In the ever-evolving world of infrastructure law, Norton Rose Fulbright has made a significant move by bringing on board Patrick Harder to co-head the firm’s U.S. and North America infrastructure groups. Harder, a seasoned attorney with over 20 years of experience in public-private partnerships (P3) and infrastructure, joins Norton Rose after an impressive tenure at Nossaman LLP. His addition to the team is expected to enhance the firm’s infrastructure practice not only in North America but also on a global scale.
One of Harder’s notable contributions to the field of infrastructure law is his pioneering work in the availability-payment P3 model. This model involves the government making periodic payments to the concessionaire based on milestones and performance targets. Harder’s expertise in this area was demonstrated during his time as the lead attorney for the Florida Department of Transportation on projects such as the I-595 Corridor and the Port of Miami Tunnel P3. His innovative approach to P3 projects has set him apart in the industry and positioned him as a leader in the space.
According to Harder, the infrastructure and P3 markets are currently experiencing significant shifts and challenges. Factors such as climate change and technological advancements are driving the need for infrastructure upgrades and redesigns. Rising sea levels necessitate the rebuilding of essential assets like seaports, while the transition to electric and autonomous vehicles requires updates to traditional surface infrastructure. Additionally, major federal programs like the 2021 infrastructure law and the 2022 climate bill are creating a pipeline of large-scale infrastructure projects. Harder believes that these projects, which often have long gestation periods, are reaching the culmination of their planning and environmental processes, signaling a wave of activity in the near future.
Harder’s track record includes serving as lead counsel to prominent clients such as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Currently, he is representing the University of California in a P3 proton therapy project in San Francisco. His extensive experience in advising clients on complex infrastructure projects has earned him a reputation for delivering valuable legal counsel. His ability to navigate the intricacies of infrastructure law and his dedication to client service make him a valuable asset to the Norton Rose Fulbright team.
Accompanying Harder in his transition to Norton Rose Fulbright is associate Sharon Jeong, who also hails from Nossaman LLP. Jeong brings her experience from working with the finance and projects team at Baker McKenzie in Seoul, South Korea. Her addition to the team further strengthens Norton Rose’s ability to meet the growing demand for legal services in the infrastructure sector.
As the infrastructure and P3 markets continue to evolve, the expertise and insights brought by Patrick Harder and Sharon Jeong will play a crucial role in Norton Rose Fulbright’s ability to provide top-tier legal services to clients. The firm’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry and addressing the challenges of an ever-changing landscape make them a formidable force in the field of infrastructure law. With Harder and Jeong on board, Norton Rose Fulbright is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of infrastructure projects and deliver exceptional results for their clients.