Why Project Timelines are No Longer Predictable—and What You Can Do About It 

As we approach mid-2025, two critical economic challenges—rising material tariffs and persistent skilled labor shortages—are converging to create costly bottlenecks in the construction and permitting process across the United States. 

From commercial rollouts in Texas to multifamily developments in California, Milrose Consultants is seeing firsthand how these headwinds are reshaping project delivery. Here’s what that means for you—and how we can help. 

Supply Chain Disruptions = Permit Delays 

Recent tariff hikes on key construction imports (such as steel, aluminum, and certain electrical components) are inflating costs and delaying procurement timelines. These delays are often not accounted for in pre-permitting planning, causing ripple effects when permit applications must be updated to reflect revised construction materials, specs, or even usage types. 

One change in material spec can require a new code analysis or plan resubmission—adding weeks to your timeline without proper foresight. 

Labor Shortages Stall Construction Starts 

According to NAHB and AGC reports, the construction industry remains short hundreds of thousands of skilled workers. In major metros like NYC, LA, and Chicago, we're seeing projects stuck in permitting limbo because no one is available to finalize drawings or file corrections in time. 

What’s worse? In some jurisdictions, city departments are experiencing similar staffing shortages, leading to increased plan review turnaround times—even in cities with traditionally fast-track approval pathways. 

How Milrose Helps You Navigate It All 

At Milrose, we understand how volatile inputs impact project feasibility. That’s why we offer: 

• Pre-permit feasibility assessments to evaluate how local fees, labor dynamics, and supply challenges could affect each jurisdiction’s timeline 

• Expedited permit management to work around city delays or use phased permitting strategies 

• Real-time tracking tools for visibility into every permit’s status across your national portfolio 

• Code consulting to help you pivot quickly when material changes demand new interpretations 

Whether you're a developer, architect, GC, or tenant rep, these insights will help you build smarter—and faster—no matter what the market throws your way. 

Ready to discuss your next rollout or project timeline? 

Let’s talk permitting strategy.  Contact us Today!