Richard Bracco, Principal & Senior Project Manager in Subsurface Utility Services, was recently featured in the New York Real Estate Journal as a 2025 Innovator in Commercial Real Estate. This annual feature highlights a select group of professionals in the state who are bringing innovation and expertise to commercial real estate.
Richard has played a pivotal role in elevating how BL Companies approaches subsurface utility work. As he told NYREJ, Richard recently led the integration of subsurface utility mapping into the design phase of BL Companies’ projects. This innovation moves utility detection from a reactive, construction-phase task to a strategic planning tool.
“Using ASCE 38-22 standards, electromagnetic induction, and ground-penetrating radar, we identify underground conflicts early, cutting costs, improving safety, and preventing delays,” Richard noted. “What began as a niche service is now a best practice across BL Companies.”
This recognition also reflects the central role innovation plays in BL’s culture.
“Employees at every level are encouraged to explore new tools and share ideas that improve our work,” Richard said. “As a 100% employee-owned firm, everyone has a stake in our success and a shared drive to keep innovating.”
Read the full article at NYREJ.