In order to improve the accuracy of estimated construction costs, a reform of the pricing policy in construction is being implemented by the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Utilities of the Russian Federation aimed at introducing the input method of estimated cost calculation. Therefore, the current state of pricing in the construction industry of the Irkutsk region was analysed in this work. It is the accurate determination of construction and overhaul costs at each stage of the project that is essential for all parties involved in investment activities, since inaccurate calculations have a negative impact on the financial planning by investors and can lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the activities and, consequently, a decrease in the quality of work by contractors. Here, problems, along with their possible consequences, are identified and described. In addition, the estimated cost of maintenance and demolition activities calculated by different methods was compared; the opportunity cost of transporting materials for the construction of an art school in the Irkutsk region was calculated. Using the obtained results, the disadvantages of determining the estimated cost of construction were highlighted. Suggestions for improving the innovative methods of calculating the estimated cost were offered.

Economic digitalization, along with the transition to a new technological paradigm, has given rise to an ongoing transformation in the Russian Federation, expanding the high-tech industry and driving innovation across a wide range of economic sectors. However, the digitization level in the development and construction sectors currently remains one of the lowest among industries, despite the fact that construction is involved in creating production capacity and contributes to the growth of fixed assets, which ensures expanded reproduction in the entire economy. Therefore, it is necessary to promote the implementation of digital and innovative technologies in the construction sector, as its digital transformation can produce a synergistic effect reducing project costs in general, as well as improving the competitiveness of construction organizations and strengthening their position in the market.

The paper aims to identify problems associated with the assessment of residential real estate for private investors, as well as to define and characterize a private investor. A decision-making algorithm for private investors in residential real estate is presented, which allows individual characteristics of the investor to be taken into account. With the help of this algorithm, private investors can independently assess residential real estate for personal purposes. The proposed algorithm provides the basis for building a financial model of private investment in residential real estate. The study tested this algorithm, presenting a specific example of residential real estate assessment for investment purposes. The calculation results show the effectiveness of the proposed procedure in understanding investors’ interests in the residential real estate market. Moreover, the presented procedure can be easily digitized, thus allowing an unqualified private investor to use it as a practical guide in the assessment of residential real estate investment properties. In digital form, the proposed algorithm can be used as a smartphone application.

This article addresses the influence of the Smart City concept on the investment potential of urban areas due to the existing demand of society and the state to attract additional investment flows for urban development. In this regard, the state pays special attention to improving the living standards of urban residents, since it leads to a positive change in the investment potential of urban areas. This paper identifies the mechanisms of influence exerted by the Smart City concept on the living standards of citizens, as well as the relationship between the investment potential of the area and quality of life indicators. On the basis of a systematic approach, the mechanisms of decision-making at the community level were formulated, with the necessity of developing a strategy for applying the tools of the Smart City concept being proven. It was concluded that it is necessary to review the management of urban settlements, given the current level of socio-economic development. The technological principles and mechanisms for the implementation of this concept were formulated. As a result, efficient city management using modern information technology and technical solutions, provided the efficient goal setting and determination of performance indicators, will improve the level of investment potential of cities under the admissible competition between them within the country.

This work addressed the problems of using information modelling in road facilities. One of the main scientific and technical tasks of implementing information modelling in the field of design and construction of highways and engineering structures lies in its use throughout the entire life cycle of a road facility. It was revealed that such models should include the geometric characteristics of road facilities, local conditions in which they are located and basic data on the occurring processes. The applicability of information models at different stages of construction, reconstruction and reconditioning of roads and engineering structures were considered in order to ensure continuous monitoring of all technical programmes and data amendment. In order to implement the information modelling to design management, it is necessary to establish interaction between all the design participants by means of a special knowledge library represented by a catalog of standard solutions that can be used in subsequent projects at variable component parameters. Software products used for the design of roads using information modelling were given. A 3D model of a motorway bridge containing the data on each element was presented, which allowed a spatial model of an engineering structure to be built. It was concluded that the use of information modelling of an object greatly facilitates the work of designers and construction workers, allowing for many advantages over previous means of developing road construction projects. This approach offers a combination and coordination of parts of the designed road object developed by different specialists and organisations.

Due to the considerable costs involved in industrial wastewater treatment, the introduction of open (low-discharge) and closed water circulation systems is the most sensible way to prevent environmental pollution at industrial companies. Since the level of circulating water treatment can be much lower than that required for discharge into a water body, the installation of closed water circulation systems can achieve both the economic and total effects of environmental protection. Despite the seemingly obvious advantages of this approach, it requires a serious feasibility analysis. The life cycle costs of a construction project can be estimated according to GOST R 58785-2019 Water Quality. Life Cycle Cost Estimation for Efficient Operation of Water Supply and Sanitation Systems and Facilities. However, at the initial (pre-project) stage, the analysis can be based on benchmarks. Large industrial companies make extensive use of foreign estimation methods. The paper presents the results of a feasibility analysis obtained using different methods to justify investments in the reconstruction of water treatment facilities at an oil refinery.

In this work, the anthropogenic influence on the water quality in Lake Baikal was evaluated, since Lake Baikal contains 19% of the total freshwater resources. The use of data on the water quality near the Listvyanka village allows the changes in the content of ammonia, sulphates, nitrates, iron, phosphates and other substances suspended in water to be monitored. The characteristics of collected water samples were compared to previously obtained data. The evaluation of sample quality involved various techniques, including photometry using spectrophotometers, "blue ribbon" filters and desiccators. The obtained results showed that some of the indicators, for example, the amounts of suspended solids, sulphates and nitrates, significantly exceed those obtained in 2016 and 2020. The comparative analysis of samples collected in different years indicated a significant deterioration in water quality over this period. This can be explained by the lack of funds for the development and reconstruction of water and wastewater treatment facilities, along with an unregulated touristic flow, requiring the appropriate walkways, routes and utility systems in order to reduce the anthropogenic impact on the waters of Lake Baikal.

This paper addresses a method for determining priority areas for ensuring and maintaining the sufficient reliability and efficiency of existing water supply and distribution systems, based on previously obtained mathematical models of water sampling (cross-section method) and flow distribution. The main task of the organisations, operating water supply and distribution systems, involves a highquality water supply to consumers. Regardless of the wear of water supply and distribution systems, as well as changes in their structural state, the water having suitable parameters must be supplied to the consumer in the required quantity. Given the variety of regimes, modelling the operation of water supply and distribution systems indicates a wide range of their possible behaviour, for example, poor quality of supply to consumers during trouble-free operation or no impact of shutdowns of some sections on the quality of supply. It is necessary to analyse the systems and model their operation regimes using a mathematical tool. Here, probabilistic nodal reliability indices of water supply to consumers were used in mathematical models. They include Kj and Pj, decomposed into components characterising the wear of elements (sections) in the system and the reliability of supply to consumers in each of its structural states. The need to adjust the system parameters to ensure the required level of reliability of its operation was assessed, with various solutions being outlined. The technical and economical comparison of possible measures allows an optimum option to be determined, prioritising the replacement of outdated elements and the construction of additional elements (sections) of the system. All stages of the suggested method, which can be widely used by organisations, maintaining water supply and distribution systems, are shown in the example of a system.

This paper addresses the characteristics of road design under permafrost conditions. Economic and mathematical calculations were used along with practical experience of “Svaybur” and “Gidrostroiengineering” companies, involved in road construction and maintenance for a long period. The prices for construction materials for economic and mathematical calculations were determined using the Integrated Construction Price Standards for Capital Construction Projects for Non-Production Uses. ICP 81-02-08-2017. Collection No. 08: Roads. The environmental requirements were based on the recommended practices developed by the Federal Agency “Rosavtodor”. The cost of maintaining and reconstructing a damaged section of road can exceed by several times the estimated construction cost of the whole section, as well as hinder the logistics and transport accessibility of the agricultural land. In some cases, the environment of the surrounding land may be adversely affected, since harmful contaminants that under normal conditions are bound by the top and bottom structures of the road are released into the soil due to its erosion. The paper examines the economic and environmental problems of designing roads connecting important logistics centres under insular permafrost and permafrost conditions. Here, the calculation of construction costs for road reinforced using screw piles if necessary to prevent the erosion of some road sections during spring floods or heavy precipitation is presented, along with a comparative analysis of construction costs for roads under insular permafrost and permafrost conditions.

This article discusses approaches to forecasting the earthquake odds of a given intensity level. This problem is relevant for the earthquake-prone zone in the south of the Irkutsk region characterised by an estimated intensity of shaking of up to 9 points, where large, populated areas having developed industrial and civil construction are located. The intensity values for Irkutsk were obtained using the analysed data on the seismic activity of the Baikal and Transbaikalia regions in 1973–2020 by the equation of the macroseismic field. The algorithm for predicting large and medium-sized earthquakes involves mathematical statistics and probability theory. A corresponding empirical distribution was derived on the basis of a sample of the maximum intensity values for the specified period in each year. The seismic vibrations was considered. It was established that the normal distribution function provides the most accurate description of statistical data. It was concluded that, by using this function, it is possible to determine the high-intensity vibration odds that can lead to serious destruction, as well as their most probable annual peak intensity, which may allow for measures ensuring the resistance of load-bearing structures of buildings to background seismic impacts.

This article considers the problems of obtaining construction products in winter, along with complex technological processes, in the light of scientific achievements and analysis of influencing factors when solving thermophysical problems, as well as evaluating the results on production indicators, especially those related to economics. The accumulated domestic and foreign experience reflects years of intensive work carried out by scientists and engineers, which continues to this day. In Eastern Siberia and neighbouring regions characterised by a prolonged winter period, construction works are carried out all year round. Special attention should be paid to planning construction activities in winter and developing working documentation in view of the seasonality of work. The material and technical resources of the construction contractor should be taken into account, mainly the feasibility of the operational plans for construction and installation activities and the financing schedule. The paper includes examples of winter construction demonstrating the existing limitations, in particular the increased energy consumption. Some recommendations are given aimed at improving the quality of project documentation.

In this work, a software package was developed in order to investigate the applicability of conductors having different cross-sections for installing internal electrical networks in individual households. A combination of general scientific methods, including circuit theory, numerical analysis and visualisation using MATLAB graphical editor, was used. The state of individual households in the Irkutsk region was analysed. It was confirmed that one of the most common causes of combustion associated with the construction of internal electrical networks of individual households involves unbalanced phase currents, leading to additional heat losses, which give rise to fire hazards. A thermal calculation of the electric network functioning under normal operating conditions was carried out in order to obtain expressions for determining the maximum permissible values of the neutral conductor current of the internal electrical network of the house. These algorithms and programs were used to tabulate the limit values of the zero sequence currents for different cross-sections of the conductor material and temperature ranges. The efficiency of using balanced/unbalanced converters to mitigate the negative effects of unbalanced power consumption was demonstrated by a field test. It can be concluded that one of the most efficient ways to reduce fire hazards in individual houses involves balancing the operating modes of the internal electrical network. The obtained data may therefore be used by construction organisations, as well as the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation, which monitors the fire safety of individual houses.

In this work, the issues arising during the construction of low-rise buildings in Eastern Siberia in 2021–2022 were addressed, including the changes associated with the special military operation and Western and the USA sanctions against Russia. Attention was paid to the characterisation of the main technologies used in the construction of low-rise buildings. The necessity of using novel approaches to solving the problems associated with the implementation of engineering infrastructure facilities, intended as components of new low-rise construction projects, was substantiated. 90% of low-rise buildings comprise private suburban wooden houses, most suitable for living in an area characterised by a harsh climate. Among the used construction materials, rounded logs, laminated veneer lumber, bricks, cellular concrete, and aerated concrete should be mentioned. Naturalness, environmental friendliness and low thermal conductivity are among the advantages of wooden constructions. Due to the regulatory framework in the construction industry associated with low-rise buildings, it is necessary to improve legislation in this area, as well as strengthen control over the quality of work. The main issues were addressed, including rising prices for construction materials, a reduction in incomes, a delay in obtaining a building permit, weak competition and a small number of modern equipment. The main trends in the development of low-rise construction, the potential of the modern construction industry in Eastern Siberia, its prospects and modernisation were determined.

The paper examines the seasonal water balance of the Abay River basin (Ethiopia) using open-access satellite data and a hydrological model representing the formation of water resources. The conducted analysis and theoretical studies indicate that hydrological modeling and remote sensing are the most appropriate tools for assessing water balance, which is essential for determining water prices and optimizing water resource management. In this work, QGIS models were applied to estimate water deficit during the dry season and water surplus during the rainy season, using those data to determine seasonal water balance for six years. To this end, the study employed GeoTIFF metadata and additional information, including a map projection, coordinate systems, ellipsoids, and baseline data necessary to establish the accurate spatial reference of the file. The water balance analysis required data on evaporation, precipitation, surface runoff, and surface water reserves in the Abay River basin. According to the calculation results, a significant surplus of water was noted during the rainy season and its deficit during the dry season. The obtained numerical data were used to model the timing of droughts and floods, as well as to manage urban drainage systems and agricultural irrigation.

The paper aims to analyze the historical-cultural potential of the Irkutsk city center, to consider the uniqueness and identity of its urban environment, as well as to explore the opportunities and experiences associated with the commercialization of historical buildings and relevant measures. The specifics of Irkutsk’s cultural heritage, its architectural landmarks, and tourist attractions are discussed in the study. In addition, the work examines the historical center of Irkutsk in terms of its architectural and space-planning features, along with the typology of buildings, comprising the historical and cultural heritage of varying significance. The concepts of identity and authenticity in Irkutsk’s development are defined. As part of the historical site development, it is proposed to commercialize cultural heritage (including wooden structures) through tourism (temporary accommodation), food service, and trade (gift shops, etc.). In order to attract attention to potentially suitable sites, it is suggested to develop new tourist routes connecting Irkutsk’s quarters that feature historical buildings preserved in their original state. The study presents a route plan proposed in a graduation thesis within the training program Reconstruction and Restoration of Architectural Heritage at the Irkutsk National Research Technical University (author – A. K. Mainovskaya; supervisor – A. N. Prokudin).

This article studies territorial transformations, along with the management of rural settlements, carried out by the Russian government in the 19th–early 20th centuries. The methods of historiographic and cartographic analysis, as well as the study of archival sources and statistical data, were used. The work was carried out in two stages: identification of the land-use pattern at the state level within the contemporary borders of administrative structure; study of the management of the relocation process and definition of basic principles in the planning of migration sites. A retrospective analysis of the land use associated with a rural community was presented as diagrams and cartographic materials reflecting the state of territorial development in migration areas. The collected historiographic materials, statistical data and regulatory support reflect the main methods for managing the relocation process and the experience of planning rural settlement at the state level. The migration areas were allocated from free state reserves in the form of individual farms and plots of land. The process management was based on a system of committees involving various specialists, whose tasks included the organisation of social and engineering infrastructure. The performed study of the settlement territory, the allocation of lands for farming societies and minorities, the ordering of the existing land use and the identification of the economic and agricultural potential of the region comprise the methods of the preliminary comprehensive analysis of the territory during settlement planning. The obtained results are essential for analysing the dynamics of territorial development and studying methods and practices of territorial planning of the rural settlement system.

In this work, the challenges of modernising space in the scientific library of the Irkutsk National Research Technical University within the framework of the program of renovation of the educational environment are addressed. The interiors of the IRNTU library were used as a design object. It is necessary to reconstruct the educational landscape following the changes in the educational process, given the new forms and methods of teaching at the university reflected in the development of the library structure, as well as the brand. The new requirements of visitors are both simple and complex: the main advantages of the library should be openness, accessibility and comfort. On the one hand, comprehensive data should be provided through mobile, open-source library collections, which meet the growing demands of users; on the other hand, comfortable conditions should ensure this process. A modern library visitor evaluates the technological potential, as well as the organisation of the internal subject-spatial environment. The spatial model focuses on the needs of students and teachers (as the social composition of the audience in the educational organisation) for accessibility, flexibility, usability and technical resources. Social and age stratification of space dictates functional, compositional and colour solutions. The development of a new university environment is proposed, with a comprehensive design process being presented. A unique public space is created by a conceptual solution, followed by the subsequent development of a design project.