Recent Articles from Malcolm Berko
Portland’s ‘Big Pink’ tower hits market amid office slump
The iconic U.S. Bancorp Tower is for sale as downtown Portland struggles with high vacancy rates and falling property values following the pandemic.
Amber Kelel | Systems West Engineers
Amber Kelel has been named chief strategy officer by Systems West Engineers.
Andrew Reyes | Systems West Engineers
Andrew Reyes has been promoted to commissioning project manager by Systems West Engineers.
Brian Barks | Systems West Engineers
Brian Barks has been promoted to director of industry relations by Systems West Engineers.
Studson navigates China tariffs amid rapid expansion
Studson Inc. is managing steep tariffs while settling into its new headquarters in Sherwood. The company offers made-in-China products for the construction industry.
$6.4 million in top bidders | May 16, 2025
The city of Seattle has awarded a $4.2 million contract for repairs to four segments of sewer pipes.
Addressing wage theft issues in the construction industry | Opinion
Staffing issues have resulted in a massive backlog of active wage complaints. In response, Gov. Kotek recently proposed increasing BOLI’s budget by about $20 million.
LMC Construction: Colonia Libertad 1 Rehab Project
This is an occupied phased renovation -The existing site consists of 9 existing buildings with 48 dwelling units (mix of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom units), community support spaces, associated parking, open spaces and site infrastructure.
Howard S. Wright Constructors: University of Oregon NE Portland Campus Gymnasium Accessibility, Restroom, and Lobby Improvements
University of Oregon NE Portland Campus Gymnasium Accessibility, Restroom, and Lobby Improvements
Louisiana coastline mitigation project halted over hidden report
Gov. Jeff Landry has accused his predecessor of withholding from the public a key study as the estimated $2.92 billion project faces permit suspension and legal scrutiny.
Understanding contractual remedies and principles in uncertain times | Opinion
Having a basic understanding of contractual and legal lexicon relevant to the various doctrines that may excuse or modify a party’s performance obligation is critical.
Washington caps rent hikes in bid to curb homelessness
Washington sets rent increase limits under new law, joining Oregon and California in stabilizing housing to combat homelessness and protect tenants.
News
- $960,000 office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 10, 2026
- Two projects in historic districts in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 10, 2026
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
Commentary
- Expecting a big bang but witnessing only a whimper | Opinion
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization — the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion

















