Rural Infrastructure Boost: USDA Rural Development announced about $78.6M for northern Minnesota projects, including upgrades to Bemidji’s Fire Station #1 to improve firefighter readiness and emergency services. Housing & Urban Reuse: Massachusetts’ Lowell is converting a historic “five-and-dime” building into market-rate rentals with retail, while Bavaria launches “Leerstand jetzt WOHNEN” to turn vacant offices and shops into affordable apartments. Construction Disruptions & Safety: A BRT bridge under construction collapsed in Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal, killing a security guard and prompting road closures; in Nepal, a prison building in Mugu sits unused 12 years after completion due to missing security posts and fencing. Policy & Planning: Vietnam’s new Urban Development Law took effect, enabling special mechanisms for special-class cities and special economic zones; Scotland’s Passivhaus Equivalent policy faces industry consultation as architects push for streamlined compliance. Industry Moves: Nemetschek signed a strategic deal with the Saudi Green Building Alliance to advance digital, sustainable building practices. Tech for Built Work: KONE will install People Flow solutions for Dubai’s Burj Azizi, targeting ultra-long elevator travel in a 725m tower.