Modernized facilities are a hot topic in the world of Head Start right now. After a year or more of remote work and learning, many programs now have the capacity to apply for one-time supplemental funding for facility activities. These resources can then be used for allowable expenditures related to new construction, acquisition, or major renovations to a Head Start facility. Receiving funding for these projects creates an amazing opportunity for grant recipients to improve the environment and community for children and staff alike. However, there are well-known challenges and additional requirements related to the cost of construction that you should be aware of before you apply for funding.
Construction Struggles
Congratulations, you’ve decided to apply for funding for a Head Start facilities project. We hope you have a detailed plan in place with a backup plan and probably even a Plan C. Material shortages and supply chain constraints will be creating headaches for you throughout the entire process.
Material shortages will likely cause each step in the construction process to take longer than anticipated and will also increase the cost of the project. You may end up considering sub-par materials in order to meet deadlines that you thought you would be able to meet.
Supply chain constraints have been a topic of conversation for quite some time now, beginning during the Covid-19 pandemic. These constraints will cause delays in shipments of materials required to complete the construction of your new building. You may have to pay for alternative shipping methods that are faster, costing more, or are slower, which will delay the construction.
What It Means For You
When you submit your application for a new building or renovation, you’ll need to include timelines and cost projections. Due to these shortages and constraints, the cost of materials and services continues to increase, impacting budgets. Material costs also seem to be fluctuating faster than normal right now, so keep an eye out for changing prices.
The timeline for construction will also likely be longer than you might think. As we mentioned above, supply chain constraints are causing major delays in shipments, which will extend the duration of the construction or renovation. This is why diligent planning is required and should be ready before the application for funding is even started. Be sure to take into consideration the current conditions of the construction industry. You may face serious consequences if you fail to meet your financial reporting requirements.
If you need assistance with your Head Start facilities application (1303 application) or you simply have questions about the process or documents required, please schedule a free 30-minute conversation with Shelby
HERE.
