities and energy compliance standards, supporting the project’s emphasis on sustainable building practices. From excavation to finishing touches, Fahs set the stage for a future-ready development in the heart of Ithaca.
As the year comes to a close, the construction and real estate industries enter a season of critical tasks. From tight deadlines to holiday-related disruptions, every stakeholder—commercial property managers, real estate developers, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers—faces unique challenges. With over 75 years of experience navigating winter seasons and holiday demands, general contractors like Fahs Construction Group are uniquely positioned to offset these concerns through expertise, preplanning, and dependable execution.
For Commercial Property Managers
Common Challenges: Budget planning, tenant retention, heavy foot traffic, and ensuring properties remain functional and presentable during the holiday season.
Industry Solutions: During the holidays, commercial properties experience increased demands, from bustling tenant activity to urgent maintenance needs. Fahs mitigates these pressures by ensuring year-end projects are completed efficiently and on time, minimizing disruptions for tenants. With proactive communication and expert coordination of subcontractors, we help property managers navigate these busy months with confidence.
For Commercial Real Estate Developers
Common Challenges: Meeting year-end project deadlines, securing permits, and planning for critical upcoming projects while managing weather disruptions.
Industry Solutions: Fahs understands the importance of aligning construction timelines with developers’ financial and operational goals. Our experience with year-end project crunches ensures deadlines are met despite challenges like winter weather or reduced labor availability during the holidays. By efficiently coordinating resources and supporting developers through complex project phases, we help them hit key milestones without compromise.
For Architects & Engineers
Common Challenges: Tight design deadlines, last-minute client revisions, and compliance with updated regulations in the new year.
Industry Solutions: End-of-year projects often come with intense time pressures, especially as clients rush to finalize designs. Fahs’ collaborative approach and extensive experience in winter-season construction enable us to adapt quickly to revisions while maintaining compliance. We leverage tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) to ensure seamless integration of design and execution, even under tight deadlines.
For Construction Firms
Common Challenges: Weather-related delays, reduced labor availability due to holiday travel or illness, and ensuring smooth transitions into the new year.
Industry Solutions: With over seven decades of experience managing winter-weather impacts, Fahs excels at preplanning for potential delays and resource shortages. Our advanced scheduling practices and strong subcontractor relationships ensure that projects stay on track, even when labor resources are stretched thin. Year-end reviews provide valuable insights to refine processes for the coming year.
For Subcontractors & Suppliers
Common Challenges: Managing year-end inventory, ensuring timely deliveries despite weather disruptions, and navigating payment schedules during the holidays.
Industry Solutions: Fahs’ reputation for clear communication and timely payments helps subcontractors and suppliers maintain stability during a demanding season. By providing detailed project forecasts and preordering materials when needed, we reduce the risk of inventory shortages and delivery delays, ensuring smooth operations for all parties involved.
Conclusion
The holiday season and year-end bring unique challenges across the construction and real estate industries. Fahs Construction Group’s 75+ years of experience, combined with proactive planning and a commitment to excellence, ensures stakeholders can navigate this demanding period with confidence. Let us help you lay the groundwork for success in the year ahead!
