Construction scheduling software review and Chicago traffic changes

How to choose and what to expect

Choosing the right scheduling software can significantly boost efficiency and results on a project. Prospective buyers should weigh features such as Gantt charts for visual timelines, real-time collaboration, mobile accessibility, budgeting tools, resource management, and task management. Other considerations include customizable workflows, automation, and how well a platform scales with project size and budget. The best fit depends on the project’s scale, budget, and team size. In practice, Procore is often favored by medium-to-large companies, Buildertrend by residential contractors, and Smartsheet by teams preferring a flexible spreadsheet-like format.

ProjectManager

ProjectManager is described as a robust online project management tool designed to organize tasks, costs, and resources efficiently. It includes a Gantt chart for visualizing timelines and supports real-time resource scheduling to manage labor and materials. The platform emphasizes collaboration by granting shared access to plans and updates. A 30-day free trial is offered to new users, positioning the product as a straightforward option for teams seeking to streamline project management and boost overall efficiency.

Procore

Procore is described as a comprehensive construction management platform that integrates scheduling with financial management tools. It is geared toward medium to large projects and offers a user-friendly scheduling interface with multiple views, including Gantt charts and calendars. Real-time updates help keep teams aligned on progress, while robust reporting supports budget and resource monitoring. Notably, Procore does not offer a free version, which is a consideration for teams weighing initial costs against long-term capabilities. The platform’s extensive features make it a solid choice for organizations seeking a full-suite builder scheduling software solution and extensive resource management.

Buildertrend

Buildertrend is a cloud-based construction management tool that targets residential contractors. It provides capabilities for builder scheduling, project budgeting, and client communication, with a strong emphasis on real-time collaboration via a mobile app for on-site updates. It also supports lead management to help convert prospects into active projects and integrates with popular accounting systems such as QuickBooks. Pricing starts at $499 per month, and the product is presented as well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses aiming to improve project efficiency and contractor-client communications.

CoConstruct

CoConstruct is tailored to custom home builders and remodelers, combining project management, budgeting, and client communication in one platform. It offers mobile access for on-site updates and integrates with QuickBooks for financial management. Reported as relatively expensive with limited third‑party integrations, CoConstruct has three pricing tiers—Basic at $299 per month, Standard at $399 per month, and Pro at $499 per month; all plans require an annual commitment and do not offer a free trial. The article positions CoConstruct as a strong contender in commercial construction contexts while urging buyers to weigh its pricing and integration limits.

Fieldwire

Fieldwire is a targeted construction management tool focused on task and crew scheduling, enabling real-time updates and communication directly from job sites. It provides multiple project views, including Kanban, Calendar, and Gantt, and emphasizes documentation management. Pricing is flexible, with a free version for small teams, and paid plans starting at $29 per user per month (Pro plan from $49 per user per month) plus custom pricing for larger teams. A 14-day free trial is offered, and annual subscriptions can yield discounts.

Smartsheet

Smartsheet uses a spreadsheet-like interface that appeals to teams needing a flexible workflow. It is noted as suitable for construction staff scheduling and supports customizable workflows and automation, along with seamless collaboration among team members. A free plan exists for basic use, making Smartsheet a practical option for teams that prefer a familiar grid approach to scheduling and project tracking.

Contractor Foreman

Contractor Foreman is described as an affordable construction management solution designed for contractors. It includes project management and labor scheduling, a mobile app for on-site access, and CRM features for client relationships. Pricing starts at $49 per month, and user sentiment locally is noted with a strong average rating. The tool is highlighted as an excellent fit for small businesses and independent contractors.

Kennedy Expressway rehabilitation project update

• The Kennedy Construction Project was reported as one month ahead of schedule as of late May, with work still ongoing.
• Starting June 1, traffic leaving downtown toward the northwest can use both express and local lanes to access O’Hare between Addison Street and the Kennedy-Edens junction at Montrose Avenue.
• Since the third and final phase began in March, express lanes exit to O’Hare were limited, with ongoing ramp closures and a shift in outbound lane configurations.
• Late May closures included a full express-lane closure at 11 p.m. on May 31 and a reduction to a single outbound lane at midnight to accommodate the new traffic pattern.
• Additional June closures were planned, including on-ramps and off-ramps between Addison and Montrose, with timelines indicating gradual reopenings the week of June 9 and adjustments through early June to late summer, concluding around Thanksgiving 2025.
• The project notes that overall traffic flow will rely on alternative routes and public transit options during construction, and drivers are advised to anticipate lane shifts and overnight closures.

NASCAR Chicago Street Race scheduling

• For the 2025 Chicago street race, the construction window to build the course was shortened to about 25 days, with last year taking longer and 2023 requiring even more time.
• Traffic and street closures related to course construction are expected to last roughly 18 days, with the first closure beginning around June 19.
• Several streets across the loop and surrounding areas were scheduled for closures in late June and early July, with a plan to reopen priority routes first after the event concludes in early July, and final demobilization by mid-July.
• During setup, race weekend, and teardown, major venues such as Maggie Daley Park and Museum Campus remain accessible, and public transit options are expected to increase service during the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key features table