The Hidden Costs of Cheap Fencing (and What Cities Can Do Differently in 2027)

Municipal procurement teams face constant pressure to stretch limited budgets. Between public safety needs, streetscape improvements, and downtown activation projects, every dollar must work harder than ever. When it comes to outdoor fencing, the lowest upfront cost can seem like the most practical choice — but in reality, cheap fencing often ends up costing cities far more in the long run. As municipalities plan their 2027 budgets, now is the ideal time to take a closer look

Jim Erhart

Sep 113 min read

Game Day Patio Ideas For Restaurants

We are coming up on one of the biggest months on the sports calendar. In September, the NFL and college football return, the Premier League is underway, Major League Baseball enters its final regular-season stretch, and Major League Soccer continues its playoff push. For restaurants, bars, breweries, and hotels, that creates weeks of opportunities to attract fans. But putting a television outside and running a few drink specials isn't enough. The best game day patio ideas con

Jim Erhart

Aug 174 min read

What Restaurant Owners Should Budget for Outdoor Dining in 2026

Your outdoor dining budget should no longer be seen as a "nice to have" - but instead as a core revenue driver. For many restaurants, patio seating is among the highest-margin square footage they operate. As operators plan for the year ahead, one question becomes central: What should we include in our outdoor dining budget for 2026? Smart planning means separating short-term expenses from long-term investments. Not every patio purchase delivers equal value. The key is knowing

Jim Erhart

Feb 163 min read