Philadelphia’s skyline is undergoing rapid transformation as the city experiences a significant construction boom. With over 11,000 multifamily units currently under construction and more than 13,000 units absorbed in the past year, Philadelphia’s growth is reshaping its urban fabric. 

However, this surge in development raises a critical question: Is the city’s security infrastructure keeping pace with this rapid expansion? At EPS, we believe this question is vital for developers, residents and businesses alike.

The Scale of Philadelphia’s Building Surge

The construction boom spans luxury high-rises, mixed-use developments and multifamily housing projects. Rapid growth, fueled by robust demand from renters relocating from areas like New York and Washington D.C., has brought vibrancy but also complexity to managing construction sites, supply chains and resident safety.

Construction sites have become hotspots that require focused security measures due to high-value machinery and materials, workforce coordination challenges and potential safety vulnerabilities.

Emerging Security Risks in Rapidly Growing Job Sites

Construction sites are inherently vulnerable to theft, vandalism, liability claims and safety hazards if not properly managed. The surge in Philadelphia’s construction sites presents these risks on a larger scale:

  • Theft and vandalism. Construction equipment and valuable materials attract criminal activity. Unsecured or poorly monitored sites risk significant financial losses and project delays.
  • Trespassing and liability. Unauthorized access not only endangers trespassers but exposes developers and contractors to liability if accidents occur.
  • Workforce and public safety. Crowded, busy sites near residential and commercial zones increase the risk of accidents involving workers and the public if coordination and oversight are insufficient.
  • Delays amplified by security incidents. As construction timelines tighten, incidents caused by inadequate security can push projects beyond schedule and inflate budgets.

Addressing the Security Gap: Why EPS Recommends Professional Security Solutions

The question is not just whether security readiness is in sync with construction growth, but how to effectively bridge any gaps. In our opinion, professional, trained security is essential in preventing costly setbacks and safeguarding assets.

Our approach includes:

  • Tailored security plans. Every site has unique risks based on location, project scope and timeline. EPS works closely with developers and contractors to provide personalized security solutions that evolve as sites progress.
  • Experienced guards with construction site expertise. EPS guards are trained in loss prevention, access control and emergency response, specifically geared to challenging construction environments.
  • Technology integration. Utilizing surveillance cameras, access control systems and real-time monitoring enables proactive risk detection.
  • Safety and compliance focus. Beyond theft prevention, EPS supports adherence to safety regulations, reducing liability and fostering a secure workplace culture.

Looking Ahead: Building a Secure Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s construction boom symbolizes economic vitality and a promising urban future. However, it also demands vigilance and strategic investment in security to protect those gains. At EPS, we believe well-planned, professional security is a cornerstone to successful development, ensuring that the city’s growth is matched by resilience and safety standards.

If you’re involved in Philadelphia’s construction landscape, securing your site with EPS safeguards your investment and contributes to the broader health of the community. Contact EPS today to learn how our expert security services can help you stay ahead of emerging risks during this exciting building surge.