This project was actually comprised of two tied projects, both of which had strict deadlines. The second project could not be started until there was substantial completion on the first project, even though contract time on both projects was started at the same time. This required a concentrated effort to keep all the subcontractors on time and within very exacting schedules.

This included coordinating traffic control to keep the traveling public and workers safe at all times; carefully scheduling ramp closures to minimize impact on the traveling public; and awareness of the high concentration of trucking on this section of Interstate 15.

The Utah Chapter-ACPA and IGGA/ACPA CPR Division provided pre-construction training on dowel bar retrofit and profile grinding for Utah DOT personnel and inspectors. Utah DOT and Multiple Concrete Enterprises personnel worked together to ensure the highest quality of workmanship and finished product.

Daily and weekly safety meetings were held, and the contractor conducted jobsite specific and general safety training for all employee’s and sub-contractor personnel. The project safety director updated their project specific safety hazard analysis as any potential safety or health issues arose. All OSHA required personal protective equipment and training was implemented. Daily vehicle and equipment inspection reports were filled out and repairs made. Enforcement of contractor’s safety and health policies were strictly enforced resulting in no lost time accidents.

The traveling public was kept informed of closures and construction schedules with a website, a public information sign with 24 hour phone number and contact information; flyers and personal contact with area businesses and trucking companies. Newspaper inserts also were used to notify local residents of work taking place and projected time of completion.

The smooth pavement (measuring 2 in. per mile on a 0.2 blanking band), and other improvements to this interstate section will serve the traveling public for many more years. Equally important, the project was completed on time and under budget.

County Roads — Gold

Project:               Montgomery County, Iowa H-54 from Iowa 48 east to M-63, Coburg, Iowa

Contractor:            Cedar Valley Corp., LLC
Owner/Engineer:      Montgomery County, Iowa

Start with a 50-day paving window, add a severe wind and hail storm; throw in some issues that restrict access for construction vehicles; toss in some additional work not included in the original plans; and mix thoroughly with a requirement to recycle existing roadway materials and to implement a new “safety edge” technology. This might seem like a perfect way to derail a project, but for this team, the job had all the makings of an award-winning project.