Current Issue: May 2026 Vol. 81 No. 5

Growing demand tied to data centers, fiber expansion, LNG infrastructure and utility construction is driving strong underground infrastructure activity across North America in 2026.

Tru Directional used suspended HDD locating technology and all-terrain drilling equipment to complete two challenging fiber bores beneath Montana’s Yellowstone River during peak spring runoff.

A proposed Alberta pipeline project aimed at expanding crude oil exports to Asia is drawing support from industry leaders while facing opposition over environmental and Indigenous concerns.

Proper solvent cement selection, environmental awareness and installation technique remain critical for reliable underground PVC, CPVC and ABS pipe systems.

Rapid AI data center growth is driving unprecedented demand for power, water, transmission and civil infrastructure projects across North America.

Mexico is working on the modernization of its power transmission and distribution network with the goal of guaranteeing electricity supply to 50 million users across the country and avoid blackouts during the soccer World Cup 2026 this summer.

(UI) - RVA LLC projects the annual deployment of fiber to the home (FTTH) in the United States will be at record levels during the next five years, with a forecast of nearly $200 billion spent. While the demand for fiber and fiber deployment is at record levels, there are some challenges and potenti..

After a devastating earthquake left 55,000 Costa Ricans without running water, one utility rethought its approach to pipeline infrastructure. Today, ESPH is replacing aging systems with resilient HDPE networks designed to withstand seismic activity, reduce leaks and deliver reliable water service for decades to come.

Major pipeline, fiber, sewer and water infrastructure developments continued across North America as utilities, contractors and regulators advanced major underground construction projects.

John Deere has introduced the MB60 Material Boom attachment, designed to improve lifting, rigging and material placement for compact equipment operators on confined job sites.

Vortex Companies is expanding its water rehabilitation platform through the acquisition of Mainlining America, while Aries Industries and Imerys announced moves aimed at growing trenchless rehabilitation capabilities and long-term wastewater infrastructure protection.

In Memorium  Joseph Castronovo, P.E., leader and pioneer in the world of water and wastewater buried pipelines, died March 20, at age 85.    He is remembered for his contributions over more than 40 years to the American society of Civil Engineering (ASCE) ..

This month's Business News roundup highlights key developments across the underground infrastructure sector, including Utility OX's platform launch, Prime Horizontal's management buyout, McElroy's OSHA SHARP certification, and Plastics Pipe Institute project award winners.

ASTM F3706 is bringing new consistency to spray-applied mortar lining projects, but successful implementation requires more than following the standard. NASSCO experts outline practical guidance for specification writing, structural design, installation and quality control in large-diameter sewer and stormwater rehabilitation projects.