In a move that has the potential to shake up the legal landscape in the infrastructure industry, Norton Rose Fulbright has announced the addition of Patrick Harder to co-head the firm’s U.S. and North America infrastructure groups. This hiring comes after Harder’s impressive 20-year tenure at Nossaman LLP, where he made a name for himself as a leader in the U.S. public-private partnership (P3) space and as the partner and chair of the infrastructure group.
Notably, Patrick Harder played a significant role in pioneering the availability-payment P3 model, a groundbreaking approach where the government makes periodic payments to the concessionaire based on performance targets and milestones. His work as lead attorney for the Florida Department of Transportation on the I-595 Corridor and the Port of Miami Tunnel P3 projects showcases his deep understanding of the complex dynamics of infrastructure development.
In a rapidly evolving landscape marked by technological advancements and the looming threat of climate change, Harder’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding Norton Rose Fulbright’s infrastructure practice. He emphasizes the need for creative thinking to address new challenges brought about by fast-moving technological changes, such as the shift toward electric and autonomous vehicles. Moreover, he points out the necessity of reevaluating and redesigning traditional surface infrastructure like roads and bridges to accommodate these changes.
With major federal programs like the 2021 infrastructure law and the 2022 climate bill paving the way for extensive infrastructure projects, Harder foresees a flurry of activity across multiple delivery methods on large-scale projects. His experience as lead counsel to prominent entities like the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey positions him well to navigate the complexities of the industry and drive forward innovative solutions.
Accompanying Harder in his move to Norton Rose Fulbright is Sharon Jeong, an associate who brings a wealth of experience from her time at Nossaman LLP and Baker McKenzie. Together, they are set to bolster the firm’s capabilities and meet the increasing demand for specialized legal counsel in the infrastructure sector.
Patrick Harder’s addition to Norton Rose Fulbright signifies a strategic investment in staying ahead of the curve in an industry undergoing rapid transformation. His forward-thinking approach and diverse expertise are poised to position the firm as a leader in navigating the complexities of infrastructure law and driving forward innovative solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow.