Construction Workers Essential to Fighting California’s Housing Crisis

Before the coronavirus pandemic hit, the housing industry was facing a different kind of crisis: the housing shortage. And although the virus has unearthed more immediate issues, the lack of both general inventory and affordable housing options remains, especially in California which has historically struggled with housing costs. Despite setbacks, construction workers are on the job in the Golden State as they work to provide critical inventory. Demand for housing is down, but California builders say that it is still there, and by continuing to build, there will be more inventory for when the country comes out on the other side of the pandemic.

There was a steady whir of construction on Monday at the Folsom Ranch subdivision, where about 40 workers sawed lumber, applied stucco, hauled mulch and added other final touches to new homes near Highway 50.

Contractors supplied workers more soap and hand sanitizer and asked crews to wash their hands multiple times a day.

“Social distancing. We’ve really preached that. Washing their hands throughout the day. Being mindful of everything that you’re doing,” said John Hedge, the general superintendent with framing contractor Timberworks construction, who oversees 41 job sites in the Sacramento area.

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